Vatican City, Jan 17, 2012 / 13:16 pm
Horses, cows, chickens and dogs were just some of the creatures that took center stage at the Vatican today for the customary blessing of animals.
“We have around 30 horses and we chose one to bring here for the blessing of St. Anthony because it’s important, he helps them along in their lives,” said Elio Daffalu from Messina, Italy, while standing next to his blessed horse named Doria.
“He is the protector of animals and because we have a passion for horses, we always hope that St. Anthony will help them,” Daffalu told CNA.
The ceremony takes place every year on the Feast of St. Anthony the Abbot and was led this year by Cardinal Angelo Comastri, the Archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica.