St. Mary's Episcopal Church invites all Northfield community members and their pets to the annual Blessing of the Animals, a service celebrating the patron saint of animals, St. Francis of Assisi. All furry, feathered, scaly, or other animal companions are invited along with their two-legged caretakers. For those pets who don't travel well, a photograph may serve as a stand-in for the blessing. The service will be held on the steps of the church at 203 South Main Street on Saturday, October 4, 2014, at 4:00 pm. In case of inclement weather, the service will be held in the sanctuary. Following the blessing service, refreshments for both two- and four-legged attendees will be offered in the parish house.