Church hosts photo exhibit, animal blessing

A photo exhibit of furry friends will be on display Sunday during a church’s annual blessing of the animals.

Works by Cate Goedert of Cate Goedert Photography are featured in the exhibit, “Blessed by Animals,” at the blessedbyanimalsUnitarian Universalist Congregation of Santa Fe, 107 W. Barcelona Road. People will have a chance to meet Goedert, a volunteer at the Santa Fe animal shelter who takes photos of the shelter’s homeless animals, and view her work after the blessing.

The church’s annual blessing of the animals takes place at 10:30 a.m. in the courtyard. All are welcome to bring well-behaved animal companions. “It’s always quite delightful,” organizers said, “and we truly welcome all to join us.”

Goedert, a fine art photographer for many years, has trained at Rocky Mountain School of Photography, the Santa Fe Photographic Workshops, the Goodman School of Drama, and the Center for Creation Spirituality.

Goedert delved into professional photographer of animals after she adopted a rescue dog, Tulip, about 10 years ago. Like any smitten companion, Goedert said she began taking pictures of Tulip early in their relationship and, over time, discovered she loved taking pictures of animals. It was a natural progression that led her to shelter.