Guinea pigs, dogs, and even a stuffed dolphin received blessings to honor St. Francis of Assisi.

Students, parents and staff of Sophia Academy, Atlanta, gathered on Friday, Oct. 4, behind the school for the annual Blessing of the Pets.

The students were invited to bring their pets, pictures of their pets, or stuffed animals to receive a blessing from Father David Musso, a Marist priest. The Marists sponsor Sophia Academy.

Father Musso shared God’s call for humans to care for his creation, noting St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, in particular.