~ featuring Pet Blessings ~

Saturday, September 30 (rain or shine)

10 am to 12 pm on the front lawn of

Unity Church of Overland Park

10300 Antioch Road

Overland Park, KS  66212

 

You might believe you’re in a Doctor Doolittle movie on Saturday, September 30 when animals of all shapes and sizes will be barking, meowing, chirping and maybe even neighing as they line up to be blessed by ministers and prayer chaplains in honor of World Animal Day (October 4) www.worldanimalday.org.uk . In addition to the blessing, there will be special children’s events and outreach and educational information to promote awareness of animal welfare and organizations that promote animal products and services.

 

The event will be held rain or shine (unless it’s torrential rain, of course) and is open to everyone and their pets. Cats, birds and other small animals must come in a carrier or cage. Dogs must be on a leash, and pet waste bags will be provided for those who forget to bring their own supply. Individual blessings will go on throughout the entire event and participants will receive a special certificate. If you are unable to bring your pet because they are ailing or have passed on, you may bring a photograph of your pet to be blessed at the close of the event. (These photos may not be returned so just bring a copy.) There will also be a special Community Animal Blessing with Rev. Annika Kleschinsky at 10:15 in which she will share tips on how you might bless and nurture your pets from a more spiritual and holistic perspective.

 

 

10 am to 12 pm – Individual animal blessings will take place throughout the event. Learn about pet therapy by interacting with Buddy and Lady, two pet therapy dogs will be available to give you some special attention thorugh play or reading. Local pet businesses will also be available to meet throughout the day as well.

And so much more:

 

10:15 am: Community Pet Blessing” “Deepening Your Bond with your Pet” with Rev. Annika Kleschinsky

10:30 am: Pet Parade! Time to show off your pets…with or without costumes! That’s up to you. All children must be accompanied by an adult at this event. Special Pet Awards to follow parade.
11:00am- Animal Mask Making for Children
11:15am Community Blessing for Pets that have passed “Over the Rainbow Bridge”
11:30am Community Blessing for Service Pets (sending out special prayers for service animals everywhere) 
11:45am Winners announced for Pet Perks Drawing and Animal Themed Bake-off.

 

This event is FREE to attend. However we do ask that you consider making a LOVE OFFERING when you arrive. Half the proceeds of the love offering and bake sale will go to Best Friends Animal Society to support recent pet hurrican relief programs and the other half to the church. You may also bring dog or cat food or treats as your donation to be given to a local animal shelter.