Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Several priests in the Archdiocese of Louisville have shared how pets have enriched their lives and ministry, especially as the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi approaches on October 4. St. Francis is recognized as the patron saint of animals and the environment.

Father Paul Beach, who serves as rector at the Shrine of St. Martin of Tours and is also judicial vicar and director of the Metropolitan Tribunal, said his dog Fritz provides companionship. "It’s great coming home and having someone who is happy to see you," he said.

Father Casey Sanders, parochial administrator at St. John Paul II Church, owns two cats named Finnigan and Franklin. He explained that his pets have helped him connect with students at St. John Paul II Academy and sparked conversations about both pet ownership and priestly life. "It opens up conversations of their own pets at home, and then it leads, you know, to general questions about what the priesthood is like," Father Sanders said.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre noted that he has kept freshwater fish for most of his priesthood and finds them soothing. He described their presence as having a "calming effect."

Many local parishes are planning to hold a “blessing of the pets” during Masses this weekend in recognition of St. Francis’s feast day. Parishioners are encouraged to check their local parish bulletins for more information.