Trinity Lutheran Church, 1245 New Hampshire St., invites the public to bring their pets for a special blessing by pastor Mark Rich and participate in animal-friendly events in the grassy area north of the church from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 4 in recognition of Saint Francis Day.

Beginning at 10 a.m., Rich will begin individually blessing each pet in attendance, church member Susan Hadl said. Afterward, Kansas director of the Humane Society of the United States Midge Grinstead will address the public’s questions on legislative issues concerning the humane treatment of animals, Hadl said.

Additionally, Jay Armbrister, whom Hadl described as a local humane farmer, will speak on the proper way to care for animals, Hadl said.

“There are right and wrong ways of handling God’s creatures,” Hadl said. “Saint Francis cared especially for animals, and we honor his work with this event.”

The Lawrence Humane Society will bring adoptable animals to the event to be blessed, as well. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations such as pet food, blankets and towels to donate to the shelter, Hadl said.

Animals of all species are invited for the blessing, Hadl said, as long as they are sociable. Owners of animals that are not sociable are invited to bring a photo of their pets.

This is the first year for the event at Trinity Lutheran, though other churches in Lawrence, such as St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, have been conducting pet blessings for years, Hadl said. Hadl said she hopes the Saint Francis Day celebration will become an annual event at Trinity Lutheran.

“We are pushing to keep animals in the forefront of our lives,” Hadl said.