New Journey Church Hosts Blessing of the Animals Service on Sunday, October 7, 3:30 pm
October 4, 2018 – In the spirit of the Feast of St. Francis, celebrated around the world on October 4, New Journey Church of Brooklyn, 480 Bainbridge Street between Howard and Saratoga, will hold its first Blessing of the Animals service on Sunday, October 7, at 3:30 pm. All animals and their people are welcome, and pets should be brought to church on leashes or in carriers.
St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) is the patron saint of animals and environment. He cared for the poor and sick, preached to animals and praised all creatures as brothers and sisters under God. Today, furry friends are as much a part of families as the humans who care for them, and churches around the world celebrate St. Francis with animal blessings.
St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) is the patron saint of animals and environment. He cared for the poor and sick, preached to animals and praised all creatures as brothers and sisters under God. Today, furry friends are as much a part of families as the humans who care for them, and churches around the world celebrate St. Francis with animal blessings.
“When I grew up in Georgia, we always had pets, but they were not allowed in the house, and certainly not on furniture or at the table,” said Pastor Wayne Stokeling. “Then about 11 years ago, I met a cat named Fiona. She would look at me as if to say, ‘I’m going to scratch you, but you’re going to love me.’ And, she was right. Fiona has gone through three bouts of cancer, and our prayers are always with her. This precious creature is what led me to hold a Blessing of the Animals service. We want you to bring your furry, feathered and other pet family, whether healthy or sick, to New Journey to be blessed."
There will be a brief service at the beginning of the blessing, followed by individual blessings of each pet. If pets don’t play well with others or travel well in carriers, humans are invited to bring photos. Treats will be available for pets.
Worship services take place at 10:00 am every Sunday at New Journey Church. For more information on services and other events, please call (718) 452-0949 or visit newjourneyny.org.
There will be a brief service at the beginning of the blessing, followed by individual blessings of each pet. If pets don’t play well with others or travel well in carriers, humans are invited to bring photos. Treats will be available for pets.
Worship services take place at 10:00 am every Sunday at New Journey Church. For more information on services and other events, please call (718) 452-0949 or visit newjourneyny.org.
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