Prayer Service Set for Those Hit by Foal Loss

A "Prayer Service and Blessing for the Horse Industry" is planned for June 6 at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary of St. John's Episcopal Church at 210 N. Main Street in Versailles, Ky., to offer emotional and spiritual help for people who have struggled with the foal-loss crisis.

The service is sponsored by Bethlehem Farm, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Kirkpatrick & Company, and the members of St. John's Episcopal Church, and is open to the public.

"The devastation of this loss to the Thoroughbred industry is multi-faceted," said Cindy Rullman, executive director of Bethlehem Farm, a nonprofit organization that assists women in the Thoroughbred industry. "Not only are we experiencing financial loss, but loss of life, hope and healing for the people intimately involved with the mares and foals. Our goal is to simply reach out and try to comfort and encourage the owners and caregivers of these horses at this time."