For many of us, pets play a huge part in family life, and saying goodbye to a beloved companion leaves a huge gap in our lives.

At St Augustine’s Church in Scaynes Hill, the importance of pets in our lives and the trauma of losing them has been recognised as the church has appointed it first Animal Chaplain.

Maria Brett, was authorised as a local chaplain in Chichester Cathedral as part of the Authorised Lay Ministry initiative in the diocese, and has since become St Augustine’s chaplain for people and their animals.

Her role includes co-ordinating support for people undergoing the loss or bereavement of a pet or animal, including horses. “I’m available for all people experiencing pet loss not just for those in our parish but the wider community too,” said Maria.

As part of her ‘day job’ as a manager for a local veterinary practice, Maria has undertaken additional training and holds the Blue Cross certificate in Pet Bereavement. She understands firsthand how the impact of the loss or death of a much-loved animal companion can be a very real and painful experience.

Maria leads St Augustine’s animal friendly programme, which already includes pet services and the creation of a pet memorial garden.

“We have dedicated an area in the front of the church as a pet memorial garden which is available to everyone as a place to remember their beloved pets,” Maria explained. “People can write their pet’s name on a pebble to leave near the statue of St Francis of Assisi.

“This part of the garden is looked after by our church family and all the names of the pets are remembered at our annual pet blessing service. “

She added that the church has recently been accepted for registration with the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals (ASWA) as an animal friendly church. This complements a silver award from the environmental organisation A Rocha.

“Being accepted for registration means that ASWA has recognised the value we give to the contribution and needs of animals which is reflected in the life and witness of our church community including in worship and prayer,” said Maria.

“All well behaved dogs are welcome to services, whether regular attendees or occasional visitors. We aim to be open to all and it can make a big difference to a newcomer if they can bring their companion, service or therapy dog with them.

“We aim to promote a compassionate attitude towards all God’s creation and creatures and this is embedded within our Eco Church agenda which is at the heart of who we are and what we do,” added Maria. “We believe that we have a duty of care as Christians to look after, nurture, protect and not exploit God’s created order.”

Maria added that, as part of the church’s mission giving each year, donations are made to an animal welfare or rescue society. “This year we are supporting Raystede Animal Sanctuary with a collection at the annual pet service,” she said.

For more information, please contact Maria via the parish office: sash.parishoffice@gmail.com or phone 01444 831013 on Wednesdays and Thursdays.