Students, families, alumni and pets of all kinds gathered at Santa Barbara Catholic School in Dededo last week for a time-honored tradition for the Catholic community— a pet blessing in honor of Saint Francis Assisi's love for animals.

From your usual companions like dogs and cats to unconventional ones like chickens and even a turtle. Pets of all kinds were blessed at the northern campus for a timeless tradition St. Francis, the patron saint of animals. The pet blessing and prayer was led by Deacon Romy Hernandez.

The blessing is part of celebrations for the season of creation observed by the Catholic community every year. Faith Formation director Mariel Tesoro explained its significance, saying, "It’s so important because it’s celebrating that these pets, they’re companions in our journey and they have a place in creation. It’s a reminder of our call to be stewards of God’s creation on Earth, and just reminding us that everyone has a place in creation."

8th graders Giovanna and Kairra Verango are sisters. They share why they brought their poodle, named Stella, saying, "Maybe so that she can be in the presence of God", with Giovanna adding, "so that she can feel the presence of God and so that she can be blessed for all the animal years of her life."

Meanwhile others had a simpler reason, as one student commented, "Because they’re very naughty," and another saying, "Because he’s so cute."

It was also a fun day for these students after lessons, who got a rare chance to bring their pets to school and see what cool pets their friends have, while honoring the precious bond between human and animal.

Asked about her favorite part of the event, Kairra shared, "Maybe showing her to my school because it’s really rare to show your dog and expose her something to like this, as long as she’s not stressed."

And Tesoro said, "That’s a bonus. Everyone is so excited, it’s like bring your pet day. Everyone is so excited about that."