Blessing of the Animals is paws-itive success

Jul 10, 2022

MATTAPOISETT – The Blessing of the Animals started with a bark.

Reverend Dr. Rich Wolf was present on Saturday, July 9, at 10 a.m. to deliver blessings to beloved animals on the lawn of the Mattapoisett Congregational Church.

All well-behaved pets were welcome, but there were only dogs in attendance that morning.

Silas, a golden retriever, was frustrated to see that his brother Lincoln was getting more attention than him.

Soon, pets were distributed equally among the dogs, and the services were able to begin.

In addition to the two golden retrievers, Wolf blessed Oliver, a small dog with a torn ACL who was used to being held like a baby, and Doug, a friendly cocker spaniel.

Julie Menino, Oliver’s owner, joked that she hoped the event would help Oliver heal a little faster.

Throughout the hour, dogs trickled in to receive the prayer.

“O Lord, every creature, in every forest, field and home belongs to you and is under your loving care,” Wolf said. “We pray that you would show forth your eternal love and mercy in the companionship and friendship that this dog provides.”