Blessing of the Animals

Birmingham First will be providing a “Blessing of the Animals” on Sunday, August 19, 2018 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the front lawn of the church. All are invited to bring animals, such as cats and dogs, or birds, reptiles and fish. If you are not able to bring an animal, you may wish to bring a picture of an animal you love to receive an individual blessing. You are also invited to join us with your pet at an outdoor contemporary worship service at 10:00 on the front lawn. You do not need to attend the outdoor worship service to participate in the “Blessing of the Animals.” 

Animals and pets are gifts from God and parts of our family, part of who we are. The bond between person and pet is like no other relationship, because the communication between fellow creatures is at its most basic. Eye-to-eye, a human and their pet, are two creatures of love. Every creature is important. The love we give to a pet and receive from a pet can draw us more deeply into the larger circle of life, into the wonder of our common relationship to our Creator. Blessing of the Animals follows God’s example of kindness, mercy, compassion, and love for all creation.

In the Scriptures, the act of blessing means ‘the imparting of power or life.’ To bless someone or something in creation is more than expression of goodwill and caring. When we bless animals within creation and one another, we give thanks to God who imparts life, love, and grace into all of creation. Through the act of blessing, we celebrate our common kinship with all of creation.

All animals must be on a lead or in a secure pen for the safety of other animals.

The church is located at 1589 W. Maple Road (between Southfield and Cranbrook) in Birmingham.

If you would like more information about this event, please contact Patty Glass at 248-646-6407 ext. 3130 or email at pglass@fumcbirmingham.org.