All creatures great and small...

Since Fr Tim left the parish I have found myself more involved in the public face of the parish; today was the annual Blessing of the Animals service at St Andrew's church.  It was a lovely occasion and there were cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters and a few owners too! We remembered beloved pets past and present as well as reflecting on the fact that pets need humans to care, provide and love them ('cuddle and kiss' them as one boy shared during the service); in a similar way we humans need God - although not everyone recognizes this need.  The creation story reminds us that humans are made to be like God and to care for the whole created order including animals and our pets.  As each animal was brought to me for a prayer, a stillness/calmness (I have not sensed before)came over them as I laid my hands on them and said a prayer.
Here are a few photos: