The exuberance of loved pets and the innocent delight of children and their doting parents were features of Sunday's Blessing of the Animals in St John's Anglican Church.
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People gathered with their pets, which were mostly dogs, apart from a hen and chickens in pride of place, and all were surprisingly well-behaved, considering the unusual nature of the occasion.
The informal morning service was held to celebrate the connection of people to their beloved pets and the affection with which the animals so often responded.
The minister, the Rev Bob Lindebeck, spoke of the love of God for his creation and the commitment of humankind and all creatures to respond to that love.
"We are gathered here today to bless the animals in our midst, those who are our very close companions, and to ask for God's blessing on these friends and on the many animals who share the earth with us," he said.
After a sharing of appropriate hymns and prayers, and a brief sermon in which the Rev Bob enlarged on the significance of the occasion, he moved to each of the pets and their owners to give each a special personal blessing.
READ MORE: St John's to host Blessing of the Animals
In the closing prayer the congregation asked for the courage and boldness to care for all creation, both animals and vegetation, and expressed a commitment to care for animal companions, so that they might have a healthy and happy life.
Following the service, those attending enjoyed morning tea, a sausage sizzle lunch and further fellowship in the Parish Hall.
