Thanks to Light of Christ Lutheran Church, all dogs might actually go to heaven! On Sept. 26, Pastor Sylvia Muller hosted an Animal Blessing Service at the Pet Extreme Dog park, located inside Swanson-Centennial Park near Turlock’s Pet Extreme.
The church’s annual animal blessing began five years ago on the church’s lawn, but in 2013 the church moved their service to the more appropriate dog park, located on the corner of Countryside Dr. and Tuolumne Rd. The event has found success, with attendance growing each year.
“We usually do this on October 4th, which is Francis of Assisi, but I’m going on vacation soon. He was a Saint that was a patron of animals and also for pet peace and reconciliation, but he was one for animals,” Muller said.
As soon as the crowd of pet owners and animals seemed to stop growing, Pastor Sylvia began the service, which included readings of Psalm 104:24, Job 12:7 and Genesis 1:24-25.
After reading aloud a “Blessing of the Animals” scripture, Pastor Sylvia walked around to each pet and sprinkled blessed water onto them.
“May you be a blessing for those who care for you and may you feel their loving care,” she said, blessing each pet.
Once every pooch and cat was graced by Muller’s holy touch, the crowd participated in small talk, a raffle for blankets that were made from the church’s Sunday school children and treats for the animals and humans alike.
Every pet lover in attendance seemed satisfied with the service, especially one woman named Terry Hernandez and her small dog, Truth. Not only did the pet blessing give a special moment to the animals in attendance, but their owners as well.
“I found a flyer at one of the homeless programs,” Hernandez said. “They help serve us homeless at St. Francis (Church). Last night I slept in a cardboard box over there and knowing my Truth was gonna get blessed…I got blessed with some sleep.”
One hyper 12-year-old puppy, Anabel, also seemed to really enjoy the service as her collar broke off from excitement.
After the furry companions were blessed, everyone then ended their morning by bringing their pets inside the dog park gates so that they could play freely.
Muller emphasized the importance of helping not only our pets, but all animals, live the happiest and purest lives possible.
“I want people to know that God cares for creation and the importance of caring the creatures here on Earth and this is a way to give them a special blessing,” Muller said.
To contact the Light of Christ Lutheran Church, email [email protected] or call 209-232-5683. They encourage anyone and everyone to come to their Sunday worship at 10 a.m., located at 4510 Crowell Rd.