Video: Dogs and Cats Blessed with Holy Water in Madrid
- Madrid residents celebrated the Feast of saint Anthony,the patron saint of animals,on Saturday with a traditional blessing ceremony at the Saint Anthony church in the city center.Dozens of...
- The ceremony involved sprinkling the animals with holy water on the church steps.
- The tradition, observed annually, reflects the enduring connection between faith and animal companionship in the Madrid community.
Madrid residents celebrated the Feast of saint Anthony,the patron saint of animals,on Saturday with a traditional blessing ceremony at the Saint Anthony church in the city center.Dozens of pet owners brought their dogs and cats to receive blessings from Catholic priests, a practice intended to ensure the animals’ health and protection for the year ahead.
The ceremony involved sprinkling the animals with holy water on the church steps. The Municipal Police band added to the festive atmosphere with traditional music. attendees also participated in a custom dating back to the 1980s, purchasing bread rolls as an offering to Saint Anthony.
The tradition, observed annually, reflects the enduring connection between faith and animal companionship in the Madrid community. No incidents or disruptions were reported during the event.