PHOTOS: DC pets participate in annual Blessing of the Animals outside National Cathedral

A variety of four-legged furry guests came by the National Cathedral in D.C. on Sunday for the .

Both pets and their owners can be blessed with holy water during the event.

The blessing is in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, who’s the patron saint of animals and the environment. It’s also about giving thanks to God for the joy pets bring, according to organizers.

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The scene outside the National Cathedral on Oct. 1, 2023 during the Blessing of the Animals. (Courtesy Ann Fedorchak)

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Kneeling down, a small dog is blessed as the pet stays close to its owner. (Courtesy Ann Fedorchak)

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A feline with emerald-colored eyes receives a blessing. (Courtesy Ann Fedorchak)

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A pet owner holds his two French bulldogs as they receive a blessing outside the National Cathedral. (Courtesy Ann Fedorchak)

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Pet owners and pets alike dress in purple for the special day. (Courtesy Ann Fedorchak)

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A fuzzy brown dog is blessed on Oct. 1, 2023. (Courtesy Ann Fedorchak)

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