Former Nun and Catholic Priest Fall in Love After He Offered to Pray for Her — Marrying in Secret Months Later
A story straight out of a movie has unfolded in Brazil, where a former nun and a Catholic priest shocked their followers by revealing they secretly married after falling in love while praying together. Lais Dognini, once known for her devotion and discipline as a nun, and Father Jackson Dognini, a young priest dedicated to his ministry, crossed paths in a way neither could have predicted — through prayer, healing, and shared faith.
According to Brazilian outlet O Globo, Lais first met Jackson when she was struggling with depression and spiritual exhaustion. As a priest, Jackson reached out with compassion and offered to pray for her — a gesture that would unknowingly change both their lives. Their bond began innocently, rooted in faith and mutual understanding. Over time, that bond grew into something deeper, something neither of them expected nor could ignore.
Lais, who had already stepped away from the convent by that time, had begun rebuilding her life outside of religious service. She transitioned into the world of social media, becoming an influencer who shared her experiences, reflections, and faith-based insights with followers. It was during this period of self-discovery that her connection with Jackson deepened beyond spiritual companionship.
By March of this year, the pair made the life-changing decision to marry. The ceremony was kept private, attended only by a few close friends and family members. For months, the marriage remained a secret — not out of shame, but out of a desire to protect what they had built together from outside scrutiny. It wasn’t until this week that the couple confirmed their union publicly through an Instagram Story, sharing photos that captured both their joy and their peace.
In one photo, Jackson is seen kissing Lais on the forehead as she smiles shyly at the camera. The caption simply read: “God’s plan was different for us — and we followed it.”
Their love story has sparked widespread conversation online. Some have expressed surprise at the couple’s journey from religious vows to romantic commitment, while others have celebrated it as a testament to faith, forgiveness, and human connection. Many of Lais’s followers praised her for being honest about her struggles with mental health and how her faith — and eventually her love for Jackson — helped her heal.
The Catholic Church has not officially commented on their union, but both Lais and Jackson have made it clear that their decision was made after deep reflection and prayer. “We didn’t fall in love overnight,” Lais explained in a recent interview. “It was something that grew with time, with friendship, and with a lot of faith. We didn’t choose to love — love chose us.”
The couple’s story has resonated far beyond Brazil, capturing hearts around the world. To some, it’s a controversial tale of breaking vows; to others, it’s a beautiful reminder that love can emerge even in the most unexpected places. What stands out most, however, is the sense of calm and conviction both Lais and Jackson seem to share — a belief that their path, though unconventional, is one guided by something greater than themselves.
Their journey, from prayer to partnership, is a modern love story shaped by faith and courage — and a reminder that even those who once devoted their lives to service are still capable of finding love, redemption, and happiness in new beginnings.
