This week the Christmas trees flanking the creche were illuminated and more poinsettias appeared on the altar. Even more were brought in by some young women who kneeled before the altar and then arranged them.
One of the things I like about St. Mary's is how the congregation is simultaneously reverent and at home. It is not unusual for people to kneel in prayer front and center at the foot of the altar before taking their seats.
Another thing I like about St. Mary's are the greetings and smiles of recognition that I receive from the people passing my pew, even though I am, relatively, a stranger. Best of all are the greetings and exchanges among those who've known each other longer. Almost every one who enters gives some expression of affection to Izzy's mother, who is usually sitting 2 pews in front of me. Handshakes, kisses on the forehead and gentle hugs, all graciously received and returned with a beaming smile. There are more whole families and more men at these Masses than I usually see in my locale a few miles up the road. They greet each other with a handshake or a manly hug.
I am on the edge of this tapestry of relationship, but it I am happy to witness it.
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