ST PAUL'S Anglican Church in Roma was filled with the shrieks of delighted children last Sunday, gathered for the annual pet blessing.

The animals in the church seemed to make less noise than the kids, who took full advantage of the cancelled Sunday School lesson.

Father Scott Gunthorpe soldiered through the special day, encouraging children to come forward to the altar during the service to get a better look at the proceedings.

"This is an annual event on which we remember Saint Francis of Assisi, who had a special love for all animals," Fr Gunthorpe said.

"It's a really special day for the kids, to get them involved in the service and bring their loved ones into the church."

"The kids just love it, and we always like to try new things because we have a lot of kids and young families in the church."

Parishioner Kevin Hutton said that as a Christian family it was important to involve all members in the special church service.

"This is a great opportunity for my children to bring our cat Snowy to church to be a part of our family and a part of the Sunday service," he said.

Fr Gunthorpe's wife Gis said the day was about teaching inclusiveness in the church.

"More than anything it's about fun, and getting people thinking outside the box," she said.