Overview
- Marbella holds its first municipally backed blessing at the Church of Divina Pastora at 18:00, announced by councilor Alejandro González with parish priest David Morales and Marbella Canina president Sergio Moya.
- Granada parishes conduct evening blessings, including Parroquia Virgen de Gracia at 19:00 and Parroquia del Perpetuo Socorro.
- The January 17 observance honors St. Anthony Abbot, traditionally regarded as the patron saint of animals.
- The custom originated as a prayer for the health and protection of working animals and has broadened to include household pets.
- Similar ceremonies take place worldwide today as churches welcome people bringing animals to receive blessings.