Service Organizations
Local Animals Blessed at 'God's Creatures in the Garden' Event
By Beth Hanfield, Humane Society of Grand Bahama
Oct 29, 2009 - 4:09:31 PM

SLIDE SHOW: Photos from Humane Society of GB

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 4^th), 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.  

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.