Furry friends get a step closer to heaven after blessing of pets
Pet lovers and their special friends attending the service
CATS, dogs and all sorts of pets were blessed at Urglin Church on Sunday 20 September when the annual pet blessing service drew animal lovers from near and far.
Attendees came from local and surrounding areas, with some travelling quite a distance to have their four-legged friends blessed.
Rev Paul Fitzpatrick’s family even brought along their fluffy brown and white cat Bella, who was held by his daughter Maebh and wife Betty. An animal lover himself, Rev Fitzpatrick looks forward to the pet blessing each year. As well as Bella the cat, the family keeps two ducks and ten hens.
Speaking about the importance of holding the annual service, Rev Fitzpatrick said: “We’re the stewards of creation and it’s the season of creation, of course, as well.”
The event was facilitated by the Urglin congregation, which is part of the Carlow Union of Parishes, encompassing three churches. A collection on the day raised €430, which was donated to the Carlow SPCA.
Among those in attendance was Nicky Kealy, chairperson of the Carlow branch of the Irish Guide Dogs Association, and Supt Anthony Farrell of An Garda Síochána, Carlow.
Musician Aaron Smith performed hymns, including , , and . During the closing hymn, Jason Doyle of White Doves Carlow released white doves and children were also given the opportunity to hold and release the doves.
There was also a poignant moment during the service when Rev Fitzpatrick read a touching prayer for those remembering beloved pets who had passed.
“There were people there who were remembering all the deceased pets that were such a large part of their lives,” he said.
Jane Hammond-Kelly of Carlow SPCA spoke about the welfare work and the voluntary nature of the SPCA.
For the third consecutive year, pet goody bags were donated by Maxi Zoo Carlow, while Quinns of Milford sponsored the music. Rev Ger James assisted with the service booklet.
Rev Fitzpatrick also noted that Chris Bradley of Vet and Pet, Carlow and many other vets in the area were kind enough to spread the word about the pet blessing ahead of the event.
He extended special thanks to the Urglin congregation, noting that all the hospitality, preparation and welcome was provided by them.
