Priest Brings Stray Dogs to Mass to Help them Find Forever Homes

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Father Joao Paulo Arujo Gomes, a Brazilian priest, has a deep affection for dogs and has dedicated a special place in his heart for them. He embraces the presence of stray dogs during Sunday Mass at the Paróquia de Sant’Ana Gravatá in Gravatá, Brazil, with the hope that some of his parishioners will consider adopting these lovable creatures. On Sundays, the strays are welcomed throughout the church, free to roam wherever they please. They can be found resting in the aisles or even near the altar.

Father Gomes expressed his sentiment on his Facebook page, stating, “They will always be able to enter, sleep, eat, drink their water and find shelter and protection, for this house is of God, and they are of God.”

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Father Joao Paulo Arujo Gomes has been practicing this compassionate act for a considerable period. The inspiration struck him when someone brought cookies to the church and Father decided to leave them out during Mass.

To his surprise, the cookies vanished swiftly, devoured by the hungry churchgoers. This incident sparked an idea in Father Gomes’ mind. He wondered if a similar reaction would occur if he invited dogs into the Mass, curious to see if any of his parishioners would respond with equal warmth and eagerness.

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Father Joao Paulo Arujo Gomes’s plan proved to be a resounding success as he managed to find homes for 96 dogs in a mere six months.

Furthermore, Father Gomes extends his care beyond the church by fostering numerous dogs in the rectory where he resides. He ensures that these dogs have a safe haven, along with ample food and water. Additionally, he goes the extra mile by providing necessary medical attention for his foster dogs when needed.

The impact of Father Gomes’s initiative has been remarkable, leading to a significant decline in the number of stray dogs in Gravatá. Many fortunate canines have now found loving homes, thanks to his tireless efforts.

Interestingly, Father Gomes himself has personally adopted three dogs, considering them as his own children. These three companions happily roam around in his rectory, adding joy to his life.

“I helped several dogs with serious health problems. Some of them I brough to the parish house and they were later adopted. Three of them stayed with me. Today, they are my childrena and sleep in my bed.”

Father Gomes is an outspoken advocate for the furry friends of his community. He finds homes for as many dogs as he can, and he provides several services for strays in his community.

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“During service, we speak about dogs of the street, about how to respect and protect then. The church also helps with a castration project (to limit the number of stray dogs.) We also help dogs in emergencies such as victims of violence or health problems.”

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