Bellaire United Methodist Church (Bellaire UMC) and Evelyn’s Park in the town of Bellaire, Texas are teaming up to host a celebration of our pet companions and all God’s creatures this Saturday, April 13 from noon to 3:00 p.m. The church and the city park are located at the corner of Bellaire Boulevard and Newcastle, so the event promises to be a big block party for the local pet-loving community. And the event is free!
On the south side of Bellaire Boulevard, Bellaire UMC will invite the public and people of all faiths to bring their pets to the church’s front lawn for the ninth annual “Blessing of the Animals.” The service will begin with an opening prayer, homily and a group blessing by the pastors. Afterward, attendees’ pets can receive an individual blessing from Pastors Seann Duffin, Jim Love, Ben West, Diane McGehee, Robert Besser or Trey Burns; and the first 250 participants will receive a free professional photograph of their pet’s individual blessing, courtesy of Nikky LaWell Photography. Nine pet rescue organizations will also bring some of their adorable, adoptable animals to the church in hopes of finding them new forever homes.
Across the street, Evelyn’s Park will be hosting its own celebration of the animal kingdom, called “Evelyn’s Bark.” During this event, the community is allowed to bring their personal pets to the park to sniff and mingle with other furry friends while they visit with a variety of pet experts and service organizations including Faithful Paws, aniMeals on Wheels, Rescue Bank, Natural Pawz, Rover Oaks Pet Resort, Southeastern Guide Dogs, Meadowlake Pet Resort, Woof Gang Bakery, and more.
“God has blessed us with pets of all species, shapes and sizes. These pets are our constant companions and they provide us with unconditional love,” says Seann Duffin, Senior Pastor at Bellaire United Methodist Church. “It’s been great to work on this event with Evelyn’s Park, and we want the entire community to join us as we celebrate, honor and bless the wonderful pets we hold so dear.”
“Animals bless us with their playfulness and affection, and simply through their trusting presence,” says Patricia King-Ritter, Park’s Director for Evelyn’s Park Conservancy. “We’re expecting over 500 people and their pets, and we want them to enjoy a day in the Park with their beloved companions. We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Bellaire UMC to provide our community with such a wonderful celebration of all God’s creatures.”
Please remember that all pets should be friendly and either on a leash (dogs), in protective carriers (cats), cages (birds, small mammals), fish bowls, or terrariums (amphibians, reptiles). For more information, contact Pastor Sean Duffin at (713) 666-2167 or Patricia King-Ritter at 281-946-9372.
View the event on the church’s website at www.bellaireumc.org/bota or the Evelyn’s Park website at www.evelynspark.org or on BellaireConnect HERE.
