By Maggie Beamguard
Insider Editor
This October, two Seven Lakes churches will offer opportunities to bring their animals to receive a special blessing and to remember those who crossed the rainbow bridge.
The first event. Seven Lakes “Blessing of the Pets,” will be offered by Saint Mary Magdalene Episcopal church on Sunday, Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. at the Seven Lakes North Main Clubhouse, 118 Firetree Lane.
The celebration falls on the Feast Day of St. Francis will also recognize “Creation Care Sunday.” The gathering will include ecumenical, nature-based prayers and readings, with special prayers of thanksgiving for pets and blessings for their good health and happy lives.
Those wishing to remember a beloved animal may bring a photograph to include in the remembrance. And for pets who would rather not mingle with a coward, organizers have made arrangements for a drive -up blessing. Simply remain in the car and someone will come to you. Participants are also invited to bring donations for the Moore County Animal Shelter. Requested items include canned cat food, cat and dog toys, hand sanitizer, gently used blankets and paper towels.
Two weeks later, Saint Alban the Martyr Anglican Church will offer its own “Blessing of All God’s Creatures” on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 4 p.m. The service will take place in the parking lot of The Chapel in the Pines, 581 Seven Lakes Drive.
Fr. Michael McKinnon and Fr. Bill Knapp will lead the 20-25 minute service which will include a prayer and blessing for the animals present, an optional blessing with Holy Water, a scripture reading celebration of the beauty of God’s creation, a hymn and a brief message.
“The Word of God teaches us that, ‘The righteous care for the needs of their animals,’” said McKinnon, quoting Proverbs 12:10a. “These animals, especially those whom we love and hold in our heart, are a gift from God.,” said McKinnon. “I have experienced firsthand the gift of unconditional love a beloved pet can offer. Even when you feel like the whole world is against you, they welcome you home time after time with such love and joy.” This has been my experience.”
As with the earlier service, people are welcome to bring photographs of pets who have died. A table will be available for the pictures, followed by a prayer of thanksgiving for the love those animals brought into their families’ lives.
All are welcome. There is one important thing pet owners should bring to the services: a scoop for the poop.
Both gatherings offer a chance to celebrate furry friends, feathered friends, or friends with scales and the larger gift of creation.
Contact Maggie Beamguard at maggie@thepilot.com.
