Treats, barks abound during Blessing of the Animals service in Fredericton

The dogs were out in full force to get their blessings as they and their parents gathered with the Rev. Canon Elaine Hamilton on Oct. 4.

The Blessing of the Animals service was held behind the former parish hall of St. Peter’s Church on Woodstock Road in Fredericton. 

Elaine holds the service each year, and some even contact her each September to make sure it’s being held again. 

“I do it because animals are such a big part of our lives,” she said. “I think it’s important for people who have animals. People show love to their animals, and their pets give them so much in return.”

The short service included a reading from Genesis 9:8-17, and the Prayer of St. Francis. The hymn was “All things bright and beautiful.” The reader was Brenda Smith.

The congregants included some from St. Peter’s, a couple from St. Margaret’s where Elaine once served, and others who come only for the service each year. A few people on the public walking trail at the back of the building stopped to take in the outdoor service. 

“I believe animals are part of the divine family,” Elaine told those gathered. “When we bless something, we focus our attention on the perfection the Creator put into them.”

Elaine ended the service by coming around to bless each dog. She was well-equipped with a pocket full of treats.

Photo Captions:
1. The Rev. Canon Elaine Hamilton gives a blessing to Piper, held by Elaine's daughter, Anne.
2. Border collie Molly peeks out from behind the casted leg of her mom, Patty Baldwin. Both Molly, and the ashes of her brother, Jagger, were blessed during the service.
3. Six dogs, and their moms and dads, were in attendance for the annual Blessing of the Animals service at St. Peter's, Fredericton, on Oct. 4.
4. Daisy the poodle gets both a blessing and a treat from the Rev. Canon Elaine Hamilton.
McKnight photos