We visited the Cathedral of St. John the Divine yesterday to participate in the Feast of St. Francis service - and to see all the animals that flocked to Morningside Heights for the annual animal blessing. Many society brought their pets - mostly dogs, but there were fairly a few cats, birds and bunny rabbits - and the cathedral was packed.

One highlight of the service is the procession of animals. And everything from a camel, golden eagle and a monkey to hermit crabs, reindeer and lovebirds waited external with their handlers until their big moment. Green Chimneys, a non-profit in New York that offers animal-assisted therapy to children, brought down many of the animals, including two llamas who love to kiss humans (we know firsthand!), a Chinese goose, chicken, a miniature horse, goats - and Mr. Thumper the rabbit and Marvin the black sheep (above).

When the animals finally

entered the cathedral, everyone oohed and aahed by seeing the animals escorted down the nave (best walks are a toss up amidst the little girls chasing the goose and the porcupine wheeled in - in a special Plexiglass case). Overall, it was a very joyous celebration, particularly with the dances from the Paul Winter Group.

After the service, everyone gathered in the courtyard, getting their pets blessed, asking others approximately their pets and enjoying the day. And yes, that’s a 14-pound bunny in a carrier (above right).

Original post by Jen Chung

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