Grace Episcopal Church in Vineyard Haven is welcoming all pets and their owners to its annual Blessing of the Animals, taking place this Saturday, Oct. 3. The service begins at 4:30 p.m. with a short vigil for St. Francis of Assisi, considered the patron saint of animals. Following the vigil, all pets will receive individual blessings. There will be an opportunity to remember departed pets as well. All are welcome, but all animals should be appropriately restrained.

On Sunday, Oct. 4, the church hosts the Feast of St. Francis. The 9 a.m. worship service will be highlighted by an investiture ceremony for the Rev. Brian Murdoch who has been appointed Priest in Charge. Mr. Murdoch served as bridge priest at Grace Church for the past year. The guest speaker will be Philip Mangano, a nationally known advocate for the homeless.

For more information, call Grace Church at 508-693-0332.