For the past 87 years, Grace Episcopal Church, Keswick, Virginia has been celebrating the "Blessing of the Hounds" at its parish church. This event takes place on Thanksgiving Day from 10 -11 AM. Join me as we attend this ceremony on Thanksgiving Day, 2015.

The Blessing of the Hounds

Bless,O Lord, these riders, horses and hounds and in the running shield them from danger.

Bless those over whose lands the hunt proceeds.

Bless the foxes who partake in the chase, that they may be elusive and fleet of foot.

And may all who participate today in this sport, ancient from time beyond reckoning, return refreshed and renewed in body, mind and spirit, Amen.

The Venue - Grace Episcopal Church

About three hundred people were attendance; it was a gorgeous Fall morning, sunny with temperatures in the high 50s. The atmosphere was festive. The Church provided adequate parking which was located adjacent to the Church. A shuttle service from the parking areas to the celebration venue was available for those needing assistance. Hot coffee and doughnuts were served at no charge.

Arrival of the Riders, Horses and Hounds

Pre-Ceremony Activities - Watching the Hounds Cavort

The Ceremony Begins

The ceremony began with a "Call to Thanksgiving", an opening Hymn, the reading of Psalm 100, a Gospel reading - Matthew 6:25-33, the "Blessing of the Hounds, with a finale of singing " My Country 'tis of Thee". Simple, beautiful and memorable - elapsed time 25 minutes. The Church selected a charity that received the proceeds from a collection that was taken during the end of ceremony; the selected charity was Service Dogs of Virginia. Riders used their hats as offering baskets to collect donations.

Closing and Going Home

Hope that your Thanksgiving Day was enjoyable....Tom Worosz