Pets' love returned with annual blessing at St. Agnes Catholic Church in North Naples

Holy water and milks bones were given to many parishioners at St. Agnes Catholic Church in North Naples on Saturday morning. 

The Rev. Michael Orsi, a parochial vicar with the church for the last five years, hosted a blessing of the pets event outside the church. He was met by dogs, a cat, a parrot, several other birds and even a spotted gecko lizard.  

The event was held to commemorate the fest of St. Francis, which took place Friday, Orsi said.  

“St. Francis very much identified with love of nature,” Orsi said. “He was at peace with all creation, so much so that even the wild animals would go to Francis. He was able to bless the animals and talk to the animals.” 

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Attendees at the blessing event brought items to donate to Humane Society Naples.  

"I feel we should respect God and pray,” said John Pudans, a member of the church since 1999. “It helps the animals too and, believe it or not, he looks forward to coming to church. Usually, he has to stay home.” 

Pudans brought his 13-year-old Maltese Trouble to be blessed Saturday. 

The blessing event grows every year, Orsi said.  

“God loves you, but sometimes these animals love you just the same,” Orsi said. “There is no reservation in their minds. They look at you and love you to death. You don't have to do anything but be nice to them. They love you unconditionally.”

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