08-23-2019, 06:07 PM
Gabriel entered, followed by an altar service, and offered prayers as he approached the altar. Then mass began and mostly it was a combination of different prayers, where Gabriel was facing the high altar, and wouldn't have seen Elijah, since his back was turned towards him. The altar server was offering replies. Many people kneeling in the pews prayed their own prayers, rosaries and other devotions.When it was time for the sermon however, Gabriel climbed the pulpit and preached in English. The bishop had warned him to watch what he was saying, to tone down the fieriness of his preaching, so he wouldn't offend anyone. He preached what he felt he had to preach though. Passionately, he preached that living according to the Gospel was radical, and that it was a mission for everyone, not just for priests and religious. That it meant looking out for each other, across class or race. Gabriel was on fire. The looks on the people's faces reached from inspired, to annoyed, to surprised, to angry. It didn't matter.
He went way over the ten minutes people were used to.
When he climbed down at last to continue his prayers, there were a few audible sighs of relief.
After Mass, Gabriel stood outside to shake hands and be available.
He went way over the ten minutes people were used to.
When he climbed down at last to continue his prayers, there were a few audible sighs of relief.
After Mass, Gabriel stood outside to shake hands and be available.