On Sunday 5th of October, St Michael’s, Llanvihangel Crucorney held their annual Pet Blessing Service. This year, we were joined by Bishop Dominic Walker, former Bishop of Monmouth and now President of the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals. Animals from far and wide gathered to give thanks to God for our pets as well as all animals in our world. We prayed for their well-being as well as their loyalty and companionship.
We were reminded of Francis of Assisi’s Sermon:
“My brother and sister birds, you should praise your Creator and always love him: He gave you feathers for clothes, wings to fly and all other things that you need. It is God who made you noble among all creatures, making your home in thin, pure air.
Bishop Dominic noted the role animals can play in our lives, by providing friendship as well assistance to the blind, deaf and diabetic. We were also asked to remember our duty as Christians to ensure all animals live free from abuse and cruelty, and our responsibility in ensuring we all make ethical choices when buying meat.
You can find out more about Dominic’s work with the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals on their website: