Blessing of the Pets
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Renee Howard with Chekov - photos by Tammy Cheek
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Shannon Allred, left, as Cuddles and Sweetums get treats from Lisa Stelter - photos by Tammy Cheek
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Santa Claus (the Rev. Dr. Robert Stelter) - photos by Tammy Cheek
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Shannon Allred with Cuddles, left, and Sweetums - photos by Tammy Cheek
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Sam Howard with Sophia - photos by Tammy Cheek
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The Saylors, from left, Brianna with Buddy, Will with Shadow and Brian - photos by Tammy Cheek
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Anthony Ragucci with Matilda - photos by Tammy Cheek
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Rob Howard with Tiny, left, and Anya - photos by Tammy Cheek
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Gary and Elaine Movitt with Chiku - photos by Tammy Cheek
A small gathering of church members brought their pets to Faith Lutheran Church, which held a Blessing of the Pets in its parking lot, 225 Jamestowne Blvd., Saturday, Dec. 5.
Rather than hold the church’s annual Cookie Walk & Craft Sale, which would have taken place the first Saturday in December, the Rev. Dr. Robert Stelter, FLC senior pastor, said the church chose to hold the Blessing of the Pets due to better social distancing in light of the COVID pandemic.
Blessing of the Pets normally is held in the fall in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, whose feast day is in early October.
Once the dogs — and one bunny — received the blessing, Santa (Stelter) and Mrs. Claus (Lisa Stelter) rewarded them with treats and awards.
