SLIDE SHOW: Photos from Humane Society of GB
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Freeport, Grand Bahama - The Humane Society of Grand
Bahama welcomed Fall again this year by holding “God’s Creatures
in the Garden” on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at Garden of the Groves.
The event was in honour of World Animal Day (October 4th),
the day set aside to celebrate animal lives in all forms all over the
World and their relationship with humankind. It is also the Feast
Day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of Animals and the
Environment, and observed worldwide with a Blessing of the Animals.
There could be no better setting than the Garden of the Groves for such
an occasion, full of warmth and life.
Those attending enjoyed a memorable
afternoon with something for everyone in the tranquil ambiance of the
Garden. Upon arrival a stop that was immediately made by many
was in the parking lot where HSGB Staff and Volunteers held a car wash.
Once entering the gates, Garden attendees were able to find special
stops while strolling the paths where they could procure delicious baked
goods - and the HSGB Cookbook in which some of the recipes are published,
buy that special toy for their pet, and visit with dogs and puppies
from the HSGB who were out for a day of socialization. The prizes
drawn in the raffle brought great admiration from those who were fortunate
enough to win and those who wished they had. As always, the afternoon
was made complete by stopping at the Café and sharing a bite and a
beverage with Julie and her staff, nestled under the trees or in sight
and sound of the waterfall.
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Youngsters lined up for pony
rides by Geronimo, courtesy of Pinetree Stables and Annie Roberts as
well as face painting by Tiffany Dennison. The Hoopla game, with
Ivy Elden supervising, seemed to get quite competitive on occasion with
some players going back again and again trying to win just the toy they
wanted. Breaks were taken by competitors to feed ducks, fish and
turtles nearby.
The highlight of the afternoon
was the Blessing of the Animals, held at the statue of Saint Francis.
Animals and their people gathered for a prayer given by Father Rudolph
Cooper of St. Stephens Anglican Church of Eight Mile Rock. As
Holy Water was sprinkled on each animal, the skies seemingly agreed
and contributed, adding a gentle rain.
The Humane Society of Grand
Bahama gives gracious thanks, as always, to our wonderful Staff, Board,
and especially our Volunteers. Our fundraising is constant and
perpetual but they never tire and help to keep efforts motivated and
fresh. We are also grateful to the staff at the Garden of the
Groves, including but not limited to Erika Gates, Michelle, Julie, and
Lana. Partnering with them in the spirit of cooperation for the
betterment of the community – which includes God’s special creatures
- is in itself a Blessing.
