Annual blessing of the animals this Sunday

Pets, their companions and friends are welcome Sunday.

This Sunday marks the 19th annual Celebration of Animals, according to a press release from the Animal Initiative Committee:

The Animal Initiative Committee is holding its 19th annual Celebration of Animals on Sunday October 7, at 1:30 PM at Leland Avenue Park, (next to Cook Elementary School).

The event is free of charge and open to everyone, with or without pets, to celebrate the importance of animals in the lives of human beings.

“Anatole France’s quote ‘Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened,’ says it best,” said Maryellen Chanda, Animal Initiative Celebration event chairwoman.

Held in conjunction with the Feast of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals, representatives of local religious and spiritual traditions will offer blessings for all animals.

In addition, the Union County Mounted Police will bring three horses to participate in the celebration.

“All are welcome to bring their pets to receive a blessing,” said Ms. Chanda.

Birds must be caged, cats must be in carriers, and dogs must be on a leash or in a carrier. Pets that are uncomfortable around other animals should be left at home. A photo can be brought to represent them for a blessing.

The theme of this year’s blessing will be ‘First Do No Harm’ to raise people’s awareness of how-to live-in-harmony with the animals in our area.

Water will be available for the animals and light vegan refreshments provided by Ester’s Treats and The Coffee Box will be served after the blessing. For more information about the Celebration please call 908.256-3858.

The Animal Initiative Committee (AIC), formed in 2000 , is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to increasing people’s awareness of their responsibility for the well-being of all animals.

The AIC has always focused on the problem of overpopulation of dogs and cats, especially community cats. It implemented a very successful trap, neuter, and return (TNR) program for the latter.

“We are much in need of volunteers to help with this important effort”, Ms. Chanda concluded. For more information about the Animal Initiative Committee, please call 908.256-3858 or email plainfieldaic2000@gmail.com.

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