A dog, affectionately named “Caramelo,” has become a regular attendee at the Nossa Senhora do Perpétuo Socorro Parish in São Mateus do Sul, Paraná. The canine’s behavior during services has caught the attention of Father Ivo Jablonski, as Caramelo seeks affection from parishioners but remains still and attentive during the Gospel reading.
Caramelo made his first appearance during Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent. The dog entered the church shyly, moving among the pews and seeking attention from the congregation. His demeanor changed when the Gospel was read, as he sat quietly, listening intently. Father Jablonski noted this behavior, as Caramelo seemed to understand the solemnity of the moment.
Since that day, Caramelo has been a frequent presence at the church, especially during Lent. Father Jablonski humorously mentioned missing the dog when he did not show up for a service, jokingly questioning if Caramelo had switched churches. The dog, considered a community pet, is cared for by local residents and has become a beloved figure in the parish.
Caramelo’s presence inspired Father Jablonski to include him in a sermon related to the 2026 Fraternity Campaign, which focuses on “Fraternity and Housing.” The priest reflected on the broader message of caring for all of God’s creations, highlighting the importance of respect and compassion for both humans and animals amidst widespread neglect and suffering.
