Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Mansfield on Sunday morning held its time-honored tradition of the Blessing of Animals event.

Pastor Penti Maki says the event commemorates Saint Francis of Assisi, who believed nature was the mirror of God and called all creatures his "brothers and sisters."

Pastor Maki says predominantly dogs and cats are the most common animals brought by parishes to be blessed but there's been many other kinds as well.

Pastor Maki says everyone looks forward to this event because people love their pets and most believe they are part of their family.