Press Photos by Alexis Bove Parishoners and their pets were welcomed Oct. 4 to a special service for the blessing of the animals at St. Thomas More Church, 1040 Flexer Ave. ABOVE: Rev. John S. Pendzick, pastor and his dog, Dusty Rose join Rev. Giuseppe Esposito, assistant pastor and chaplain at Allentown Central Catholic High School and Carmelo, a parishioner's dog, for a photo at the blessing of the animals service at St. Thomas More Church Oct. 4.

Pets and their parishioners gather in a church parking lot for a blessing of the animals service recently. Dogs, cats and a lizard were among the pets participating in the service. Additional photos appear on Page A2.

The custom of blessing of the animals is attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. His feast day is Oct. 4.

PRESS PHOTOS BY ALEXIS BOVE Parishioners and pets practice social distancing during a service of blessing of the animals at St. Thomas More Church, Flexer Avenue.