Church to bless pets, alive or deadcatholics Since Epworth United Methodist Church started its Blessing of the Animals service in 2008, Lewes resident Ken Mahan and his family have brought their pets and the ashes of deceased pets to the church to celebrate them.
This year, the family will be bringing their two rescue mutts, Ben and Jerry, along with the ashes of two deceased dogs, Otis and Sir.
"It's a wonderful outreach that says we need to support not just the people in the community, but the animals in the community, because God made the Earth, God made the animals and God made the people," Mahan said.
The Rev. Jonathan Baker, the church's senior pastor, said the service celebrates the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, whose ministry called to mind the interconnection between creatures and humans.
"It's a simple service, but in many ways it's profound in acknowledging the connection with one another with pets and humans," he said.
The public is invited to attend. In addition to seeing the "standard cats and dogs," Baker said snakes, mice, gerbils and horses have all made appearances at the service within the past few years.
The service also serves as a time of remembrance, Baker said. A special prayer will be said to thank pets that have passed away for enriching the lives of others, and people are encouraged to bring photos or memorabilia of deceased pets.
"It's a time of joy in this day and time," he said. "Celebrating is so important, so we're taking the time to celebrate."
Harbeson resident Sharyn Warwick said she recently lost her beloved pet, Harley the rottweiler, and will be bringing a photo of the dog and its collar to the service.
"It's just a special blessing for everybody, two-legged and four-legged," she said. "I love some animals better than I do people. They give you that unconditional love every day."
Baker said nearly 100 pets have come to the service in the past, and he expects a similar turnout this year.
"It's a good thing," he said. "I think people appreciate the fact that the church is acknowledging the value that (pets) bring."
Financial gifts given to the church have been used to help animals in need, Baker said, adding that these animals are often overlooked.
This year, the church will be acknowledging homeless pets. Baker said attendees are asked to donate unopened pet food, litter, blankets and toys, so they can be donated to animal shelters in Sussex County.
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