11.12.2014
Peata Carol Service Fills Christ Church Cathedral With Joyful Barks
More than 100 therapy dogs attended the annual Peata Carol Service in Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. The dogs, along with their owners and many people who benefit from their visits, filled the cathedral for the service which featured the Christ Church Girls’ Choir, directed by Ian Keatley. Their voices contrasted with the barking which accompanied the favourite carols.
Throughout the service, the canine visitors were very well behaved with just a few harsh barks exchanged. Many dressed up for the occasion with a nod to festive fashion for the doggy world. The high point was the pet blessing which was given by Dean Dermot Dunne. He prayed for the continued work of the therapy dogs and gave thanks for the joy they bring to those people they visit.
The collection this year was divided between Peata and the Peter McVerry Trust and the Dean said he was delighted that people were finally waking up to the plight of the homeless in the city. He thanked the Girls’ Choir for taking time off school to be present.
Peata is a voluntary organisation which provides a pet therapy service to caring institutions. Its visiting scheme involves approved volunteers and their dogs who generally pay weekly visits. The carol service is organised annually by Lesley Rue.
Photo captions:
Top – Dean Dermot Dunne gives the pet blessing during the annual Peata Carol Service.
Bottom – One of the canine members of the congregation.