AUCKLAND: Auckland St Matthew-In-The-City Church hosted the SPCA's ‘Blessing of the Animals' on Sunday. The event is held annually all over the world, on the nearest Sunday to the Feast of St Francis of Assisi, who is recognized as patron Saint of animals and the environment. Dogs, cats and even donkeys joined the service with their owners. The event ended with a walk down Queen Street. Bob Kerridge, Executive Director of SPCA Auckland says that even after 27 years of organizing the event, “each year I have never failed to be amused and amazed at the animal cacophony joining in the singing of the hymns.” The service included stars from New Zealand's favorite soap, Shortland Street, reading some amusing prayers for the animals and a pipe band. BM
