Dogs of all sizes, a hedgehog, birds in the trees and families and children smiling with joy gathered under the bright sunshine on the West Lawn of historic St. Thomas Church in “Old Town” Elizabethton recently for a celebration of animals.
“Our animal family and God’s gifts of great mountains, two rivers and a bright sky blessing,” preached Father Timothy Holder, priest and pastor at St. Thomas, “remind us powerfully today that God loves us in amazing ways just as we are to love God and All Creation.”
St. Francis of Assisi (Italian) was a 13th century monk who renounced worldly goods proclaiming the abundance of God’s Love throughout creation. He is often depicted with animals because he regarded them as an important part of God’s Kingdom. He preached that Christians were to imitate the life of Christ — perfect Love to all and for all. “St. Francis,” would have loved Appalachia because of the great, awesome beauty we are given right here at home,” said the Rev. Holder.
St. Thomas honored two of its own for following in the footsteps of St. Francis: Jon Cookson and Paula Moffitt, both who serve and care for all grounds and property at the parish church making it one of the most beautiful in the area.
St. Thomas is bilingual (Spanish and English) offering Holy Eucharist plus the Lord’s Supper Sundays at 11 a.m. and Noonday Prayers Wednesday.