Pet Blessing Ceremony at Bishophurst during Doors Open Sault Ste. Marie

As part of Doors Open Sault Ste. Marie, Bishophurst (the historic residence of the Anglican Bishop of Algoma) will host a Pet Blessing Ceremony in honour of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. All creatures great and small–and their owners!–are welcome to attend.

Archbishop Anne Germond, Bishop of Algoma and Metropolitan for the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario, will offer blessings to pets brought by community members.

Event details as follows:

St. Francis Day is traditionally celebrated with pet blessings in many churches and communities worldwide. Rooted in this tradition, the Bishophurst event is offered as a community gathering — open to all, regardless of background or belief — as we give thanks for the joy, companionship, and love animals bring to our lives.

To help keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone, we kindly ask that pets arrive on leashes, in carriers, or with appropriate handling — so that everyone with two, four, or more legs can enjoy the gathering together.