October is the time the churches commemorate St Francis of Assisi,
the patron saint of animals, so it was the animals turn to come to church too.
At St Margaret’s Church Te Horo, one cat and five dogs joined the worshippers for their day. They behaved very well, some dogs joined the singing with some delighted woofs – not necessarily in tune or rhythm. During the communion, Vicar Ian Campbell blessed each of the pets.
Ben, a beagle cross, greeted people as they arrived, proving to be better as a noisy visitor announcer than a border control sniffer dog! Winston, the Gordon setter, and also bichon Sasha, demonstrated size makes no difference to family relationships. She took the “high seat” on the pew while he was relegated to the floor!
The following week a rabbit, a mouse and a gold fish all joined the mainly music family service at All Saints.
They all behaved impeccably!