An auction extravaganza begins at 9 a.m. Saturday at Pilgrim Church, United Church of Christ, 5880 U.S. 1 South.

Local businesses and individuals have donated gift certificates and numerous items to be included in the silent auction, raffle and live auction.

Along with the auctions, there will also be a yard and craft sale on the church grounds.

From 10 a.m. to noon, there will be live music with local musician Joe Sewards and others. The live auction will begin at noon, with refreshments and baked goods available all day long.

Some auction items are gas cards, gift certificates to local restaurants, hotel stays, porcelain Laurel and Hardy dolls, numerous porcelain dolls in excellent condition, pieces of art, massages, health care memberships, flowers for a year, tattoos, pet grooming, items for children and having a song composed for you.

The Rev. Bonnie Lipton, pastor of the church, says the proceeds from the auction extravaganza will go to support the ministries and missions of the church, and invites everyone to come and enjoy a day of family fun at Pilgrim Church, United Church of Christ.

The church is located on U.S. 1 South, 1.5 miles north of State Road 206.

Blessing of animals

On Oct. 14, Pilgrim Church, United Church of Christ, joined with the First Coast Metropolitan Community Church to share in a service of Blessing of the Animals.

The Rev. Ruth Jensen-Forbell, pastor of the MCC, and Rev. Bonnie Lipton, pastor of the UCC, blessed more than 40 animals that individuals from their churches and the community brought to this special service.

A moment of silence was observed for all the pets that we have loved and that brought us joy over the years.