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Cat Who Lived In A Church For 12 Years Passes Away, The Church Gives Her An Entire Memorial Service
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Cat Who Lived In A Church For 12 Years Passes Away, The Church Gives Her An Entire Memorial Service

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On a winter day in 2008, a hungry stray cat stumbled upon the Southwark Cathedral in London and never left. The kitty soon found her cozy little space right by a warm pipe beneath the chancel or on a cushion in the consistory court.

Doorkins Magnificat became such a vital part of the church’s community, capturing the hearts of clergy and visitors alike, making “the place softer and gentler and more accessible for the thousands,” according to Dean Andrew Nunn. She even met a Queen, or rather the Queen met her when the kitty fell asleep in her majesty’s favorite spot and remained there as her majesty arrived.

But unfortunately, on September 30, Doorkins Magnificat passed away. To commemorate the beloved feline, Southwark held a memorial service and laid Doorkins to rest in the churchyard. In a touching obituary, the Dean thanked God for “giving us such companions out of your good creation.” And the once-stray kitty will surely be missed by the hearts of many.

More info: SouthwarkCathedral.org.uk

(h/t: My Modern Met)

Doorkins Magnificat was once a stray cat who found a loving home at Southwark Cathedral on a cold winter day in 2008

Image credits: Bridget Davey

Doorkins Magnificat decided to settle at Southwark Cathedral twelve years ago after the Vergers would feed her each morning. The kitty was given her magnificent name and became a loved and loving resident inseparable from the church.

She always had her favorite spot to nap and in the cold winter months, Doorkins would stretch out on the radiator or snuggle into the hay during Advent.

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Image credits: Bridget Davey

Image credits: Bridget Davey

Bored Panda reached out to Andrew Nunn, the Dean at Southwark Cathedral, who said that prior to Doorkins Magnificat, the personnel had talked about having a cat as the Cathedral was plagued by mice and rats.“

The Cathedral is located by the River Thames and is surrounded by the Borough Market with lots of delicious waste for vermin. But we had never got round to getting a cat and then Doorkins arrived, as a gift…”

The feline became a vital part of the church’s community, capturing the hearts of clergy and visitors alike

Image credits: Bridget Davey

Image credits: Bridget Davey

Image credits: Bridget Davey

Andrew Nunn explained that animals and creatures of all kinds play vital roles in the good creation. “What would we do without the pollinators? Where would we be without those carrion animals and birds that help clear up the environment? We all have a part to play and some animals have become friends and companions.”

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As for Doorkins, she became “the focus of so much love and affection because we all need someone or something to love.” In fact, “Many people found they could love her,” the Dean said.

In 2017, Doorkins started having serious health problems and on September 30, the beautiful girl had a stroke and passed away

Image credits: Bridget Davey

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Image credits: Bridget Davey

Image credits: Bridget Davey

It turns out that Doorkins was her own cat, and “we couldn’t control her behaviour. That meant that we had to relax.”

Doorkins would love to intervene, walk through services, and sit giving herself a good lick and clean in front of everyone at the most solemn moments.

“Being disruptive meant that we couldn’t stand on ceremony. Brits love ceremony, but sometimes we have to chill out and that is what Doorkins helped us to do.”

As a result, the community had to adapt to Doorkins’ unique way of being. “It meant that those who might be intimidated by formality found a way into sacred space,” Andrew Nunn recounted.

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But the godsend Doorkins Magnificat will always be remembered with love by whoever had a chance to meet her

Image credits: doorkins_magnificat

Image credits: doorkins_magnificat

Image credits: doorkins_magnificat

In August 2017, the Cathedral published a book featuring Doorkins that followed a typical week in the life of their Magnificat. She was also featured on the church’s postcards and visitors would come to visit her every day. Read beautiful stories and see pictures submitted from people who remember Doorkins on this website dedicated to Magnificat’s memory.

Commenting on Doorkins’ passing, the Dean of Southwark, The Revd Andrew Nunn, said, “She met Her Majesty The Queen and was present at more services than most of us. She was photographed by thousands of people and had a book written about her. She has been a blessing to us in so many ways. We will miss her.”

Doorkins’ story of life and remembrance serves as beautiful proof of how much love a stray cat can bring to a church and its personnel, the community, and visitors.

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The Cathedral held a memorial service for Doorkins Magnificat which was broadcast live and had 22,473 views

Image credits: Southwark Cathedral

And this is what people had to say about the beloved kitty

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dutchvanzandt avatar
Oskar vanZandt
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All churches should have at least one resident cat- a good investment to keep vermin at bay. But even more important is that cats are a special kind of emotional support animal... some will allow you to stroke or cuddle them and others will sit nearby in companionable silence. (And yes, I am an avowed cat lover :D)

marioncap_1 avatar
PangolinPal
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not just churches, all houses of worship! (I understand that resident kitties are not unusual in mosques - apparently the Prophet himself had a beloved cat, and cats are much loved in Islamic cultures.) But synagogues, Quaker meeting houses - they should all have kitties!

Load More Replies...
marioncap_1 avatar
PangolinPal
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope that when they are ready, the clergy at this beautiful cathedral will take in another homeless kitty to carry on Doorkins Magnificat's legacy of purry welcome.

klynch4 avatar
Loki’s Lil Butter Knife
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a beautiful cat with a magnificently regal name. I am not very religious (odd, considering I wanted to be a priestess as a child), but I would love to think that this sweet cat provided many people with love, healing, and companionship during darker times in their lives. St. Francis of Assisi (patron saint of animals) would be proud.

lsoo avatar
Raine Soo
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rest in peace, beautiful girl. And, fly high with the angels.

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Such a beautiful cat, rest in paradise kitty!!!

rainbownews avatar
Rainbow Panda
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There should be animals everywhere. If you have room, time and money, please adopt a beautiful animal. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜💖

sashakuleshov avatar
Sasha Kuleshov
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The holy spirit manifested in the form of a cat a no one batted an eye?

mshaurimazuri avatar
Mshauri Mazuri
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am saddened by the news. We have a dog in my church. I hope he lasts for as long as he can.

el_dee avatar
El Dee
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

With this cat being taken in by the church and the news that one of Biden's dogs, Major, is a rescue dog, it looks like cats & dogs have more chance for social mobility than humans do..

mintyminameow avatar
Mewton’s Third Paw
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No it doesn’t. Literally billions of animals are killed every year and people justify it and act like it’s chill. It would never happen to humans.

Load More Replies...
sweetangelce04 avatar
CatWoman312
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It means a lot to me to read things like this. I lost my cat back in December 2018 unexpectedly and I still miss her dearly 2 years later. I am indifferent to religion in general, but since many older religions than Christianity believe in an afterlife, I like to believe there is one. Maybe one day I can be reunited with my fallen fur baby. Rip sweet girl

luyendao avatar
Lu
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I find it amazing that animals bring out the kindness in most of us!

luyendao avatar
Lu
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The divine is in the little, "normal" things... like cats!

ahmadfauzimdsharif avatar
ahmad fauzi md sharif
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a wonderful creature of God. "Gli", a cat in the Haghia Sophia Mosques also passed away recently.....

christinewalker avatar
Christine Walker
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Doorkins when we popped into the cathedral on a chilly December day a few years ago. My son stroked her, despite the sign, and got a thorough telling off by one of the vergers. Doorkins, on the other hand, was not phased, and purred happily. IMG_201612...483b48.jpg IMG_20161227_141421622-5fb197a483b48.jpg

lesliejabine avatar
Leslie Jabine
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Her coloring is so perfect for her surroundings, it seems like she was meant to be there.

payet_fabienne avatar
Tahani
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Agia Sophia in Turkey had also a cat named Gli, she passed recently too... so sad

firstbk50 avatar
Carol Roeder
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

God rest your soul you sweet Doorkin. Seems you were loved by all and will be missed by many. R.I.P. little one.❤

maryl115 avatar
Mary Dellenbusch
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope another kitty will become loved in honour of this swet love.

journeyalvarado avatar
Journey Alvarado
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

bearbraking . this cat is very pretty i wish i could of met her Rest in peace and always remember that we care for you , love you and miss you

phoebelots avatar
Thomasin Grace
Community Member
3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Does anyone care about the children whose lives were ruined by catholic priests raping them? Gosh I know kids sometimes aren’t as cute as a kitten but people seem to shy away from the fact that the church raped children.

rl_2 avatar
R L
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A) try reading the article before commenting- this is Anglican/CoE. B) this article is about a special cat, don't ruin something positive. C) child abuse happens across all religions, upbringings, classes and cultures- it's not specific to the Catholic church, and it should NEVER be tollerated under ANY circumstance.

Load More Replies...
phoebelots avatar
Thomasin Grace
Community Member
3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

If it was a Catholic Church they probably raped or sacrificed a few small children before giving the cat a celebration.

davidcarver avatar
DAVID CARVER
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not a Catholic church, no. Did you see the part about the Queen attending and meeting the cat?

Load More Replies...
peterweir avatar
Peter Weir
Community Member
3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Wonder how the world would be if they let homeless people, or peopl in need sleep and live, with the same care and be given tributes when they die. THe church is a scam and they need to open the always heated places to all. sell off the churches riches, to feed all ....never see a starving priest or nun, pope that sits on a vast wealth of treasure that could feed and clothes the world ten times over.....money corrupts, religion corrupts

anneking68 avatar
StrawberryParfait
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, grow up. This cat brought joy to many for over a decade. Showing kindness and appreciation for our animal friends does not mean that there is no love or compassion left over for others. Most can hold space for both. A despicable pity that you can't.

Load More Replies...
dutchvanzandt avatar
Oskar vanZandt
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All churches should have at least one resident cat- a good investment to keep vermin at bay. But even more important is that cats are a special kind of emotional support animal... some will allow you to stroke or cuddle them and others will sit nearby in companionable silence. (And yes, I am an avowed cat lover :D)

marioncap_1 avatar
PangolinPal
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not just churches, all houses of worship! (I understand that resident kitties are not unusual in mosques - apparently the Prophet himself had a beloved cat, and cats are much loved in Islamic cultures.) But synagogues, Quaker meeting houses - they should all have kitties!

Load More Replies...
marioncap_1 avatar
PangolinPal
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope that when they are ready, the clergy at this beautiful cathedral will take in another homeless kitty to carry on Doorkins Magnificat's legacy of purry welcome.

klynch4 avatar
Loki’s Lil Butter Knife
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a beautiful cat with a magnificently regal name. I am not very religious (odd, considering I wanted to be a priestess as a child), but I would love to think that this sweet cat provided many people with love, healing, and companionship during darker times in their lives. St. Francis of Assisi (patron saint of animals) would be proud.

lsoo avatar
Raine Soo
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rest in peace, beautiful girl. And, fly high with the angels.

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Such a beautiful cat, rest in paradise kitty!!!

rainbownews avatar
Rainbow Panda
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There should be animals everywhere. If you have room, time and money, please adopt a beautiful animal. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜💖

sashakuleshov avatar
Sasha Kuleshov
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The holy spirit manifested in the form of a cat a no one batted an eye?

mshaurimazuri avatar
Mshauri Mazuri
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am saddened by the news. We have a dog in my church. I hope he lasts for as long as he can.

el_dee avatar
El Dee
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

With this cat being taken in by the church and the news that one of Biden's dogs, Major, is a rescue dog, it looks like cats & dogs have more chance for social mobility than humans do..

mintyminameow avatar
Mewton’s Third Paw
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No it doesn’t. Literally billions of animals are killed every year and people justify it and act like it’s chill. It would never happen to humans.

Load More Replies...
sweetangelce04 avatar
CatWoman312
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It means a lot to me to read things like this. I lost my cat back in December 2018 unexpectedly and I still miss her dearly 2 years later. I am indifferent to religion in general, but since many older religions than Christianity believe in an afterlife, I like to believe there is one. Maybe one day I can be reunited with my fallen fur baby. Rip sweet girl

luyendao avatar
Lu
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I find it amazing that animals bring out the kindness in most of us!

luyendao avatar
Lu
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The divine is in the little, "normal" things... like cats!

ahmadfauzimdsharif avatar
ahmad fauzi md sharif
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a wonderful creature of God. "Gli", a cat in the Haghia Sophia Mosques also passed away recently.....

christinewalker avatar
Christine Walker
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Doorkins when we popped into the cathedral on a chilly December day a few years ago. My son stroked her, despite the sign, and got a thorough telling off by one of the vergers. Doorkins, on the other hand, was not phased, and purred happily. IMG_201612...483b48.jpg IMG_20161227_141421622-5fb197a483b48.jpg

lesliejabine avatar
Leslie Jabine
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Her coloring is so perfect for her surroundings, it seems like she was meant to be there.

payet_fabienne avatar
Tahani
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Agia Sophia in Turkey had also a cat named Gli, she passed recently too... so sad

firstbk50 avatar
Carol Roeder
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

God rest your soul you sweet Doorkin. Seems you were loved by all and will be missed by many. R.I.P. little one.❤

maryl115 avatar
Mary Dellenbusch
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope another kitty will become loved in honour of this swet love.

journeyalvarado avatar
Journey Alvarado
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

bearbraking . this cat is very pretty i wish i could of met her Rest in peace and always remember that we care for you , love you and miss you

phoebelots avatar
Thomasin Grace
Community Member
3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Does anyone care about the children whose lives were ruined by catholic priests raping them? Gosh I know kids sometimes aren’t as cute as a kitten but people seem to shy away from the fact that the church raped children.

rl_2 avatar
R L
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A) try reading the article before commenting- this is Anglican/CoE. B) this article is about a special cat, don't ruin something positive. C) child abuse happens across all religions, upbringings, classes and cultures- it's not specific to the Catholic church, and it should NEVER be tollerated under ANY circumstance.

Load More Replies...
phoebelots avatar
Thomasin Grace
Community Member
3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

If it was a Catholic Church they probably raped or sacrificed a few small children before giving the cat a celebration.

davidcarver avatar
DAVID CARVER
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not a Catholic church, no. Did you see the part about the Queen attending and meeting the cat?

Load More Replies...
peterweir avatar
Peter Weir
Community Member
3 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Wonder how the world would be if they let homeless people, or peopl in need sleep and live, with the same care and be given tributes when they die. THe church is a scam and they need to open the always heated places to all. sell off the churches riches, to feed all ....never see a starving priest or nun, pope that sits on a vast wealth of treasure that could feed and clothes the world ten times over.....money corrupts, religion corrupts

anneking68 avatar
StrawberryParfait
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, grow up. This cat brought joy to many for over a decade. Showing kindness and appreciation for our animal friends does not mean that there is no love or compassion left over for others. Most can hold space for both. A despicable pity that you can't.

Load More Replies...
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