Sparta. Our Lady of the Lake Church, located at 294 South Sparta Avenue in Sparta, will be holding a “Blessing of the Animals” at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 4, in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. Because of COVID-19, the parking lot outside church will be marked accordingly, and masks will be required for owners (but not pets!). “It is a wonderful opportunity to provide a special blessing for your beloved animals,” said the church in a statement.