The Blessing of the Animals, a popular annual event at Neumann University, will take place on Sunday, October 5, at 4 p.m. in the St. John Neumann Circle on the Aston campus. This celebration is held yearly to commemorate St. Francis of Assisi's love for creation and for all of God's creatures. The event will kick off a week-long celebration of the legacy of St. Francis.

Fr. Philip J. Lowe will bless animals of all kind in St. John Neumann Circle. Last year, more than 50 pets – including hamsters, rabbits, dogs and cats – were among the animals blessed at the event that marks the feast of St. Francis, which is officially celebrated on October 4.