The “Blessing of the Animals” services were held this past weekend in many parishes throughout Long Island to celebrate St. Francis of Assisi whose feast day was October 4. St. Francis is known as the patron saint of animals and the environment. Below right, Father Valentine Rebello, associate pastor of St. Barnabas the Apostle Parish in Bellmore, blesses “Rocky” held by his owner Michael Babiak. At right, Theresa Johnston, her twin sons Matthew (left) and Mark, and their dog Max wait their turn at St. Barnabas.