Animals receive blessing

Southbank pets had the rare opportunity to show a little faith during October, as St Johns Southgate opened its doors for a special animal blessings service.

Members of the church, including Greta, Rebecca and Beth (pictured) brought their pets along for the special day.

Pastor Ian Vainikka said he was rather nervous before the session, as it was the first time he’d had animals sitting in on a church service before.