Before moving to Portugal, Rev Carla ministered in a variety of settings across the United Kingdom, including rural parishes, city churches and cathedral ministry. Animals have often featured in her ministry, from pet blessing services in urban communities to traditional rural celebrations including a service of the blessing of lambs.

"I've always found that services involving animals bring people together in a very special way," she says. "They connect faith, community and everyday life while reminding us of our responsibility to care for creation."

Rev Carla serves within St Vincent’s Anglican Chaplaincy, part of the Church of England's Diocese in Europe. St Vincent’s Anglican Chaplaincy has served the English-speaking community of the Algarve since 1963. What began as a small gathering of Anglican worshippers has grown into a vibrant chaplaincy with three worship centres serving residents and visitors across the region.

Today, the chaplaincy provides regular worship, pastoral care, baptisms, wedding blessings, funerals, charitable outreach and community activities.

Sunday services take place at:

• Igreja da Misericórdia, Boliqueime, at 9.30am. Location: ///lingers.tape.lambs

• St Luke's Church, Monte da Palhagueira, Gorjões, at 11.30am. Location: ///captions.darning.buysing

• Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Luz, Praia da Luz, at 8am and 12 noon. And Thursday at 10:30am. Location: ///breadbox.incremental.orangey

All chaplaincy services are conducted in English and welcome both residents and visitors from many different nationalities and church backgrounds.

For Rev Carla, the Animal Blessing Service reflects the chaplaincy's commitment to community, hospitality and care for creation.

"Whether someone comes regularly to church, is exploring faith for the first time, or simply loves animals, they're welcome. It's an opportunity to celebrate God's creation, support local charities and enjoy being together as a community."

More information about St Vincent’s Anglican Chaplaincy, its churches, services and events can be found at https://stvincentsalgarve.org