By Bryan Kay
Staff Reporter
British Ambassador to Korea Martin Uden and his dog Hanso were among the participants in the annual St. Francistide Blessing of the Animals at Seoul Anglican Cathedral, Sunday.
Rev. Paul Mooney, who conducted the service, had invited along animals of all persuasions, along with their human companions.
And his words were heeded as about 20 people and their pets participated in the service, which took place in the cathedral courtyard. The lineup included cats, dogs and hamsters, said Rev. Mooney.
Ambassador Uden brought along his adopted pet Hanso, who is a former guide dog, to join in the event.
This is the third time that the annual animal blessings have taken place at the cathedral, and though they are held elsewhere in the world, Rev. Mooney is the first vicar to have done so in South Korea.
``It is a very simple, short service. People gather with their pets and animals and we say a few short prayers,'' he explained.
``We use it to remind ourselves of our fellow creatures and our duties toward them.''
The event is timed to coincide with the feast day of the patron saint of animals, St. Francis.