Former Nun and Ex-Seminarian Wed, Sparking Catholic Debate

On October 7, 2025, former Carmelite nun Laís Dognini publicly announced her marriage to ex-seminarian Jackson Dognini, igniting widespread discussion within Catholic communities. The couple, originally from Brazil, shared their wedding photos on social media, marking a significant shift from their former religious commitments to their new life as a married couple.

The pair met over six years ago while engaged in missionary work, although they did not interact at that time. Laís later entered a cloistered Carmelite convent, dedicating two years to prayer and seclusion, while Jackson pursued his studies in seminary, preparing for the priesthood. Their paths diverged, but a shared sense of faith and personal challenges eventually brought them together.

Love Blossoms Amidst Spiritual Journeys

After experiencing health issues, Laís returned home to Jaraguá do Sul for recovery. During this time, she received support from Jackson, who was still in the seminary. His messages offering prayers marked the beginning of a deep friendship that would ultimately alter both of their life trajectories. As they shared their experiences and doubts about faith, their conversations evolved into a romantic relationship.

In April 2024, Laís and Jackson began dating. By October 2024, they announced their engagement, leading to their marriage on March 20, 2025. The couple chose to keep details of their ceremony private until Laís shared the news on her Instagram account, which has garnered over 16,900 followers. Their social media posts capture their transition from religious attire to wedding garments, showcasing their personal evolution.

In a heartfelt post, Laís invited her followers to explore their journey, stating, “How did that happen? Start from the beginning. Everything, the whole story.” The announcement quickly amassed thousands of likes, sparking a mix of reactions from celebration to curiosity about the implications of their choices on traditional Church teachings.

Challenging Traditional Church Teachings

The couple’s story resonates deeply within Catholic circles, raising important questions about celibacy and the challenges of maintaining religious vocations in contemporary society. While no formal censure from the Church has emerged, the Dogninis’ relationship serves as a focal point for discussions on the evolving nature of faith and personal fulfillment.

Jackson’s decision to leave the seminary and pursue a career as a philosophy educator mirrors Laís’ own departure from convent life. Their choices reflect a broader trend of individuals navigating personal and spiritual fulfillment in ways that diverge from traditional expectations.

In one significant gesture, Jackson returned a book on Saints Louis and Zélie Martin, the parents of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, to Laís, marking their union. He highlighted a page that noted their transition from religious life to marriage, underscoring the couple’s journey together. Laís remarked on the importance of such gestures, saying, “It doesn’t seem like much, right? But let’s face it, we’re adults now and we know what we want in life.”

The Dogninis’ story has captured attention, not only for its personal elements but also for its impact on discussions surrounding the Catholic Church and its practices. As followers continue to engage with their narrative, the couple stands as a testament to the complexities of faith, love, and personal choice in a modern context.