It was a joyful morning at Central Christian Church as dogs and their owners gathered under the shade of the huge oak trees to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the first church-owned and operated off-leash dog park in Dallas— Central Community Dog Park.
Regulars to the park and their guests enjoyed music, coffee, juice and continental breakfast while the dogs raced about the park sniffing and playing catch, fetch all those things that dogs love to do.
Long time Central members, Sherrie Narusis and B.J. Austin recalled how the park was conceived ten years ago to fill a need for the neighborhood. Michael Rains led heart-felt singing and read the words to Benji’s theme, “I Feel Love.”
“The song, ‘I Feel Love’ summates the theme of this morning’s celebration," long time member Tyson Woods said. He went on to share a bit of church trivia— Central member, actor and director, the late Ed De Latte, was actually in the 1974 locally filmed block-buster.
Tyson acknowledged the joy our pets bring into our lives as well as the peace we gain communing with nature. He thanked those dogs and their humans who have made the dog park such a success within our community.
Not only was Central’s dog park the first church owned dog park in Dallas, it was honored by the Dallas Observer as the best dog park in Dallas. Park regulars and Central members agree to that.
Several improvements have been made to the park since it was first opened, like electric fans to help with the breeze and the dog wash station, an Eagle Scout project. But the park’s ambiance has never changed. It is a place where you can come and sit with your dog, enjoying nature and God’s presence.
It was a beautiful morning and a joyous ceremony of thanksgiving for each other and for the animals that play such an inportant role in our lives.
Following the service in the dog park and Sunday morning worship in the sanctuary, dog park deacon, Tom Irwin, grilled hot dogs for a Labor Day cook-out.
Plan to bring your dog and join Central again October 9 at 11 a.m. for the annual Blessing of the Animals in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. All are welcome!