Barks at St. Mark's Church
It was a cloudy day but there was not an overcast soul at St. Mark’s Church this morning. Fetch was invited to attend St. Mark’s third annual Barks at St. Mark’s, a combination outdoor church service (with dogs!), pet blessing, al fresco lunch and pet fair. Okay then, how to fit all that into a Sunday morning in South Milwaukee? Never fear. The organized bunch at St. Mark’s not only had everything under control, but they offered warm welcome to each guest and dog, as if they’d known us all their lives…and that is something special, indeed!
Upon arriving, each dog received a welcome package, including a bandana, you-know-what bags, dog treats, St. Francis medal and a certificate of the pet blessing. From dachshund to wolfhound, dogs and humans then assembled in the service tent for worship, including animal-themed hymns. Afterwards, we proceeded to the blessing by Father John Allen, dispensed with a dog treat (which was mightly popular with the canine set).
Lunch was served for the humans while the fair was open for browsing. I was glad to see some of our Fetch friends, All Ears Pet Photography, Central Bark, Douglass Avenue Dog Tales and Puppy Playground among the pet-friendly businesses. No one was in a hurry to leave but made the most of the companionship and the clearing sky. All the while, members of the church were there to give directions, answer questions and keep us company. The event wrapped up with a raffle that included some great prizes for dogs and their humans.
Pet Blessing with Father John
While this is an annual June event for St. Mark’s, their arms are open to dogs at any of their regular worship services. That’s right… a bit of canine heaven right here on earth.
My husband, John, and our dog, True, had a lovely morning and went away feeling truly blessed.
Thanks, everyone at St. Mark’s for sharing your special brand of warmth and hospitality with us!
