Every year, the blessing of animals and humans in basilica square is an exciting event for four-legged and two-legged friends alike. Traditionally, it takes place on the anniversary of the death of the founder of the order, franc of assisi (3. October 1226).
Father stanislaus wentkowski recalled that, according to franciscan conviction, man is responsible for his fellow human beings and for the whole of nature. He pointed out that animals are god’s creatures, which, like humans, are under god’s protection. They deserve reverence because this reverence is for everything created. The reverence for them is not least an expression of the reverence for their creator. "Francis makes us aware that we all have responsibility and care in nature. As a rational being, man has a duty to take loving care of his fellow human beings. For these, too, are created by god out of love – not just people", says the franciscan.