Today was St. Francis Sunday at Epiphany Church in Seattle. It is a day when absolutely everyone in the family is welcome, including dogs, cats, birds, amphibians, reptiles and rodents, but, in an effort to keep the service peaceful, all must adhere to the seating chart.
Cleaning cloths and pick up bags were on hand, just in case.
We shared a pew with Mr. Weatherford {Seattle’s premier antique dealer} and his wonderful whippets, Beauregard and Beatrice. He looks quite serious here, but this photo really doesn’t really represent him accurately, he’s actually a very warm and friendly fellow {I just didn’t want to take too many photos in church}.
I loved Ms. Beatrice’s swirly, brindled back~end.
Each pet was blessed when they came forward during communion.
All of the songs related to the glories of the animal audience. At times it was difficult to hear the sermon, because a couple of dogs in the back of the church were not getting along very nicely. However, the essence of the sermon was that animals are so happy, and already enjoying a heavenly life, because they are who they are, and don’t try to be anything or anyone else.
What wise and wonderful creatures. I’m certain we can all learn a great deal from our pets.
What a fantastic concept! Anytime life gets too much for me, I look in my pups beautiful brown eyes and it all seems ok again.
LOL – I wonder who came up with the whys and hows of where each kind of animal should sit?!
xo Cathy
I didn't know that Epiphany did this! I love it. How wonderful to welcome the fury (and scale-y) friends in our lives. Makes me smile!
I was there! About two rows in front of you trying to make sure my kids in Sunday school were better behaved than the barking woofies!
I don't think we have met (??) but I am v good friends with Jeanne at I Dream Of and Pam from Red Ticking. Maybe we have met at some point along the way and didn't know it? Anyway, I have enjoyed getting to know your blog recently! 
cheers, Dana
Hello Dana ~ I wish I had known, if we haven't yet, I hope to meet you soon.
I know, those dogs in the back were really going at each other! Thank you for visiting Splendid Market.
Barbara ~ they are wonderful companions, so loyal!
Stitchfork ~ I am not sure how they planned out the seating.
Oh, I wish I would have known about this, I would have brought Miss. Ginger…she has a swirly backside too!
xo J~