St Simon's to host Animal Blessing & Earth Celebration

Saint Simon's Episcopal Church will host its annual Animal Blessing and Earth Celebration on Sunday, Oct. 8.

Open to the public, the event will take place from 2-4 p.m., in the parking lot outside of Saint Simon's at 717 W. Kirchhoff Road, Arlington Heights.

Bring your pet (either on a leash or in a carrier) for an individual blessing. If you don't have a pet, you are still welcome to attend.

"Our animals give us much joy and love. It's appropriate that we bless and thank God for them, and celebrate our relationships with them. We also want to bless and care for this fragile earth, our island home," said Saint Simon's Pastor Jenny Hulen. "The event will help us learn more about how we can do that. Plus, it's just fun to gather with all our neighbors and enjoy each other."

In addition to the blessing, attendees can participate in a raffle with prizes from local organizations, explore the Bookmobile, watch a demonstration from the Arlington Heights Police Department K-9 Unit, participate in a seed planting demonstration from the Arlington Heights Garden Club and visit with event partners.

Thank you to our event partners: Arlington Heights Garden Club, Arlington Heights Memorial Library Bookmobile, Arlington Heights Police Department K-9 Unit, Bottle & Bottega, The Buddy Foundation, Many Paws Global Rescue, NCH Therapy Dogs, Pet Supplies Plus, PetSuites, Preiser Animal Hospital, Prospect Animal Hospital and the village of Arlington Heights Forestry Department.

This is a free community event open to everyone - no ticket or RSVP is required. For information, visit www.saintsimons.org.