Pets, Prayers And A Playful Day At Church

The weather suggested ark-building late Saturday afternoon.

“It’s raining cats and dogs,” said the Rev. Kristi Philip.

So the blessing of the pets was moved indoors, to the church hall adjacent to St. John’s Cathedral on Spokane’s South Hill.

There were big dogs on leashes and little dogs cradled in their owners’ arms. There were tense cats and relaxed cats. A couple of rats and goldfish. And about 45 intermittently smiling people of all ages.

A few pets sniffed one another. Others, like good Episcopalians, seemed content to reflect on the moment and wait for the service.

But after a few minutes, as the hall filled with the unmistakable scent of wet fur, a chorus of yelps, yips and meows announced that it was time to begin.

Coffee hour was never like this.

“If you’d all come in and gather round, as close as you dare,” said the Rev. Mart Craft. “We have to be done in time for the 5:30 Eucharist.”

The program, inspired by the life of animal-lover St. Francis of Assisi, began with the singing of “All Things Bright and Beautiful.” Several of the canines joined in.

Then Psalm 104:10-23 (“All the beasts of the field … “) was read. And there was a reading from Genesis 9, in which God establishes a covenant with Noah and with “Every animal of the earth.”

Symbolic rainbow cards were handed out.

It was a happy occasion, with a fair amount of laughter and bent-over cooed praise. “Aren’t you a good boy!”

But the service was no lark. Because the love people feel for their pets is not a trifle. It’s as real as faith and devotion.

A few of the people present introduced their furry friends to the assemblage. There was Winnie, Snickers, Ralphie Boy, Snow White, Pumpkin and others.

Adults and children talked about why their animals are a blessing.

A few faces that tend toward stern expressions softened.

A toddler leaning down to check out a large-breed puppy got a chin-to-forehead lick. The kid didn’t mind.

“Go in peace, to feed the animals,” said Craft at the conclusion of the service.

Snack treats waited for the dogs and cats. And they deserved them. Because they’d all behaved well.

Outside, the rain eased off for a few minutes.

, DataTimes MEMO: Being There is a weekly feature that visits gatherings in the Inland Northwest.