It was a rainy Sunday afternoon that Noah could relate to.

Temple Beth Elohim held its first Pet Blessing on Sunday May 15, attended mostly by dogs and humans who joined in a spiritual journey for all.

Rabbi Michael Churgel and Cantor Richard Pilatsky lead the group in a service especially dedicated to their pets, using a them focusing on Noah and his ark. The Biblical story appears in "Genesis," (Chapters 6-9) and tells the story of G-d's anger with the wickedness of man and His decision to send a great flood. He chooses the righteous Noah to build an Ark to spare his family and the animals. In the end, G-d vows to never again send a deluge to destroy the earth.

On Sunday, as if on cue, the rain stopped for the participants who came from all around the Plainview-Old Bethpage community and from as far as Merrick and New Hyde Park.

Face painters enhanced the look of happy children while a dog trainer and local veterinarian shared advice.  All participants received a "Certificate of Participation" signed by Rabbi Churgel and Cantor Pilatsky.

Temple leaders want to thank Barry Stewart, the dog trainer, and Dr. Neil Weiss of Manetto Hill Animal Hospital for donating their services.

Temple Beth Elohim is a Reform congregation serving the Plainview-Old Bethpage area since 1955. See the attached photos for a full picture of the event.

With special thanks to Debbie Baer