Macedonia Church Hosted a “Bring-Your-Pet” Church

Chester, PA — On a beautiful Sabbath morning, October 4, 2025, Macedonia Church in Chester, PA opened its arms — and its outdoor campus — not only to worshippers but also to their beloved pets for a special “Bring Your Pet to Church Day.” This heartwarming event brought together families, their animal companions, and the wider church community to celebrate the emotional, physical, and spiritual gifts pets bring into our lives.

Held outdoors on the church grounds, the service was filled with laughter, light, and love as members introduced their pets — ranging from pet fish to cats and dogs — and shared what their furry, feathered, or finned friends have meant to them. Even Pastor Fordham's family Chow, Ginger, made a memorable appearance, drawing smiles from both children and adults alike.

Some members, like Mark Gresham made a collage of his pet dogs to share what they had brought to his life.

The highlight of the service was a time for each member and visitor to introduce their pets to the church. Pastor Fordham’s sermon was inspired by the story of Balaam’s donkey from Numbers 22. The message reminded congregants of how God can use even the most unexpected vessels — in this case, a donkey — to open our eyes, protect us from unseen dangers, and deepen our understanding of divine companionship. 

Beyond companionship, the service reflected on the mental, emotional, and even spiritual health benefits of caring for animals. In a world often marked by stress and loneliness, the unconditional love and loyalty of pets were celebrated as a gift from God.

Church elder Ellen Stokes captured the spirit of the day perfectly, stating, “This was such a great Sabbath — I hope this marks the beginning of a new annual tradition at Macedonia.”  One observer laughed and stated that the "4th Commandment says even our cattle are supposed to keep the Sabbath!"

As the event came to a close, it was clear that this unique Sabbath had touched hearts and opened a new chapter in the life of the church — one where all of God’s creation is welcomed and celebrated.

Photos by Patricia Wagner