Round Hill to host blessing of the animals
The blessing of the animals is a Christian tradition started by St. Francis that dates back to the ninth century.
“St. Francis was a man of honesty and a strong Christian man, and he had the love of animals and all people,” said the Rev. Michael Singer. “He was a man who had animals around him all of the time.”
The blessing of the animals is an annual tradition held the first Sunday in December at Round Hill Park in Elizabeth. The observance will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday.
Singer, rector of the Church of the Transfiguration in Clairton and St. John’s Episcopal Church in Donora, will officiate the service. The minister for the service rotates each year.
“The ministers we have each year enjoy doing it,” park manager Chris Roland said. “They actually call us and offer their services.”
While Singer will be leading the Round Hill Park service for the first time, he has conducted animal blessings at his own church in Clairton.
“I think it is very important for everyone to know that animals are God’s creations,” Singer said. “They are very much a part of our lives.”
Roland said the blessing of the animals has grown each year. Close to 60 people routinely attend with multiple animals, Roland said.
“We have a lot people bring horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, even reptiles,” said Roland. “The people genuinely care about animals here at the park.”
Located along Route 481, at 651 Round Hill Road, Elizabeth, Round Hill Park is an 1,100-acre park that includes an exhibition farm with animals.
The park, which is open every day of year from 8 a.m. to sunset, also includes soccer fields, shelters, a spray park and walking and bridle trails.
“The upper barn is decorated for Christmas, and we have a little chapel set up with bales of hay for seats,” Roland said. “The minister says a few prayers and speaks to people.”
After the hourlong service concludes, cookies and hot chocolate are served in the park’s visitors center.