2021 Blessing of the Animals

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All people and the animals they love are welcome at the 2021 Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, October 2nd. Whether you are able to attend in person or will be here in spirit, we invite you to be a part of this very special annual event!

Join us in the spirit of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals andthe environment, as you have your pets blessed. It’s a wonderful day to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage, savor some delicious refreshments of the season, rejoice with fellow animal lovers, and more. It’s a day not to be missed. Both the Monks’ and Nuns’ gift shops will also be open for shopping.  

During this time of celebration, we ask you to consider a gift in honor of, or in memory of, your pet or other loved one. Your tax- deductible donation of $25 or more received by September 30th will be recognized in the 2021 Animal Blessing Program. 

Click here to to remit your donation.

Your gift today will assist New Skete Monasteries in the areas of most urgent need. This may include costs associated with  repairs or renovations for buildings, grounds, equipment, or other necessary projects to the Monks’ or Nuns’ monasteries the grounds or churches. It may also assist with unexpected costs related to health care for the monastics. We are thankful for your continued support and friendship. 

Remember to bring, send, or email photos of pets that have passed or who are not able to attend. We will display and include them in the blessing too! Or complete the bottom of the enclosed form to include prayer intentions for loved ones.

As you may know, New Skete Monasteries (The Monks and Nuns of New Skete) is an Eastern Orthodox Monastery, a not-for-profit organization. As monastics, in accordance with the simplicity that characterizes monastic life, we earn our daily bread by the work of our own hands. We find in work, a time-honored means of self-discipline and growth. Along with the compensation from our work, the monastics also rely on gifts and donations from those who support our mission. 

We are thrilled to once again welcome you in person to visit us for this special occasion and whenever your schedule allows. May God's blessings be on all of you, and we hope to see you at New Skete soon!

If you would like further information or if you have any questions please feel free to email or call Karen Gladstone, Director of Advancement and Stewardship karengladstone@newskete.org (518)677-3928 ext. 214

Yours in Christ's love,

Brother Christopher and Sister Cecelia  

Prior, Monks of New Skete and Prioress, Nuns of New Skete

*The continued health and well-being of our community, friends, guests, and visitors is our priority. Please check www.newskete.org or call prior to arrival should you have any questions regarding COVID regulations that will be followed on site. We will be adhering to all government-set COVID Guidelines in place on the date of the event including, but not limited to, mask wearing, social distancing, or cancelation of in-person event and pivoting to an all-virtual event. Thank you in advance for your full cooperation.