The Church of the Holy Cross is preparing for a rather less predictable congregation next Saturday, 10th October, with Crediton’s annual Pet Service returning at 4pm.
Crediton Parish Church’s diary confirms that the Pet Service returns to Holy Cross at 4pm on Saturday the 10th of October.
If previous years are anything to go by, dogs may sit politely, cats may decline to cooperate, and some owners may decide that a photograph is by far the safer option.
Last year’s event was described by the church as a short service with a blessing, held in the churchyard if weather allowed, with refreshments afterwards.
Owners were also invited to bring a photo of their pet instead if bringing the animal itself was impractical.
That could be useful for anyone whose pet is elderly, nervous, enormous – or simply has firm views about being placed in a carrier.
A rather different congregation
The service is linked to the Christian tradition of giving thanks for animals and the natural world, with St Francis of Assisi particularly associated with animals and nature.
Last year’s event fell on the 4th of October, St Francis’ feast day; this year’s service takes place a few days later.
The church has not yet published the full 2026 arrangements, so details such as whether it will again be held outside remain to be confirmed.
What is confirmed is that pets are once again on the guest list.
Worth knowing
You probably do not need to bring the pet itself. At last year’s service, owners were told they could bring a photograph instead if transporting the animal was difficult.
So anyone considering whether a particularly reluctant cat, excitable dog or unconventional household companion really wants to attend church has another option.
For most pets in Crediton, next Saturday will be an ordinary afternoon.
For a select few, however, a Church visit may be on the itinerary …
Sources & transparency
Tidings has used information published directly by Crediton Parish Church and the Crediton Rural Ministry Hub. Details of the 2026 event come from the current parish diary, while additional context comes from the church’s own 2025 material.