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Blessing of the Animals

Julia Zorthian, left, and Lucia Zezza bring animals from Zorthian Ranch to an annual Blessing of the Animals, which took place at Olvera Street on Saturday.

Julia Zorthian, left, and Lucia Zezza bring animals from Zorthian Ranch to an annual Blessing of the Animals, which took place at Olvera Street on Saturday.

  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Hundreds of animals were brought to Olvera Street for the annual Blessing of the Animals by Archbishop Jose Gomez. The ceremony dates to the 4th century and is “held in grateful recognition of the tremendous services given to the human race by the animal kingdom,” according to church officials.

Blessing of the Animals

Snowflake the cat is blessed by Archbishop Jose Gomez.

  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Blessing of the Animals

Pet owners brought dogs, cats, birds. A pregnant cow named Surapa led the procession of animals past Archbishop Gomez, who was standing under a flower-covered arch.

  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Blessing of the Animals

“We have plenty of holy water,” the emcee joked.

  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

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Blessing of the Animals

Pet owners Barbara Tohom, left, and Ivette Aragon carry their dogs, Benji and Chiquita, before participating in an annual Blessing of the Animals.

  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

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