It’s hard to resist a Christmas carol service when the choir includes wagging tails. In west London, St John the Baptist Church in Holland Park has been hosting its now‑beloved “Carols with Pets” service, where parishioners bring their animals to join in the seasonal singing. What began as a creative way to celebrate the holidays has grown into one of the most popular events in the local calendar.

A Community Tradition

The service has become so popular that entry is ticketed to manage numbers. This year, the church’s own ticketing page even warned that one of the services had reached full capacity, asking people not to arrive without a reservation. The demand reflects not only the joy of the season but also the deep bond between people and their pets.

Inside the church, the atmosphere is unmistakably festive. Traditional readings and classic carols set the tone, but the highlight comes when each pet receives a special blessing. The Diocese of London reported that around 700 people and their pets attended across two evenings, creating a lively mix of voices, laughter, and the occasional bark or meow. Dogs in Christmas jumpers were a common sight, and after the blessing, treats and keepsakes were handed out to ensure the animals felt just as cherished as their owners.

More Than Just Fun

For many, the service is a lighthearted night out, a chance to celebrate with their furry companions. For others, it carries a deeper meaning—a gentle way to honor and remember pets they have lost. The act of blessing animals has long roots in Christian tradition, often associated with St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, who emphasized compassion toward all living creatures. Events like “Carols with Pets” continue that legacy, blending faith with modern expressions of love for animals.

The Growing Role of Pets in Worship and Community

The popularity of this service reflects a wider cultural trend. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), pets are increasingly recognized as central to emotional well‑being, offering companionship, reducing stress, and strengthening community bonds. Similarly, the Church of England has encouraged parishes to explore creative forms of worship that engage families and reflect contemporary life. Services that include pets are part of this broader movement, making faith more accessible and inclusive.

A Celebration of Love and Memory

Whether it’s the sight of dogs in festive attire, the sound of carols sung alongside purring cats, or the quiet moment of blessing, “Carols with Pets” embodies the spirit of Christmas: joy, remembrance, and togetherness. It reminds us that pets are not just animals; they are family members who share in our celebrations and comfort us in times of sorrow.

As the Holland Park congregation has shown, faith and festivity can be enriched by the presence of animals. Their innocence and loyalty mirror the values of compassion and love that Christmas seeks to inspire.

References:

• Diocese of London – Hundreds of pets attend carol service in Holland Park

• Ticket Tailor – Carols with your pets (event listing)

• United Benefice of Holland Park – Christmas Services

• American Psychological Association – Pets and human well‑being (2024 report)

• Church of England – Creative worship practices in local parishes (2023 guidance)