St. Edmund’s church blesses a furry flock

The courtyard of St. Edmund’s Church was transformed into an outdoor altar as the annual blessing of the animals got underway.

The benediction in honor of the patron saint of animals, St. Francis of Assisi, drew pet owners to the house of worship, 2450 Ocean Avenue, where Rev. Edward Brophy and Deacon Ronald Rizzuto presided over the ceremony.

The bestial congregation included an assortment of dogs, cats, bids and other lovable critters.