'They are loved': Pets get blessings in Hoffman Estates

Cats, dogs and even groundhogs, all of them loved as cherished family members, were brought to St. Hubert Catholic Church in Hoffman Estates to be blessed Sunday during the annual Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi.

St. Hubert was among more than 90 Archdiocese of Chicago parishes to host outdoor animal blessings over the weekend in celebration of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment.

“People like to have their pets recognized,” Deacon Steve Baldasti said. “They become part of the family. They are loved.”

Perhaps the youngest pet to be blessed by the deacon was a 9-week-old miniature Goldendoodle puppy named Jackson.

“We wanted to get him going on the right paw,” said his owner, Marianne Batchelder of Elk Grove Village. “We need all the help we can get.”

Baldasti said a traditional prayer over the entire group of about 30 animals in the church parking lot before approaching each pet individually to offer a personal blessing and scratch on the head.

“It's a good, calm group this year,” he said. “We look forward every year to this.”