Driving by beautiful Lake Tahoe with friends last Sunday, the Autumn light dancing on the lake made me want to stop the car and take photographs. This time of year the sun is lower on the horizon, casting softer shadows and glistening light. The Indian summer moment is fleeting and should be cherished like good wine and trusted friends.

I have to admit I would really rather take photos than go to mass.

The Aspens mingled among the pines are turning gold, their leaves flickering in the sunlight – this isn’t helping.

We pull into a parking lot overflowing with cars; Mass starts in 10 minutes. We question the enthusiastic attendance on this beautiful fall morning.

Entering through the main doors, the vestibule is a chaotic explosion of animals – dogs, cats, rats and even an iguana. It’s the Feast of St. Francis, this church’s namesake and the locals have turned out for a blessing for their furry friends.

We watched in amazement as several dozen animals processed into church without a hitch, each presented individually to the priest for a blessing.

I have to admit I was a bit skeptical in the beginning, my mind complaining “Oh great. How long is this going to take?” But it took only few extra minutes and my friends and I were delighted with this little Sunday morning treat.

Mostly I think I enjoyed how special it made everyone feel, like show and tell in kindergarten, only for adults. We all like to share a little piece of ourselves with each other, it makes us feel welcomed, like we belong.

That’s Stewardship.

In the end, if had not gone to mass I would have missed that little episode in life.

Hope you had a blessed Sunday.