NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Second Presbyterian Church in Nashville hosted a Blessing of the Animals Sunday afternoon.
The small gathering of humans and pets was inspired by the patron saint of animals, St. Francis of Assisi.
Kids greeted dogs, sang songs, and watched as pets were blessed by church leaders.
"Our animals bring us the same amount of joy as our human family members and so it's a lot of fun to see them receive that blessing," said Jeanette MacCallum, who blessed animals Sunday.
"May you be blessed in the name of God, Creator of Christ and Holy Spirit," the blessing went. "May you and your beautiful human family enjoy life together and find joy with the God who created you. Amen!"
Not only did the bless pets, but they remembered those that left us too early. Kids were able to write their former pet's name on a ribbon and tie it to a tree.
More Blessing of the Animals events:
Christ Church Cathedral: October 6 at 8:45 a.m.
Gainesboro First United Methodist Church: October 13 at 3:00 p.m.
Glen Leven Presbyterian Church: October 5 at 11:00 a.m.
Trinity Presbyterian Church: October 5 at 1:00 p.m.
Is your church hosting a similar event? You can email me at nikki.hauser@newschannel5.com.
Here’s a beautiful story of how one mother turned her grief journey into a gathering of gratitude… and organ donation awareness.
Robb Coles highlights a special event organized by Cari Hollis – whose 26-year old son Austin died two years ago. Austin agreed to be an organ donor – and that single gesture saved multiple lives.
Cari reached out to as many recipients she could find – several of whom traveled to Nashville for an emotional celebration in Austin’s honor. One woman – whose life was saved by receiving Austin’s lungs – put it simply: “He’s my angel”.
- Rhori Johnston
