BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS, SUNDAY OCT. 4, DROP IN 3:00 TO 4:00 PM
ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL GARDEN, THIRD AND ELM STREET
A MINISTRY OF THE EPISCOPAL, UNITED METHODIST, AND CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE
HOPE – A Blessing Service for our animals and pets will be held on Sunday Afternoon, Oct. 4 from 3:00 to 4:00PM, a drop in event, in the Garden beside St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Hope, in memory of Saint Francis, (lover of the natural world and animals).
Sponsored by the congregations of the three churches, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, First United Methodist Church, and The Hope ConneXion Church of the Nazarene, all people of the community are invited to bring their cherished pets to the Garden for a blessing. Drop by any time between 3:00 and 4:00 PM.
The hour will begin with a short liturgy of blessing followed by an hour where you may bring your pets for a spiritual blessing by the pastors of the sponsoring churches. If you bring animals such as horses, you may pull up on Elm Street, and the animals will be blessed while they remain in their trailers. If your pet does not play well with others, they may be blessed from within your vehicle or cage. If you bring your cats, please leave them in their crates or securely held (dogs will be present). Dogs should be on leash in order to come into the Garden and not allowed to wander too close to the other animals. These rules will keep everyone safe.
CHILDREN MAY BRING THEIR FAVORITE STUFFED ANIMALS AS WELL FOR A BLESSING.
Saint Francis medals and animal treats will be provided.
A Memorial Table to honor your pets who have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge will be available for pictures or remembrances to honor their love and companionship.
Present to bless the animals with be Rev. Michael Mitchell (Episcopal), Rev. Melanie Tubbs (United Methodist) and Rev. Adam Perry, Rev. Amy Perry, and Rev. Jennifer Martinez (Church of the Nazarene).
Sponsored by St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, First United Methodist Church, and The Hope ConneXion Church of the Nazarene in Hope, Arkansas.