Pets invade Arundel Cathedral for bizarre blessing

Arundels town crier, Angela Standing, with Canon Tim Madeley, Mandy William and Tanya Wallis PHOTOS: Derek Martin

But on Saturday (October 4) dozens of dogs, cats and donkeys were blessed in the eyes of God during a surreal service at Arundel Cathedral.

About 40 animal lovers and their pets flocked to the cathedral, in London Road, to join the event.

And even those without pets took part in the bizarre blessing, with one woman picking up a stray snail  and slug to join in with the action.

Owners Brita Latham, left, and Rufus, with Mary Rivett, right, and pet Lily.

Arundel’s town crier Angela Standing was one of those who took part in the day – with a neighbour’s deerhound, called Finlay, in tow.

Angela said: “It was lovely. It is such a surreal thing having animals in the cathedral, especially this year as there were two miniature donkeys.

“There may have been a few ‘strategic piles’ left in the cathedral by some animals.

“But the whole day was really lovely. At points in the service the animals were barking and seemed to be answering the priest, which was nice.”

Two miniature donkeys from Crossbush joined the ceremony on Saturday

The day was in celebration of the feast of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

And for the first time the blessing actually took place on the feast day.

Jo Briscoe was one of those at the service.

She was looking after Canon Tim Madeley’s German shepherd, Phoebe, and gave a reading during the ceremony.

Jo said: “I think it’s wonderful because all animals are God’s creatures.

“Animals are not always treated well. We should respect them and value what they give us in their lives. They’re devoted and love us unconditionally.”

She added: “The canon’s dog was lovely. She sat right next to me while I was giving a reading.

As part of the event, the parishioners were raising money for an international animal charity.

They managed to collect a respectable total of £272.67 for Safe Haven for Donkeys in The Holy Land.

The cause works to improve the quality of life for donkeys, mules and horses in Israel and Palestine.

Wendy Ahl, the charity’s UK director of operations, gave a talk to the congregation about the group’s work.

About 600 animals a week receive free treatments through clinics enabling them to be pain-free.

For more information about the charity, see www.safehaven4donkeys.org

Parishioner Gloria Macari sang during the ceremony.