Grace Notes: The Blessing of the Animals!

I have had three pets in my life. Our family had a cat for 20 years while I was growing up. Gina and I have had beagles together for the last 21 years. And I have to tell you, it has been a true blessing.
 
As I think back, I can't help but smile and think about all the love, joy, and laughter our pets have brought us. Laying on our laps, owning our furniture, running the household, being nosy, and having to know what is going on inside and outside, they sure have made their way into our lives and our hearts.
 
Our pets are dependent on us, but we, in turn, depend on them. They can even teach us lessons about unconditional love, reminding me of God's love for us.
 
This Sunday, bring your pets in person or have them with you online. We will give thanks together and share in a blessing for our pets. We will give thanks to God for these beautiful souls and for the gift of all creation. Thank you, God, for the gift of pets and for the diversity of animals in our world.
 
Peace,
Pastor Roy

P.S. I want to shout out Barron Grasso for the wonderful slideshow of photos from the 2022 "Blessing of the Animals." Thank you, Barron!