Blessing of the Horses Canceled 1st Time in 79 Years!

One of the California traditions has been the Blessing of the Horses at the Santa Inez Mission and I wrote about the event in Blessing of the Animals.

I just read that for the first time in 79 years, the Rancheros Visitadores’ traditional ride to the Santa Ines Mission for the blessing of the riders has been canceled.

Here is an excerpt from the article:

Rancheros official John Balch said that a new owner of one of the properties that the riders need to cross has refused permission, though he hopes the ride can be resumed next year.

“We depend on the graciousness and generosity of the Valley landowners,” Balch said. “We greatly value those good relationships. However, this year the ride to the Mission and the parade had to be canceled.”

The group of hundreds of riders is still planning to camp from May 1 through May 8 at the Janeway property owned by the Visitadores, he said, but there will be no public parade. Last year, that included herding cattle up Alisal Road on the way to the mission.

Wow, what a blow to those who look forward to the event every year. If you'd like to read more commentary, view pictures or video of the Rancheros Vistadores click here.

Blessing of the Animals at Olvera Street

Just a quick note to remind you that the Blessing of the Animals with Cardinal Roger Mahony and the Olvera Street Merchants is just around the corner.

Unfortunately, I won't be attending this year but highly recommend the event and have enjoyed meeting many of you in person over the past few years.

You can see some prior photos or take a look at this slide show.

Before and after the animal procession through Olvera Plaza (just before the animal blessing) you can enjoy entertainment, exhibitors, pony rides and a petting zoo.

Olvera Street was the inspiration for my book, Blessing of the Animals: A Guide to Prayers & Ceremonies Celebrations Pets & Other Creatures

Bring your pets and shade. The Blessing of the Animals will take place at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, 125 Paseo de la Plaza, L.A. Sat., noon-5 p.m. Free. (213) 625-7074.