Last weekend was my first time to experience Blessing of the Animals which took place in the Chapel Garden with a very nice turnout of all dogs and one bearded dragon.  We started the event by giving each dog a certificate of blessing with their very own paw print on the paper.  After the dogs each received their certificate, we had a lovely service held by Pastor Erik and Pastor Mike.  They read scripture and talked about how special our human connection is with animals.  

It was such a pleasure to see all the dogs with their various personalities in one space.  The animal parents were beaming with pride and joy as they paraded around the garden making new friends.  It was an absolute pleasure to watch!  Some of the dogs were a little shy and timid, while others wanted to be held the whole time.  One dog almost demanded a tour of the chapel library by pawing at the door and licking the window.  

It got me thinking about all the animals needing to be blessed, but really, they have blessed us in return, tenfold.  Our pets are a big part of our lives and most often they’re part of our families.  Pets are there for us when we’re feeling down and we can always rely on them to make us laugh.  We form bonds with them for years and they are truly with us through thick and thin with unconditional love.  

With my own dog, Watson, I can simply take the trash out to the curb and when I return he greets me with hugs and licks like I have been gone all day.   We also have a cat named Harry Potter and though he covers me in white fur, he sits on my lap every evening to end my day.  These two bring a vital energy to our home and fill our spaces with joy and happiness…. And, I wouldn’t have it any other way.