Close to 30 pet-lovers gathered on the lawn of Bethany October 3 for a special worship service in honor of St. Francis, patron saint of animals. Led by Rev. Jesse Larson, the service featured the singing of “All Things Bright and Beautiful,” a reading from Matthew 11: 28-30, and a message about the pandemic and how pets can be a saving grace in our anxiety-filled lives.
Rev. Jesse concluded by individually blessing each of the pets. The event offered a drive-through option for those wishing to remain in their cars and hear the service on their car radios.
Each family took home a pet treat bag and was given a keepsake “protect my pet” medal and a St. Francis “prayer of peace” bookmark.
