On Sunday, September 29, the Episcopal Parish of St. John the Evangelist in Hingham will host a Community Pet Blessing. This brief service, co-sponsored by Second Parish Unitarian Universalist, will take place at 5:00 pm on the church’s front lawn.
The Blessing of the Animals is a service traditionally held around the Feast of St. Francis (October 4th).This custom is conducted in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures. Along with the usual assortment of dogs and cats, attendees can expect ferrets, turtles, and other exotic pets. Children are welcome to bring their favorite stuffed animals to be blessed.
“Through our pets we experience God’s love right in our midst,” commented the Rev. Tim Schenck, rector of St. John the Evangelist. “Compassion, faithfulness, loyalty, unconditional love – these are all attributes of our non-human companions worth marking and celebrating.” Regarding the service he added that “With all these creatures of God together in one place, we expect holy chaos in the best sense.”
The Pet Blessing will take place on the Church Lawn in front of St. John’s, located at the corner of Main and Water Streets. Parking is available in the church lot accessible via Main Street. The service will take place rain or shine and all pets (and their owners), regardless of denomination, are welcome.
As a way to share our concern for local animals, we will be collecting items for the South Shore Pet Food Pantry. Suggested donations include dog and cat food, pet toys, kitty litter and leashes. Financial donations are also welcome.
For more information, contact the Episcopal Parish of St. John the Evangelist at 781-749-1535 or www.stjohns-hingham.org.