To the Editor:

The Presbyterian Church in New Scotland invites the community to join us for two October events.

On Sunday, Oct. 5, at 4 p.m., we’ll have our annual Blessing of the Animals. We have hosted a variety of animals over the years at this event: dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, and goats.

Visitors have also brought photographs of their animals that might be problematic to bring to the church in “person,” such as horses. Other visitors have brought photos of their deceased, and dearly missed, pets.

All receive a blessing during a short service hosted in our Peace Garden behind the church at 2010 New Scotland Rd. in Slingerlands. We will have treats for both the humans and the pets following the blessings. We welcome all to stop by at 4 p.m. and join us.

On Saturday, Oct. 18, we would like to extend an invitation to all of the trick-or-treaters in the community to join us at the New Salem firehouse from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Trunk or Treat again this year.

The New Salem firehouse is hosting its annual open house that day, and has graciously invited us to participate with our annual Trunk or Treat event. There is plenty of parking and it’s a wonderful way to connect with friends and family under the Helderberg escarpment’s beautiful fall foliage.

We hope you are able to stop by in your costumes and enjoy the day with us.

Bonnie O’Shea

Church Elder

New Scotland Presbyterian Church