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By Shelby Bowman '26

On a bright Wednesday in early October, Wilson students brought their pets and animals to the Main Green for the Blessing of the Animals. The event was an opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate a variety of creatures on campus. The tradition was inspired by the life and work of St. Francis, who was known for his love of animals.  
 

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“It's a recognition of the animals within the kingdom of God, of the Creator, and to reflect on the beauty of creation, especially in the fall,” said Chaplain Andrew Hart. “The fall is such a gorgeous time to celebrate the beauty of creation.” 

At Wilson, the tradition began in 1994 with former student Malinda Triller who suggested it to Susan Olsen, the chaplain at the time. Olsen promised to hold a blessing ceremony if Triller attended every chapel service that spring. The first Blessing of the Animals at Wilson took place in the science center.  

“We didn’t have a formal program at that time,” Triller said. “No planned readings or prepared blessings. We just said whatever came to mind as we blessed each animal.” 

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Over time, the event moved outside, and students began bringing their horses from the barns and dogs from the kennels.  

“Things became a little more formal and attracted a lot of attention from drivers passing by,” said Triller.  

Beyond the Blessing of the Animals event, Wilson has had a long history of animals on campus. Before the equitation program was introduced in 1974, a riding club began in 1922. The campus began offering veterinary courses in 1981. Both programs have grown in popularity, helping shape Wilson’s pet-friendly identity. 

“I think it's really cool that Wilson even does this,” said Drew Mules ’29, who came to Blessing of the Animals with her horse, Nacho. "The campus is so pet-friendly, even horse-friendly.” 

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Wilson’s pet-friendliness is a major pull to prospective students, bringing comfort to both students and their pets.  

“I've had her since she was a kitten, and she gets really sad if I'm not there with her," said Grace Lillick ‘29 with her twelve-year-old cat, Angel. “That was part of the reason I decided to come, because I knew I'd be able to bring her.” 

Because of the popularity of the tradition and the number of animals on campus, another Blessing of the Animals will be held in the spring.