By Anne Phinney
Twenty-four animals—mostly dogs, one chicken, one gerbil and one miniature horse— plus 40 humans gathered around the knoll at Moose River Farm on Sunday, May 17 to receive a special blessing from Reverend Lawrence Bartel of Niccolls Memorial Church.
In addition to these guests, MRF’s resident horses, donkeys, goats, dogs, chickens, and a pig, also received the blessing.
Under a clear blue sky, Reverend Bartel delivered an informal but inspirational message between creature-themed hymns about the gift of animals in our lives.
At the conclusion of his sermon, the entire two- and four-legged congregation embarked on a hike through the woods and down to the Moose River.
Feathers and Boughs owner Jimmy Ortiz, walking his Jack Russell terrier, Ginger, commented to Rev. Bartel that they were walking the Camino for dogs.
His reference was in honor of El Camino de Santiago that so many Old Forge residents have traversed since being inspired by Rev. Bartel’s spiritual trek several years ago.