Blessing of the Animals (ISBN 1402729677)
Copyright 2007 by Diana L. Guerrero. All rights reserved. Reprint permissions click here.
"Saint Anthony de Abad
Tales indicate that current Western animal-blessing traditions originated in Italy. Associated with St. Anthony, the patron saint of the animal kingdom, these were probably the historical antecedents of blessing ceremonies performed in England, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, and Mexico.
St. Anthony of Abad (251-356 C.E) was also known as St. Anthony of the Desert or St. Anthony of Egypt. Blessings during the feast day of this monk take place on the Sunday closest to January 17th, the date of Saint Anthony’s physical death but celebrated as his birthdate in heaven. In Rome, an annual religious service called the Benediction of Beasts is performed near Santa Maria Maggiore. This benediction lasts for several days because citizens and visitors across the social strata send livestock and pets for blessings at St. Anthony's shrine. The belief is that when animal attendees are sprinkled and sanctified, they receive the additional protection of the saint..."
Saint Anthony de Abad Animal Blessing, Italy
Saint Anthony (Patron Saint of the Animal Kingdom) Art at the Getty
Blessing of the Animals on St Anthony's Feast Day
St Anthony Blessing (Horses)
Animal Lover's Gift
Blessing of the Animals is a mix of historical fact, fun, quirky descriptions, heartfelt sentiments, and novel ceremonies involving pets and other animals. You can order the book now from our secure shopping cart or use the links (coming soon) to order from your favorite online source.
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