Sign up for Weekday J and get the latest on what's happening in the Jewish Bay Area.

Rabbi Camille Shira Angel of Congregation Sha’ar Zahav says a prayer over pup Bernie (left) at the San Francisco SPCA’s “Blessing of the Animals” on Nov. 1. The event was held during a fee-free, four-day adoptathon that saw 92 pets adopted. At right, Amira Lezin-Haveson sits with Angel. “Our pets connect us to our common humanity; they teach us forgiveness, easy love and simple pleasures,” Angel said. “Truly, they are our blessings.”