St. Francis
Pet Ministry
HELPING ALL OF GOD'S CREATURES
“You save humans and animals alike, O Lord.”
— Psalms 36:6
The St. Francis Pet Ministry reflects our belief that caring for creation - including the animals entrusted to us - is an important part of living our faith. Named for St. Francis of Assisi, who is remembered for his love of all creatures, this ministry embodies
our commitment to caring for animals and the people who love them.
This ministry provides pastoral care, limited financial resources, and comfort to all of God’s creatures in the Spotsylvania community.
Through the generosity of donors and volunteers, the ministry helps families keep their beloved pets while navigating
difficult circumstances.
“The righteous care for the needs of their animals.”
— Proverbs 12:10
The St. Francis Pet Ministry offers several ways of supporting both pets and their humans within our community.
Companion Animal Visits
Bringing the comfort and companionship of a friendly animal.
Our trained volunteer teams and their therapy dogs visit:
- Nursing homes and assisted living facilities where residents pet and play with our therapy dogs.
- Homebound people, bringing smiles and wags.
- Schools so children can read to and talk to our therapy dogs. Their favorite book is "Clifford the Big Red Dog."
Supporting Our Pets In Need
Helping ensure pets are cared for, even in times of hardship.
We organize pet-related food drives for our local rescue organizations and host our annual Community Pet Fair/Blessing of the Animals event. This event features groups that find new homes for pets who can no longer live with their humans.
Sometimes circumstances make keeping a pet healthy and well-fed difficult. We provide limited financial support, as funds allow, for residents to assist with the costs of emergency food and medical treatment.
Supporting Pet Owners
Offering comfort and care to those who love their animals.
Sometimes people just need to hug a dog! Our therapy dogs are available at church most Sundays.
Pets are our four-legged children. We support grieving owners who would like a comforting presence with them at difficult medical appointments including euthanasia.
Our “Pet Prayer Chain” provides spiritual support to those in need of comfort.
Meet Our Therapy Dogs
at Father Daniel’s special healing service at 10:30 a.m. on the 4th Sunday of each month
Jenni
Jenni has shown to be an excellent therapy dog and loves to meet new people. She regularly attends the 10:30 am service on Sundays and is present at the healing services to give comfort to anyone who needs some canine love. Her favorite treat is sweet potato chips and her favorite toy is any bouncing ball that she can chase.
Tanner
Always willing to go where his comfort is needed, he is happy visiting both children and adults. Very sensitive to the emotions of the humans around him, Tanner lives to give and receive love. When off duty, he is a fun-loving guy who loves the water and the woods. He never turns down a snack but is never caught eating on the job.
