Fostering Compassion: Pastor Cody Rogers and UTMPC Mission Committee’s Vision
On a peaceful Sunday morning, the congregation of Upper Ten Mile Presbyterian Church gathered for a service that promised inspiration and community spirit. At the forefront was Pastor Cody Rogers, who played a crucial role in encouraging the congregation to support those in need. Alongside him was the to UTMPC Mission Committee, whose initiative to find the organization was pivotal. The dedicated committee sought an animal-based group that supports Veterans with visible and invisible disabilities. Their efforts set the stage for Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans, an organization devoted to enriching the lives of these Veterans through the unwavering loyalty of Service Dogs.
Youthful Curiosity: Engaging with Craig Hodgkins and Foxy
The service brimmed with excitement as the church’s youth were invited to the front pews, eagerly anticipating the special presentation. Tom Anderson, a fervent supporter of the organization, greeted the young audience with warmth and enthusiasm. He introduced the mission of Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans, painting an inspiring picture of how Service Dogs transform the lives of Veterans with diverse needs.
Craig Hodgkins, with his loyal Service Dog, Foxy, created an inviting and intimate atmosphere as he sat on the altar steps. His engaging approach captivated the children, explaining the significant role Service Dogs play in supporting Veterans. Craig’s storytelling made the strong bond between Service Dogs and their handlers easy for the children to understand.
With curiosity sparked, the children asked a flurry of questions about Foxy and her duties. Craig answered with patience and warmth, fostering a deeper appreciation for these incredible animals. The session ended with a heartwarming moment as the children gently patted Foxy, making a lasting connection that touched everyone present. They returned to their seats, visibly moved by the experience.
A Message of Hope: Tom Anderson’s Inspiring Presentation
Once the youth were settled, Tom Anderson addressed the congregation with passion and urgency. He highlighted the critical mission of Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans and shared the sobering statistic that 22 Veterans commit suicide daily. However, he also conveyed a message of hope, noting that through the organization’s partnership with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, not a single Veteran has taken their own life, underscoring the life-saving impact of these Service Dogs.
Craig’s Inspiring Journey: A Tale of Resilience
Craig then shared his personal story, offering a heartfelt glimpse into how Foxy has transformed his life. His narrative was a powerful blend of vulnerability and resilience, candidly sharing the challenges he faced before Foxy entered his life. His journey was filled with hope and joy, as he recounted touching moments of companionship and support provided by Foxy. Craig’s authenticity resonated deeply with the congregation, creating a shared moment of empathy and understanding.
Engaging Conversations: A Heartfelt Q&A Session
The service concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where the congregation eagerly participated, asking insightful questions about the organization and the pivotal role of Service Dogs. Tom, Craig, and Foxy remained after the service, continuing the conversation and encouraging further involvement in this vital cause.
A Community Inspired: Lasting Impressions
The presentation by Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans left an indelible mark on the Upper Ten Mile Presbyterian Church community. It raised awareness of the challenges faced by Veterans with visible and invisible disabilities and inspired many to explore how they could contribute to this important mission. As the congregation departed, a renewed sense of empathy and purpose filled the air. It was a day of celebrating compassion, community strength, and the transformative power of Service Dogs, all made possible by the dedication of Pastor Cody Rogers and Bonnie Ferguson.
