Haitian Priest's Pet Blessing Counters Trump's Controversial Remarks

Rev. Jean Beniste invites pets to church in a symbolic act of unity and resistance against anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Haitian immigrant priest Rev. Jean Beniste held a Blessing of the Animals at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Concord, New Hampshire.
Beniste's invitation for pets to be blessed was a direct response to false claims by Donald Trump about Haitian immigrants eating pets.
The event, traditionally a light-hearted ritual, took on a new meaning as an act of resistance against hostile rhetoric towards immigrants.
Participants and organizers aimed to promote community solidarity and counteract divisive narratives.
Plans are underway to expand next year's event to include more community involvement and outreach.