Third Sunday Drive
On the third Sunday of the month, all are invited to drop off donations of dog and cat food that volunteers will package and share with Saint Philip’s food pantry, Primavera’s drop-in center, and Interfaith Community Services (ICS). Please leave your offerings in the green wagon that will be in the Fish Pond Garden before and between services.
The next drive will take place this Sunday, March 17.
What is Saint Philip’s Animal Ministry?
From ideas, conversations, and interest from a variety of parishioners, a new animal ministry (Saint Hildegard’s Guild) emerged as part of Saint Philip’s Creation Care ministry. It offers assistance in two main areas:
Pet food collection
Providing pet food helps keep pets and people together. It also serves as a model for younger parishioners about how we care for animals.Studies have revealed that when owners have to choose between buying food for themselves or their pets, owners will often go hungry to feed their companions. Another sad fact is that owners experiencing financial hardship sometimes have to surrender their animals because they cannot afford the cost of care.
Pet chaplain services—offering pastoral care during stressful times
Volunteers are available to offer blessings and prayers for animals and their families in a variety of situations: when animals have to be euthanized, have surgery, are ill, or lost. Blessings and prayers can also be offered to welcome a new pet into a home.
What if your pet has died? Volunteers are available to offer support in a one-on-one conversation.
If you would like to become involved or meet with a volunteer, please email Mtr Mary at mary.trainor@stphilipstucson.org.