St. Francis of Assisi Episco- pal Church will host the annual St. Francis Day Blessing of the Animals at the 10:15 a.m. Holy Communion service Sun., Oct. 1 at the church, 280 Royal Ave., Simi Valley. The public is in- vited to attend at no charge. The Rev. Steven Dean, vicar,

will bless each pet during the service. All animals must be on a leash or in a carrier.

St. Francis Day commemo- rates the life of a saint who led a life of peace, love and con- cern for all God's creatures.

For more information, call (805) 526-5141.