Pets join congregation for special service at Bridgnorth church

Members of St John the Evangelist Church were the latest to receive the Live Simply Award.

The accolade, which has been given to various Catholic communities around the world, is an initiative prompted by Pope Francis, and aims to remind people about the importance of God’s earth and all living creatures.

Councillor Julia Buckley presented the award to Father Iain Griffiths at a service titled 'The Feast of St Franics'.

A number of parishioners brought along their pets, who received a blessing from Father Iain.

Mary Gilbert, a member of the church, said: "They were amazingly well behaved and some even joined in with the singing, led by the parish choir and music group.

"We are the first parish in Shrewsbury Diocese to receive the award, and the 40th in the country."

In order to receive the award, the group was asked to live more simply, sustainably and in solidarity with the poor and marginalised.

Recently the group has taken specific actions within the community to work towards these goals.

Actions include the creation of a prayer garden, an organised litter pick at Bridgnorth cemetery and continued support for the Bridgnorth Food Bank.

The team at St John's has also started a knit and natter group to produce items for refugees and premature babies at home.

The service was attended by district councillor Christian Lea and Eileen and Vin Brennan who were the assessors from Ellesmere Port who approved the award.