The Order of the Blessing of Animals in Collectio Rituum

This article critically examines the operative theology of the Rite of Animal Blessing found in the Philippine Collectio Rituum, analyzing its introductory rites, readings, intercessions, and prayers of blessing. It argues that the rite is dominated by an anthropocentric theology of Imago Dei and dominion, treating animals chiefly as useful to humans (for labor, food, and companionship) rather than recognizing their God-given intrinsic value and dignity. Engaging Pope Francis' Laudato Si', Thomistic and contemporary animal ethics, and the notion of kinship with creation, the paper proposes concrete revisions to the rite's texts and appends an alternative Prayer of Blessing that better balances stewardship with kinship, urging the Church to expand compassion beyond the human sphere.