They say all dogs go to heaven — and on at least one day a year throughout metro Detroit, some dogs also go to church.

The feast of St. Francis of Assisi was Tuesday, and the weekend before and after are replete with Blessing of the Animals services. The traditionally Catholic and Anglican tribute to the patron saint of animals is becoming popular throughout Christianity, as pets are increasingly considered part of the family.

“More and more, Protestant churches are understanding that we have a role to care for all creation. It’s not a far stretch,” said Rev. Doug Ralston of the Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in St. Clair Shores.

Ralston blessed about 15 animals last weekend for both those in his congregation and those from the community.

Today about a dozen families lined up with dogs and cats at Good Hope Lutheran Church in Garden City, which held its first Blessing of the Animals under new pastor Joan Christoffers.

“As God has blessed you with these pets, so may they be blessed in your care,” she said to those who stood before her with animals in their arms or by their sides.

Each pet received a treat bag, a medallion, a certificate and lots of head rubs. Among the mix was Christoffers’ own dog, a 5-year-old cocker spaniel named Dinah.

Griffin Mincovsky, a 6-month-old yellow lab, could barely sit still around the other dogs at Good Hope. Bailey Taylor, a 7-year-old Shetland sheepdog, stood patiently next to a carrier that held Gwen Taylor, a 15-year-old cat.
Beth Taylor said that in addition to the opportunity for a blessing, she got to learn who in the congregation has pets.

“I didn’t know all these people had animals. It’s something to talk about at church tomorrow,” she said.

She believes, as Jon Mincovsky does, that their pets will end up in heaven.

“It’s hard to say that something that unconditionally loves you is not going to heaven,” said Mincovsky, as Griffin lifted a paw to “shake.”