The Sunday, November 8, 2009 edition of The Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY) contained an article (p. A16) on worship services for pets. The story highlighted a Presbyterian church in Los Angeles where the pastor, Tom Eggebeen, holds services for pets; dogs mainly. In the assemblies there are "individual doggie beds, canine prayers and an offering of dog treats." The point of these animalistic activities is to draw in people who really, really love their pets.
One of the main points of the article is that people are as attached to their pets as they are to family. They give them as much attention as family. And, when their pet pooch passes, they grieve just as much. Prayers in the worship include mention of dearly departed dogs.
Another disturbing mention in the story is that more and more people believe animals have souls. If Snoopy has a soul, then surely salvation is required, because we all know he does some bad things, like poop on the carpet and chew up new shoes.
Let me share a personal observation from some time back: you can tell how rich and shallow a society is when there are spas, day-care centers, and cemeteries for pets. Don't misunderstand; pets and animals, in general, are good. God made them for us (Genesis 1:26-28). They are here for our benefit--not just food and clothing, but companionship as well (cf. 2 Samuel 12:1-4). However, when we elevate them above the place where God put them, we transgress. Pets have become idols.
You don't believe it? Consider all the money and attention our society spends on pets. Think about all the celebrity pooches and the reported tens of thousands of dollars paid for their outfits and accessories. They even have pet psychologists. It is beyond ridiculous
Many people, not dissimilar to the ancient pagans, worship their animals: "who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever." (Romans 1:25) It is not different from worshiping money or sports. For many people, pets come before God. What will happen next?
Decades ago, churches realized people were leaving and that they needed to do something to get them back. The solution was the social gospel--offer carnal things to draw a crowd; then give them a little spiritual talk. This has evolved from church socials, to sports leagues, to rock bands, to come-as-you-are services. And now, you can bring your pets to pray and praise God.
Right now most people take dogs to the pet services. Will country churches evolve into allowing people to bring their pet pigs or mules? What kind of mess will that be? Would such an occasion be much different than what Jesus faced in the Temple? (John 2:13-22) No, we're unaware of any business taking place in the animal worship, but it is a perversion and diversion from what the church originally was-a gathering of Christians not canines (Acts 20:7).
Churches established by men will stop at nothing to please other men and draw crowds. Those of us who are committed to New Testament Christianity will not go down that path. Rather, we will trust in God and His way to draw men-teach them the gospel (Romans 1:16; John 6:44, 45).