UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST ANIMAL MINISTRY
Our Mission is to affirm our 7th UU Principle of Respect for the Interdependent Web of All Existence of Which We Are a Part, by producing educational events and advocacy efforts focused on protecting all species of the earth.
Committee Chair: Dolores Perez Heilbron
Email: uuanimalministry@gmail.com
ABOUT
We host public educational events to promote the importance of maintaining the natural habitat for all wildlife, and to participate in activities promoting environmental preservation of our ecosystem and recognition of the current climate crisis in the world. We publicize and promote efforts regarding more compassionate agricultural practices concerning animals produced for slaughter by exposing food production systems that are inhumane. We often join with other environmental groups involved with protection of our local water, air and forests and other issues in conjunction with the national UUA Animal Ministry.
HOW TO JOIN?
All persons interested in our goals are invited to join in our activities; however, UUSF Society membership is required for elected offices. Contact us at: uuanimalministry@gmail.com
MEETINGS
Meetings are called by the Chair as our plans/events necessitate on an ongoing basis.
NOTABLE EVENTS
Blessing of the Animals is normally held on or near the feast day of St. Francis of October 4 (held on a Sunday) each year.
Throughout the year, speakers on various animal and environmental issues speak at our Forum and other venues at UUSF.
THE UU ANIMAL MINISTRY COMMITTEE AWARDS WAYNE HSIUNG!
December 13, 2023
For his most recent animal rescue efforts, Wayne Hsiung received praise from his Simple Heart organization on Sunday, December 10. A program featuring Wayne and two other rescue arrestees followed the vegan dinner. They gave interesting and thoughtful presentations on their time in the Sonoma County jail, their work on behalf of sentient beings in the factory farm agricultural industry, and their efforts for broader public support for animal rights. The event was attended by a very large, enthusiastic audience, including UUs Sarah Ellerman, Jordan Ong, Lance Carnes, Gregory Stevens, Ruth Wong, Dolores and David Heilbron, and friends and artists Leslie and Michael Goldstein.
Our UU Animal Ministry presented Wayne, a member, with our Hero for Animals Award: "For outstanding devotion in his life work as an animal rescue activist and lawyer for animal rights and justice."
Wayne, gracious as ever, promised that he will be doing a special presentation at UUSF in the coming months on his latest court experiences, his successes, his hope for the future, and his philosophy about his life calling.
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
Sunday, October 8, 1:00 to 2:00 pm, Chapel
Join us in this celebration with music, songs, and speakers!
This service affirms respect for all life, reminding us that we are a part of the interdependent web of all existence. This ritual is in the tradition of Saint Francis
of Assisi, namesake of our City, patron of animals and the environment.
Rev. John Buehrens will give a homily:
"The Great Animal Orchestra”
Bring your animal companions (or a photograph of them), and participate in this recognition of all the creatures of this earth
2022
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