The month of October is a favorite of many who have devotion to Our Blessed Mother, the angels, and the saints.
The month of October is dedicated to the Holy Rosary. The Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary is celebrated on October 7. You are always welcomed to join in the communal praying of the Holy Rosary after every weekday 7am Mass, and after the Saturday 8am Mass.
In October we express gratitude to God for the great gift of our Guardian Angels. Every person has a guardian angel assigned to them, and on October 2nd the Church celebrated the role of these Guardian Angels. We should express devout gratitude to God for placing these angels at our service. Each of our Guardian Angels provides us guidance, protection, and confidence during life’s difficulties.
This month also is rich with feasts and memorials: St. Therese (October 1), Guardian Angels (October 2), St. Faustina (October 5), St. Bruno (October 6), Our Lady of the Rosary (October 7), St. Callistus I (October 14), St. Teresa of Jesus (October 15), St. Hedwig and St. Margaret Mary (October 16), St. Ignatius of Antioch (October 17), St. Isaac Jogues, St. John de Brebeuf and Companions (October 19), St. Paul of the Cross (October 20), St. John Paul II (October 22), St. Anthony Mary Claret (October 24) and Sts. Simon and June (October 28).
Lastly, we bless animals in October! There is something beautiful (and sometimes adventurous!) when the parish gathers for outdoor liturgical events. We did so last weekend for our Rosary Procession through the cemetery. We’ll do so on November 3rd for our All Saints Procession, and we’ll do so this weekend for the blessing of the animals.
With so many marvelous and miraculous stories of St. Francis with animals (birds, rabbits, fish, lambs, a donkey, and even a wolf!) it is no wonder that He has been named the patron saint of animals. Therefore, please bring your pets of all sizes, shapes and species to the gym field on Sunday, October 6 at 2pm for a special blessing. If you do not own a pet and still would like to come and pray, please do! All are welcome! Please plan to stay for some apple cider and cookies afterwards.