A much loved Animal Service will be returning to Ely Cathedral next Sunday, 25 September, after a break of three years.
For over 30 years, the Cathedral has hosted this event in aid of local and national animal charities. In previous years they have welcomed many types of animals and pets including cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, alpacas, donkeys and even a tortoise.
This is a family friendly service and blessing, and a celebration all creatures, great and small, with whom we share this planet.
The Service will be led by the Right Revd Dagmar Winter, Bishop of Huntingdon, and her lurcher, Tilda, plus Tilda’s friend, Charlie, a whippet.
This is the first time Bishop Dagmar has been involved in the Animal Service at Ely . “I’m looking forward to my first ever animal service and am wondering how many different creatures there will be! It will be fun to bring along Tilda, she is my 5 ½ year old rescue lurcher. As it happens, we are currently also having an old four-legged friend staying, Charlie, a 15 ½ year old whippet, so he will come along too. Prince William was heard saying last week how comforting he found his spaniel during sad times and I’m sure all those attending on Sunday will join me in giving thanks to God for our pets.”
All animals are welcome. This year the Cathedral is asking everyone to ensure the service is the right environment for their pet. A spokesperson for the event said:
“We are aware that some animals can feel very stressed in a strange or unfamiliar environment. If you have a pet that is over-anxious, please do bring a photograph instead. The emotional wellbeing of animal is an important part of their care.”
This very special service, which has been featured on BBC’s Songs of Praise, [and] takes place at Ely Cathedral next Sunday, 25 September at 2.00pm. All proceeds will benefit local animal charities.
For further information please contact Lesley Ann Thompson, Director of Communications at Ely Cathedral - 07930 918885
Image below: The Bishop of Huntingdon’s lurcher , ‘Tilda’, with her friend ‘Charlie’
