chapter ten: Arriving at church early, Mrs. Hazelton walks in on a group of women. None of them attended church--except Ms. Matthews.
Is the Reverend Dead?
Chapter eleven
Ms. Matthews addresses her par... us from her spot in front of the communion table. “Today is one of those days when I just want to sing at the top of my lungs, ‘Thank God I’m alive!’” She descends the stairs that separate the shepherd from the flock. She can’t do that. Someone needs to tell her to stay where she bel— beside the communion table. “I met with my spiritual group this morning, in the backroom. We meet every morning before church. You’re all most welcome to join us. That could have something to do with my great mood. They always leave me feeling supercharged. And I’m pleased to see that some of them have joined us.”
The newcomers—interlopers—are in my old pew, by the door. The woman with purple hair hasn’t even changed out of her pyjamas.
Ms. Matthews continues, “Mr. and Mrs. Blue and Mrs. Hazelton and our talented organist, Mrs. Clarence, I’d like you to join me in welcoming...” The purple head is the first to stand, encouraging the others. I guess Ms. Matthews introduces them by name. What a shame that I didn’t catch any of them. “For too long we’ve allowed unimportant details to prevent us from worshiping together. Well, it’s time we look past these details. It’s time we realize that we are all faith-based people. It’s time for all of us to build bridges.”
Well, isn’t that grand? I’m so glad she shared what she thinks.
The Reverend’s eye rides home in my pocket. I’ve taken the earrings, necklaces, and rings out of my jewelry box and that’s where I’m keeping the Reverend’s heart and pinkie finger. I add his eye. Monday morning I take the box to Officer Boyd.
Are you following me?
