God's creatures

A kind Springdell resident sent me some more information about St. Michael Lutheran Church's third annual ‘Blessing of the Animals’ ceremony, which will begin at 9:15 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 14, in the Fellowship Hall. 

"All animals are welcome and, for animals unable to attend, pet photos or other representations will be blessed in their absence.
Please adhere to the following conditions below if bring an animal for blessing:

1.         To ensure a safe environment, please refrain from bringing aggressive animals to the service.  For pets remaining home, pet photos or other representations will be blessed in their absence.

2.         All dogs must be on leashes or in cages at all times while on the church premises.

3.         Cats, birds, hamsters, etc. must be in cages.

4.         Any animal on a leash must be housebroken.
 
In conjunction with the Blessing of the Animals, the Sunday School of Saint Michael has decided to raise awareness and supplies for local animal shelters (Chester County SPCA, Forgotten Cats, and La Mancha Animal Rescue). We’ve contacted the three shelters about their needs. Feel free to bring dog, puppy, cat or kitten food (Purina, Iams, and Pedigree are requested) or any of the items listed below to the Church during the month of October.  Folks at Saint Michael will distribute them to the agencies.  Monetary contributions will be accepted via checks made payable to Saint Michael with the memo note “Animal Shelter”.
Other items:  Leashes, rawhide chews, washable dog and/or cat toys, stainless steel dog and/or cat bowls, dog biscuits, cat treats, heating pads, dog and cat brushes and combs, kitty litter (non-clumping), pooper scoopers, towels, sheets and blankets, wash cloths, newspaper, shoe boxes."
St. Michael is on Doe Run Road, just east of the Unionville roundabout.