St. Mary’s Episcopal Church invites area residents and their animal companions to a Blessing of Pets on the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi at 4:30 p.m. on Sun., Oct. 4, in the St. Mary’s Courtyard. All animals must be either on a leash or in a crate/cage. Photos of animals will also be blessed, and children are invited to bring stuffed animals for a blessing.

The church will collect dog food and cat food to distribute to its Rice and Beans Ministry guests for their pets.

St. Mary’s is located at 1307 East Three Notch Street. For questions, please call the church office at 334-222-2487.