Trinity Episcopal Church in Clanton will again host this year a Blessing of the Animals service on the grounds of the church located at 503 Second Ave. S., Clanton.

The Blessing of the Animals will take place Sunday, Oct. 5 at 2 p.m., and the public is invited to bring their pets or other animals for a special blessing.

The annual blessing service takes place in the tradition of Blessed Francis of Assisi, a 12th century saint of the church who lived in Italy. He was known for his kindness to all animals, recognizing and praising them as part of God’s creation.

“We celebrate every year around the date of the death of Blessed Francis on October 4 a blessing of the animals service as an opportunity for those who love and care for animals,” Father Bill King, Rector at Trinity Episcopal Church, said.

“This takes place, acknowledging the Old Testament book of Genesis teaching that ‘all that God creates is good.’”