Blessings offered to pets at New Hope Presbyterian

Pastor Brenda Barnes of New Hope Presbyterian Church blesses a miniature dachshund named Ginger, held by owner Bob Anderson of North Huntingdon, Sunday during the fourth annual New Hope Blessing of the Pets at New Hope Presbyterian Church in North Huntingdon.

Tyler Tomko, 8, of North Huntingdon holds a foster kitten named Merlin, while supporting his dog, Shya, a 4-year-old Yorkie, while she gets her nails trimmed by volunteers from Pet Friends Inc. of Irwin on Sunday during the fourth annual Blessing of the Pets at New Hope Presbyterian Church.

Tyler Tomko, 8, of North Huntingdon holds Merlin, a foster kitten up for adoption from Pet Friends Inc. of Irwin, during the fourth annual New Hope Presbyterian Church Blessing of the Pets on Sunday. Volunteers, as well as dogs and cats looking for homes, were on site during the event, with volunteers offering free nail trimmings and basic pet grooming.

Bill and Marion Siebert of North Huntingdon arrive at New Hope Presbyterian Church in North Huntingdon with their three English setters, Emmy and Tucker (at left) and Derby (right), who is being greeted by Pet Friends Inc. volunteer Debbie Spigelski during the fourth annual Blessing of the Pets on Sunday. Pets from felines to canines were blessed by Pastor Brenda Barnes of New Hope Presbyterian Church as part of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

Pastor Brenda Barnes of New Hope Presbyterian Church conducts a pet blessing for Merlin, a foster kitten from Pet Friends Inc. of Irwin, during the church’s fourth annual Blessing of the Pets on Sunday at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Irwin.