Danvers church expanding to include furry friends

DANVERS, Mass. -- Leaders of a Danvers church are inviting church-goers to bring their dogs to mass.

It's part of the Calvary Episcopal Church's “Perfect Paws Ministry.”

Organizers say the special service has something for everyone.

Reverend Thea Keith-Lucas says the Perfect Paws Ministry begins this month for the first time.

“God is trying to reach us in so many ways in our lives and one of those ways, a really powerful way for many people is their relationship with their pet,” Keith-Lucas said.

The half-hour service will be held monthly and will include music and prayers.

“They're willing to sacrifice for the animal and it helps them to become a better person and to care more for other people and for creation. And in return, they receive this absolutely unconditional love and what better way to understand how God sees us than to feel that love,” Keith-Lucas said.

Dog treats will be provided, and all leashed dogs are welcome.

The 30-minute service will not be held in the actual sanctuary, but in another room in the church.

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