Epworth UMC Leashes of Love Ministry commissions third graduating class
Epworth United Methodist Church celebrated and commissioned its third graduating class of Epworth's newest Caring Ministry, Leashes of Love. The commencement commissioning took place June 30 in the sanctuary of Epworth UMC.
Leashes of Love is a pet visitation ministry that shares the love of pets with residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult day care centers. Graduates receive their diplomas for completing the special Pet Ministry Certification offered through Doggies at the Beach, a cage-free doggie day care, grooming, and training facility in Rehoboth Beach. The commencement commissioning included a blessing from Epworth's the Rev. Vichy Starnes and the Rev. Dr. Patricia Loughlin.
According to chairpersons Robbin Murray and Barbara Kulbaba, the visits are very well received. Since its inception in 2011, Epworth's Leashes of Love ministry has grown to 31 people and 25 dogs who have already reached out to more than 1,000 residents through multiple visits to area facilities including Harbor Health-Cadia, Cadbury of Lewes, Brandywine Assisted Living, and Beebe Medical Center's Gull House. With this third class of graduates this ministry will have a total of 41 people and 35 dogs participating.
Epworth UMC is a Christian community with open hearts, open minds and open doors. Epworth is located at 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach. For additional information go to www.eumcrb.org, email communications@epworthrehoboth.org or call the church office at 302-227-7743.
