Blessing of the Animals – Borrego Springs
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A Morning of Faith, Friendship, and Four-Legged Companions
Every October 4, the Borrego Springs community gathers at Christmas Circle to honor St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and ecology. This year’s Blessing of the Animals was held on St. Francis’s actual feast day — a bright, joyful morning filled with prayer, wagging tails, and heartfelt gratitude.
Local pastors offered blessings for pets large and small, continuing a tradition that celebrates the connection between people, nature, and all living beings. The service was led by Fr. David Madsen of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church and Pastor Mateo Mamea of the Borrego Community United Methodist Church, with support from Commander Dale Jones of the American Legion Post 853, representing the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA).
The Spirit of St. Francis
As Fr. Michael Plekon, a retired priest and Borrego resident, explained, St. Francis’s message still resonates today. Like other holy men and women such as Bridget of Ireland, Teresa of Avila, and Seraphim of the Russian Church, Francis lived with profound compassion for all creation.
He was known for taming a wolf that preyed on a village, preaching to birds that stopped to listen, and assembling the first Christmas crèche with live animals. His life reminds us that heaven can be found here on earth — through kindness, humility, and care for one another.
Year-Round Compassion
The BMA not only hosts the Blessing of the Animals each October but also sponsors Thanksgiving, Ash Wednesday, and Easter services. Beyond these gatherings, the organization provides ongoing support to neighbors in need, embodying St. Francis’s call to live with compassion and generosity.
To learn more about the Borrego Ministers Association or to contribute to their local outreach efforts, visit BorregoMinistersAssociation.org.
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