Blessing of the Animals to be hosted in Olvera Street

With pets being some of the most beloved and appreciated members of a family, many churches and religions have adopted an event that is meant to honor and bless the different animals in our lives. The free event, held on Saturday, April 19, will take place on Olvera Street from 12 to 4 p.m.

The community is invited to bring their four-legged companions for an offered blessing from Archbishop José Gómez, born in Monterrey, Mexico. 

In 2011, Gómez became the fifth archbishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, previously serving as auxiliary bishop of Denver, Colorado, from 2001 to 2004 and as archbishop of San Antonio, Texas, from 2004 to 2010. Gómez also served as vice president and president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, making him the first Latino to hold both positions. 

The event and blessing are offered to all animals, whether they live on land or in water.  The line to receive blessings will begin at 1 p.m. in front of the Pico House. 

In the past people have brought their cats, dogs, fish, and birds. Others have also brought larger animals such as cows, horses, pigs, sheep, donkeys and even snakes.

The Blessing of the Animals has been a part of Olvera Street since its founding in 1930, according to the Olvera Street Merchants Association Foundation, the organization in charge of promoting and preserving the historical significance of Olvera Street and La Placita Olvera. 

As stated by the association, in the early days of the pueblo and Olvera Street, the oldest part of Downtown L.A. and home to the Avila Adobe, now the oldest existing house in the city, the priest from La Placita Church would bless the livestock of the farmers. 

At that time, this practice was believed to help keep animals healthy and productive, benefiting the entire community. 95 years later, this belief still lives on among community members and animal lovers of L.A. 

Because the types of animals who are blessed have expanded from livestock to pets, companion animals, agricultural animals and working animals, the event is one of the most anticipated in the city. 

The history of the blessing of animals dates back much longer than Olvera Street and occurs in many different religions and throughout the world in places like Mexico, Central America, Spain, the U.S. and Canada, among others. 

The history of the practice is attributed to San Antonio De Abad and Saint Francis of Assisi, a Christian patron saint of animals, both of whom had a deep love and connection to animals. 

While the blessing is rooted in Catholic tradition, attendees or their pets do not have to be Catholic to participate. The event is free and open to all humans and pets. 

CALÓ News will be covering the event.