Blessing of the Animals 2020

Alverno celebrated the feast day of Saint Francis on Sunday, October 4, 2020. Enlivened by the spirit of the Immaculate Heart Community, and mindful of the Franciscan roots of its founders, Alverno celebrates these founders annually. Traditionally, Alverno would host a Founders’ Day event with a Blessing of the Animals prayer service, to honor Saint Francis as the patron saint of animals. This year, with Covid restrictions in place they knew their typical set up would not be possible and instead shifted to a drive-up event. Head of School, Julia Fanara, emphasized the importance of this event, “Blessing of the Animals is one of the most enriching experiences for our students. It brings together our community to reflect on our founders, our roots and it allows us the opportunity to share our pets with one another. We knew we had to find a way to keep this tradition alive amid the quarantine.”

The Alverno community was invited to a drive-up Blessing of the Animals, where pets would safely receive a blessing from their vehicle. Over 60 families joined Father Michael Cooper for this wonderful private blessing. Campus Minister Katherine Guerrero and Head of School Julia Fanara were also in attendance to welcome families and guests. As each car drove up a curious furry friend popped out of the window ready for a blessing. There was a zoo of visitors including dogs, cats, bearded dragons, hamsters and rabbits, it was PAWSOME!! The spirit of Saint Francis was vibrant and alive, as students and families lit up with joy when Father Cooper blessed each pet with holy water and wished them a long and fulfilled life. With the limitations that Covid restrictions bring, this event reminded the Alverno community of its strength, school spirit and commitment to its founders. It was a joyous occasion.

Alverno Heights Academy, 200 North Michillinda Avenue, Sierra Madre, (626) 355-3463 or visit www.alvernoheightsacademy.org.