Medford United Methodist Church will proudly honor pets again this year with a blessing of the animal’s event on May 1 from 2 to 4 p.m. The animals we share our lives and homes with are very special gifts from God, and this annual service recalls St. Francis of Assisi. He is said to have preached to birds and brokered peace between a village and a hungry wolf. Stories abound of Francis’ kindness to animals.
Assisi’s famous “Canticle of the Sun” is the inspiration for the hymn “All Creatures of Our God and King,” Number 62 in the United Methodist Hymnal. These words stand out from the hymn: “Let all things their Creator bless and worship Him in humbleness.” So locally we honor both his teachings and our pet family members with this blessing in Medford.
All friendly animals are welcome on leashes or in carriers to ensure your loved one is safe in a crowd. For those with pets who have passed on or too difficult to manage at service, please feel free to attend with a photograph, and the pastors can still bestow a blessing for you.
Come celebrate and give thanks for your pet at the 2:30 p.m. service on church grounds at 2 Hartford Road in Medford (rain or shine). Blessings will be given throughout the event if you miss the service.
Special guests will include — Mt. Laurel Animal Hospital, Ann Marie Young Pet Photography, Concord Pet and Food Supply, Animal Welfare Association, OneLove Animal Rescue, Puppies and More Rescue and the K-9 unit from Medford Township Police.
Medford United Methodist Church has been a presence in the village since 1821, with the first sanctuary built in 1824. Since 1972, the church has been located on Hartford Road and is a vital part of the Medford community. The people of Medford United Methodist Church are committed to growing in faith. MUMC members love God, serve people and hope to transform lives. For more information visit medfordumc.org.
