Blessing of the Animals

For me, animals have always been a way to connect with Source.  And while I’m not affiliated with any particular religion, I have always enjoyed attending various Blessings of the Animals ceremonies sponsored by area churches over the years.  These ceremonies are held in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures great and small.

Today, Casey’s House, the private cat rescue group where Buckley came from, sponsored a Blessing of the Animals ceremony in the small town of Bluemont, VA.  Despite the chilly, damp and windy weather, attendance was good and the people and animals had a wonderful time.  Dogs, cats, and even a goat were in attendance.  The ceremony was lovely.  There was a prayer of  thanks for the air we breathe, the water we drink, for the green and growing things, for the birds that grace us with song and soaring beauty, for all creatures great and small, which are our companions on this planet.   Said the minister:  “We rejoice in the presence of our companion animals present with us today.  They are ambassadors for the whole animal kingdom.  They remind us that we are to be stewards of all creation.”  This was followed by a moment of silence for the animals that were no longer with us in this physical dimension.  Needless to say, I shed a few tears, thinking about Buckley and all she brought into my life.  After the ceremony, each animal received an individual blessing by the minister – even the goat!

This event was also my first since my books had come in.  It was so exciting to sell my first books in person and sign them for people.  I’m still wrapping my mind around the idea that I’m now a published author!