This stalwart pooch named Tommy has been attending mass every day for the last two months. Is he really just that pious? Or is there another reason for his attendance?

It turns out that Tommy, a 12-year-old German Shepherd, heads to Santa Maria Assunta Church every day when the bells begin to toll because that's where his former owner's coffin was placed on the day of her funeral. He's been doing this for the past two months.

According to Pawnation, he belonged to a woman known as "Maria tu lu campu," or "Maria of the fields," who had rescued him along with three other dogs. Since her passing, Tommy has been adopted by the people of the village. And though his former master is gone, he shows up at the church every day, perhaps awaiting her return. This show of loyalty and love is a little heartbreaking, but it also warms the cockles of the heart at the same time.

So day after day, Tommy lies there in the front of the first row of pews near the altar, keeping up his quiet vigilance. We dare you to look at these pictures and not feel a twinge of sadness for Tommy. But at the same time, it's hard not to find Tommy admirable.

His situation is very reminiscent Seymour the dog from the "Jurassic Bark" episode of 'Futurama,' in which Fry's loyal pooch, Seymour, ends up waiting years for him to return, stuck in the same spot. Please excuse us while our eyes leak profusely.

Milestone Media
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Milestone Media
Milestone Media
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