Today is the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. Catholics around the world participate in blessing their pets, including parishioners at St. Patrick’s Church in Bay Ridge, who held a special ceremony for the occasion.
Brooklyn Bishop Robert Brennan is on a retreat in Assisi, Italy, alongside 12 priests. They met with the Bishop of Assisi and visited the sacred site where St. Francis received the stigmata, Christ-like wounds symbolizing his devotion.
St. Francis of Assisi has inspired millions, including Pope Francis, who took his name. The Pope reflects St. Francis’ values of caring for the poor and protecting our shared home, the Earth.
Meet Kara McCarthy, the new principal at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy in Middle Village, Brooklyn. As an alum of the school, Kara is thrilled to return and plans to bring more student engagement through additional student Masses and a daily Angelus prayer. Learn more in the second installment of Currents News’ “Meet the New Principals” series.