Pet Blessings Service an Opportunity to Reflect on Season of Creation

It has been said that “until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”

When we consider the many reflections we have held during the Season of Creation, it seems a natural fit to also include a Blessing of Pets service, something Holy Trinity Riverbend did on Saturday, October 12. This service has a strong link to what other churches around the world do in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi, and his great love for all of God’s creatures.

Our Blessing of Pets service provided an opportunity to reflect further on the Season of Creation while, at the same time, allowing us to thank God for the love and joy these wonderful pets bring to our lives. Our service also included a freewill offering which we donated to the local animal shelter to enrich the lives of animals looking for forever homes.

Perhaps a quote from Mahatma Gandhi is a good way to conclude:

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."

Submitted by the Rev. Rebecca Harris