The Parish of St Michael at Thirroul celebrated the feast of St Francis of Assisi by offering a blessing to anyone with feather, fur and fins.

Father Ken Knee did, however, attach  conditions to the ceremony. 

‘‘Please note, that both bulldogs and rabbits will receive the same blessing, though anyone bringing a swan is asked to refrain from jokes in poor taste.’’ he said. 

Sandra Vatovec brought the family dog Angus in hope of some divine intervention.

‘‘He’s been a little unsettled lately and we hope this will calm him down,’’ she said.

Will Lucas brought Petunia the rabbit who was named after her appetite for his mother’s flowers of the same name. 

‘‘She’s blind in one eye and maybe the blessing will help,’’ he said.

Some pets and owners travelled from as far Sydney with the parish’s holy water which Fr Ken collects  from local beaches.

The unusual ceremony is in its sixth year and recognises St Francis’ status as the patron Saint of Ecology.

‘‘It’s about praising God through all of his creations ... we want to teach people that creatures aren’t things to be used and abused.’’ said Fr Ken.

During six years Fr Ken has blessed snakes, chooks and stick insects while having only reservations about one animal.

‘‘The blessing of horses via the monitors at the TAB is not guaranteed to be successful,’’ he said.