Cardinal blesses livestock and pets at Vatican celebration

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — While many people around the world seek a blessing for their animals around the Oct. 4 feast of St. Francis of Assisi, in Italy the traditional date to pray for the protection of one’s pets and livestock is Jan. 17 — the feast of St. Anthony the Abbot.

Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica and a member of the Franciscan order, celebrated Mass for farmers on the feast day and then went outside to bless their livestock.

The Italian association of livestock raisers brought donkeys, cows, horses, rabbits, chickens, geese and goats, who munched on feed in wooden pens set up just outside St. Peter’s Square.

But before they could be blessed, the calvary came. To the delight of pilgrims, tourists and residents, 80 horses and riders, representing a variety of Italian mounted units — including a mounted band — road up the long boulevard leading to St. Peter’s.

Dozens of Rome residents also brought their dogs, all of whom received the cardinal’s blessing, even if not all of them were doused by the holy water he sprinkled.

Read More Vatican News

Vatican declares SSPX in schism. What does it mean?

Pope Leo overhauls Vatican finance watchdog, revises Rome vicariate reforms in busy day of decrees

SSPX carries out unauthorized consecration of 4 bishops despite pope’s warningagainst it

Pope Leo XIV calls for solidarity, prayers after deadly Venezuela quakes

Cardinals reflect on Pope Leo XIV’s June consistory: ‘We’re starting to get to know each other’

Who are the 4 US archbishops receiving the pallium from Pope Leo XIV?

Copyright © 2025 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

 Print