Blessing of the Animals Set For October 4

You are cordially invited to a Service of Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, October 4, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

That day is the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi, who is known, of course, as one who recognized all the animals and other elements of Creation as brothers and sisters to us all.

You are invited that day to bring your companion animals, or photos or other things to share. Of course if you have a place in your heart for animals that have died, we invite you to bring mementos of  them and to help us remember them in prayer.

While here you can get acquainted with others who share your experience of being blessed by the animals God has sent our way, and to enjoy a time on Heatherhope Farm. The sheep will be in the pasture and the dogs will bring them up close to the fence. Frodo, the guard dog will have a young apprentice to introduce to you–our newest addition to the animal family here.

Feel free also to invite friends. If possible, either e-mail (heatherhopefarm@gmail.com) or phone (815-895-9736) to let us know you are coming. If you are more of a “spur-of-the-moment” person, that’s okay too. Just drop by! The service will only last 30 or 40 minutes, but people can linger as long as they like.

You may view a service form that we used in the past by clicking on “John’s Writings” at the top of this web page, and then click on “Worship Resources” in that listing.

 

About John

John is a retired pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America who has served congregations for over 40 years, including in rural, suburban, campus ministry and urban settings. His love of Border Collie sheepdogs has been fortified by his many friendships with shepherds all around the world. Nothing he has ever or will ever accomplish is as significant as the patience God, his wife and his friends have shown in putting up with his deficiencies.
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