St Peter’s Church, Hayton, is a beautiful 12th-century village church and, each year, hosts a special service giving thanks for all animals – wild, farmed, neglected, rescued and, of course, much-loved pets.
Everyone is invited to bring along their pets to the service. Over the years, the church has welcomed a remarkable variety of animals, including horses, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, guinea pigs, tortoises, birds, hives of bees, as well as plenty of dogs and cats. They are usually wonderfully well behaved, although the occasional bark or meow during the hymns is always greeted with a smile. The service is informal, thoughtful and enjoyable, making it especially popular with families and children. At the end of the service, Mark will be happy to offer a personal blessing to each animal for those who would like one – a simple but often very moving moment.
Afterwards, everyone is invited to stay for homemade cakes and hot or cold drinks. Weather permitting, visitors can also enjoy the churchyard, decorated with bunting and home to a selection of animal charity and craft stalls, where volunteers will be on hand to talk about their work.
This year’s Annual Pet Service will take place at 4.00pm on Sunday 13th September. Pets are warmly invited to bring their families along – although unaccompanied humans are very welcome too. Everyone will receive a warm welcome at St Peter’s Church.