seminole
– Rover reporting and photography by Jacqui Silla
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS – Honoring the Feast of St. Francis with the Blessing of Animals is a growing tradition across Florida. Almost every denomination of church holds the blessings in
October.This year some syn- agogues hosted events based on the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. Places of worship have watched their congregants disappear as they age, or as younger demographics have moved away from the
church.The blessings have been a profound way to re-connect with potential parishioners. St. Francis of Assisi is known as the patron saint of animals and the envi-
ronment. Francis was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant in Assisi, and lived the high-spirited life typical of a wealthy young man. But, while going off to war in 1204, Francis had a vision that directed him back to Assisi. On a pil- grimage to Rome, he joined the poor in begging at St. Peter’s
Basilica.The expe- rience moved him to shed all of his worldly possessions, and live the rest of his life in poverty. We attended the blessing at Lake Seminole Presbyterian Church Seminole. Marion Komara
in has been
helping organize the event over the last few years, which includes rescue groups and other pet-related businesses. Photos: (Near right): Pastor Wierenga, his wife Helen and their dog Ringo. (Far right): Dr. Kim Donovan with the Pastor, and her Yorkie.
lakeland
SPCA FLORIDA OPEN HOUSE – It was a bittersweet day for Warren Cox, his staff and volunteers on a Saturday late in
September.It would be one of his last events at the Lakeland shelter, as he was set to retire.“We’ve found someone who will take our vision further,” said Warren.“I found that we don’t need that big shelter I thought we needed, because we’re moving the animals out;we’re get- ting them adopted.”
www.SPCAFlorida.org
www.TheNewBarker.com
We're moving to our brand new Countryside Hospital & Boarding Kennel in early 2013. Be sure to "Like" us on Facebook for updates.
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