
Rev. Garret Johnson greets five-year-old Emma. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Greenport held its annual Blessing of the Animals Saturday afternoon just as the rain began to fall.
About a half dozen dogs with their owners braved the chill and wind to receive the blessing, which is done to honor St. Francis of Assisi’s love for animals.
After reading a special prayer, Rev. Garret Johnson blessed each animal individually.
Scroll down to see more photos, taken by photographer Katharine Schroeder:

Charlie, a 12-year-old dog from Greenport, waits for the ceremony to begin.

Emma is apparently more interested in belly rubs than blessings.

Rev. Johnson begins the blessing.

Ten-year-old Astro

Taki, a six-year-old rescue watches the blessing.

Willie watches the proceedings, seemingly suspicious.

Rev. Johnson blesses Emma.

Rev. Johnson blesses Taki