Howling in the chapel
Cristy Symington reports on an unusual Blessing of the Animals which was held at HMAS Cerberus recently

DOG DAY: This canine had his own special entry pass to get into the service at Cerberus.

A rabbit, rats, cats, dogs, earthworms and some fish shared pews with their owners at a special chapel service at HMAS Cerberus on October 15.
Creatures great and small along with about 60 people came to the first Blessing of the Animals service, an event instigated by Chaplain Christine Senini to remember how important pets are in Navy families.

“I believe it is part of God’s plan that we draw comfort and solace from our pets,” she said.
“Often the family pet is the source of comfort and support through many of the difficulties that Navy personnel face, everything from marriage separation to overseas deployment.”

The Cerberus service was prompted by World Day for Animals on October 4, which was started by the World League for the Protection of Animals in 1928 to commemorate the Christian and humane work of St. Francis of Assisi.

Once they settled, animals at the Cerberus chapel displayed excellent behaviour – a few also joined in for the hymns, particularly All Things Bright and Beautiful.
The RAN Band – Melbourne Detachment provided musical accompaniment.

During the service, Chaplain Senini spoke of the unconditional love that occurs between a pet and his or her owner.
She told the true story of Skye Terrier Bobby, who would go everywhere with his master, Police night watchman John Gray.
It was the 1800s in Edinburgh, Scotland and when Gray died, the faithful terrier sat by his master’s grave for 14 years, up until the day Bobby died. It is an example of true loyalty and devotion.

Official Cerberus Mascot Roxy and Gunnery dog Barney helped LS Amanda Wise and PO Lachlan Sommerville with the bible readings during the service.
Chaplain Senini invited pet owners to come forward and blessed pets by name, and then gave certificates to the pet owners.
Several sailors brought photos of their pets which were back home, so they could be blessed too.

Owners could light a candle in memory of pets which had died or were unable to attend.
Due to the success of the service, Chaplain Senini hopes to hold a similar event next year.

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