Ruff Ruff! Meow! And Amen!
Federated Church of Ayer Holds Blessing of the Pets Service
 If you've ever turned your television station to PBS to catch the British comedy "The Vicar of Dibley," you will find this Spotlight story rather familiar.
In one popular episode of the series, the head of the parish council in the little farming village of Dibley threatens to fire the new vicar because of her unorthodox idea of inviting animals into the church and holding a blessing for the pets of the parish. The vicar recognizes the deep love of animals among those in the community, and holds the service despite the warning. When the council head sees that the service brought more people into the church than ever before, he comes to the realization that the vicar is a thoughtful and inspiring clergywoman.
The members of the Federated Church of Ayer could have been part of that episode. On a beautiful sunny Sunday morning in June, the church conducted a Blessing of the Animals service on the front lawn of the downtown Ayer church.
The Rev. Dr. Priscilla Denham wrote the Order of Worship, which included remembering in prayer the names of all animals for whom anyone had concerns (ill, dying, or endangered) and those who were loved in their lives (pets past and present). "Wise Creator Made the World" was sung to the tune of "Old MacDonald Had a Farm" and the handbell choir played.
The church sent out press releases and invited the local community to attend this special service with their pets. Many people from the surrounding area attended this unique service -- some for the first time. They brought their beloved dogs, cats, and guinea pigs to be blessed.
"We don't always recognize other creatures as wonders of God's unfolding love, but that Sunday we had a chance to reflect on our relationships with animals and the elements of the earth and our place in the web of life," said Elaine Cavanaugh, a member and former church secretary. "We gave thanks for our place in the community of God's creation."
In Ayer, God is still speaking -- and maybe barking and purring.
Share Your Still Speaking Story
 Tell us how God is speaking in and through your church. Have you reached out to the community in unique ways? Initiated a new mission project? Found a new way to minister to those within the congregation? Share your story and help us to spread the good news! Contact Marlene Gasdia-Cochrane, Editor, at cochranem@macucc.org.
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