Animal Ministries making a difference!
Animal Ministries serve people and animals around the world.
Looking for an pet-friendy congregation? You're sure to find one here!
Tell us about your pet or animal ministry and list it here!
Please Note: We are aware the word "ministry" is used almost entirely in the Christian community only, however, we are not aware of a word that is interfaith and means the same thing. The larger interfaith community is always welcomed and honored here!
For a list of community-based Animal Chaplains, click here.
For a list of vegetarian animal ministries, click here.
Please report changes or broken links to animalclergy@aol.com. Thank-you.
This Month's Animal Ministry Spotlight
Heaven's Gate Animal Ministries - Founder, Animal Chaplain Gail Leavitt, Animal Clergy Training graduate.
Purpose - Heaven’s Gates Animal Ministries is about helping people going through difficult times when their pet dies or has a terminal illness. The Florida ministry is also dedicated to sharing the biblical knowledge that animals possess a soul and go to heaven. It is also our desire to increase awareness of animal rights. Services provided: Heaven’s Gates provides many different services to the community at large and to individuals coping with animal pain, suffering, illness and death. This particular ministry is Christian based but we do offer individual and collective faith memorial services and honor the various beliefs that we all hold dear. Heaven's Gate will be offers an Animal Blessing on World Animal Day, October 4th of each year. Click here for details.
Other Wonderful Animal MInistries
A web site sponsored by: The Mary T. and Frank L. Hoffman Family Foundation. A treasure-trove of links, articles, readings, opinions, humor, recipes and everything else you can think of for spiritual animal lovers. You could get lost here! www.all-creatures.org/
Welcome to the All Creatures Animal Ministry! This is a place where all creatures all valued for being God's Creatures! All Creatures lists "angel" award winners, links, blogs, prayers, quotes, inspirations, and much more! www.allcreaturesanimalministry.org
Culver City, CA - Animal Kinship Support Ministry. This team offers spiritual and emotional support to individuals and their animals experiencing any form of challenge. In addition, it hosts a monthly bereavement support group for those moving through loss of an animal companion. This team may also be contacted for basic animal resource information. Meetings: Animal Bereavement Support Group - Second Sunday each month, 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm. To inquire about serving on any of our ministry teams, or if you wish to receive any of our services, please call: April Rivera 310-348-1260, x 426, Rev. Coco Stewart, Director, 310-348-1260 x 427
St. Francis of Assissi Pet Blessings. Check out this site for a list of the annual "Pet Blessings Around the United States" that take place on October 4th (World Animal Day and the Feast of St. Francis of Assisisi). If you know of a Catholic pet blessing that is not on their list, please e-mail: StAnthony@AmericanCatholic.org
Have you ever had a dream capture your heart so fully that you were willing to give your time, energy, and resources to follow it? We're Allen and Linda Anderson and we dream of a world where people and animals are spiritual partners. Welcome to the Angel Animals Network. It's dedicated to increasing love and respect for all life -- one story at a time. www.angelanimals.net/ Contact: angelanimals-on@mail-list.com.
UK - We are a registered charity here in the UK which promotes the inclusion of animals in the concerns of Christians. We cover all animals - not just companion animals and are equally concerned with the plight of farm animals, laboratory animals, wild animals etc. We promote Animal Welfare Sunday each October and encourage churches to hold special animal friendly services or at least pray for animals on that day. We send out free information packs to any church who wishes to hold a special service. We produce a booklet on pet bereavement and have a trained Pet Bereavement Counselor on our Committee. We are all unpaid volunteers. www.aswa.org.uk
Be an Angel Therapy Dogs Ministry is an all volunteer animal-assisted organization where all the dog/handler teams are tested, registered and insured members of Therapy Dogs, Inc. We have several types of activities that may be of interest to you: Nursing Home Visitations, Assisted Living Facility, Give Kids The World Village, Hospital Visitations, Paws to Read Program, Ronald McDonald House, Adult Day Care Visitations. www.beanangeltherapydogs.org/
Welcome to a community designed to share how kindness and respect for animals, nature and the Earth are being embraced by different religions and congregations. A community to let others know how members of your own church, synagogue, temple or mosque relate to all animals, and whether the congregation and general level of spiritual life and energy are growing as a result. http://network.bestfriends.org/religion/news/11437.html . Visit the Animals and Religion forum message boards at: http://network.bestfriends.org/MessageBoards/Default.aspx?g=922d350e41804f64aa372d2805b912c1
Mission: To raise international awareness of all animals around the world, that are suffering, from the hands of humans. From the Street Dogs of Thailand, to Elephants in Asia, to the Wild Horses in Alberta, to every puppy mill that is operating. We hope to help make a difference, in the lives of all creatures, give them back their dignity, to live and it was intended. In peace and harmony, with friendship, love, support. Email:BTAF@shaw.ca. www.blesstheanimals.com/
Blessings Farm was established in order to contribute to the well-being of underprivileged children; building and developing a farm in the hope of influencing children in a way that will spark their interest in horsemanship and making available to them the love of the horse and the blessings of our Lord. For more information, contact: Jack or Lois Scott, Co-Founders, jscott@blessingsfarm.org, 508-479-1927 cell
Our organization provides support and information for those who have suffered the loss of a pet, whether by death or by disappearance. By way of our Internet web site and through written correspondence, we address the issue of pet loss and bereavement as a special type of loss, similar to human loss, but unique in many of its qualities. We acknowledge that the degree of grief from the loss of a pet varies widely from person to person and we provide educational opportunities for people to learn about the grieving process. We also wish to provide a Christian point of view relative to the suffering that accompanies such a traumatic event. Spiritual help is often the best support in helping someone to cope with their situation. Also provided, is an opportunity for individuals to request prayer concerning their loss. Prayer requests can be sent by using any e-mail address listed on our web pages or by using our Prayer Request form.
The new Pet Visitation Ministry will involve members and their pets in outreach to seniors in nursing and assisted-living centers, and to members who are homebound. If you do not have pets but would enjoy being part of a "pet team," you can also participate. Medical studies have shown the therapeutic effects animals can have patients. Spiritual gifts that are significant in this type of ministry include Creative Communication, Encouragement, Helps, Giving, Hospitality and Mercy. Pet partners can be dogs, cats, rabbits, birds - or even pot-bellied pigs, horses, and llamas! For more information or to sign up, contact Caregiving Deacon Catherine Fritz through the Church Office at 310-826-5656. www.bpcusa.org/Reaching/opportunities.asp
This internet - based group is for Christians and others who see that animals are also a part of God's creation. Many Christians don't think of promoting animal welfare as a way of doing God's work....we want to change that!! www.care2.com/c2c/group/GodLovesAnimals
UK - The Catholic Concern for Animals is a UK-based Catholic group which offers resources and support for all members engaged in working with and for animals, as well as raising awareness of animal issues within the Church. Several of the Catholic clergy affiliated with the group hold animal blessing services world wide, and lead thoughtful retreats. For more information on this wonderful group, please contact them via the website at www.catholic-animals.org.
Service Area: Atlanta (and Metro Area). An Independent Christian Outreach Ministry. Chaplain Keith has a gorgeous website with lots of information and Christian scriptural support. Chaplain Of Pets prays for pets, offers pet's last rites, visits pets in the hospital, gives pet blessings, does rescue work, etc. Chap. Keith Brown, Chaplain and Director. E-mail: ChaplainKeith@chaplainofpets.com www.chaplainofpets.com
Birmingham, AL - PAWS (pets are working saints) visit residents at various facilities to offer companionship, memory stimulation and physical therapy through petting and feeding. These pets are especially helpful for residents battling Alzheimer’s. Volunteers are drawn from the church but it is open to the public. In honor of the pet volunteers, Christ Church United Methodist hosts an annual “All God’s Creatures Day”. For more information, call Pat Ward at (205) 981-0133 www.christchurchunitedmethodist.org/paws.shtml
Bethel, Pennsylvania - Sue Irwin is the staff contact for the Pet Ministry and can be reached by calling 412-835-6621 ext 41 or by email at children@christumc.net.
Did you know your veterinary skills are needed to help people around the world to know God's love? As a veterinarian, you are uniquely equipped to make a lasting impact in people's lives through missions. Your skills help to build relationships in which you can share the Gospel, as well as help livestock-based cultures better care for their animals and provide for their families. Every year, thousands of people around the world struggle to survive because they don't have the right knowledge, skills, and resources to care for their animals. CVM veterinarians live and work alongside these people to encourage them and provide them with not only much needed veterinary expertise, but also the hope that is only found in Christ. As friends and encouragers, CVM veterinarians build lasting relationships with individuals and communities, helping them be transformed through Christ's love. CVM is a professional sending agency. For more than 30 years, CVM has encouraged and sent veterinary professionals and their families throughout the world serving with churches, mission agencies and development organizations. CVM provides an excellent opportunity for those with a call to missions to use their veterinary skills and Christian commitment to serve others and share the Gospel.
The purpose for this ministry, is to offer individuals uplifting interactions through animals and children while dealing with physical, medical or emotional restrictions in their daily life or situational environment. To bring an opportunity of joyous experience to those unable to participate in social activities within the parish or community, with assistance of entertainment, gift favors, etc, via children and pets. At this time we have 30 wonderful certified therapy dogs in the program and are now established at many nursing homes and a hosptital http://ascension_episcopal.homestead.com/loving_paws.htmlA resource for creating a very unique care team - Does the thought of expanding the boundaries of congregational care teams give you "paws"? Congregations have been using a formal "team" approach to ministries of care and support for several years. Can you imagine a slightly different care team—one composed of Olivia, a pre-teen girl, Helen, a retired executive secretary and Max, a golden retriever pet partner? C-CUSP offers resources for creating an animal visitation program based in your congregation. For more information, please contact them at: For general information, contact PresbyTel (800) 872-3283 www.pcusa.org/nationalhealth/ministries/index.htm
Bainbridge Is, WA - Dog Show/Hospitality Visit We invite you to bring your pet for a special hospitality visit on the second Saturday of each month to the Wyatt Retirement Center, 186 Wyatt Way, B. I.. It runs from 10:30a.m. to ll:30a.m.. Let your pet brighten someone's day as much as they have yours. For more information, contact Christy Thacker at 855-8277. http://www.crosssound.org/ministries.html
Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries offers a range of services that aid people of all ages. Daisy, a three-year-old lab/golden retriever is a therapy dog that has stolen the hearts of residents and staff members of The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community. Daisy’s duties as a therapy dog at The Lutheran Home at Topton include visiting residents on campus and spreading love, happiness, and warmth. In the morning, Daisy goes to an assisted living and dementia unit where she visits with residents, and sometimes in the afternoon, Daisy will peek in at the exercise classes. She also makes her appearance at special campus events, such as Anniversary Day. www.diakon.org/NewsDetail.asp?ID=179
Nowhere is God's love closer to us than in the company of our pets. That is a bold statement. Since there is no record on file anywhere with such a quote from God, a lot of people have the mistaken idea that only they have the honor and privilege of being Souls. But pet lovers know better.
It is an ECK principle that Soul comes to earth in many different states of consciousness—and even in many different body forms. And God loves us all. Soul exists because God loves It. While no one can offer indisputable evidence of that love by pulling a quote from some holy text, the proof is in the pudding. God's love is all encompassing. There is plenty to go around to all creatures. The stories that follow only include cats, dogs, and turtles to demonstrate that divine love. But don't fret. God's love also includes birds, fish, reptiles, wild animals, and even insects and smaller creatures still. www.eckankar.org/Harold/Article07.html
The Mission of the Episcopal Network for Animal Welfare is to create an inclusive and mutually-supportive venue for Episcopal animal advocates with a variety of interests and gifts; and to offer our presence, passion, enthusiasm and resources to help equip the churches to give meaningful voice to every creature under Heaven, especially where neglect, cruelty, degradation and commercial exploitation are concerned. www.enaw.org 1-800-845-6933.
Website of Author Niki Behrikis Shanahan who has written numerous books on animal spirituality and pet loss and bereavement. Niki argues very persuasively that all pets go to heaven. The site also has resources and links to other sources of support. www.eternalanimals.com/
Texas - Faithful Friends AAT is a group of volunteers who have a common desire to spread joy and happiness to those who are in difficult situations by visiting them with their pets. Many doctors and therapists are discovering the difference it makes in people's lives when they are involved with a pet. Medical research has shown that interaction with animals can reduce high blood pressure and stress. Studies have also been made on the use of animals in rehabilitation therapy programs. Faithful Friends AAT Ministry is proud to be a member of the Adopt-A-Nursing Home www.faithfulfriendsaat.org. Click her for an article on Faithful Friends
Kalamazoo, MI - Presby Paws (formerly Pet Visitation Ministry): The purpose of this ministry is to take temperament- tested pets to visit people in isolated situations. New members are accepted into this group on an ongoing basis. www.kalamazoofirstpres.org/FPC/news/SmallGroupMinistry.htm
Biloxi, MS - Although this amazing church continues to host volunteer groups from across the nation who come to Biloxi to help repair and rebuild lives devastated by Hurricane Katrina, they have started a new Pet Ministry. Team Co-Leaders Mary Marshall & Scottie Maddox take their small dogs to visit patients in Hospice care, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities. The pets bring much joy to those who no longer have their pets with them. www.fumcbiloxi.org/templates/System/details.asp?id=27431&PID=146544
God, Bless the Animals is a non-denominational Internet Prayer Ministry for Animals. It is the purpose of this Ministry to enhance the well being and life experience of all animals with which we share our planet and to nurture the environment that supports all living things -- through prayer. www.godblesstheanimals.com/
God's Creatures Ministry is committed to spreading God's compassion to all He has made based on The Scriptures. Although we are a Christian Ministry, we encourage all to have their own animal welfare committee in their community. We extend our resources to those who would like to learn more or begin their own God's Creatures Ministry as an extension of us. www.GodsCreaturesMinistry.org
We are a non-profit small animal rescue group with a 501-(C)-(3) tax exempt. We are made up of volunteers who are dedicated in helping end animal suffering and euthanasia in Arizona. We rescue small animals and take them to the vet and make sure they get the proper care, shots and medication if and when needed. We house and care for these animals until they are placed in loving homes. All the animals are spayed/neutered, current on shots, use a dog door and are crate trained. If you need any more information on any of our animals you can call 480-205-3324
or you can write to: G.L.E.A.M. P.O .Box 1036 Mesa, Az. 85210-1036 or please deliver an email message to us at iamfurbaby2@hotmail.com
Monroeville, PA - Come learn about a new ministry at MCC. Join a pet ministry group that visits nursing homes, hospitals, and shut-ins on a regular basis. This is an opportunity for you to become the arms of Christ reaching out to hurting and lonely people in our area. All spiritual training will be provided along with dog obedience classes. At the end of the session you and your dog will be registered as a working team with Therapy Dogs, Incorporated. Children under the age of 16 are encouraged to join us although an adult must accompany them. For more information contact Debby Kallaher (412) 480-1617 or email d.kallaher@comcast.net.
Pet Ministry of Christ United Methodist Church, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania - Hearts and Paws meets the needs of members of the congregation and their pets. Clearly, God has given us dominion over the animals of the earth, meaning that He has challenged us to take care of them. He also expects us to be in love and charity with our neighbors, meeting the needs of others whenever and wherever possible. With God’s directives in mind, Hearts and Paws provides three specific services to the congregation and their pets: Assistance with the care and/or placement of pets for individuals in time of crisis; Grief support to members who have lost pets; and A resource center for information regarding care of household pets as well as other animals. www.christumc.net/Web%20Files/Current%20Events/Current%20Events%20Pet%20Ministry%20info.htm
Olive Branch, Mississippi - Rev. Bruce Cheney shares his dog, Jake, with the Holy Cross Episcopal Church congregation each Sunday. The dog comes out and mingles with children following services. Rev. Bruce Cheney welcomes sinners -- people like himself, he says -- to Holy Cross Episcopal Church. And he also welcomes pets, specifically his dog Jake and a cat named Priest. (For the rest of the story, go to: http://network.bestfriends.org/mississippi/news/7335.html).
From the site: "I'm John Mingo and after my loss of "Candy", Nov. 8, 1997. The grief and pain was so bad, life it self seem to stop. As a memorial for the Gift of Support, Understanding and Love, "Candy" gave to me, I started "In Memory Of Pets" for all who share in that grief and pain from the loss of their own beloved ones.
Carole Miller and everyone at "In Memory Of Pets" are here to offer support and understanding to "ALL"...to let you know you don't have to grieve alone after a Loss. We also wanted to offer a special place where you can express your true feelings from your heart with a tribute, memorial or a candle light to all beloved pets, each with his or her own personality (good or bad), but who, each in their own way, gave us unconditional love, happiness, and understanding...their gift for a better life here on Earth." www.in-memory-of-pets.com/
Meets the second Saturday of each month at Jesus Metropolitan , Community Church, 2950 East 55th Place, Indianapolis, Indiana 46220. The Animal Ministry is involved in local animal rescue and prevention resources. www.jesusmcc.org/about/smallgroup.html
Since the western world has a biblical foundation, we should remember that God's covenants are made with the animals as well as with humans: “As for me,” says the Lord, “I will establish My Covenant with you and with your seed after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the fowl, the cattle, and every beast of the earth with you; all that go out of the ark, even every beast of the earth.” (Gen. 9:9-10)
— Roberta Kalechofsky, President. Jews For Animal Rights offers numerous books, articles, essays, poems and other resources designed to encourage Jews and others to protect animals. www.micahbooks.com/index.html
Jewish Pet-friendly Congregations and Animal Ministries
- San Jose, CA - Temple Emanuel celebrated their blessings of the animals on Shabbat Noach as part of Shabbat services. They advertised to their members: “Read the story of Noah while bringing your pet for a blessing after services.” www.templesanjose.org, 408-292-0939, admin@templesanjose.org
- Chicago, IL - Emanuel Congregation, a synagogue of the Reform movement in Judaism, hosted what they call the “Celebration of Parashat Noach (Noah and the Ark)” on Sunday, October 30, at 12 p.m. Emanuel had a “Celebration in Song, Prayer and Blessing for the House Pets who fill our homes with love and joy.” Their website read for this occasion: “All are welcome, with or without an animal.” info@emanuelcong.org, www.emanuelcong.org, 773-561-5173
- Baltimore area, Maryland - Temple Oheb Shalom in Park Heights, Rabbi Steven M. Fink and Rabbi Scott Nagel. During the pet blessings at Oheb Shalom, which coincide with the reading of "Noah's Ark" owners introduce new pets, pray for those that are ill and have a moment of silence for those that died during the year. They end with songs and treats for pets and pet owners. Phone: 410.358.0105 www.templeohebshalom.org/directions.htm
- Dallas, Texas - Judaism teaches us to "feed our animals before ourselves". In this spirit, Congregation Shearith Israel offered a Blessing of the Pets. The event included a presentation by Michael Norton, DVM, on the importance of animals in our lives. Local vendors and organizations that support our animal friends were in attendance. Hopefully, Congregation Shearith Israel will consider making this an annual event! Phone: 214-361-6606, e-mail: csi@shearith.org www.shearith.org/
- Park City, Utah - The service, run by Rabbi Josh Aaronson with help from his canine assistants Lily and Louie, featured special blessings for the congregation's non-human members and pet treats. Local pet-related vendors and animal groups offered information. For more info, call Natalie Quintana, 435- 649-2276. www.templeharshalom.com/
The word "Rabbi" means teacher or leader. Learn what Judaism says about animals in a sampling of interesting and informative on-line articles:
- From Judaism 101: www.jewfaq.org/animals.htm
- Rabbi David Sears: "A Vision of Eden: Animal Welfare and Vegetarianism in Jewish Law and Mysticism" www.orot.com/eden2.html,
- Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner: http://petcaretips.net/jewish-law-shelter.html
- Rabbi Mordecai Kornfeld: http://www.dafyomi.co.il/parsha/archives/chukat55.htm
- Rabbi Dr. Asher Meir; http://www.besr.org/ethicist/adoptadog.html
- Rabbi Hillel Avidan: "Animal Welfare", http://www.liberaljudaism.org/lj_wherewestand_animal.htm
- From Torah Learning Center: Judaism and Pets, http://www.torahlearningcenter.com/jhq/question08.html
- Should you say Kaddish for a pet? When A Pet Dies:The Conservative Jewish Perspective by Rivkah C. Berman
- Is Your Dog Jewish? Where Can You Bury Your Pet Friends? Find out in this article: "Colma graves marked by Stars of David: Where Jews bury their `sweet beasts'" by Teresa Strasser
- Rabbi Barry H. Block: Cruelty to Animals: A Jewish Issue
Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, located on 12 acres in Gainesville, Florida. Jungle Friends is accredited by the American Sanctuary Association and The Association of Sanctuaries. We rescue and offer a permanent, safe haven for monkeys from around the United States who have been abused, confiscated by authorities, retired from research, or who are ex-pets. At this time, Jungle Friends is the sanctuary home for 80 monkeys and we have an ever-growing waiting list. www.junglefriends.org/
Granville, OH 43023 - Mission: To develop Christ-like character in today's youth through the teaching of leadership skills and self worth. Description: King's Rangers camp is designed to permanently change the hearts and give direction to disadvantaged youth ages 8-18 years of age. Youth will spend five days in tents in a military style structured environment. They will participate in a vigorous and challenging activities. Such as: High Ropes Course; Low Ropes Course; Problem Solving Exercises; Team Building Exercises; Animal Therapy; Art/Crafts; Praise and Worship; Bible Study; and Self Defense Training. www.volunteermatch.org/orgs/org13094.html
Chaplain Barbara Allen, full-time veterinary chaplain to The Lort Smith Animal Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, may well be the world's first full-time, fully compensated, professionally-employed ordained veterinary Chaplain in the world. Until now, numerous Animal Chaplains around the world have volunteered their time in clinics and congregations, for families and individuals, on a fee-for-service basis. Chaplain Allen was to hired to fulfill a need for bereavement and loss counseling, helping family members arrange for funerals, and much more. Chaplain Allen joins a veritable army of well-trained and caring professionals; this large veterinary center cared for more than 60,000 animals in 2005, by 35 veterinarians and 37 support staff.
May the entire world soon see the importance and significance of her rewarding and honorable work. Chaplain Allen can be reached at Lort Smith at ballen@lortsmith.com. You can read Lort Smith's announcement of her hire in their 2006 newsletter.
Memorials for Animals - Leave a memorial here for your beloved companion animal. www.anaflora.com/grieving/a_prayers/memorials.html
Millies Ministries is a Veterinary Chaplaincy that believes and honors the sanctity of All Creatures Great and Small. We believe that each pet is a unique Expression of The Creator's Spirit. We celebrate the unconditional love and its affection that dwells in the hearts of our beloved animal companions. We in turn promise them our love, care, and respect. Chaplain: Rev Deborah G. Wheeling, PO Box 1171, Rocky Mount, VA 24151-8171, Phone: 540-484-8870, Email: Prayers4Paws@aol.com, www.VeterinaryChaplaincy.org
This 500-member congregation's Mutt Ministry was started by church member and veterinarian Beth Taylor, who wanted to team up pets from an animal shelter with people who needed companionship. Taylor started the Mutt Ministry three years ago and places an average of 20 animals each year. After going through some changes in her own life and joining a Bible study group at Jubilee Shores, she decided to use her gifts for helping animals to help people as well. "We take animals from the shelter and we spay or neuter them, vaccinate them, de-worm them, get them healthy," she explains. "We foster them out for a short period of time, make sure they don't have any bad habits. And then we adopt them out to elderly, disabled, homebound people who could not have a pet without our help." www.jubileeshores.net/ Read an article about it here.
New Thought and similar metaphysical congregations are known for their deep commitment to Animal MInistry. Many of them offer animal prayer support and counseling to members of their congregations. Because of Unity's core belief, "Humans, all creatures, and all creation are an expression of the Divine and are essentially Whole and Holy", the Unity faith specifically offers training in "Animal Kinship Ministry". For more information about a New Thought congregation near you, contact: www.unitynow.com.- On-line - For a beautiful and touching overview of the Unity commitment to animals, please see this site: www.silentunity.org/animal/animal.htm
- Phoenix, AZ - Peace House: Center of Serenity and Spirituality. The Peace House Animal Ministry is open to people and animals of all faiths. We pray for animals and sometimes do house calls and healing on animals. Please send your requests directly to the Peace House. Rev. Nadene Nystuen www.peacehouseaz.org/
- Scottsdale, AZ - New Vision Spiritual Growth Center' s Animal Kinship Ministry. For some, the family unit is comprised exclusively of animals. We believe that love encircles and extends equally to this type of family and the placement of the Animal Kinship Ministry under Youth & Family Ministries resoundingly reflects the trademark inclusiveness that is a cornerstone of New Vision's philosophy. Our purpose is to support the human-animal bond in our community through education, service and prayer. For more information, contact Leslie Savage at 480-946-8618. www.newvisionaz.org/animalkinship.htm
- Encinitas, CA - Wagging Tails Animal Ministry, is the seaside animal ministry of Pamela Hower, R.Sc.P. at Seaside Center For Spiritual Licing. Seaside's Vision is to be a spiritual nexus inspiring people to live their dreams. Our Purpose: Celebrating our Divinity, Loving our Humanity, Serving our Community. www.seasidechurch.org/
- North Hollywood, CA - The North Hollywood Church of Religious Science Urban Angels program offers prayer and grief support for people and their animal companions. Janet McEntee, Contact person. "Activities and information that honor the special bond between humans and animals. Prayer and grief support for people and their animal companions." www.nhcrs.org/html_site/urban_angels.htm
- Oakland, CA - First Church of Religious Science in Oakland houses an Animal Ministry. The Animal Ministry serves from the awareness that animals are blessings in our lives. This group supports congregants and their beloved pets through prayer, the use of therapy pets to facilitate comfort and healing, and memorial and grief support. The Animal Ministry provides educational activities relating to animals for our children, and they host the annual Animal Blessing. www.firstchurch-oakland.org/ministries/pastoralcare.html
- Santa Barbara, CA - Animals hold a special place at Santa Barbara’s Unity’s church. Prayers and blessings offered through their Pet Prayer Ministry speed the recovery of many animals in crisis. It’s not unusual to see pets (and their people!) respectfully attending Unity services and discussion groups. Reverend Linda, Unity’s animal-loving minister, created a day-long celebration to invite her congregation to put their faith into action through service to worthy non-profits. For information on future events, write unity@santabarbaraunity,org.
- Centennial, CO - The Oasis Center for Spiritual Living holds weekly Sunday services for humans and well-behaved dogs. Their Animal Ministry team offers a number of services for animal lovers includes holding a prayer vigil when a pet is lost, ill, or in surgery and conducting memorial services when a four-legged friend dies. For more information on their wonderful congregation (the site owner has been there and loved it!), please contact the staff at www.oasiscsl.org/index.shtml
- Palm Harbor, FL - GodBlessTheAnimals.com (Unity) Prayer Chaplains work with prayer requests within the congregation and from on-line contacts. The Minister at God Bless the Animals also provides animal ministry counseling with individuals when time permits. Rev. Lauren McLaughlin is the Minister on staff, who serves a vibrant congregation in Palm Harbor, FL
- Marietta, GA - The Unity North Atlantic Church has an Animal Healing Ministry and Prayer Team. The team includes: Pet-Loss Grief Counselors, Animal Energy Therapists, Pet Portrait Artist, Pet Poem Writer, and Animal Touch Practitioners. The site also has a wonderful resource and referral list of animal practitioners. www.unitynorth.org/ministries/animal.php
- Suwanee, GA - The Unity Christ Center holds an annual pet blessing where all animals and their human companions are invited. Contact Rev. Allison Mann, Unity Christ Center, 3474 South Scales Rd, Suwanee, GA 30024, 770-495-0881, www.UnityChristCenter.org
- Honolulu, Hawaii - Unity Church of Hawaii offers pet blessings, pet chaplaincy courses, and the mission to "experience our oneness of God and each other". www.unityhawaii.org/aboutus.html
- Chicago, IL - The Pet Ministry of Unity Church on the North Shore, 3434 Central Street, Evanston, holds an annual Blessing of the Animals and Pet Appreciation Sunday. For more information, contact them at www.unityns.org/
- Columbia, MO - At Unity Center of Columbia, we believe that our pets also have spiritual lives that need nurturing. To this end, we introduce our Pet Ministry. We can provide: animal prayer needs, animal blessings, animal memorials, and animal end-of-life blessings. Contact us for the following or anything else happening in the spiritual life of your pet. For more information, please contact Barbara Michael, Pet Minister, at bam626_us@yahoo.com. www.unitycolmo@mchsi.com
- Asheville, NC - Sacred Nature - Sacred Nature offers a variety of ministerial services in Asheville, North Carolina. Lead by Reverend Nancy H. Clark, an ordained Unity Minister and certified Hakomi therapist, Sacred Nature offers an innovative approach to ministry. Her commitment is to celebrating the Sacred Nature of all life – in each person, each creature, and all creation. She does not define her ministry by a building and congregation, but by connecting with people in the many ways one can experience Spirit. Contact: Reverend Nancy Clark, nancyclark@sacrednature.com, 828-254-8488
- Omaha, NE - Unity Church of Omaha Pet Ministry-The Pet Ministry volunteer team honors our rich and mutually rewarding relationship with animals. They provide education, assistance and coordinate events, such as our annual Pet Blessing Day.www.unityomaha.org/volunteer.htm
- Las Cruces, NM - St. Francis Ministry at the Mastery of Life Center of Religious Science, 575 North Main Street. The Animal Ministry helps with veterinary expenses. Contributions are appreciated! www.zianet.com/milc/namaste.pdf
- Corvallis, Oregon - Unity Church of Courvallis Pet Ministry Services. We offer specialized spiritual support for pets and their owners as well as animals and animal lovers. www.unityofcorvallis.org/prayer_help.asp
- Enola/Harrisburg, PA - Pet Prayer Ministry - Therapy Dogs International, "Paws Awhile for Love" is the theme of Therapy Dogs International. The bond between dog and humankind dates back to early history, but it wasn't until recently that a correlation was acknowledged between this bond and the emotional health of humans. Studies have shown that a person holding or petting an animal will cause a lowering of blood pressure, the release of strain and tension, and can draw out a person from loneliness and depression. This is a wonderful opportunity to share the unconditional love and healing power of animals with our community plus to spread the Unity message! Brochures explaining this ministry and sign-up sheets are available in Fellowship Hall. Donna Kopitsky and JOJO are coordinating this ministry. www.unitychurchpa.org/bulletinboard.htm
- Mount Pocono, PA - One Spirit Ministries in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, offers beautiful animal related services, such as the one found below by By Rev. Fay Triano, Minister of Animals http://www.1-spirit.net/pages/animal_ministry/pet_loss_ceremony.html. They also offer a monthly Voices of Animals meeting. For more information about their Animal Ministry, check out their website at: www.1-spirit.net/pages/animal_ministry/index.htm#Voices_for_Animals
- Nashville, TN - Religious Science of Nashville Spiritual Wellness Center houses The "Soul's Companions" Animal Ministry, Kimberly Newsome, , R.Sc.P, and Michael Newsom, Director. The purpose of the organization is to support the unique human-animal bond and utilize this awareness of love to support the spiritual growth of both humans and animals through prayer, education, and community service. Contact Kimberly or Michael Newsom at (615) 859-7742, or email us at SoulsCompanions@aol.com.www.soulscompanions.com/
Tacoma, WA - Noah’s Pet Project is a free pet clinic for elderly, homeless or needy people in the community. The clinic is open from 1:00 to 3:00 on the second Saturday of every month at Doggie Day Care, 6th & No. Oakes. The clinic provides vaccines and outpatient care to cats and dogs. They also supply food and flea products, depending on donations. Volunteers are needed to help at the clinic. In addition, the Pet Project is in need of monetary donations to purchase vaccines and medicines. Also needed are cleaning supplies, paper towels, pet food, and pet dishes. Donations can be left in the large baskets in the hospitality area or dropped into the collection at St. Leo (marked “Noah’s” on the envelope or in the memo line). For more information, call Liane Sperlich at 253-927-1323 or Kathy Sdao at 253-752-2094 or write c/o Browns Point Veterinary Clinic, 6720 Eastside Drive NE #4, Tacoma, WA 98422. www.stleoparish.org/ministries/justice.htm
Rabbi Yitzchak Irnie Aaron Nadler (may he rest in peace) started the tradition of blessing pets on the bimah upon reading the annual Torah portion of Noah's Ark, a tradition that continues there today. 530-546-0895
UK - Animal Theologian Rev. Professor Andrew Linzey, PhD, DD, is Director of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, Member of the Faculty of Theology at University of Oxford and Honorary Professor in Theology, University of Birmingham. His book: Animal Rites Liturgies of Animal Care (Pilgrim Press USA), comprises prayers and liturgies for burials, healings and blessings. The Center's work is funded by donations and his publications. He has written numerous books on the subject of animals and sprituality. For more information on the center's work, go to www.oxfordanimalethics.com
Paws with a Purpose is a tax-exempt, non profit organization of dedicated volunteers and their pets who provide animal assisted activities and animal assisted therapy services to individuals of all ages with physical, social, emotional and cognitive needs in healthcare facilities and educational programs. Purpose:
- Improve an individual's overall psychosocial well-being by promoting empathy, mental stimulation, companionship, love and affection.
- Encourage movement by walking, petting and watching pets
- Act as a means to open communication with withdrawn, isolated or unresponsive individuals.
- Diminish stress and anxiety caused by illness or injury.
- Provide the opportunity for sensory stimulation by touch, smell, sound and sight.
- Provide a non-threatening environment.
- Enhance participation in speech, occupational and physical therapy.
- Improving reading skills, develop compassion for animals and build self-confidence and self-esteem.
www.pawswithapurpose.org/index.htm (note there are other unrelated groups called "Paws With a Purpose" in other states)
Since June 2002, the Faith in Action People and Pets Together Program volunteers and their certified therapy animals have volunteered over 300 hours in local hospitals, nursing homes, schools, rehabilitation facilities, individual homes and other community sites. All pet visitation teams have passed the pet team test, have had a veterinarian health screening, and are registered with Delta Society, a national pet therapy organization that provides liability insurance. People and Pets Together. Since June 2002, the Faith in Action People and Pets Together Program volunteers and their certified therapy animals have volunteered over 300 hours in local hospitals, nursing homes, schools, rehabilitation facilities, individual homes and other community sites. All pet visitation teams have passed the pet team test, have had a veterinarian health screening, and are registered with Delta Society, a national pet therapy organization that provides liability insurance. www.clmassistance.org/peoplepets.htm
CUMC holds an annual Pet Adoption and Care Fair, where dozens of previously unwanted animals are adopted into good homes. The Pet Fair has three goals: To educate the public about pets and pet care; have a bit of fun meeting and greeting animals, playing games and eating fair food; find permanent homes for animals that are living in shelters or with volunteers from rescue groups. The church's Animal Ministry also includes helping church members with their pets, including grief counseling when an animal dies. For further information, see their web site at www.christumc.net. Sue Irwin is the staff contact for the Pet Ministry and can be reached by calling 412-835-6621 ext 41 or by email at children@christumc.net.
Florence, KA - The Pet Castle, Inc. Animal Rescue is a Christian based animal rescue that provides the loving families of Northern Kentucky, and surrounding areas with the opportunity to relocate or adopt animals. Our Mission is to protect the lives of animals and provide new loving homes. Email kittensandpuppies@fuse.net for more information!
The Pet Friendly Shelter of Sanlando was established on July 3, 1998 and has now been functional for over 7 years. Due to the generosity of church and community neighbors we are well equipped to house evacuees and their pets whenever Seminole County alerts us to open our facility during declared disasters. Several of our volunteers have been C.E.R.T. trained by the Lake Mary Fire Department, as well as Seminole County. We currently have enough supplies to house 100 guests with approximately 70 pets (depending on animal size and weight). In June of 2000 our PFS was designated by the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church Disaster Response Coordinator as the training model for other United Methodist churches through out the state of Florida. We offer a safe haven for evacuees with pets during times of need and are the only facility of its kind in Seminole County. www.sanlando.org/community/shelter.htm. For more information call Debi Douglas at 407-571-2100 ext 104.
Is your companion animal ill or injured? Leave a prayer request on this site. www.pethealingministry.com/
Seminary graduate and non-smoking activist Mike Sawyer fills his site with photos and stories of people and animals he meets everyday. Filled with inspiration and chock full of personality and warmth, Mike's site makes you feel like you just visited a neighborhood where everyone loves animals as much as you do! http://www.petministry.com/
PetPALS of Southern New Jersey is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that provides services to pets of people living with terminal, chronic or debilitating illness, or financially needy senior citizens. PetPALS strives to keep animal companions with their owners for as long as practically possible. PetPals is housed by the First United Methodist Church of Mount Ephraim building at various times during the year. Please use the following phone number and address to conta