Ely Cathedral’s much loved Animal Service returns next Sunday, 22 September.
For over 30 years, Ely Cathedral has hosted a special service dedicated to animals and was one of the first Cathedral’s to do so. This very special event is dedicated to celebrating animal life particularly the joy and pleasure we experience from our own pets in addition to the vital work of animals in service such as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs and Medical Detection Dogs, as well as those animals specifically trained to work with the military or the police force.
As in previous years the Cathedral team are looking forward to welcoming numerous pets including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, tortoises, and alpacas to name just a few. This informal family service also recognises the work of all the animal charities and proceeds from the event will benefit many local, and some national, charities, many of whom will be represented. As in previous years, the Cathedral ask people not to bring any pet or animal that could become overanxious in such a busy environment.
A spokesperson for Ely Cathedral said, “This is one of the highlights of the year for many of us at Ely Cathedral. We are a very dog friendly Cathedral and already welcome dogs into the building for visits and some services, however it is very different to experience so many people coming together with lots of different kinds of pets for this service. We are always especially happy to have Marley the donkey attend – He usually leads the procession of animals and charity workers as the make their way up the Cathedral nave which it such heart-warming sight”.
This very special service, which has been featured on BBC’s Songs of Praise, takes place at Ely Cathedral next Sunday, 22 September at 2.00pm. The music for the service will be performed by the Ely Imps, Ely Cathedral’s voluntary children’s choir. Everyone, plus their furry or not so furry, friends and family members are welcome!
Press release from Ely Cathedral
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