The service will take place on Friday, 12 September at 11am, at St Luke's Church, Monte da Palhagueira, Gorjões - What3Words location: ///captions.darning.buysing.

The event brings together pet owners, animal welfare supporters and members of the wider community to celebrate the animals that enrich our lives while raising support for local charities caring for abandoned and vulnerable animals.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their pets. Dogs should be kept on leads, cats should be transported safely in travelling crates, and other animals should be brought in suitable carriers. As parking near the church is limited, attendees are encouraged to share transport wherever possible.

The service reflects the Christian belief that all creation is blessed by God. The Bible describes God's delight in creation, and throughout scripture animals are recognised as part of God's continuing care for the world. For Christians, blessing animals is not simply a sentimental tradition but a reminder that the natural world is a gift entrusted to our care.

Pets bring companionship, loyalty, comfort and joy to countless people. The service offers an opportunity to give thanks for these gifts while also remembering animals that do not enjoy safe and loving homes.

This year's service will support three Algarve organisations that rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in need.

The Goldra Dog Sanctuary, near Loulé, cares for abandoned and neglected dogs, many of whom require medical treatment and rehabilitation before finding new homes. The volunteer-run sanctuary also provides lifelong care for older dogs and those with special needs. Information about adopting, sponsoring, volunteering or donating can be found at https://thegoldradogsanctuary.com/

The service will also support Puppy Fosters of Portugal (Algarve), a volunteer network dedicated to rescuing, fostering and rehoming vulnerable puppies and young dogs. Foster homes play a crucial role in helping animals recover and prepare for adoption. Those interested in supporting the organisation can connect through Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/puppy.fosters.of.portugal.algarve/ or Instagram: @puppy.fosters.of.portugal.algarve

A third charity benefiting from the event is Santa Bárbara Animal Help (SBAH). Based in Santa Bárbara de Nexe, the organisation works through foster homes and volunteer support to provide veterinary care, rehabilitation and rehoming opportunities for abandoned animals. More information can be found at https://www.animalhelp.pt/

Organisers hope the event will encourage people to think not only about pet ownership but also about fostering and adoption. While not everyone can commit to a permanent pet, temporary fostering can have a life-changing impact on an animal waiting for its forever home. Volunteers from the charities will be available to answer questions and explain how people can help.

Adding an exciting element to the day, visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy a falconry display following the service. The birds taking part belong to the team whose work helps keep Faro Airport safe by discouraging bird activity around aircraft operations. The display will give attendees the chance to see these magnificent birds of prey up close and learn more about the important role they play in aviation safety.

For further information about the service and the work of St Vincent’s Anglican Chaplaincy, visit https://stvincentsalgarve.org