The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Church hosts blessing of the animals
Pastor Ian Lynch preaches inclusion of everyone at Old South Church in Kirtland.
On May 28, he took his message of acceptance one step further by dedicating a special outdoor Sunday morning service to the animals — honoring all pets living and deceased, wild animals and even children’s beloved stuffed animals.
The service was held at the Protestant church’s outside amphitheater overlooking a ravine behind the Chillicothe Road property in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and ecology.
The morning’s theme was “All Creatures Great and Small.” The worship service centered on the blessing of animals.
“We believe that God is the creator of all that is and cares about even the sparrow that falls,” Lynch said.
Lily Robison, a 7-year-old Willoughby resident, patiently waited for the opportunity to have the pastor bless her pet hamster called Whiskers.
Lily’s mother, Lindsey Robison, is the church’s minister for youth and family life.
“It’s a crazy event, but everybody loves it,”
she said.
Ally Baldauf, a 15-yearold Willoughby girl, took her rescue dog, Bessie, to the event.
“She’s normally pretty sweet with others, so we thought it would be nice to get her blessed,” Ally said.
Waite Hill resident Bud Stanley wanted to show his appreciation for his own rescue, an English lab.
“We just got him and we wanted to get him blessed,” said Stanley.
Even the day’s hymns were devoted to animals.
Lap dogs and cats in carriers appeared content on the outdoor benches as the congregation sang, “To You, O God, All Creatures Sing,” “All Things, Bright and Beautiful” and “God of the Sparrow God of the Whale.”
“Embracing all creatures just as they are teaches us to have respect and dignity for others, Lynch said.
“That’s why we celebrate the animals today,” added the pastor. “It reminds us of our place.”