The Franciscan Center is combining the Annual St. Francis Day Celebration & the Blessing of the Animals with the historic occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Spirituality/Conference Center established on donated land and developed by the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, NY as a place of peace, healing, community, and joy.  The Blessing of the Animals is an annual event in honor of St. Francis of Assisi who is the patron Saint of animals and the environment. This year’s event features several celebratory opportunities:

4:00 p.m.

God’s Good Earth:  An interfaith prayer & music program is part of an international observance of The Season of Creation  initiative and is a part of this year’s theme “Listen to the Voice of Creation”.

6:00 p.m.

Mayor Jane Castor will unveil a historical marker provided by the FLORIDA HERITAGE SITE SPONSORED BY THE FLORIDA HUMANITIES COUNCIL, ALLEGANY FRANCISCAN MINISTRIES, FRANCISCAN SISTERS OF ALLEGANY, NY, AND THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF STATE 2021.  Dignitaries, community partners, neighbors and the general public are invited to celebrate this milestone event.

 6:30 p.m.

Pets of all kinds and their owners will be blessed by Franciscan Friars from Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Tampa.  This annual “Blessing of the Animals” for all furry, finned, and feathered friends is a Franciscan Tradition in celebration of St. Francis of Assisi, Patron Saint of animals and the environment.

This event will feature live music by Ray Gurka music, pet friendly vendors, community partner information exhibits, food, and activities for the whole family on the beautiful riverfront grounds of the Franciscan Center at 3010 N. Perry Avenue Tampa, FL  33603.