The second annual Blessing of the Pets will take place Oct. 2 at John Carroll Catholic High School to honor the memory of 2006 graduate Megan Montgomery (pictured).
Last year, the event was created by Diane Henderson, a close family friend of the late Montgomery, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 31.
In addition to paying homage to Montgomery’s love of animals, the pet blessing is hosted in conjunction with the school’s recognition of St. Francis of Assisi Day. The saint was known for his love of animals and uncanny ability to connect with them.
According to a release, family and friends saw a similar ability in Montgomery, who dedicated time to support animal welfare, including serving as a founding member of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s junior professional board.
“Open to the public, blessing pets is an old tradition in many faith communities, because we love our pets unconditionally as God loves us,” a news release states. “We pray for them when they are sick and mourn when they are gone. They are like our family.”
Blessings will be performed by Deacon Douglass Moorer of Our Lady of Fatima and Deacon Rick DiGiorgio of Prince of Peace Catholic Church.
The event will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on the outdoor parking lot at the back of John Carroll’s campus, at 300 Lakeshore Parkway in Homewood.
For more information call Mike Bouton, director of alumni relations, at 205-986-1266.
