MEXICO CITY — A dozen well-behaved dogs graced the cathedral in Mexico City on Friday, patiently awaiting their turn to receive a blessing with holy water during a special Mass dedicated to animals.
This event is part of a cherished Catholic custom observed on January 17, coinciding with the feast day of St. Anthony the Abbot, revered as the patron saint of animals. On this day, various Mexican parishes invite not just dogs, but also cats and even the occasional parrot, creating a joyful congregation of beloved pets.
Some owners go the extra mile by adorning their furry companions with festive sweaters or colorful scarves, all in the spirit of the occasion. Their prayers are directed towards God and St. Anthony, asking for the health and safety of their animal friends.
Karla Flores shared her story about Lana, her cherished 11-year-old dog, whom she regards as a genuine gift. Lana was left abandoned as a puppy outside Flores’s home on December 12, a significant date for many Mexican Catholics who honor Our Lady of Guadalupe.
“We discovered her alongside her mother and a few brothers, all tucked away in a box,” Flores recounted. “We took them in, found homes for most, but decided to keep Lana and her mom.” Recently, with Lana feeling depressed and unwell, Flores felt a blessing was necessary.
Naydelin Aguilar brought her dog, Rocky, a poodle-mix gifted to her by her mother during the pandemic. She expressed an everlasting gratitude for the joy he has brought into her life, especially during challenging times. “He has been a beacon of light for us through the storms,” Aguilar remarked, noting that this year marks Rocky’s fifth anniversary with their family.
Rev. José Antonio Carballo, the cathedral’s rector, addressed the attentive pets nestled in their owners’ arms during his service. He expressed hopes that the Lord would bless these animals, acknowledging the companionship they offer their human counterparts. “They bring joy and encouragement to their caretakers,” Carballo stated.
After the noon Mass concluded, pet owners made their way to the cathedral entrance, where Carballo sprinkled holy water over both the humans and their pets. Among the attendees was Jerome, a striking black and tan Yorkshire Terrier, held lovingly by his owner, Gabriela Viquez.
Viquez adopted Jerome four years prior, quickly growing enamored with him. To commemorate the day he joined her family, she hosts a birthday party complete with a cake each year. “I once spoke to a person who communicates with animals, and she informed me that Jerome had been a gift to someone but was later abandoned and mistreated, leaving him with deep-seated trauma,” Viquez explained.
“Now, we couldn’t be happier together; it was serendipitous that our paths crossed.”
