Middleburg's interfaith tradition of The Blessing of the Animals will take place Sunday, Oct. 3, at 2 p.m., in honor of St. Francis, at the National Sporting Library & Museum.

The Blessing, on the lawn at the National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) in Middleburg, will be conducted by ministers, priests and a rabbi from many area congregations and welcomes animals of any kind, great or small, feathered, furry and hooved. St. Francis of Assisi is the internationally acknowledged 12th-century patron saint of animals and the environment whose feast day is in early October.

The Rev. Eugene LeCouteur of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, which coordinates the annual event, says, "Particularly after this difficult year when we relied so much on our animal companions for comfort, we should take the opportunity to come together and thank God for this gift."

NSLM, at 102 The Plains Rd., just off Route 50 in Middleburg, has ample parking and a spacious lawn at the corner with Route 50. Large animals in trailers (e.g. horses, cattle) will be directed to a special parking area. Volunteers will be on hand to direct traffic and hand out gift bags.

Animals staying at home can receive their blessings online. A minister will conduct individual blessings to all participants joining virtually. Questions about a virtual blessing can be directed to info@nationalsporting.org.

"The Middleburg area is a haven for animal lovers," the Rev. LeCouteur points out. "Thanks to the hospitality of the NSLM and our faith partners, we have continued this tradition for more than 20 years."

Rabbi Rose Lyn Jacob of Madison County, the Rev. Tracey Lyons of Mt. Zion-Willisville Chapel Cooperative Parish (UMC), Father Christopher Murphy of St. Stephen the Martyr Roman Catholic Church in Middleburg and Pastor Herman Nelson of Shiloh Baptist Church, Middleburg, will co-officiate with the Rev. LeCouteur, rain or shine.

Mask-wearing is encouraged and social distancing among owners will be observed.

For more information, call (540) 687-6297 or go to Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/292183898497085