St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Parsippany, N.J., celebrated the Blessing of the Animals in honor of St. Francis of Assisi on Oct. 5. Father David Pickens, pastor of St. Peter’s, blessed 24 dogs, six cats, three birds, and a rooster.
“It is always a joy to celebrate the Blessing of the Animals,” Father Pickens posted on social media. “Thanks to all the families and animals who participated. A special thanks to Jaime the Rooster, who is the first rooster I have ever blessed.”
From Sept. 22 to Oct. 3, 2025, 96 pilgrims from across New Jersey, as well as
Four students of Pope John XXIII Regional High School in Sparta, N.J., have been named Commended
Beloved pets that were brought on Oct. 4 to the annual Blessing of the Animals at
St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Clifton, N.J., celebrated the Blessing of the Animals on Oct.
On July 27, a group of 28 adult, young adult, and teen volunteers from St. Vincent
