Blessing of the Animals
at Third Lutheran Church
31 Livingston Street, Rhinebeck, New York
May 30, 2026
Preparing for our 4th year, "The Blessing of the Animals" has become a Rhinebeck "happening". Each May we bring the community together to honor and celebrate "Be Kind to Animals Week". This is the oldest commemorative week in US history, turning 111 years old in 2026. It was started by AMERICAN*HUMANE in honor of their mission to ensure the safety, welfare and well-being of all animals. "The Blessing" is a free, outdoor, family event. People may bring their pets for an individual, hands-on blessing by Pastor Jim Miller. They then can stay to mingle and meet the Ambassador Animals representing the dozen plus charities that fill the great lawn at Third Lutheran Church, in the heart of Rhinebeck. Members of 4-H, The Southlands Foundation, P.A.N.T., Hope Farm Animal Rescue, Inc, and Animal Farm Foundation, Org. are just a few of the exhibitors that will be returning. The State Police Canine Unit always participates assigning a working canine unit to thrill the kids. All of the exhibitors work with our community to make it a safer, healthier and more humane place. This is an afternoon meant to educate, build stewardship and compassion for all living creatures.
The theme for 2026, "The Year of the Humane Child," was selected to honor the work of animal behaviorist Dr. Jane Goodall. Dr. Goodall was a woman who taught the world to see animals not as subjects of study, but as fellow beings - sentient, emotional, and intelligent in ways that mirror our own cognitive and emotional lives. Today, in laboratories from Atlanta to Vienna, neuroscientists are using magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) to study the canine brain in action. They're asking an ancient question in a modern way: What does love look like inside a dog's brain? The answer, it turns out, glows from deep within the brain, in the very same reward centers that light up when we ourselves feel joy or affection. Science can measure the firing of neurons, but what it truly shows us is something timeless. LOVE, as it turns out, is not a human monopoly. It's a biological bond that transcends species.
Once again, "THE PET REMEMBRANCE TREE" will be in place. Tributes to pets who have passed are annually added to its' branches. Leashes, chewed slippers, an empty tuna fish can, photos, a large papier mâché chicken are just a few of the items that have been placed on the tree over the past three years. The tree is prominently displayed in front of the church. Nearby, there is reflection garden with benches. A box of tissues sits on each bench, and they are usually empty by the close of the day.
** All furred, finned, feathered and scaled friends are invited to attend with their companion humans. All animal guests must be properly escorted, leashed, kenneled, harnessed, etc. All pooper scooper and Village of Rhinebeck laws must be observed.
** Last year we welcomed 200 plus visitors many without pet escorts. Several went home with a new 4-legged addition to their family.
Current list of exhibitors
ANIMAL FARM FOUNDATION, Org. ... a 501c3 charity, AFF was founded in 1985 and built on the principal that "all dogs are individuals". Promoting animal and human welfare, their focus is to help people and pets in their communities by supporting local shelter programs, rescuing and placing at risk breeds, esp. pit bulls. Their "Old Friend" program focuses on senior shelter dogs. Their Ambassador Animal will be an adoptable "Old Friend".
DR. LAURA JAWORSKI AND LAZARUS ... Dr. Laura is a veterinarian, wildlife rehabilitator, educator and falconer. At her table visitors can meet and greet Raptor Ambassador, Lazarus, a 9-year-old Eurasian Eagle Owl. He truly brings the "WOW" factor to this wonderful event.
HOLLY MENTZER ... is a board-certified music therapist working for Hudson Vally Hospice. Uniquely trained, Holly knows the power of music. It enhances the lives of homebound patients and calms anxious pets. She will be playing her portable harp at "The Blessing".
HOPE FARM ANIMAL RESCUE, INC. ... a 501c3 charity Founded in 2021, this local non-profit farm operates with animals and children in mind. HFAR is a self-funded rescuer of farm animals and a place where children can learn and grow kindness. Their Ambassador Animal is Rosie, a 200lb. potbelly pig. Her favorite treats are lollipops!
HOPE FOR DOGS PR ... a 501c3, whose mission is to rescue and rehabilitate homeless and at-risk dogs from Puerto Rico. Once in the US, they have a second chance for a nurturing home and stress-free life. They will have several Ambassador Puppies available for adoption.
P.A.N.T. ... a 501c3, "Partnership for Animals Needing Transition" is an all-volunteer community group working to reduce feral and abandoned cat populations. They support early neuter and spay while maintaining an ongoing TNR (trap, neuter and return) program. They will have several adoptable Ambassador Felines looking for loving homes.
STATE POLICE CANINE UNIT ...The New York State department's participation is always a very exciting addition. From the moment the transport vehicle arrives everyone is eager to meet the team, 2 and 4-legged officers. Working members of the canine unit, these partners provide a great opportunity to answer questions from the public. Answering important questions about their role in keeping NY State communities safe. Their Ambassador is a classic, Tilly the Bloodhound.
TWO BY TWO ANIMAL HAVEN INC. ... "A traveling animal program whose purpose is to educate the public about animals, their welfare and conservation. Their programs foster kindness for all living things." Their Ambassador Animals were previously adopted and have been placed with the 501c3 voluntarily due to care issues. Come visit their exhibit and bring lots of questions!
Primary Contact: Please direct any inquiries to ROSEMARY JOYCE, 845 478 2452 direct line/no texting, mmrjoyce@yahoo.com.
Thank you to our generous sponsors:
ADAMS FAIRACRE FARMS
Arlington Wine & Liquor
Williams Lumber & Home Centers