The Year Of The Humane Child

Each May we honor and celebrate “Be Kind to Animals Week” by bringing the community together for “The Blessing of the Animals”. This is the oldest commemorative week in US history, turning 111 years old in 2026.

“The Blessing” is a free, outdoors, family event. Bring your pet for an individual hands-on blessing by Pastor Jim Miller and stay to meet the Ambassador Animals representing the dozen plus charities that fill the great lawn at the Third Lutheran Church in the middle of Rhinebeck, NY.

The theme for 2026 is “The Year of the Humane Child”. This honors the work of Jane Goodall, a woman who taught the world to see animals not as subjects of study, but as fellow beings – sentient, emotional, and intelligent in ways that mirror our own cognitive and emotional lives.

“The Blessing” will be enjoying its fourth anniversary in 2026 and we again look forward to welcoming many loving pet parents with their furry, scaly, feathered family members.

Event date is May 30th, Noon – 4PM with a rain date of May 31st, 1PM – 5PM.

The Southlands Foundation is represented by their Ambassador Animal, Casey. Promoting their “Mommy and Me” program, children starting at age 3 learn how to approach, care for, respect and share their lives with horses. Pictured with Mommy Jordan, who grew up in the program, is her son, Teddy. He will follow in her foot/boot steps.

Our Raptor Ambassador is 9-year-old, female Eurasian Eagle Owl, Lazarus.  She is pictured with her human companion, Dr. Laura Jaworski.  Dr. Laura is a veterinarian, wildlife rehabber, educator and falconer. Laz will be with us for the 4th year and is always a main attraction.  She delights the kid and brings out the child in all of us.