Catholic Reads Novels & Stories

Beside them is the Cabeza de baragay's familia. They bow to the altar. The father had the sign of the Cross and started to read scriptural text such as, "La gracia y la paz de Dios nuestro Padre y el Señor Jesucristo sea con ustedes. (The grace and peace of God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.)" The priest intones the opening prayer "collect." "Dejanos rezar (Let us pray,)" and then a brief silence follows.

"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit..." A hundred voices responded: "Amen." Veronica could see Henry's feet through the gap in the altar cloth....his polished black shoes, the hem of his chasuble. He was standing directly in front of where she knelt, separated only by the marble altar and a thin cloth. The opening prayers continued. Kyrie eleison. Gloria. The collect. Then Henry moved to the ambo for the readings, and Veronica waited. First reading. Responsorial psalm. Second reading. Gospel acclamation.

He read from Song of Solomon, chapter 8, verses 6 through 7. Cardinal Stefan read from the gospel of Matthew 22:35-40. “The gospel of the Lord.” “Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ,” the Catholics in the crowd said. “Now we will have a solo” Chastity stepped forward. As she sang, At Last, with the orchestra backing her up. Caitlin and Alexander looked into each other’s eyes. They were both sure and beyond ready. Davidson rested his head on his father’s shoulders as he listened to his mother sing like a bird.