The relationship between pet owners and their dogs and cats was celebrated during a Blessing of the Animals ceremony held at Ryerss Farm For Aged Equines on Oct. 3. The event included a short nondenominational service followed by individual blessings for all the dogs and cats in attendance, as well as the retired horses and donkeys that reside at Ryerss.

A welcome was provided by Samuel W. M. Griffin, president of the Ryerss Farm board of managers. "This is probably my favorite day of the year," he stated. "The interaction with humans and animals is magical and wonderful."

This year, two local pastors, the Rev. Jim Jannotti and the Rev. Scott Stevenson, led the blessings.

Jannotti spoke about the mention of animals in the Bible. "From the beginning, (the relationship between humans and animals) has been a holy thing. In the second chapter of the first book in the Bible, Genesis, there is a creation story," he said. "God brings all the animals to the humans. Who names the animals? The humans do. God gives the responsibility of naming (the animals) to the human beings as a symbol of the relationship between human beings and creation."

He added that while God created the creatures of the earth, it is people's responsibility to take care of them. "It is God's work, but we are given the opportunity to bless that work and to steward the creation," said Jannotti. "And a big part of that is the blessings we give to animals and the blessings that they are to us. We celebrate that here today. Our pets are our family members."

Following the blessing, attendees were invited to shop at the Ryerss gift shop. People also visited with the horses that reside at the farm.

Ryerss Farm cares for more than 80 aged, abused or injured horses, providing a home with 383 acres where they can spend their golden years. The horses at Ryerss are never worked or ridden again.

Ryerss, which was founded in 1888, will hold a 137th birthday celebration, themed "The Happiest Farm on Earth," on Sunday, Oct. 26, from noon to 3 p.m. at Radnor Hunt, 826 Providence Road, Malvern. The event will feature a buffet brunch, a photo contest, themed silent auction baskets, a live auction and entertainment. Those unable to attend the event may take part in an online auction. Visit http://www.ryerssfarm.org/the-happiest-farm-on-earth-brunch-gala-2025 for complete details.

Ryerss Farm, 1710 Ridge Road (Route 23), Pottstown, is open to visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors may feed the horses treats that are sold in the gift shop, which are specially formulated for senior horses. Visitors should not bring treats from home.

For more information, including volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, call 610-469-0533 or visit www.ryerssfarm.org or www.facebook.com/ryerss.farm.