"The Steps of St. Patrick's"

Climbing up the steps
of St. Patrick's Church,
the people of the parish
bring their fine families;
they are stepping up
into a sacred space,
lifting themselves up
with hopeful expectation,
eager for encouragement
from their passionate pastor:
"We can do more."

The things they carry
in their hearts may be
devotion and dedication,
reflection or remorse,
may be gratitude and grace,
or the burden of shame
upon their shoulders,
may be fertile fields
to grow and spread 
His love.

The things they carry
in their souls may be
words of worship,
prayers of praise,
may be meditation and mercy,
admiration and adoration,
perhaps poverty of the soul.

The things they expect 
to receive inside
may be healing and holiness,
sanctity and salvation,
or faith and forgiveness,
may be acceptance and attachment,
by receiving the body and the blood.

The things they share
with the congregation may be
compassion and communion,
blessings and the Bible,
The Word, and reasons for worship,
or sympathy and empathy for others.

Climbing down the steps
of St. Patrick's Church,
after receiving 
the bread and the wine,
after a meaningful mass,
the people of the parish
may carry the message 
to others who are
thirsting for truth
hungering for hope.

© 2017 Richard Havenga

You may also enjoy: The Bells of St. Patrick's 


Photo Location:

The steps of St. Patrick's Church ~ Parnell, Michigan