'Blessing of the Animals' service to be held at Buttzville United Methodist Church

pix-0914BELanimalblessing.jpgPastor Scott Maat with his family dog, an Australian Shepherd named Breezy.

All creatures great and small – and their human companions – are welcome to participate in a Blessing of the Animals service being held outdoors at Buttzville United Methodist Church on Sunday, Sept. 30, at 10 a.m.

This is the first service of its kind to be conducted at the church and will take place rain or shine on the Sunday prior to World Animal Day, when animal life of all forms is celebrated. This special observance has its origins in the feast day of Francis of Assisi, a nature lover and patron saint of animals and the environment.

“Pets and other wildlife are an important part of our lives,” said Pastor Scott Maat, who will be performing the blessings. His own family dog, an Australian Shepherd named Breezy, will be in attendance. Pastor Maat said the bond between person and pet is a unique relationship, because the communication between fellow creatures is at its most basic. It is only natural for people to enjoy the opportunity to take their animal companions to church for a special blessing, Pastor Maat said, as church is the place where the bond of creation is celebrated.

Also participating in the service will be Carl Maier, director of Therapy Dogs at Common Sense for Animals in Broadway. The mission of Common Sense for Animals is to promote animal welfare through education and community service. The organization strives to educate all people, particularly children, as to what constitutes proper care and the importance of protecting our environment, wildlife, habitat and endangered species. Common Sense for Animals encourages visitors to its no-kill shelter, and will have some pets available for adoption at the Blessing of the Animals service.

Area merchants are encouraged to donate pet food and supplies for the event, to aid pet owners who may be struggling financially. “Our pets are a great comfort to us in stressful situations,” said Pastor Maat. “No one wants the added stress of being faced with giving up a beloved pet because they can no longer afford to care for it properly.”

Veterinarians are welcome to participate in the occasion by sharing information about services they offer. There will also be an opportunity for the public to swap new or gently used pet supplies and unopened food. Table space will be provided and all are welcome to participate in the swap.

Owners are expected to come prepared with animals properly restrained. Drinking water will be available; it is advisable to bring your own water bowl.

Buttzville United Methodist Church is located at 4 Green Pond Road in White Township.

To learn more about the church and other upcoming events, visit gbgm-umc.org/buttzvilleumc or call 908-453-2301. To find out more about the no-kill shelter; pets available for adoption; foster care and other volunteer opportunities regarding animals, visit commonsenseforanimals.org.

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