A dog who sings in the spirit

Every week, at the opening of St. Stephen’s Wednesday evening service, Father Phil Mason plants his lips upon his Native American flute, and inspires Thea to raise her voice and croon, yodel, and bay toward the rafters of the small mission chapel. A casual gathering of local residents, who have come to pray, are aroused from their meditations to be utterly present in the moment -- by a singing dog.

This remarkable experience was not part of any human plan for the midweek liturgy, which includes the “Halftime Band,” a discussion of a Gospel reading, and Communion for anybody who wanders into the chapel’s 6pm service. Some might call it a Godsend for the weary-hearted.

The duet began one evening, when parishioner Pat Hector brought along her Honey Labrador “therapy” dog, named Thea, to keep her company. No one was more surprised than Pat about her dog’s melodic ability.

“I picked up my flute to “warm up” and I was playing a few notes when Thea began to sing with me,” said Fr. Phil, who is the interim rector as the church awaits the calling of a new priest. “It was so remarkable that I decided to see if she would repeat this feat as I led a short meditation at the beginning of the service.”

She did, and her spirited singing has now become a regular feature.

In the beginning, Thea’s songs stirred laughter and delight from the fellowship in the chapel. Over recent weeks, as her singing continues to carefully follow the rise and fall of the flute’s musical intonations, Thea’s contribution is lovingly embraced.

“As we came to expect Thea’s song during the time of meditation, it began to touch me and those in the worship band and congregation in a deeper way,” said Fr. Phil. “It is my understanding that we humans are all part of the same creation as is Thea. I began to feel that connection in a very real way.”

Thea’s owner, Pat, has been a parishioner of St. Steve’s for 36 years. Two years ago, her son gave her the dog as a Christmas present. At that time, Thea was a 5-week-old pup who came to Pat not long after the passing of her husband, Neil, and former Labrador, Athena.

“Thea is the sweetest dog,” said Pat, “She is so easy to get along with, and children love her.”

In the future, Pat hopes to bring Thea to schools, hospitals, and nursing rehab centers as an emotional therapy dog who could provide just what it takes to bring pleasure to those who could use a lift in their day.