WELLINGTON - St. Michael Lutheran Church in Wellington is hosting it's first "Paws for a Blessing" event where they will hold a blessing of the animals 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4. The event will also be a fundraiser for Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in West Palm Beach. Attendees are asked to bring canned pet food.

"I've done some research on pet blessings and I've found that it touches people spiritually because they have such a connection to their animals," said Pastor Marjorie Weiss. "It helps them be connected to God. I haven't attended one before so it'll be a first for me. It will be a great draw for the community and it'll benefit a charity."

She said the date coincides with St. Francis of Assisi's feast date of Oct. 4. Francis is the patron saint of animals.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is sponsoring the event. Financial Representative Donna Tagg is organizing the fundraiser.

"The animals are not getting enough attention as they should be during this economic time. Hopefully some people will come out and adopt some pets," she said. "We would just love to have everyone come out and join us and bring some food for the animals. As we say four legged and two legged are welcome."

Peggy Adams' Pet Mobile will also be at the event.

"They will have a number of furry friends ready for adoption," Weiss said. "Many of God’s creatures need a good home."

Weiss is hoping for at least 50 people to show up.

For people that can't attend but would still like to donate they're asking that donations be dropped off at the church, 1925 Birkdale Drive, on the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Birkdale. The drop-off hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to noon.

Call Pastor Marjorie Weiss at 561-793-4999 or Donna Tagg or 561-762-3185 for more information.