The Blessing of The Animals is a tradition in the Cashiers community started by the Church of The Good Shepherd. Cashiers area churches will observe this annual event at 11am on Saturday, September 30th, 2023 at The Village Green Common’s Lawn on Frank Allen Road. The gathering will feature music and prayer in celebration of all God’s creatures, great and small. Each animal will receive a special blessing.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation for the Highlands-Cashiers Humane Society. Besides monetary gifts, items like blankets, rugs, towels, Milk Bones, unscented cat litter, and canned dog and cat food are always needed.

The Village Green will provide water and trash cans for the animals. All animals must be leashed or otherwise secured and under the owners’ control at all times.

The tradition of animal or pet blessings is in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all God’s creatures.

For more information, contact the Church of The Good Shepherd online at goodshepherdofcashiers.com or call 828-743-2359.