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Animal Welfare Service at the Minster
Published: on 23rd September 2005 by Eleanor Course in Press Releases
York Minster is this year’s venue for the annual Service for Animal Welfare, organised jointly by the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals (ASWA) and Catholic Concern for Animals (CCA). The service will be held on Saturday 1 October at 2.00pm, and everyone is welcome to attend. The service, held annually in cathedrals across Britain, draws attention to the importance of compassionate care for animals in our society.
The Bishop of Liverpool, the Right Revd James Jones, a patron of ASWA, will be speaking at the service. He will be joined by bishops and clergy of many Christian denominations, and representatives from national and local government.
A donkey from the nearby Elizabeth Svendsen Trust will take part in the opening procession to represent the plight of millions of working animals throughout the world, many of whom endure harsh working conditions.
Maureen Balcombe, a member of the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals and a voluntary guide at York Minster said, “Animals make our world a richer place, and they have featured throughout the history of mankind. However, they have also been subject to abuse in many forms – often severely. It is important that as Christians and human beings we recognise this and try to find a better way forward”.
The Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals is a UK based Christian organisation. The society’s main aim is to raise awareness of animal welfare issues within the Anglican Church and the wider Christian community. It is an ecumenical society, and welcomes all Christian denominations as members and supporters.
All are welcome to attend the service on Saturday 1 October at 2.00pm, but please note this is not an animal blessing service.