Fountain Street Church in the heart of the city of Grand Rapids may hold many memories for the people of our city, whether it be the topical sermons to the special music programming like U2 to Kronos Quartet. Or, perhaps residents remember an international roster of guest speakers that has included world leaders like Winston Churchill to innovators like Susan B. Anthony to boundary-breaking individuals like Helen Keller, Malcolm X, Joseph Campbell, and Amelia Earhart.
And while all these events are part of the wonderful tradition that still continues to this day at Fountain Street Church, it is its annual
Reverence for Life Sunday and Animal Expo that continues to turn the heads of the unexpectant downtown visitor this weekend as the streets are alive with people walking to church with their pets (or favorite stuffed animal) in tow.
I have so many memories of taking my former dog to church on this special day and being surrounded by animals of all shapes and sizes, from pet snakes to a donkey. In fact, one year when the Tibetan monks were performing on this special day, immediately after they had completed their song, not only did the audience break out in applause but to the entire congregation’s astonishment the animals attending began to howl and make noises of approval. It was, to say the least, something you never forget.
And while pets are welcome at the 9:30 a.m. presentation, the blessing of the animals will not occur at the early service but at the 11 a.m. one.
In addition to this special service, the church is hosting its 9th annual Animal Expo, where there will be more than a dozen animal organizations represented -- including the John Ball’s Traveling Zoo, Carol's Ferals, and Creston’s Wildlife Rehab Center.
If you have never experienced this event, then what are you waiting for? Pack up the family and your little (or big) furry one and take them to church this Sunday. You will not regret this experience that is unlike any other here.