Gooden School Embraces Blessing of the Animals

The Gooden School community came together recently on the South Campus lawn for one of the institution’s cherished traditions: the blessing of the animals, which featured a special outdoor chapel service in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi and his love for all creatures. Students brought pets, stuffed animals and photographs to be blessed, and second-graders sold dog treats and cat toys for their service-learning project with the Pasadena Humane Society. Guitar in hand, school chaplain David Kitch led the service with a sing-along and administered a holy water blessing of all animals in attendance. The service included a touching moment when everyone offered prayers for those who no longer are with us and for others who were unable to attend.