Dogs are one of the most versatile animals. Whether providing emotional support or rescuing people, our canine compatriots give all their efforts. That was also true of this dog that became a clergy member.
Yes, you read that right. Carmello the Schnauzer became a new honorary friar of a Franciscan monastery in Bolivia. The other friars at the temple gave him the nickname “Friar Mustache.”
At first glance, the little one might seem out of place amongst the other church members. But the values of the order aligned with their decision to adopt the unofficial canine friar.
The monastery espoused the teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. In life, Saint Francis of Assisi taught his followers to see nature and animals as a reflection of their god.
During his lifetime, the patron saint of animals reportedly preached to the birds and calmed a wolf who had been attacking a local city. He was so connected to nature that many depictions of the saint featured him with a bird in his hand.
Needless to say, Carmello could not have asked for a better group of religious men to live with. “He loves running around his new home and ‘preaching’ to the fish,” said the men of the monastery.
The monastery hoped that adopting Carmello would encourage other monasteries to adopt dogs. They hoped this would urge parishioners to make room in their homes for furry companions who need a home.
