Pet Ministry
We believe that pets are family, and, if we pay attention, they can teach us a great deal about God’s love. Pets are also a part of God’s creation and we are called to be good stewards of all that God has created. With this in mind, we are developing a pet ministry that is designed to meet the needs of pets, of pet lovers and of our community.
The PWUMC Pet Ministry will offer care, compassion and support as well as a variety of opportunities to participate in activities with and for our pets.
Our outreach will include the following:
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Pet-oriented community events:
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Blessing of the Pets held annually in October - See a recap of our last event below.
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Future events to celebrate the pet and human bond (i.e. Yappy Hour, Mardi Paw Parade, etc.)
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Comfort and care for pet parents:
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Prayer quilts created and sewn by the UMC PieceMakers group for new pets or sick pets of church members/attenders
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Sympathy cards for member/attenders and community members who have lost a pet - Click here to let us know of someone who needs a card.
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Prayer for sick pets and/or grieving pet owners - Click here to submit a pet prayer request.
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Grief support resources for those dealing with the loss of a pet - email us for more information.
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Service projects involving pets could include:
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Volunteering/training with Dog-Harmony and other organizations
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Collecting pet food and supplies for animal shelters
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Supporting organizations that provide low-cost pet vaccinations
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If you love pets and understand the beautiful bond between humans and pets, we would love for you to join our ministry team. Reach out to Mandy Johnson at information@pwumc.org for more details and a meeting schedule.
Blessing of the Pets 2025
Last fall, our church lawn was filled with wagging tails, smiling faces, and a spirit of joy as nearly 30 people and their beloved pets gathered under the oaks for our annual Blessing of the Pets.
Each animal—dogs, cats, and even photo representations of pets who couldn’t attend—received an individual blessing from Rev. Amy Persons, who offered prayers of gratitude for the companionship, comfort, and unconditional love our pets bring into our lives.
The morning was more than a sweet tradition—it was a meaningful time of connection. Neighbors met neighbors. Children proudly introduced their furry family members. Friends invited friends. For some, it was their very first experience on our campus. The Blessing of the Pets offered a gentle, welcoming doorway into community—centered around something many of us share: a love for animals.
Events like this are at the heart of our growing Pet Ministry—celebrating God’s creation, caring for one another in times of joy and loss, and creating spaces where everyone (two-legged and four-legged alike) feels welcome.
We can’t wait to gather again! Stay tuned for more information about our 2026 Blessing of the Pets coming in October 2026
