“A Farm Under Heaven" Exhibit in Rome to honour patron saint of animals

( Jan. 16, 2013) An exhibit in honour of the Feast of St Anthony Abbot, patron and protector of animals is scheduled Thursday morning in front of St. Peter’s square. Titled “A Farm under Heaven” the traditional exhibit is organised annually by the Italian Association of Livestock Farmers (AIA). Farmers from neighbouring regions of Rome bring their cows, goats, sheep, hens and chickens.
Cardinal Angelo Comastri, vicar general for Vatican City State was scheduled to preside at Mass Thursday morning for farmers and their families in St. Peter's Basilica, followed by a solemn blessing of a procession of horses and riders along Via della Conciliazione, the street leading to the Vatican Basilica. Owners of pets have been invited to bring their cats and dogs for free check-ups from veterinarians provided by the association.
The traditional celebration of St. Anthony Abbot's feast day is one that is deeply rooted in the farming community, and is widespread in all of the Italian agricultural communities. Speaking on the significance of the event, Nino Andena, president of the Italian Association of Livestock Famers, said that "it is a moment of celebration that we want to share with others in order to testify to the active role of farmers and ranchers within society."