Despite the windy weather, many people had their pets blessed in front of Osnabrück Cathedral. In total, the team from the cathedral community of St. Peter blessed around 25 animals, said Deacon Robert Gildehaus.
Around 20 dogs and two rabbits were brought to the cathedral by their owners. “Two ladies brought photos of their budgies, and one lady brought her cat’s play ball,” Gildehaus said. These animals could not have been brought to the cathedral but would still have received the blessing. A dog that had just had surgery and was unable to walk was pushed to the cathedral in a stroller.
The occasion for the blessing of the animals is the memorial day of Saint Francis of Assisi on October 4th. Francis of Assisi is the founder of the Franciscan Order and patron saint of animals. Since 1931, October 4th has been celebrated internationally as World Animal Protection Day.
According to the diocese, the first animal blessings took place in the 17th century. At that time, God’s blessing was given to farm animals. At that time, the survival of people also depended on the well-being of animals. Today, dogs, cats and pets kept by people in the city enrich family life or play an important role for many old and single people.
