Area animal owners are invited to bring their pets to a Blessing of the Animals service beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday at Zion Lutheran Church, Mauch Chunk and Greenwood streets, Tamaqua.

The special blessing service honors St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and the environment. Many churches offer animal blessing services, usually held on or around the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

Pets may include dogs, cats, fish and birds. Some people choose to bring photos of their pets if it is difficult for their pets to attend the blessing. The service takes place indoors so pet owners are asked to have their animal friends secured by leash or carrier.

The service will be webcast on Zion’s website and Facebook.