Bunnies, Barks and Blessings at St James' Chatterbox

CHILDREN at the popular Saint James’ Chatterbox parent and toddler ‘drop-in’ at Saint James’ Church were very excited when Father John Ward, Saint James’ Rector and Parish Priest brought his dog Seamus to see them on Tuesday morning.

Seamus wasn’t the only pet there.

Senna and his Mum Paula brought their rabbit ‘Disney’.

It was cuddles all round as Disney and Seamus became acquainted with the children.

This isn’t the first time that animals have been invited into the church.

On Sunday, September 6, everyone is being encouraged to bring their pets to the Pet Service.

It takes place from 4pm onwards.

The event has been so popular with children, parishioners and local councillors over the three years that it has been running that Father John is keen to continue with what is now considered an ‘annual’ event.

Weather permitting the service will be held outside and a buffet tea will be provided.

Everyone who owns a pet is welcome and those who don’t own an animal aren’t excluded either, since children can bring their own special cuddly toy and adults can bring something that is very special to them for a blessing..

Father John Ward Rector and Parish Priest said

‘I’m delighted to be holding another Pet Service. It’s very popular, a little bit out of the ordinary, but people enjoy it. Pets are important and most are regarded as members of the family. They bring a great deal of joy to many especially those who live alone. If you don’t have a pet please come along, children can bring their favourite cuddly toy and adults can bring something that is very special to them for a blessing. In the morning at 10.30am we shall be holding our family service, the theme will be God’s creation so it will be fitting in the run up to the afternoon’s event. There will be plenty going on at Saint James’ that day. Come and join us!’