Bay churches host joint animal blessing
Rev. Alex Martin, St. Barnabas; Charlie Woodward, Prince of Peace Lutheran in Westlake; and Rev. Lisa Kropinak, Bay UMC blessed pets at last year's event.
From dogs and cats, birds and fish, to even horses and goats, all pets are welcome at the annual blessing of the animals to be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church on Sunday, Oct. 8, at 2:00 pm. Of course, they are more than welcome to bring their humans along, as well!
Participating churches include Bethesda on the Bay Lutheran Church and Bay United Methodist Church, who are deeply committed to inter-church dialogue and cooperation. The blessing ceremony will be held on the lawn of St. Barnabas, located at the corner of Wolf and Bradley roads.
The blessing is held annually in honor of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. According to the Rev. Alex Martin, Rector of St. Barnabas, “St. Francis had a special place in his heart for all animals and legend says he even preached to the birds. Pets share our lives, through good times and bad, and show us glimpses of God’s love. With this blessing we take a moment to thank them and thank their Creator.”
The entire community is welcome and encouraged to bring their pets to this short service. Following the blessing there will be free treats for the animals, as well as for the humans who love them. Join us for this unique opportunity to celebrate our very special friends and meet your neighbors!
Leigh Ann Spratt
I am the Office and Communications director for St. Barnabas Episcopal Church.