Lord of Life Lutheran Church will hold its annual Blessing of the Animals for the public at 9:45 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 2.
This annual event honors the patron saint of animals, St. Francis of Assisi, by highlighting our bond with animals and the role pets play in our lives. It often coincides with World Animal Day. Readings include ones that mention animals in the bible, a reading of the Rainbow Bridge poem about deceased pets waiting for us and more. The service concludes with each individual or family bringing their leashed pet forward to be blessed by Rev. Kerry Hinkley with holy water.
“This is one of the happiest church events of the calendar year, and certainly the noisiest one, with lots of dogs barking and wagging tails,” said Sheila Kolesaire, church council president. “We allow our congregation to bring their family dog with them normally to church on Sundays if they wish, but that’s usually only one or two at a time.”
Following the service there will be refreshments, including treats for dogs and cats. Lord of Life Lutheran Church worships in a former stable, so the location is casual and suitable for having your pet with you.
Lord of Life Lutheran Church is located at 276 Roscoe Blvd. North in Ponte Vedra Beach. It is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States.
For more information go to LordOfLifePVB.org.
