The annual Blessing of the Animals at Hope Lutheran Church in The Villages took place on Saturday morning with Pastor Jon-Marc MacLean officiating.

Dozens of dogs and a miniature donkey were blessed at the event.

Ilene Hintzen on the left and Nancy Beaverson enjoyed meeting Jesse, the miniature donkey.
Ilene Hintzen, left, and Nancy Beaverson enjoyed meeting Jessie, the miniature donkey.

Pastor MacLean led the congregation in prayer before a general blessing of the assembled animals. He followed up with an individual blessing for those who made special requests.

The Villages Dynamic Dog Club was present with several service and therapy dogs. The 200-member club visits schools, nursing homes and hospitals with their trained therapy dogs.

Philipe, a french bulldog, was happy to be at the event.
Philipe, a French bulldog, was happy to be at the event.
Bill Shelly was present with his Golden Doodle, Boogie. Shelly said Boggie’s dad was a purebred black standard poodle
Bill Shelly was present with his Golden Doodle, Boogie. Shelly said Boggie’s dad was a purebred black standard poodle.

The Villages Greyhound Club was on hand with several hounds which they had rescued.

Steve and Tincey German were present with Jessie, a seven-year-old miniature donkey. The Germans live on a farm in Summerfield. The Germans have been regulars over the years at the blessing and in past years have brought llamas and alpacas to the event. Last year they brought a three legged goat. They clearly love the event as did all those present.

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