Blessing of the Hounds

Blessing for the Aiken Hounds by M Warfield, 2003

Dear God, Creator of all creatures, Lord of all Men,

Mindful, we are gathered here, beside this gate,

Symbolic entry to the Hitchcock Woods.

Our horses are restive, our spirits are joyful.

We are deeply greateful to be here to give praise and Thanksgiving

For all our gifts and blessings on this,

The true Thanksgiving Day in this Free land.

We thank you for these Woods, saved for us by the infinite wisdom

And prescience of our forebears, loving of sport and understanding

Of Nature's irreplaceable healing beauty.

Bless us all, especially our honest hounds, and our horses,

Keep us safe in our communion with these Woods.

Bless the creatures which fly, run, slither and scurry

Beneath this blessed canopy of trees.

Bless those who lay the scented line;

Those who lead and those who follow

And those who love and care for this sport of fellowship

Which harms no being.

Finally, we beseech you to bless our Aiken Hounds

In these hallowed Hitchcock Woods.

Keep forever save the souls of those

Who have galloped these forgiving trails in the past,

In the present, and in the years to come.
Amen.