The Capuchin friars at Our Lady of Graces Sanctuary, Victoria, celebrated the feast of their patron saint, St Francis of Assisi, last Sunday.
Coadjutor Bishop of Garissa, Kenya, Joseph Alessandro led a solemn concelebrated Mass and delivered an homily.
He then met members of the congregation and blessed pets on the church parvis. He also blessed and released a pair of doves as a symbol of peace. A photo exhibition of the Capuchin friars’ missionary work in Kenya was on display at the sanctuary.
The Conventual Franciscans of Victoria also celebrated the feast at St Francis church, Victoria. After Mass, Fr Guardian Joe Xerri blessed animals and children’s pets on the parvis.