Creatures great and small are welcome at St Ninian’s
St Ninian’s has become the first Animal Friendly Church in Scotland.
All creatures great and small from horses to insects are welcome at the Prestwick church.
A bug hotel, nest boxes and bird feeders have been installed to make wildlife feel at home.
As well as the Animal Friendly accreditation achieved in June, the church has qualified as an Eco- Congregation.
Rev Jane Ross said: “The whole church is really excited. It is nice to get recognition for what we are doing. Animals are all part of God’s creation and we want to look after the properly. The work is part of our mission. It is important to care for creation in terms of global warming.”
To achieve the accolade the church has taken steps to ensure food is ethically sourced.
Free range eggs, organic or high welfare meat and plenty of vegetarian options are on the menu.
Bee friendly flowers have been planted and the church shuns cleaning products, which are harmful to animals.
Rev Ross has conducted animal blessing services and those whose pets have died receive pastoral care.
Rev Ross said: “We are trying to reach out to take a more active role in the community in terms of animal and ecological issues so we are not inward looking.
The next animal blessing service will take place on the second Sunday of September at 3pm.
Everyone is welcome to bring along an animal.
The minister pointed out how the Bible says in Genesis 1 that humankind is appointed to look after creation.