Story By: Alex Cope, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News

This Catholic priest has been praised for taking in stray dogs and bringing them into the church on Sundays to try to find them a caring home.

Priest Joao Paulo Araujo Gomes takes in the stray dogs of the Santana Parrish in the city of Gravata in the northeastern Brazilian state of Pernambuco.

The caring priest not only works to try to find the stray pooches a home, but also looks after the dogs in his own home and takes them to local vets if they are unwell.

Local media report the priest has taken “dozens” of dogs of the streets and then found them a home with his parishioners.

He writes on social media: “As long as I am the father of this church, they (the dogs) will always be able to come in, sleep, eat, drink water and find shelter and protection, as this is God’s house and they are from God. If I, the biggest sinner, can enter, imagine these four-pawed angels.”

Netizens are full of support for the priest, such as ‘Ana Rosa Rogeira Pedrosa’ who wrote: “Father Joao Paulo I admire you because of your heart which is full of love.”

And ‘Joanna Darc’ added: “This priest is a blessing from God in our lives and the lives of animals.”

While ‘Faithe Clark – Bridges’ wrote: “You are a true hero in my estimation! These dogs do need you and all the protections you offer. Bless you in your continued helping. They have no voice of their own. Bless you! Shared (sic).”

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