Rev. Bonnie Simerly and the United Church of Wayland invite all who have pet animals to the first annual “Blessing of the Animals” under the trees of Wayland City Park Gazebo at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 27.

Seniors, families, singles and children are encouraged to bring their horses, dogs, cats, birds, lizards , rabbits, pot-bellied pigs, fish, turtles and any other well-behaved pets.

The event welcomes participants to bring collars, photos and/or ashes of deceased pets to be blessed. And collars/photos of sickly or immobile pets are welcome.

There will be drawings for free pet gifts available. Animals must be leashed or contained for safety. Water will be provided for the animals.

Rev. Simerly says, “Animals are part of the family God instructed us to care for. Most people believe that animals are sentient beings and I agree. It is time for us to ask God to care for our animals.”

For more information, please call the United Church of Wayland at 269-792-2155.