Rabbits, goats, and ferrets in church?! Preposterous!

Then again…

The Festa di Sant’ Antonio (Feast of St. Antony d’Abate) is celebrated all over Italy on January 17th (or the closest Saturday/Sunday), which was the date of his death even though it’s celebrated as his birth date. As he is the patron saint of domestic animals as well as lost pets, look for masses of people who flock to the churches to have their farm animals as well as pets blessed by priests in city and countryside alike.

St. Antonio lived from 251-356 AD. During his travels he came across many animals. On one occasion, he became lost and it is said that a wolf guided him to St. Paul. When St. Paul died, further stories indicate that lions helped St. Anthony to dig the grave. No matter how far the truth has been stretched in stories about St. Antonio, he is universally loved.

Here in Bagnaia, an enormous bonfire is built each year in the midst of the main square each January, and a mass is held on the steps of the church of St. Antonio.  Look for posters in every region for celebration details, or ask a local priest, and don’t forget to bring your dog, cat, sheep, fish in its fishbowl, horse, or any other loved little family “member”, furry or not!