Popular Pet Service returns to Salisbury Cathedral

Thursday, 7 August 2025 06:00

Following its success last year, Salisbury Cathedral will be holding its annual Blessing of Pets Service again on Saturday, 13th September.

All Creatures Great and Small: A Service of Blessing for our Pets will be an informal afternoon service that will bless and give thanks for all God’s creatures, and the joy and companionship they bring to our daily lives. Aimed at children and families, everyone is welcome to come along with their pets or a photograph of their favourite animal.

This uplifting service will take place at the west end of the Cathedral, with the large doors opening onto the lawn. Visitors are welcome to join the service inside the Cathedral or gather with their animals outside. The homily will be given by the Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury, with the Revd Sophie Ferguson, the new assistant curate, leading the service.

The service will include readings, hymns and music sung by the Cathedral choristers and the Cathedral’s Junior Choir. There will be hymns by John Rutter and Andrew Carter, as well as music from the pop cantata Captain Noah and His Floating Zoo.

Last year’s service saw the Cathedral filled with music and barking, as more than 200 people attended the service, bringing with them dogs, cats, tortoises and even a stick insect or two.

The Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury, said, “We love our pets – as faithful companions and as so much more. They offer invaluable support to the visually impaired. They contribute to the resilience of the vulnerable. And they play a vital role in our agriculture. Our hope is that this service will be uplifting and enjoyable for everyone, allowing us to give thanks to God for the integral part that our pets have in our lives.”

All Creatures Great and Small: A Service of Blessing for our Pets will take place on Saturday, 13th September at 2pm at Salisbury Cathedral. More information can be found at www.salisburycathedral.org.uk