08.12.2015
Dogs Take Centre Stage at Peata Carol Service
Joyful barks joined the beautiful voices of the girl choristers of Christ Church Cathedral today (Tuesday December 8) at the annual Peata Carol Service. More than 100 dogs, most of them therapy dogs, their owners and many people who benefit from visits from Peata volunteers attended the service which was led by the Dean, the Very Revd Dermot Dunne, with the Revd Abigail Sines.
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.
Welcoming the congregation, Dean Dunne said that the dogs were the star attractions and encouraged everyone to sing or bark along to the well known carols. He also paid tribute to the Peata dog owners who gave of their time so that others could gain comfort from interacting with their pets. “God’s plan is not just for human beings but for the whole of creation,” he said.
During the service all the dogs came forward to the screen for a pet blessing. Tea and mince pies were served afterwards courtesy of the Friends of Christ Church Cathedral.
Photo caption: Dean Dermot Dunne delivers the pet blessing.