KENT—On a picture-perfect fall evening, South Kent School reopened its North Campus for the beloved Blessing of the Animals service, a tradition that had been on hold since the pandemic.
Students, faculty, and local families, accompanied by their pets, gathered to receive blessings from the Rev. Stephen Klots, the school chaplain.
Held in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the ceremony celebrates the bond between humans and animals, marking the return to cherished traditions and community gatherings.
“This event reminds us of our responsibility to care for all living creatures,” said Head of School Brian Sullivan. “We’re thrilled to bring this tradition back to the natural setting of North Campus.”
The North Campus is also in the midst of a revitalization plan.
New educational programs focused on sustainability, agriculture, and climate change will soon be launched, transforming the campus into a hands-on learning facility.
“The value of boarding school is embracing learning beyond the classroom, allowing students to apply knowledge in real-world settings,” Sullivan said.
With new raised garden beds and initiatives planned for 2025, the event represents a renewed sense of community and environmental stewardship.
The joyful ceremony served as a reminder of South Kent’s commitment to sustainability and compassion for all living beings.
