Blessing of the Nguni Herd

"Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth the fish in the Gqunube River and Indian Ocean, the birds in the air and the animals that roam our forests and mountains. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this Nguni herd present here today. By the power of your love, enable each one to live according to your plan. And may we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen." - Source: Duke University Chapel, 2004 Service, adapted

(This entry dedicated to Bill and Pat Luebke who work so tirelessly to organize the Blessing of Animals ceremony of Community United Methodist Church in Leavenworth, Washington and to Simanga Booi who is principal stockman at Gqunube Green).