Please welcome the newest member of our parish, Pongo.  He is a 7-month-old standard poodle, and is training to be Jack Hickey’s service dog.  For those of you who don’t know Jack (Hickey that is), he has autism along with a high degree of anxiety.  Pongo helps calm Jack, and when you meet him you will understand why.  He is a very sweet, well-mannered, and patient companion.

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Currently, Pongo is in training.  Every other week, Jack and his mom, Holly, take him to classes at the VIP Service Dog Foundation, in Naperville.  When they graduate, Jack and Pongo will be able to go to school and out into the community together.  In the mean time, and really any time Pongo is wearing his vest, don’t disturb him.  If he is wearing his vest, he is working and is busy helping Jack.  He’s on the lookout for situations to avoid, and providing comfort to his friend.  Please don’t pet or talk to Pongo, unless you are specifically told you can.

Pongo, welcome to St. Andrews, and we may have to start stocking dog treats at coffee hour (maybe we already do).  And credit to Jack for hearing Father Gregg’s message about inviting someone to church, and taking it one step further.