SOTV PET MINISTRY: WHERE PETS ARE FAMILY

We have always walked the Earth alongside other animals. Our lives constantly overlap, even when we barely notice it. Every field, forest, shoreline, and backyard is already alive with creatures following their own routines. When we take the time to breath in the natural world around us, we can allow ourselves to be humbled by its quiet testimony that we are not the center of everything but are one part of God’s work. 

As we recognize our shared place in God’s creation, it becomes clear that the animals closest to us, those who curl at our feet, greet us at the door, or simply accompany us through daily life, hold a special role in that relationship. They are not only fellow creatures but companions who offer love and connection. At Shepherd of the Valley (SOTV), there is a ministry dedicated to honoring the bond between us and other animals and to extend God’s care to these beloved companions.  

For those in the Pet Ministry group, pets are truly members of the family. The Pet Ministry serves as a resource for our congregation and community by providing opportunities to grow in faith through a shared love of animals. We had the opportunity to speak with two long-time leaders of the ministry — Roxanne Ianovich and Renee Schimel — to shed light on its history and mission. 

The Pet Ministry began in the fall of 2018.

The group hosts two main events each year: the Blessings of the Animals, where all are  welcome (including pets!) to come together in joy and community; and the Pet Memorial Service, where people experiencing the loss of a pet can gather in fellowship to honor their loss. The next Pet Memorial Service is on Thursday, May 14 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM in the  SOTV Chapel. 

Besides these  key events, the group provides education, an open ear, and support in times of need. The Pet Ministry is there to speak with those who have lost a pet, and will meet the conversation with patience, love, and understanding. Members will even send out sympathy cards throughout the year. Not everyone understands the depth of grief that comes with losing a beloved pet, and that can make the journey feel even more isolating.  

That’s why the Pet Ministry keeps its door open. According to Renee, “we can be that voice and that listening ear for people who maybe don’t have that in their circle. My dog was my world. I joined the Pet Ministry to find support because I realized that God wouldn’t let me go through something like that without having learned something from it.” Roxanne added to this, saying that “[speaking about pet loss] normalizes the grief that people who aren’t pet people understand. When you lose a pet, you don’t always have someone to comfort you.” The Pet Ministry is available to connect with anyone, regardless of faith circumstances, who has lost a pet or would like support in making a difficult life decision about their pet. This is a ministry fueled by a passion for cultivating joyful and respectful interactions with animals. The group regularly shares community information, such as upcoming pet-related events. They also host classes and services, including educational speaking engagements about crisis and support dogs and information on advance planning for your pets. If you’re a pet owner or animal enthusiast, you may consider joining the Pet Ministry to spread your love of animals and get involved in your community.

UPCOMING PET  MINISTRY EVENTS  

Pet Memorial Service  
May 14 | 6:30 PM  SOTV Chapel  

Pet Blessing  
Held in the fall. 2026 date is yet to be determined