Hundreds Attend Cathedral Pet Blessing Service

Tuesday, 22 September 2026 05:00

Salisbury Cathedral held its annual pet-blessing service on Saturday (19th September), welcoming all sorts of pets.

A congregation of over 280 people gathered, along with 79 dogs, cats, guinea pigs, chickens, a tortoise, goldfish, and even a caterpillar.

All Creatures Great And Small: A Service Of Blessing For Our Pets gave thanks for all of God’s creatures, for the joy and companionship that they bring to people’s lives.

The joyful service was led by the Revd Ross Meikle, Missioner for Young People, and Revd Sophie Ferguson, and included readings, hymns, and music from Salisbury Cathedral's Girls Choir and Junior Choir. Music included John Rutter’s All Things Bright and Beautiful, and an excerpt from Michael Flanders and Joseph Horovitz’s Captain Noah and His Floating Zoo.

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All Creatures Great and Small_ A Service of Blessing for our Pets (10)

Image: Salisbury Cathedral

The Revd Ross Meikle, Missioner for Young People, said, “The pets and animals in our lives teach us so much about how to live well. When we care for them, we become servants of God’s creation. When we play with them, we know joy. At the end of their life, we learn about death, grief, and the hope of reunion in the world to come. They enrich our lives, combat loneliness and teach us how to love. This is service is an opportunity to remember, celebrate, and give thanks for the pets in our lives, blessing them as they in turn bless us.”

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