DYER – Two puppies gamboling around the expansive, grassy grounds at St. Maria Goretti in Dyer is an entertaining sight. They romp, bark and tussle with each other like siblings – because they are.
As Father Leo Gajardo continues to get more settled into his role as pastor of St. Maria Goretti, he has joined the ranks of myriad pastors who own dogs.
He recently purchased a mini schnauzer and his mother, of Hobart, purchased a sibling from the six-pup litter. They have had the puppies for less than two months but already seem like a seasoned family.
Father Gajardo’s puppy Sir weighs about six pounds while his mom, Rosa Mellado, owns Lady, weighing a little less. Like a typical family, the little sister tries to assert some dominance as she playfully pounces on her bigger brother. She also likes to let people know she is there – being the first to bark at strangers.
Father Gajardo said the duo spend a couple days a week together, but that he enjoys quiet time with Sir, as well. “He is pretty chill. When I pray in the morning, he just hangs out and gives me peace and quiet … He makes a little bit of noise in the evening, which I enjoy.”
Father Gajardo has always had a fondness for dogs, having grown up with them as a child. Then about 20 years ago, Father Gajardo had a pastor friend who owned a schnauzer with which he enjoyed spending time. Then during a Lenten fish fry, Father Gajardo heard parishioners talking about and sharing pictures of a mini schnauzer; he was intrigued. The animal was from a long-time, reputable breeder whose operation is just 15 minutes from the parish.
Things came together and he became the owner of the mini schnauzer on Aug. 29. “Pets are another example of God’s love for us,” said Father Gajardo, who appreciates the connection with owning a pet and St. Francis – the patron saint of the environment and animals because he loved all creatures and could see God through all things created.
When Sir wakes up in the morning, he is a bit startled. “He freaks out a little bit when I wake him up. I say ‘I’m here, I’m here, I’m here.’ I imagine that when we are in trouble and freaking out, God is saying to us, ‘I’m here.’ I really appreciate that connection.”
Father Gajardo said, “obviously,” St. Maria Goretti was happy to host a pet blessing in honor of St. Francis’ feast day. “It’s nice to bring my own dog. Having a pet makes you more aware and connected. I am forced to slow down and be more patient.”
Similarly, Mellado appreciates her companionship with Lady. They go for walks together every day and they sit quietly together inside or out. Lady will even be accompanying Mellado when she delivers meals to older adults in Hobart through Meals on Wheels.
Lady is certified as an emotional support pet. “She is quite a cuddler,” Mellado said. “It is such a blessing and joy to have her with me.”
Father Gajardo said he hopes he will be able to get approval to bring Sir with him when he says Mass at local nursing homes.
He already brings Sir to many of his meetings. “I’m slowly introducing him to parishioners. He has been to choir rehearsals with me and some meetings. The office staff is comfortable with him. He comes to the office with me, and they have watched him for me when I have had to step out.”
Office employee Irene Szewczyk, coordinator of finance and development, said Sir has provided a breath of fresh air to the office.
“Father is always relatable,” she said. “I think what Sir has done has made all of us a little bit more willing to slow down and enjoy the moments. He brings additional joy to our workplace. He goes from office to office, and we can each take a couple minutes and play with him, toss a ball – providing a little bit of time to focus outside ourselves. He is just a pleasure to have here.
“He immediately helps visitors relax,” added Szewczyk. “Whatever is on your mind, you want to stop for a moment, pet him and play with him.”
Father Gajardo is thrilled with the positive energy and joy that Sir provides. “I have had different assignments … as I become more settled for the long-term, I really enjoy having a furry companion. It is really, really great for me and for those around me.”
Caption: Father Leo Gajardo, pastor of St. Maria Goretti, sits on the porch step of the rectory in Dyer with his new puppy Sir. A member of the parish community for less than two months, the mini schnauzer is a "chill" companion and brings joy to those he meets. (Lynda J. Hemmerling photo)