BAY MINETTE, Alabama — You never know what kind of creature will show up for the Blessing of the Animals at Immanuel Episcopal Church in Bay Minette. In 2016, twin lambs were among the pets blessed by ministers of three area churches. This year, the second annual joint Blessing of the Animals will be at 4 p.m. Oct. 8 in the church yard of Immanuel Episcopal Church.

The Rev. Albert Kennington of Immanuel Episcopal; the Rev. Jay D. Cooper of the First United Methodist Church and the Rev. Blair Beaver of the First Presbyterian Church will be on hand to bestow blessings to the animals. The North Baldwin Animal Shelter will also be there with dogs and cats available for adoption. Donations will be accepted for the North Baldwin Animal Shelter at the service.

The Blessing of the Animals is done in conjunction with the feast of St. Francis of Assisi and the remembrance of his love for all creatures.

In 2016, about 60 pets, including the twin lambs, were at the service. Pets need to be on a leash or in kennels or crates.

For more infomation, contact the Rev. Albert Kennington at revsak@gmail.com.