Saint Francis of Assisi , the Patron Saint of Animals
Nov 15 , 2007
On Sunday 7th of October 2007 a very special service took place at the Church of the Glorious Christ, River Road , St. Michael.
welcomed into the church accompanied
by their owners to give thanks and ask
Gods blessings in celebration of Saint
Francis of Assisi , the patron saint of
animals which is observed by Christians
every year around the world. Reverend
Anthony Bascombe stated as part of his
welcome address, that by acknowledging
the blessing of animals, we acknowledge
the blessing they bring into our lives.
Pet owners and pets lined the aisle and
patiently awaited Dr. Anne Rose who
officiated the service, to anoint each one
of the animals, whilst reciting a blessing.
The names of sick animals were read
aloud and prayers offered for speedy
recoveries.
Cornelia Coulthrust, Founder and
President of the Hope Sanctuary
suggested during her speech, ways in
which each of us can help to improve animal welfare, even within our own
communities, by simply being observant
towards each others animals. It takes
only a moment to remind your
Ellen Ashby, one of the attendees, read an especially moving prayer as she held her pet dog "Lilly" at the podium.
Hymns included All Things Bright and Beautiful and Immortal, Invisible, God only wise.
Dharampaul who spoke of the Cow, which in the Hindu religion,
represents all animals and is a sacred beast.
Dr. Kissoon, in his recitation, stated that the Caribbean seems
not to recognize animals as living, sentient beings which
deserve our consideration and respect. In contrast, the people
of Thailand consider the elephants heroes, for the role they
played in recovery efforts after a tsunami devastated the
country in December 2005. He told the story of an elephant
which was being ridden by a little British girl on the beach,
when it sensed the approaching tsunami, changed its course
and made for the hills just 15 minutes before the waves struck,
thereby saving her life. Dr. Kissoon ended his talk on a
humorous note by referring to the congregation as Devotees
of God or D.O.G.S.
Rose for allowing them to be a part of the
annual St. Francis Day Service and also those
who showed such compassion for animal
welfare by contributing to the ceremony.
Click HERE to view the flyer
President) giving a speech
her puppy