Loved animal companions and their significance in the lives of their doting human 'parents' was celebrated at Sunday's morning service in St John's Anglican Church, which hosted its annual Blessing of the Animals.
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The informal service highlighted the gratitude of members of the community for the place of animals in their lives, and the need to offer a thanksgiving for God's bountiful creation.
In a brief message to the congregation, lay minister Bimbi Turner stressed the benefits that humankind enjoy from nature's great bounty, and the help and companionship which flows from the creatures within God's earth.
She said that humans should not only acknowledge the many services which animals provide, but also extend appreciation to the many scientists and veterinarians whose research and dedicated care improved the lives our animal friends.
Bimbi extended a plea to all animal owners, particularly those who used them in a working capacity, to always ensure they received proper care and consideration, especially in hot weather.
The congregation observed intercessions for all the things 'bright and beautiful' which enrich our lives.
The inclement weather probably kept many away, but those who attended indicated the importance of this annual feature in the life of the congregation.