By early autumn, when the air in Cashiers begins to carry that first hint of crispness and the maples flirt with color, a beloved tradition pads, trots, prances, and occasionally waddles back onto The Village Green Commons. The Blessing of the Animals, hosted each year by the Church of the Good Shepherd, returns at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, October 3, inviting the community to gather in gratitude for the creatures who share our homes, our pastures, and our hearts.
It’s one of the Plateau’s most tender rituals – a celebration inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, whose Canticle of the Creatures praises all living beings as brothers and sisters. That spirit of kinship is unmistakable as the Commons Lawn fills with an ever‑delightful parade: dogs with bright bandanas, cats peeking from carriers, goats with opinions, llamas with eyelashes for days, and the occasional horse who seems to understand he’s the star of the show.
(I’ve brought my sugar gliders before for their blessing, and my friend Carolyn McCall once drew plenty of smiles when she arrived with Shanequa, her big black hen, who made quite an impression.)
The blessing typically begins around 11:00 A.M., and like most things in Cashiers, it’s rain or shine. Families spread blankets, neighbors unfold camp chairs, and pets – leashed, crated, or otherwise secured – settle in with varying degrees of enthusiasm. The Village Green provides water stations and trash cans, ensuring that even the most energetic attendees stay comfortable.
There’s a gentle rhythm to the morning: quiet prayers offered over each animal, and the soft murmur of conversations between people who may not know one another but instantly bond over shared affection for their companions. It’s a celebration of compassion, but also of community – a reminder that caring for animals often brings out the best in us.
As always, the event supports the Cashiers‑Highlands Humane Society, and attendees are encouraged to bring donations. Monetary gifts are welcome, but practical items – blankets, towels, rugs, pet food, and other supplies – are especially appreciated and put to immediate use.
The Blessing of the Animals is free and open to all, and it’s wise to arrive early, especially if your four‑legged friend prefers a little space. The Commons Field beside the Post Office offers plenty of room, but the best spots tend to fill quickly.
For questions or updates, contact the Church of the Good Shepherd at (828) 743‑2359 or goodshepadmin@frontier.com.
On this gentle October morning, Cashiers once again becomes a sanctuary – not just for animals, but for the people who love them.
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