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Perfect Paws Pet Ministry: "A magical "Christmas for the Animals," -- a presentation with music and illustrations. Free and open to all

Perfect Paws Pet Ministry Celebrates "Christmas for the Animals," with Carols and Special Presentation of the Classic Children's Story, "The Animals' Christmas Eve."

" In the barn on Christmas Eve,After all the people leave,The animals, in voices low,Remember Christmas long ago . . ."

So begins the charming, classic rhyming story, "The Animals' Christmas Eve," by Gale Wiersum, in which a group of animals recounts the roles their ancestors played when little baby Jesus was born, capturing, with simple sweetness, the meaning of one of the most sacred days of the Christian year.

The Perfect Paws Pet Ministry, at All Saints Episcopal Church of the North Shore, Danvers, invites humans of all sizes -- adults and children -- along with their beloved household animals: dogs, cats, ferrets, fish, gerbils, parrots, finches, Iguanas, and other furry, pawed, clawed, finned, scaled or beaked companions, to a magical "Christmas for the Animals." The presentation, with music and illustrations, on Sunday, December 15, 2013, will be part of the Perfect Paws Pet Ministry Service, from 5 to 5:30 p.m. All faiths are always heartily welcome.

Featured along with the reading of the Golden Book children's classic, "The Animals' Christmas Eve," will be the music and carols led by music director, Janet Glasser.

World-wide, and in many faith traditions, animals hold a valued place in the story of Christmas. There are Santa's dutiful reindeer, of course, and, among the most enduring symbols of the Holy Night, is the simple purity of animals gathering around the manger in reverence of the baby Jesus. 
Barn animals make room for Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus in the shelter of their stable. The blessed baby is welcome to rest in a manger meant for their food. Shepherds and their animals come from all over the countryside to bear witness. 

And so, fittingly, on Sunday, December 15, from 5 to 5:30, animals will have their own special place in the celebration of Christmas, when Fr. Richard Loring presides over a Christmas for the Animals service that includes a Holy Eucharist for the humans, and end-of-service treats for the animals and humans. 

This event is dedicated to our beloved animal friends, who share our lives, fill our hearts, and infuse our spirits with love, comfort and hope. You are invited to bring refreshments to share, for humans and animals, during our time of fellowship immediately following the service.

All Saints' Perfect Paws is a ministry to celebrate the love and respect for all of God's creatures. Services are held the third Sunday of every month, from 5 to 5:30. For more information email perfectpawsministry@gmail.com

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