The Steeple of St. Patrick's

The congregation of devoted Christians 

filled this historic church.

They sang with exuberant voices,

exalting His name with praise.

Their passionate faith was unmistakeable

by any visitors who sat in the pews.

The majestic steeple of St. Patrick's

transported our praise and our prayers

through the blue vault of the sky

toward their heavenly destination.

© 2025 Richard Havenga

Photo Location: St. Patrick's Catholic Church ~ Parnell, Michigan

You may also enjoy:

"The Bells of St. Patrick's" - May 14, 2015

"The Steps of St. Patrick's" - November 6, 2017

"The Windows of St. Patrick's" - September 17, 2018

 

Supplication

The branches
that arch over this trail
form a cathedral;

and remind me
of the blessing
in our church
when the parishioners
extend their arms
into the sacred space
arching above their souls
while a prayer for healing
is conferred upon the sick,
and enhanced
by our plentiful palms;

like all the leaves
in the woods
reaching for the sun.

Supplication sustained by praise.
Hope hinged with belief.

© 2020 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. Wabasis Lake Park - Kent County - Michigan

2. & 3. Home Woods - Cannonsburg, Michigan

Angel Voices

When I close my eyes in church,
at the Friday morning mass,
the transparent voices
of the children's choir
mingle with the 
voices of angels.

And the people
in the pews 
at St. Patrick's
are praying:
"Let us rejoice
and be glad!"

© 2017 Richard Havenga

Psalm 118:24

Photo Location:

St. Patrick's Church - Parnell, Michigan

The Resurrection

"He is risen!"

Photo Locations:

1. Hartwick Pines State Park, (Hartwick Pines)  Grayling,  Michigan

2. & 3. Cathedral of St. Andrew   (St. Andrews) Grand Rapids, Michigan

Shadows of Time

Time,
once measured in living years,
now engraved in granite.

The Christian symbol
set in stone
yesterday, today, tomorrow.

Under the steeple's 
golden cross,
families kneel in prayer.

Loved ones remembered,
from temporal lives,
before and after today.

Like shadows on the snow.

©  2014  Richard Havaenga

Photo Location:

St. Patrick Church  (St. Patrick) - Parnell,  Michigan  (Michigan)