South Santiago had more than two dozen animals in worship at services recently, including dogs, cats and horses. Last year’s service included chickens and goldfish. According to Pastor Mike Pancoast, the ceremony dates back to St. Francis of Assisi and his love for all creatures and signifies Jesus’ promise of having all things made new, including our pets. The service is not a gimmick and relates to the tradition within Christianity to value and care for all of God’s creation, including animals. The Pet Blessing Ceremony wouldn’t fit in the congregation’s calendar this past fall, so the second annual ceremony was held shortly after Easter in the hope of Jesus' resurrection as a pledge to make all things new (Revelations 21).