Heeling Dogma

For those people who would do anything for their pets, this Saturday will offer a special chance to tap into the infinite.
For the second year in a row, St. Francis Episcopal Church in West Ashley will be hosting a “Blessing of the Animals” at West Ashley Park, beginning at 4 p.m.
The blessing will be led by Rev. Jean McGraw, called “Mother Jean” by some members of her flock who attend services at the church’s temporary home at Sturh’s Funeral Home.
The church is partnering with several veterinarians from Charleston Veterinary Referral Service, who will be on hand to answer pet-related questions, as well as Animal Relief and Rescue (ARR), a non-profit that provides services to abused and neglected pets.
Fetch Doggy Daycare will be handing out treats, and Hanchey Jewelers will be selling a Saint Francis collar charm, with donations benefiting the ARR.
Mother Jean said Saint Francis is considered to be the patron saint of pets, according to several Christian traditions, and that the whole community is welcome to bring their pets, and not just her parishioners.
Last year, Mother Jean said she blessed about 50 pets, and hopes to far exceed that number Saturday.
Mother Jean joked that pet exorcisms would not be provided …