A Christmas Prayer for the Animals

Several days ago I chanced upon the Christmas Eve You Tube video that I took in our neighbour's small but cozy barn. If you recall I was joined by two miniature donkeys and a Vietnamese pot bellied pig. A most appropriate manger dramatization. The animals stole the show. They were the heart of the Gospel. And seeing their lovely faces and how they interacted with me that day made me think about the spiritual importance of the animals in or lives. They are not mere travelers on our life's journey. They are soul mates, sentient beings who teach us the true meaning of unconditional love. 

I turn to the piece by the writer and famous vegetarian Albert Schweitzer titled A Prayer for the Animals. 

"Hear our humble prayer, O God,

for our friends the animals,

especially for animals who are suffering;

for any who are hunted or lost

or deserted, or frightened or hungry;

for all that will be put to death.

We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity,

and for those who deal with them

we ask a heart of compassion

and gentle hands and kindly words.

Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals

and so to share the blessings of the merciful."

Albert Schweitzer. 

My sisters and brothers in Christ, may your Christmas be filled with joy and blessings. Now go hug your pets. 

Feliz Navidad