Honoring all God’s creatures is why several churches in the county are having their own pet blessings during October.

October is the traditional month for pet blessings because the feast day for St Francis, the patron saint of animals, is Oct. 4.

This year will be the first time for Christ Episcopal Church to use the new garden built next to the church.

“The pet blessing is pretty much the same as before,” the Rev. Sallie Schisler, priest in charge, said. “There will be a short liturgy with the focus on Francis and his love of creation. This year we are pleased to do the blessing in the gorgeous new space that reflects the enhanced beauty of nature.”

Christ Church’s service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday.

On Wednesday will be the pet blessing at St. Ann’s at Chesapeake where Father Charles Moran invites all the animals into the nave of the church. That blessing starts at 6:30 p.m. followed by Mass.

“I just believe they should be shown the same respect that we all want. Jesus shared his birth with the animals. He is just returning the favor.” Moran said.

On Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. will be an open pet blessing at Resurrection Hope United Methodist Church.

“People will bring their pets and I’ll give them a blessing,” pastor Terry Jones said. “Some of the animals from the shelter will be there. If anyone wants to adopt, they will be available. If they do, we have a vet willing to give shots free.”

There will also be hot dogs and prizes given away including pet treats.

“When I came here as pastor, they said they had done this before,” Jones said. “We have a lot of animal lovers. We are God’s blessing, all creatures, man and animal.”