INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

 

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
January 2009

The 17th of January is the feast day of Anthony the Great, an ascetic who lived in the deserts of Egypt and often traveled accompanied by animals. It is for this reason that in many countries the Blessing of the Animals is celebrated on his feast day. Such was the case at the International School on Friday, January 16, 2009, when students arrived with their pets in tow to receive the blessings of Father Bernardo Reyes Oloaga from Cuernavaca’s seminary. 

As the Father pointed out, animals are creatures of God, too, and require our care, protection and love, just as St. Anthony showed centuries back to beasts and birds. Among the furry and not-so-furry friends who received the Father’s blessings were many dogs, a few cats, some birds, a ferret, and numerous turtles and fish.

 Doctor Jorge Guerrero Martínez, veterinarian at the Animal Shelter of Cuernavaca also shared some words about our most common choice of pets: cats and dogs. He emphasized that really they are not pets, but rather “companions” who require our attention and devotion during their lifetimes. Of course, at the Animal Shelter there are many cats and dogs just waiting for such love. Following this vein, Miss Yvonne closed with three pieces of advice: to adopt, neuter, and if an animal is unwanted, to leave it at a shelter where it can be cared for.

    

 

 

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