Overview

• In central Lima, the Tercera Orden Franciscana blessed dozens of dogs, cats, birds and other pets on Oct. 5 after a Mass at the Casa de Ejercicios Espirituales.
• Franciscan brothers sprinkled holy water and delivered homilies invoking St. Francis’s example of tenderness and compassion toward creation.
• Some attendees brought the ashes of deceased pets to be remembered during the rite, underscoring the bond between families and their animals.
• Parishes in Cusco, Puno, Tacna and Ica held parallel observances, with Ica featuring pets in formal outfits and photos taken with the saint’s image.
• The Tercera Orden Franciscana posted photos of the celebrations on social media, documenting strong participation by parishioners and their animals.