Fr. Mike struggled to sleep that night.  As if his own inner turmoil and the newness of his room weren't enough of a deterrent from good sleep, midnight arrived with Bishop Tony still absent.

Mike may only have just met the man but he'd felt a warmth and kindness emanating from him.  Further exploration of the rectory had shown a man of great faith and love of family.  Cards and drawings from great nieces and nephews covered the refrigerator.  Prints of Jesus and the Holy Family were nearly as numerous as the family portraits.  He'd even noticed a couple of Owen's paintings and made a note to tell the bishop that he was friends with the artist. 

Further, after Mass, several of the parishioners had told Fr. Mike how lucky he was to be paired with the bishop. 

"A wonderful, sweet man."

"So good with the kids!  They adore it when he comes to school."

"He's been alone too long.  He's not getting any younger, you know.  Pushing 75, I think.  Glad he's got some help now."

"He came to the hospital every day when my mother was dying.  We adore him."

In truth, Fr. Mike was trying to square how such a man could be good friends with Archbishop Wesson.  Beyond a job title, they seemed to have nothing in common.

All of this made Fr. Mike even more alarmed by the man's absence.  They had three Masses come morning.  That Tony was still gone seemed to signify a major problem with his family.

Feeling his stomach began to churn with nerves, the priest grabbed his rosary from off his dresser.

"Maryam, please be with me," he began.  "'I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son...'"

Only a decade into the rosary, the priest was roused from his meditation by the sound of the front door unlocking.  He debated whether or not to go check on Bishop Tony.  He'd been quite evasive earlier.  Maybe he wouldn't appreciate the intrusion.

Fr. Mike resumed his prayers but found himself stumbling over the words and unable to concentrate.  He took it as a sign that he wasn't meant to remain in prayer.  After pulling on his robe and slippers, he stepped out into the hallway and made his way to the front room.  Inside, he found the bishop hunched over a side table.  Worried the man might be having a heart attack, Fr. Mike dashed towards him and rested a hand on his shoulder.

"Tony?  Everything okay?"

Startled, the older man gave a slight jump before turning around.

"I'm sorry if I scared you," Fr. Mike apologized.  "I was worried..."  His voice trailed off when he saw the bishop's red-rimmed eyes.

"I'm sure I scared you.  So all's fair.  I'm fine.  Personally.  I... I think I'm going to make myself a cup of coffee.  Contrary to popular wisdom, it always calms me down.  Care to join me?  I have some chamomile if that's more to your liking."

Welcoming the opportunity to spend time with his new superior, Fr. Mike nodded.

"I would, thanks.  Coffee is fine."

"Good."

The two men made their way to the kitchen where Tony wasted no time in starting a pot of coffee. 

"How's your bed?  Comfortable, I hope?"

"Yes, very.  Thank you."

"I'm sure it's difficult being in a new place for the first night, though."

"Yeah.  It is.  Strangely, I think part of it is the lack of noise.  A quiet night is nearly unheard of where I come from."

Tony chuckled.

"I can imagine."

"If you don't mind my asking... how is your family?" Fr. Mike inquired.

The bishop sighed.

"I hate to burden you when your own life is in a tumult."

Fr. Mike shrugged.

"It might distract me.  But only if you want..."

"You should know.  Especially if I have to take some extra time off.  But first..."  He handed Fr. Mike a mug.  "Cream's in the fridge.  Sugar in the pot here."

"Thank you."  Fr. Mike helped himself to a little sugar, noting that Tony took his coffee black. 

The two seated themselves across from each other at the table and the elder priest began.

"Before I begin my story, I hope you'll answer a few questions for me."

"Sure."

"How well do you know Archbishop Wesson?"

"Oh, umm, not well, come to think of it.  I mean, of course, I'd see him every year for Confirmation celebrations.  And at meetings sometimes.  But, well, yesterday... or I guess Friday it was... was the first time we've had any real conversation."

"So you're not close to him?"

Fr. Mike shook his head.

"I'm not.  But he said you were friends."

Tony chuckled, a harsh edge to his laughter.

"Is that what he calls it?"

"So... you're not?" Fr. Mike ventured.

"We went to seminary together so we go way back.  But to say we're on friendly terms?  That's a stretch."

While the revelation explained away his confusion over how such opposites could be friends, Fr. Mike was nonetheless surprised.

"But he specifically said he was sending me to his friend in Albany."

"Poor boy."  Tony shook his head.  "I daresay good ol' Frank sent you here because his refined, citified self can't stand Albany.  While we're certainly no backwater town, we're too rural for his liking.  This," he waved his hand around, "is your punishment.  I was merely conveniently placed."

"So... why did you agree to take me in?  And, for the record, while I miss my parish, I've always loved Albany.  It's beautiful."

"I think so, too.  And I agreed to take you in because I've been desperate for an associate pastor.  However, I couldn't justify removing a priest from one of my other parishes.  Also, I'm notoriously picky."

Fr. Mike wondered at the air quotes the bishop placed around the last word.

"Picky?"

"You're not the first associate I've been asked to take in.  But others were... problematic.  I refused to subject my flock to danger."

Fr. Mike's brows arched.

"You mean... abusers?"

Tony nodded.

"Not for a while.  Thank God for the press.  Church leadership is far less apt to shuffle 'problem priests' around.  That's my hopeful view.  My less hopeful view is that it's still happening but they've learned not to involve me."

"So... why risk taking me in?"

"I read your blog.  And while all manner of evils can certainly be hidden from the online world, I sensed you were a good, faithful, if sometimes frustrated, shepherd.  And I think any priest who isn't frustrated with leadership right now is in the wrong field.  I also did some calling around.  I know a handful of families who moved from Albany and landed in St. Mary Magdalene's parish.  All glowing reports.  And let me blunt?"

Fr. Mike nodded, somewhat stunned by the idea that this bishop had been following him online.

"Archbishop Wesson's primary complaint appears to be that you gave Communion to a friend who is engaging in premarital sex.  Is he serious?"

The younger priest couldn't resist chuckling as his elder dramatically rolled his eyes.

"To be charitable, his broader concern is likely that you allowed personal attachment to cause you to neglect your responsibility to guide your flock in living moral lives in accordance with the Church's teachings.  However... unless said individual, assuming they even exist, confessed this to you during the sacrament of Reconciliation, it is most assuredly not your place to call them out.  We offer correction when warranted, yes, but our main job is offering grace, compassion, and God's love.  You seem to do that beautifully."

"Thank you.  I hope so."  Moved, Fr. Mike gave Tony a grateful smile. 

"You're very welcome.  And now we come to my story...  I'm the oldest of seven children.  My parents were very Catholic, if you catch my drift."

Fr. Mike chuckled.

"Next after me is my brother Virgil who, well-named fellow that he is, teaches literature at the high school just down the street.  Well, at least until May when my sister-in-law is, wisely, making him retire.  Then there's Agnes who also teaches.  History, for her.  Next came Mercy who, sadly, we lost a couple years ago to breast cancer."

"I'm so sorry."

"Thank you.  She was a daddy's girl through and through, though, so I feel selfish mourning too much when I know she went to be with our dad and mom.  After Mercy is Thomas who is our black sheep.  Much loved, though.  Just never quite found his niche.  He lives with Agnes and her husband, going from odd job to odd job.  Next up was Gladys... better known as Gladdy... who carried on the family tradition by having seven children of her own.  Finally, there's the surprise baby: my little brother, Elvis."

Fr. Mike begun to sputter, just barely keeping his last sip of coffee in his mouth.

"Your brother is named Elvis?"

"Yes.  And he curses that fact every day of his life... even moreso since he can't sing a lick.  But my mother adored 'The King' nearly as much as she loved the King of Kings.  As for my brother, we usually just call him El.  Anyway, between the lot of them, they've given me fifteen nieces and nephews and, from there, a couple dozen great-nieces and nephews.  The reason I was on the phone with Gladdy was her grandson, Kyle, is having a difficult time.  I know I shouldn't have favorites and I truly do adore the lot of them but... I've always had a special spot in my heart for Kyle.  Maybe because he's a sort of mini-me.  He entered the seminary last year."

"That first year is so hard," Fr. Mike commiserated.

"Yes...  But I'm afraid it's more than that.  He ran away last week, showed up at his parents' house, and has essentially locked himself away in his room.  He comes out only when absolutely necessary and won't say more than a few words to anyone.  He even refused to go visit Gladdy and her husband, Mac.  And this boy loves his grandparents!" 

Fr. Mike's brow furrowed.

"That's troubling."

Tony nodded.

"Very.  So I went over there myself, hoping I could encourage the boy to speak of what's troubling him.  Instead, I spent most of the night praying with my niece, her husband, Gladdy, and Mac.  Kyle wouldn't budge.  Not even when I told him I was going to force my way in if he didn't open the door.  So I went in and it was obvious he was pretending to be asleep.  I told him that if he didn't give me a sign that he was alive, I was going to call 911.  So... he flipped me the bird.  Still unmoving otherwise.  Very unlike him.  But it was proof of life!" 

The old priest rubbed at his temples then took a sip of his coffee.  After setting the mug down, Tony stared ahead, at nothing in particular, for several moments.

Fr. Mike was just about to give the man a light shake to ensure he was okay when Tony came back to life.

"Something happened at that seminary...  Something awful.  Kyle... he was so set on his vocation.  He had the sweetest little girlfriend.  He was so steadfast that he gave her up.  That's when I knew he was serious and committed.  So to walk away from it..."

"I'm so sorry."

"Me too..."

"If there's anything I can do then..."

For the first time since they'd sat down, the bishop brightened.

"Actually...  Kyle was a fan of your blog, too.  If you'd be willing... maybe you could go with me when I make another attempt with him after Masses are finished.  Maybe he'll tell you what he won't tell his old uncle."

Unable to resist the hope in his new friend's face, Fr. Mike nodded consent.

"Sure.  I'd be happy to speak with Kyle and I'd love to meet members of your family."

Tony beamed.

"Then we're set!  Thank you so much, Mike.  You're a trooper.  Though you may live to regret getting involved with my crazy family."

Fr. Mike smirked.

"Not as much as I'd regret staying in New York City and being under the ever-present gaze of Archbishop Wesson," he teased.

Tony laughed heartily and plopped a hand on his fellow priest's back.

"Well played."  He took another gulp of his coffee.  "Now... the sky is fall of stars tonight.  I think I'd like to go to the grotto and spend some time with our Mary.  You're welcome to join me or, of course, go back to bed."

"Spending some time with Mary sounds great.  Thank you."

"Wonderful."

The two men rinsed their mugs, donned their coats, and spent the next hour in quiet, companionable prayer with Maryam.

"And it was, literally, the cutest thing I'd ever seen!" Violeta reported the next day to those gathered at St. Genesius'.  "They looked like little puppies around their mama!"

"How sweet!  But poor Joshua...  I bet you got kicked quite a few times.  Those toddlers can be unintentionally vicious in their sleep."  Eliot rubbed his side, thinking of the many bruises he'd received when snuggling with a sleeping Eleanor and Edison.

Joshua shrugged.

"I don't think I got kicked.  Definitely didn't notice any bruises this morning.  Your twins started it, I think.  I remember them toddling over to me.  I think they were scared of the dark.  So I snuggled one on either side and we all fell asleep pretty quickly.  I didn't realize they were all there until I woke up around 4:00 and saw them... and the bigger kid up near my head."  He playfully tugged on one of Violeta's braids.

"It just looked so cozy..." Violeta explained.

"I wish I'd been there to take a photo.  Although... I was glad to be where I was."  JenniAnn bumped her shoulder against Andrew's.

"I can't wait til our little guy is out here...  Not that I don't love having him here."  Emma patted her stomach.  "But I want to cuddle with him."

"It'd be worth getting kicked a few times, I think," Peter opined.

Eliot squeezed his shoulder.

"It is.  Trust me."  He took another sip of his coffee then stood up and stretched.  "Well, I think I'm ready to get back to work.  This was a great idea, by the way.  Not sure if I said that before.  Who wouldn't want some decorative boxes thrashed around by Jesus in the Temple?"

Peter laughed.

"Thanks.  Emma and I got the idea last year.  We always have people approach us and ask to buy particular props...  We've had to explain that the cross and Herod's throne are off-limits... although Andrew is good about getting us duplicates to sell.  So we decided to get ahead of the game this year and, with Joshua's approval, of course, sell some stuff after the show with proceeds divided up between the Phoenix Inn, the Chrysalis, and True Light."

"Not FS?" Eliot questioned.

Emma shook her head.

"We offered but Josef said they're doing good.  Centuries' worth of wise investing and all."

"Ah."

Joshua looked up from the box he was carving.

"I think it's a beautiful idea.  Although I do have to laugh at the irony.  I was so mad about things being sold in the Temple... now here I am, carving things to be sold from the Temple.  It makes a big difference when it's a fake Temple, of course... and going to charity."

"Good.  Because your whip is still in storage," Peter teased.

"Although I could offer you a jump rope in its stead if you'd like," JenniAnn playfully offered.

Joshua laughed.

"I'll pass but thank you."

"Do you think Mason will be stopping in today, Joshua?" Andrew asked as he began to sand a vase.

"I hope so.  I think so.  He was planning on it.  He's also still planning on going to the meeting tonight."

"This is the one with the archbishop?" Eliot checked.

"Yes."

"Do you... think you'll say much?" Violeta queried, setting a hand on Joshua's arm.

He shook his head.

"Not tonight.  I'll have my chance.  I'm going to listen and to be with my people.  John, on the other hand..."

"I didn't plan on going.  But... I have to admit seeing John in all his glory has me tempted," Emma contemplated aloud.

"We could go and leave early if you need to," Peter offered.

"Yes, let's plan on that.  I wonder if we'll get a 'viper' out of him..."

"Probably not.  John's of the opinion that the comparison is unfair to vipers," Joshua relayed.

"Ouch."  Andrew winced.

Joshua sighed.

"Francis was such a nice boy..."

Hearing the melancholy note in Joshua's voice, the others' bravado faltered.

Sniffling, Violeta took the carving knife and box away from the carpenter and hugged him tightly.

"I love you, Joshua."

"I love you, too, sweet Duckling," he murmured in reply.

JenniAnn and Emma exchanged a look, silently vowing to each other that no matter how angry or how upset they were that night, they would sit in that church.  If Joshua was going to be there for his people, they would be there for him... and they wouldn't be alone.


By noon, Joshua's mood had lightened and a jovial air once again filled St. G's.  Over plates of pizza and salad, the group reminisced and joked.

"I'll never get over how cute your Abi was about washing machines," JenniAnn recalled.  "He so badly wished Maryam had had one!"

Joshua smiled.

"You should see him walking around Home Depot.  He's like a kid in a candy store.  'Look, Yeshu, if we had only had one of these...'"

The others laughed at Joshua's spot-on impression.

Peter's cell phone chimed.

"Ooh, maybe this is Mason!" Emma cheered.

"St. Genesius' Community Theatre.  Peter speaking," he greeted.  "Sure, Josh is here.  Are you at the front door?  Great!  We'll come around to let you in.  Look forward to meeting you!"

Joshua jumped to his feet and, with Peter, made his way to the main lobby door.  He was pleased when he saw both Mason and Renee waiting.

"Hey!  So glad you could both come!" he welcomed after throwing open the door.  "Hey, Renee."  Joshua's voice softened as she hugged him.

"So glad Mason asked me to come!" she chirped.  "Wow... look at you two.  Twinning."

Joshua and Peter glanced at each other and laughed.  Peter had grown out his beard and let his hair grow shaggy in preparation for Superstar.  Coincidentally, he and Joshua had both chosen to wear jeans and blue button-down shirts.

"Probably won't be the only time it happens this season," Joshua commented.  He held his hand out to Mason.  "Mason... so great to see you again.  Welcome to St. G's."

To Joshua's delight, Mason moved in for a hug.

"Thanks.  I can't stay too long.  Lunch break is just an hour but since my office is so close..."  Mason shrugged.  "Figured I'd come check up on you," he teased.

Joshua chuckled.

"Well, I hope you get only good reports from my friends.  Speaking of...  Peter, Mason and Renee.  Mason and Renee, Peter."

The three shook hands and then Joshua gestured to the theatre entrance.

"Come on in.  We're having lunch on the stage.  Small group today.  You'll probably meet more of them tonight... I mean if you're still planning to go to St. Mary Magdalene's for the meeting?" he checked.

Mason sighed and nodded.

"Yeah.  Renee thinks it'll be good for me."

"A fairly large group of our friends are going," Peter explained. "If you want, maybe we could meet up some place first and go together?  Safety in numbers, I guess."

"Maybe that doughnut shop right across the street?" Joshua suggested.

Mason nodded.

"Yeah, I'd like that.  It'd be good to sit with people we know, huh?"

Renee nodded.

"Definitely."

"Then we'll do that," Joshua confirmed.  "How about 6:30?"

"6:30 works for us.  I think Roger wants to go, too," Renee shared.

"Great.  I'll be glad to see him."  Joshua smiled encouragingly at the two then opened the door.  "And here we are."

Peter led the group up to the stage and made introductions.

"Everyone, these are Joshua's friends: Renee and Mason.  This is my wife, Emma.  Our friend, Eliot, who is also one of our set carpenters.  Andrew... also a carpenter.  And friend, of course."

"Hi Andrew!  Good to see you again!"

"Good to see you, Renee!  And you, too, Mason."

Mason smiled shyly at Andrew, recalling that he'd not been at his best when the man had visited.

"Hey, Andrew."

"This is my better half, JenniAnn," Andrew introduced.

"Better half..." JenniAnn echoed, amused.  "Good to meet you, Mason and Renee!"

"Thank you," the couple replied in unison.

"And this is Violeta," Joshua finished.    "Please, sit down.  Have some pizza and salad.  We have drinks in the cooler over there."

"Oh, I was just planning to eat at my desk when I get back," Mason deflected.

Joshua shook his head.

"Please.  We have plenty."

"Definitely," Emma seconded, handing each of them a plate.

Mason laughed.

"I swear, Josh, you make me eat every time I see you."

"Eating is important," Joshua defended with a grin.

"Yeah, it is.  Well, thanks.  This is great."

"Yes, thank you!  It smells so good.  Where's it from?" Renee asked.

"A friend's place," Eliot answered.  "Crocetti's Cucina.  It's the best."

Mason took a bite of pepperoni pizza.

"Mmm...  mmm hmm," he agreed.

Joshua laughed.

"We'll be sure to pass that feedback along.  Renee, there's some veggie with pineapple in that box."

"Awesome!  Thanks!"

Mason shot Joshua a questioning look.  How did he know Renee's favorite pizza?  But then he had no idea what they'd discussed when he'd been in a stupor...

"So what are you all doing?" Renee asked after sitting down with her lunch.  "Making props?"

Andrew nodded.

"Mostly for the Temple scene right now.  And Emma and Peter decided to sell the stuff after the show closes.  Make some money for charity."

"That's so cool!  And how great that you have three carpenters in your group!" Renee complimented.

"Joshua's definitely the superior of us three," Eliot informed.

"Oh yeah," Andrew averred.  "Learned everything I know from him."

"For which I'm very grateful.  Our house has never looked so good.  No more busted railings for us!" JenniAnn jested.

"And Josh is staying with you?" Renee checked.

JenniAnn nodded.

"That's so great," the other woman replied though her tone of voice conveyed some envy.  "And you have kids?"

"We do.  Four," Andrew replied.  "Our youngest, Belle, just turned four a couple of weeks ago.  We also have a thirteen year old named Shelby.  Violeta here.  And our oldest, a boy, is turning 29 next month."

Mason swallowed a bite of pizza and gaped.

"Wait... how..."  He eyed Andrew and JenniAnn.  Neither looked like they could have a near thirty year old son.

The angel of death laughed.

"They're all adopted.  I served with Max, our son, in Afghanistan and we developed a father/son sort of relationship and so... we decided to make it official.  Actually... he and his wife, Rose, are going to be making us grandparents soon."

JenniAnn beamed.

"We're so thrilled!  And he or she will have a playmate around the same age!"  She gestured towards Emma.

"That's so wonderful about your Max.  And congratulations!"  Renee turned to Emma.  "I figured you were pregnant but..."  She drifted off.

Emma laughed.

"Yeah, people can get into trouble assuming but..."  She patted her belly.  "This is definitely a baby.  He's due in mid-April.  Which means things could get a little dicey during this JCS run."

"Emma is playing Mary Magdalene and Peter is playing Jesus," Joshua explained.

"Whoa!  Do you have understudies?"

Emma nodded to Renee.

"We do.  Our friend Ivy will take over for me if needed and..."  She stretched to tap Joshua's foot with her own.  "We're hoping Joshua would reclaim his role if needed."

Joshua bowed his head and laughed.

"Something tells me that won't be necessary but... sure."

"Well, I hope nothing happens but... I would like to see you perform sometime, Josh.  Actually... I think I saw your guitar over by the cooler.  Do you think..." Renee prodded with a pleading smile.

"Baby wants to hear you sing, too, Joshua," Emma added.

Joshua burst into laughter.

"Manipulative Emma!" he jested.  "Using that innocent baby..."

Emma grinned.

"I regret nothing."

"Well, then... any requests?" Joshua asked as he rose to retrieve his guitar.

"You pick," Renee replied.

"Okay..."  Joshua reclaimed his seat and strummed at the guitar.

"Oh..." Violeta cooed when she recognized the chords that he was playing.

"'Now I've heard there was a secret chord that David played, and it pleased the Lord, but you don't really care for music, do you?'" Joshua crooned.

JenniAnn moved closer to Andrew and rested her head on his shoulder.  Peter squeezed Emma's hand after she swiped away a tear.

Mason stared at Joshua.

"'You say I took the name in vain. I don't even know the name. But if I did, well really, what's it to you?  There's a blaze of light in every word. It doesn't matter which ya heard. The holy or the broken hallelujah...'"

Joshua motioned for the others to join in.

"'Hallelujah...  Hallelujah...'"

"'I did my best, it wasn't much.  I couldn't feel, so I tried to touch.  I've told the truth, I didn't come to fool you.'"

Sitting nearest to Joshua, Eliot saw that his eyes were glistening and he set a hand on his back. 

"'And even though it all went wrong,'" Joshua continued, his voice filled with emotion.  "'I'll stand before the Lord of song with nothing on my tongue but hallelujah...'"

"'Hallelujah...  Hallelujah...'"

Mason felt tears creeping down his face.  He'd seen something in Joshua's eyes, in the defiant set of his jaw, and heard it in his voice.  He recognized it all.  At some point, someone had wounded the man terribly.  But Joshua hadn't surrendered to the pain, to the heartbreak.  And when he'd cared for him, when he'd try to dissuade him from getting wasted... Joshua hadn't been acting as a simple do-gooder.  He was someone who knew Mason's own pain, who understood it.

"'Hallelujah...  Hallelujah...'"

Joshua strummed the final chords then set the guitar down.

"Sorry.  I didn't mean to bring the mood crashing down.  I just... felt that one."

"We could tell..."  Renee had remained at Mason's side, stroking his back, but smiled tenderly at Joshua.  "That was one of the most beautiful, haunting renditions I've ever heard.  You should have a record deal.  Or five."

Through his tears, Joshua laughed.

"Thanks, Renee.  That means a lot."

"It was beautiful, Joshua.  I... I think God treasures the broken hallelujahs the most," Violeta ventured.

Joshua nodded and gently tweaked her chin.

"I think so, too, Duckling."

"I hope Leonard Cohen could hear that," JenniAnn mused.

"Me too.  I've always loved that song."  Renee sighed.  "It's just so... everything."

Andrew nodded.

"I've heard that song played at some of life's most serious moments... and during some of its goofiest."  He cast JenniAnn a look that made her burst into laughter.

"What's this about?" Peter questioned.  "I sense a story."

"Oh, it's not much really.  It's just one time Andrew needed an emergency haircut and I was the only one available to do it... so I did.  And our friend Adam serenaded us with 'Hallelujah.'  But I'd like it noted I had not tied Andrew to a kitchen chair at any point that day."

"But you have on other days?" Eliot teased, smiling devilishly.

"No!" 

Joshua laughed then directed his attention to Mason who was smiling but quiet.

"Doing okay, Mason?"

The man nodded.

"Yeah...  Just...  That was really great, Josh.  It... it reminded me of when I used to go to church.  And liked it.  Except... more."

Joshua reached over to squeeze the man's hand.

"I'm glad.  So tell me about how things are going at work?"

As Mason filled Joshua in, the group continued to enjoy their lunch together.  When the hour was nearing its end, they finalized their plans to gather for the meeting at St. Mary Magdalene's.  Then, after bidding Mason and Renee adieu, the others prayed that the evening would bring them closer to Joshua.


Joshua stood near the window of the doughnut shop, watching the people go into St. Mary Magdalene's and looking for Renee, Mason, and Roger.

"Cruller?"

Joshua turned to see John holding a doughnut out to him.

"Sure.  Thanks."

Joshua nibbled on the doughnut, still staring.

"I'm sure they'll come.  Probably just got delayed on the subway or parking or something.  It's only 6:35."

"Yes, you're probably right."

John peered out the window.

"The church is going to be packed."

"Yes."

"Should some of us go over and save..."

"There they are!"

Joshua bolted for the door but Tiva grabbed him.

"Hold on."

Tiva brushed some flakes of glaze off of Joshua's beard.

"Thanks."  He smiled appreciatively at the woman.

"I've had practice."  Tiva tilted her head towards Yakov.  "Speaking of...  Yakov!  How did you get that much powdered sugar on your sweater!"

Joshua chuckled before going out to meet the three newcomers.

"Sorry!" Renee called.  "Missed the subway we wanted and had to wait."  She hurried forward and hugged Joshua.  "Is everyone else here?"

Joshua nodded.

"But no worries.  We still have plenty of time.  Did you want to grab something or head on over?"

Mason glanced over to the church with people bustling inside.

"I think we should probably head over."

"Okay.  I'll tell the others."

Joshua stuck his head back into the shop and called to the others who hurried outside.  As the group crossed the street, Joshua made introductions.

"Roger, this is Emma and Peter and Andrew and JenniAnn who Renee and Mason met earlier.  Then this is Rabbi Yakov and Tiva.  Kemara and Sean.  Owen and Graham.  Owen's grandma, Olivia.  My cousin, John.  Kyle and Ana-Maria.  Reuel.  And Dr. Amber-Marie Sayer.  Everyone, Roger, Renee, and Mason."

There were giddy, anxious shouts of "Hello!" and "Nice to meet you!" as the group entered St. Mary's vestibule.  There were still several pews open but it seemed likely they would fill by the time the meeting started at 7:00.

Joshua led the group to the nearest available pews and they settled in. 

Renee found herself seated between Mason and Amber-Marie.

"Hi again!" the younger woman greeted.  "Joshua said you're a doctor?"

Amber-Marie smiled and nodded.

"I am, yes.  A psychiatrist.  I run a shelter for survivors of human trafficking and abuse, particularly sexual abuse.  Joshua invited me along in case...  Well, I might have someone come to the shelter who..."  She frowned.

"I understand."  Renee cast a glance at Mason who was listening but unresponsive.  "Do you think you'll get up and say anything?"

Amber-Marie nodded.

"I do.  If anyone says anything to try to downplay the effects of clerical abuse...  I will definitely have something to say."

"Good."

Behind them, Andrew and JenniAnn sat beside John. 

"Who ya looking for?" Andrew asked when he saw JenniAnn craning her neck and looking around.

"Well, just look at how many police officers are here...  I see at least four.  So I wondered if maybe Matthew or Tyron..."

"They're not here," Joshua called from John's other side.  "I asked Tyron when he dropped the kids off last night.  Neither of them were assigned... but Tyron was going to try to stop in if he had time."

"Why are there police here?" JenniAnn asked in a whisper.

"To keep John in line," Joshua teased.

"Hey!"

Joshua squeezed his cousin's shoulder then continued.

"I imagine they are here to keep people in line... if needed.  This is going to get very heated."

"Do you think you might say something?" Ana-Maria murmured to Kyle from where they were seated to Joshua's left.

"Maybe.  I don't know that I want to confront the archbishop about his nephew.  But if it comes up... I won't let him downplay what happened."

"Good."  Ana-Maria gave her boyfriend a squeeze.

"Psyche?"

JenniAnn was oblivious to Owen calling her.  She'd caught someone staring at her and was pretending to be entranced by a hymnal.

"Psyche?"

"JenniAnn, Owen is calling you," Sean informed.

"Oh!" JenniAnn leaned forward to better see Owen who was at the end of her pew, sandwiched between Graham and Olivia.

"Do you know if Joe is here?"

JenniAnn shrugged.

"Dunno.  Catherine said he was on vacation.  But I wouldn't put it past him to have returned early and be here in cognito."

"He's here," Joshua shared, his voice hushed.  "Second to last row.  Beard and glasses."

"Don't everyone look at once!" Kemara warned. 

"Who is Joe?" Mason inquired.

"Joe Maxwell," Amber-Marie replied.  "District attorney.  JenniAnn's known him since she was little."

"Handy friend to have," Mason remarked.

"Yup," JenniAnn replied from behind them.  "He looks good kinda scraggly."

For the next twenty minutes, the group tried to distract each other with some lighthearted banter.  Then, at 7:00 precisely, the archbishop appeared.

"There he is," Rabbi Yakov announced, tilting his head towards where the archbishop was exiting a vestibule. 

The group watched as he took a seat in his usual chair.

Owen groaned.

"He can't even sit with the rest of the panel?"

"That's... not good," Joshua agreed.

They watched two women, one in a police officer's uniform, and a professorial looking man approach folding chairs.  Once the two women were seated, the man moved behind a microphone at the center of the nave.

"Good evening.  My name is Dr. Patrick Ewing.  I'm a child psychologist and thirty year member of this parish.  I've been asked to mediate our discussion tonight.  A few announcements first.  I'd like to welcome Jenna Levy, a representative of RAINN, the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network.  Also with us is Officer Rita Calhoun with the NYPD.  And, of course, Archbishop Francis Wesson."

There was a mixture of applause and booing as Dr. Ewing finished the introductions.

"As for this meeting, it will be in a question and answer format.  If you wish to ask a question or make a statement, please approach this microphone.  If a line begins to form, let's have it in the west aisle, starting near the piano.  If you would prefer, please raise your hand and I will bring a microphone to you.  Now, we'll start with a statement from the archbishop."

Archbishop Wesson rose from his chair and began to read from a piece of paper in his hands.

"Ladies and gentlemen of St. Mary Magdalene's parish and others of goodwill, thank you for joining us tonight.  I ask that we enter into our discussion in a spirit of understanding, reconciliation, and humility."

"What do the rest of us have to reconcile?" Owen muttered.

"And he's a fine one to talk about humility up on his throne," Graham added.

"While I trust you understand the need for some restraint due to legal matters..."

"Nope," Kemara grumbled.

"I will endeavor to be as transparent as possible in addressing your questions this evening regarding the history of abusive priests at this church."

John's face flushed.

"That makes it sound like Mike..."

"I know," Joshua agreed, his voice icy.

"I am also aware that some allegations have been made against my own nephew and I am prepared to discuss that with you... as best as I can given the allegations were made outside of my diocese."

"He's flaking already."  Kyle shook his head.

"We won't let him," John consoled.

"I do ask that you be sensitive to the fact that we have some children with us.  Thank you," the archbishop finished.

"Oh, sure, now he'll protect kids..." Mason spat out, louder than he intended.  A few people turned to look at him but he calmed when Joshua patted his shoulder.

"Thank you, Archbishop Wesson.  Now, I'll turn the mic over to all of you."  Dr. Ewing handed the microphone to a woman who had approached.

"Hi.  My name is Ellen and I've been a member of this parish since my family moved here when I was sixteen.  I was here when Fr. Gregory Smith was pastor.  I had some classmates who... who he abused.  Is that what you mean when you say past abuse here?"

"I am aware of Gregory Smith's abuses.  His are the only abuses of a sexual nature of which I am aware," the archbishop replied.

"Okay.  So can you tell us why Fr. Mike Solas was dismissed so suddenly?" Ellen pressed.  "I think I speak for everyone when I say that was very distressing and in this climate... one can't help but assume... even though I knew and loved Fr. Mike."

"As I said at the time, Fr. Michael is on sabbatical."

"But why?" a man shouted.

"Because he was found wanting in regards to adherence to important doctrinal matters."

"And that's my cue..."  John rose and made his way to the line of questioners that was forming.

"What matters?" Ellen asked.

"Fr. Michael is aware of those matters.  Rest assured, none of you were at physical risk while he was here," the archbishop affirmed.

Kyle sighed.

"Well, I'm glad he said that at least.  I don't want people thinking Fr. Mike abused people."

Another questioner approached the microphone.

"Hi.  I'm Timothy Sorensen.  I actually went to school with Ellen.  And I was abused by Fr. Smith.  When I confided in your predecessor, Archbishop, I was told I must be mistaken.  So why should I believe anything the Church hierarchy says now?"

Joshua winced.  Timothy's comment could cast doubt on Mike... but Joshua completely understood why he'd said it.

"I am heartily sorry for what happened to you," the archbishop began.  "The Church has learned much since those earlier accusations.  I regret that you were not believed but, rest assured, accusations made now are thoroughly investigated."

"Did you know anything about what they're saying about your nephew?" Timothy shot back.

"As I said before, my nephew was not assigned to my dioceses so..."

"He was still your nephew!  I know that my nephew had baseball practice yesterday and got a B on his Calculus test.  People know things about their nieces and nephews!"

"With all due respect, my nephew is an adult and..."

"Bull crap!" Timothy shouted.

Dr. Ewing approached and took the microphone from the man who stormed away.

Jenna Levy switched on the microphone she and Officer Rita were sharing.

"I just wanted to say that among survivors of abuse, trust can be a real issue.  To Timothy and any other survivors out there, I just want you to know that your doubt... it's understandable.  It's valid.  The Church has a long, long way to go in regaining the trust that so many of its leaders destroyed.  Thank you.  And thank you, Timothy, for your candor."

"Thanks, Jenna.  Next..."

A woman accepted the microphone from Dr. Ewing.

"I just have to ask... what's it going to take for the Church to get a clue?  A celibate priesthood is NOT working.  And I know.  I know.  Celibacy doesn't turn a person into an abuser.  I think all of us have been celibate for certain seasons in our lives.  But if we had more candidates... we could be more selective and these problem priests wouldn't keep getting shuffled around."

"We need to stop letting so many gays in!" someone shouted.

Joshua shook his head and peered over at Owen and Graham.  He mouthed the word 'sorry' as they smiled sadly at him.

"Gay priests are not the issue!" Jenna defended.  "Homosexuality doesn't make a person abusive.  Unchecked power... that can."

"But it seems like it's always priests preying on boys," another voice in the crowd countered.

Amber-Marie stood up.

"It's not!  Watch The Keepers on Netflix if you need proof.  The Church has real issues and homophobic remarks and accusations are definitely not going to fix any of them.  I work with survivors of sexual abuse and, trust me, there are plenty of heterosexual abusers out there."

JenniAnn noticed that Joshua was peering tenderly across the nave at a nervous woman who was twirling her hair around her finger.  After a moment the woman stood up.

"That lady is right.  And... I know.  I know because starting when I was thirteen, my parish priest began to groom me.  By the time I was sixteen, I was pregnant with his child.  And he... he wanted me to get an abortion."

Emma's eyes filled, seeing an echo of her own situation in the woman's.  Peter wrapped an arm around her and held her tightly.

"A Catholic priest raped me and then talked me into getting an abortion!  And I did!  Because I thought he loved me and I... I thought he represented God," the woman screamed.  "So don't tell me... don't tell anyone... that this is about gay priests."

Jenna came running down the nave and embraced the weeping woman.

For a few moments, the church was silent except for the woman's sobs and Jenna's gentle murmurings.  Those closest to Joshua saw that there were tears streaming down his face.

"I, umm...  We, uh...  I'm sorry," Dr. Ewing awkwardly apologize.  "Maybe... umm.  You sir?"

John took the microphone.

"Firstly, I would just like to say, that my heart is broken by what I've heard here, what I've read, and what's been told to me.  This abuse... the cover-ups... they are a betrayal of Jesus Christ that, I know, wound him more deeply than the betrayals of Peter and Judas ever did.  Because these crimes... this complicity... it hurts His children.  He weeps for them.  And many of us do, too."

Nearly everyone applauded.  When the noise died down, John continued.

"Archbishop, I would like to briefly turn the attention back to Fr. Mike and I hope and pray you will answer my questions honestly.  First, is it true that you dismissed Fr. Mike because you believed he had given the Eucharist to an unmarried woman you assumed was having extramarital relations?"

The archbishop glared at John, wondering how he knew. 

"Is it true?" John repeated.

Wesson sighed and nodded.

"Yes.  That was chief among my concerns."

Several members of the congregation began to scoff and even laugh.

"Your chief concern was that Fr. Mike gave Communion to someone who was having sex outside of wedlock?  Are you for real?" a woman taunted.

"Presumed to be!" John interjected.  "I contend the archbishop has no such proof of the young lady's romantic activities."

Andrew turned to JenniAnn.

"Did he run this by you or..."

"Of course he did.  And of course I agreed.  Not every day a lady gets her honor defended by a saint.  And, really, it's about Fr. Mike's honor."

Joshua smiled.

Red-faced, the archbishop continued to glare at John.

"My interactions with my employees..."

"Your employees?" John interrupted.  "You, sir, are a servant of the Holy Catholic Church... not a manager at Burger King."

The church roared with laughter.  The archbishop looked like he might explode with rage.

"I misspoke!" he shouted. 

"Yes, he meant to say 'my underlings,'" Kemara jested under her breath, causing Sean to erupt with laughter again.

"I meant my charges.  And, yes, I chastised Fr. Mike for disobeying Church Law."

"But you don't know the young lady in question!  You don't know her life.  I do!  You bore false witness!  You broke a commandment!" John accused.  "And by doing that, you allowed speculation to run wild.  In this climate, you had to know people would assume Fr. Mike had been accused of abuse.  And you said and did nothing... nothing to stem that.  You sullied a good priest's reputation."

Kyle, who had begun recording the meeting on his phone as soon as John had started speaking, beamed.  He would be able to show Fr. Mike the video of the majority of his parish applauding John, applauding him... as the archbishop looked on, enraged and impotent.

Timothy, recovered from his earlier statement, joined John at the microphone.

"I would just like to say that I hope my earlier statement didn't add to anyone's doubts about Fr. Mike.  I actually spoke to him shortly after the reports of Fr. Smith's abuse went public.  Fr. Mike was nothing but kind, supportive, and receptive.  I could tell that... as much as it pained him... he didn't doubt a thing I said.  And he didn't make excuses.  He sat there, crying, as I raged and spoke my truth.  I trusted him... and I trust him still.  And when I spoke to others who suffered at Smith's hands and later went to Fr. Mike... I heard the same thing.  Over and over.  I trust him far more than I trust you, Archbishop."

John patted the man on the back then walked with him back to his seat.  Once Timothy was settled down beside his wife, John moved to the back of the line.

The archbishop stood.

"I will concede that I didn't handle Fr. Solas' dismissal as I should have.  In my defense, I have found that those priests who reject some of the Church's laws come to reject even more important laws.  I feared for this parish and..."

The first man in line rushed for the microphone.

"Whoa.  Wait.  First you tell us that, with Fr. Mike, we weren't at risk of physical harm.  Now that guy calls you out and all of a sudden you feared for us?  Pick a lane, Wesson!"

"Shame on you!" a woman shouted to the questioner.  "That's no way to address our archbishop!"

Her comment was met with a smattering of applause.

"When he starts acting like a leader, I'll treat him like a leader!"

"In my day, we showed respect to our elders and especially in a house of God!"

Olivia Olsen rose to her feet.

"Ma'am, I'm going to guess that your day and my day are the same.  And maybe if we hadn't been so quick to show respect just because of someone's title and position... just maybe this wouldn't have gone on for so long.  Respect needs to be earned!"

"Go Grandma!" Owen encouraged as Olivia's comment was met with thunderous applause.

At his earliest opportunity, Dr. Ewing regained control of the microphone.

"Thank you, everyone, for your... spirited comments.  Now, perhaps, we can let the archbishop clarify what he meant."

"Thank you, Dr. Ewing.  As I said, I wish I had handled Fr. Solas' re-assignment in a better way.  But, as you can imagine, I have many obligations.  It's not an excuse, simply the truth.  Know that I would never willingly put this parish or any other in danger and I would not assign a priest credibly accused of abuse to another parish or..."

"Liar!" 

All eyes were on Mason who had stood up and was glaring at the archbishop.

"You are a liar!" he reiterated.  "Your nephew raped me!  And you knew!  I know you knew because I told you!"

All those gathered around Mason, except Joshua, looked at him in shock.  The church went quiet save for nervous whispering.

"I was at St. Richard's in New Lebanon when it happened.  You were filling in for my Church History teacher who was on maternity leave.  I liked your class.  I liked you.  And so... so I told you.  And you... you told me that I must have misunderstood.  Had I been drinking? you asked.  I'd never had anything more than Communion wine at the time.  You didn't believe me!  I doubt you even looked into it!  All I know was that, within a week, your nephew was gone and so were you.  So don't tell us that you would never put anyone in danger.  You're as good as a rapist yourself!" Mason howled, tears streaming down his face.  "If you'd only done your job then... others... others wouldn't have..."

Kyle stood and rested a hand on Mason's shaking shoulder.  Steady and determined, he looked around the church then turned his unflinching gaze onto the archbishop.

"Others wouldn't have been abused by your nephew.  I wouldn't have been raped.  My name is Kyle McIntyre.  I'm the one from the news interview, from the article.  I'm the seminarian who your nephew raped.  I'm also the nephew of a bishop...  Bishop Tony Merriman of Albany.  And I know the love that exists between uncle and nephew.  But I also know that if I'd done what your nephew did... Uncle Tony would have done whatever he needed to do to protect children and young people.  Familial love is not an excuse.  You, sir, stand accused of covering up for a rapist.  We're gathered here... in God's house... in the presence of our Christ...  in His name... in the name of the Truth... tell us.  Is the accusation true?"

All eyes were on the archbishop.  For a long while, not a sound was heard following Kyle's demand.

Then came one defeated word.

"Yes."

Knowing nothing he could say would improve upon the brutal eloquence of Kyle and Mason, John had come rushing back to the group.

A cacophony of shouts and boos erupted.

The archbishop tried to say more but people began leaving their pews.

A couple of police officers rushed forward and escorted the archbishop back into the vestibule and away, causing the shouts to grow louder. 

Mason was frozen, transfixed by the mayhem.

"We need to get out of here!" Joshua bellowed.  "Go somewhere else."

"Our place!  Everyone can come to our place!" Tiva invited.

"Thank you!  We're gathering at the Levines," Joshua relayed.  "Everyone, stick together!"

Clutching hands and shoulders, the group managed to get out of the church together.  They were quickly divided up into cars and then on their way, leaving the agitated crowd behind them.


As if she'd been expecting the company, Tiva welcomed her and the rabbi's visitors with a spread of sweets and snacks, coffee and cocoa.

"They believed me..." Mason mused aloud.  "All of those people... they don't even know me and... they believed me." 

"And Kyle made the archbishop admit that he knew!" Roger remarked, shaking his head in continued surprise.

"Mason and I did.  I doubt he would have answered me without Mason's testimony," Kyle stressed.

"You were both tremendously brave," Tiva praised.

Joshua nodded.

"Very.  I'm so proud to count you both as among my friends."

Kyle flushed with pride while Mason gave Joshua a trembling smile.

"Thanks, Josh.  I still... I can't believe I did that.  And you..."  Mason turned to John.  "You're Josh's cousin, right?"

John nodded.

"Well, you missed your calling.  You should be a lawyer.  I mean... unless you are a lawyer?"

John chuckled and shook his head.

"No, I'm a... public speaker."

Mason, Renee, and Roger wondered why this made some of the others snicker but let it go.

"But thank you.  Fr. Mike is a good friend of mine.  While I think hearing from survivors was the most important part of that meeting... I wanted his name cleared."

"I think you succeeded in that, John," Sean assured.  "And you cleared someone's else, too."

JenniAnn smiled.

"Thanks for that.  It was definitely a very minor concern all things considered but..."

"It's not minor," Joshua protested.  "The archbishop accused you of something of which you were innocent.  Worse than that, he judged you and publicly acted on that judgment.  He broke a commandment, as John said."

"Wait...  I'm confused," Roger interjected.

"Wesson sent Fr. Mike to Albany citing the 'fact' that he'd given JenniAnn, his friend, Communion despite knowing she was having sex outside of wedlock," Andrew explained, anger seeping into his tone even as he tried to control it.  "The following Sunday, Wesson refused to give JenniAnn Communion."

"He also threw in there that Tiva and Mike took ballroom dancing classes together... with my blessing, mind you.  All completely above board," the rabbi added.

"Which was ridiculous.  But the truth is..."  JenniAnn glanced at Andrew who nodded.  "Andrew and I are asexuals.  Which means I was not and have never had sex outside of wedlock."

"Hence breaking the commandment.  Bearing false witness," Renee put together.

"Right.  And I'm not naive.  I'm sure most people assume Andrew and I have consummated our relationship.  But that's beside the point."

"It is.  Jesus welcomed everyone to his table.  Saints and sinners alike," Joshua recounted.  "It's not for the archbishop or any priest to decide who gets Communion.  So even if JenniAnn had been doing what he thought..."  He shook his head.  "Wrong.  Very wrong.  It is the teaching of the Catholic Church that those who have sinned and not made confession and been absolved shouldn't take Communion.  But it's up to them to make that decision.  Not the clergy."

"Do you think..." Kyle started before his voice dwindled.

"Go on, Kyle," Joshua prompted.

"It just occurred to me...  The archbishop more or less admitted that he was grasping at straws to get Fr. Mike out.  It seems so stupid.  I feel like there had to have been more to his plan.  It's just a theory but... do you think he wanted that spot for his nephew?"

The group, sans Mason, Renee, and Roger, all looked to Joshua.

"I think..." Joshua began carefully.  "That it's a very plausible theory."

"Jesus..." Roger muttered.

"It makes sense," Peter agreed.  "We know now that he absolutely knew that his nephew had a history of abuse.  Maybe he thought that if he had him close by, he could keep an eye on him.  Control him."

"Shuffling him around hadn't worked.  So, yeah, why not try the opposite?" Mason supposed.

JenniAnn's phone gave off a twinkling melody.

"Ooh, sorry..."  Her face pink, she glanced at the phone.  "Joe!  Hi, Joe!  You are!"  She rose to her feet.  "Okay, we'll let you in.  See ya in a sec."  She hung up and looked to Tiva and the rabbi.  "Joe's just outside!"

"Well, we best let the D.A. in."  Yakov got to his feet and went with JenniAnn to the door.  A few moments later, they reappeared with the disheveled Joe.

Joshua stood and embraced the newcomer.

"Joe... so glad you're here."

Joe thumped Joshua on the back before releasing him.

"I'm glad I could be here.  Angie and I were in Hawaii for a long Valentine's celebration but... when we heard about the meeting, we decided to leave early.  And I'm glad we did.  Whew..."  Joe noticed then that Kyle and Mason were present.  "Oh, hey."

"Joe, this is Kyle McIntyre and his girlfriend, Ana-Maria Brughetti.  And Mason Edwards, Renee Colson, and her cousin, Roger Colson," Joshua introduced.  "This is Joe Maxwell, Manhattan district attorney."

After an exchange of greetings, Joe sat down.

"As soon as I left the meeting, I called some of my counterparts in nearby cities.  We're going to be subpoenaing some records from the archbishop, St. Richard's, and everywhere Blaine Wesson has been assigned.  After tonight, I have no doubt our orders will be met with compliance.  I hope you boys are ready..."  Joe turned to Kyle and Mason.  "As dramatic as tonight was, it's going to go viral.  I've no doubt someone was there with their phone's camera on."

Kyle nodded.

"I don't doubt it either.  I filmed some of it myself.  I wanted Fr. Mike to see John defend him."

"I... I'm not sure I'm ready for the attention," Mason admitted.  "I don't regret what I said but..."

Renee squeezed his arm.

"I'll be there with you, Mason."

"So will I," Roger vowed.

"I'll be there whenever you need me, Mason," Joshua assured.

"You can't be with me all of the time.  You all want to go into work with me tomorrow?" Mason asked with a forced smile. 

"I'll go," Joshua offered. 

"I was just kidding, Josh."

"But I could.  If you want.  Let's see what tomorrow brings.  You didn't identify yourself at the church so you may have some time.  But I fear that, if Joe is right and there is video, it's only a matter of time before a co-worker sees it and recognizes you."

"Or even someone in our family."  Roger frowned.  "I'd like to think they wouldn't out you but..."

Ana-Maria grimaced.

"I first found out about what happened to Kyle because of a loudmouth family member so..."

"It's only a matter of time," Mason concluded.  He turned back to Joshua.  "You would come to work with me?  Just as a sort of... buffer?"

"I would do that.  Absolutely."

Kyle rested a hand on Mason's arm.

"Joshua's a man of his word.  Trust me on that."

Mason nodded.

"Yeah...  I... I've seen that.  Kyle, I..."  Mason's eyes welled.  "I feel like I need to..."  His voice broke.  "If I had been more... more persistent.  If I'd told more people then..."

Kyle shook his head.

"No.  Mason, you... you were just a kid.  Even younger than me and I... I barely kept it together.  I... I hurt people I love..."  He glanced at Joshua before turning back to his fellow survivor.  "Because... cause I was so... so angry.  If it wasn't for my uncle... for Fr. Mike... the rest of my family... I might not have had the strength to go to the police.  I'm sure I wouldn't have.  So please... don't apologize.  You are not the one who needs to apologize.  Please tell me you know that, Mason."

Mason stared into the younger man's beseeching, kind eyes and nodded.

"I... I know that.  Thank you...  You...  you don't know what your compassion means to me, Kyle."

"I might know at least something of it.  I... I've felt a lot of compassion myself during these past couple of weeks.  I hope we can spend some more time together, Mason.  I think we can help each other."  Kyle looked around the room.  "All of us.  This tragedy has touched us all.  More than anything I miss the community I used to have in the Catholic Church but... God is great.  And He's given me this new community.  Our community."

Joshua embraced the two men, starting off a series of hugs and kind words.

The goodwill continued until well after 10:00 when the group finally parted, with Mason and Kyle feeling buoyed, loved, and ready to meet the new reality that awaited them.


In between the Sunday performances of Jesus Christ Superstar, many of the Friends had gathered in St. Genesius' office, watching a local news report.

"It's been just over a month since the Catholic Church's ongoing sexual abuse scandal rocked Manhattan when it was revealed that former Archbishop Francis Wesson knowingly covered up a rape perpetrated by his nephew, Fr. Blaine Wesson," a smartly dressed female reporter recounted from St. Mary Magdalene's steps.  "The younger Wesson, who has been missing since mid-February, was publicly accused of rape by two young men during a meeting right here at St. Mary Magdalene's Church on February 15th.  Since then, others have come forward with accusations against Blaine Wesson.  Now, I'm here with District Attorney Joe Maxwell who has an update for us.  District Attorney, thank you for joining us."

"Thank you, Mindy.  I appreciate the opportunity to speak with you," Joe replied.

"Mr. Maxwell, what can you tell us about the cases against Blaine Wesson?"

"Since the crimes were committed outside of Manhattan, I'm not privy to them.  That being said, I have been in touch with both Mr. McIntyre and Mr. Edwards.  I have every confidence that they're cooperating with their local authorities."

"Mr. McIntyre and Mr. Edwards being the two young men who accused Fr. Wesson, correct?"

"Yes, that's correct."

"But it was your office that subpoenaed the former archbishop's office, yes?"

"It was," Joe verified.  "Since the accusations were made in Manhattan and since the archbishop acknowledged his part in the cover-up while here," he motioned to the church.  "We were concerned that the archbishop might have knowledge of other abuses, both within and outside of Manhattan."

"And were your concerns validated by anything you found?" Mindy questioned.

"They were.  Because of our findings, we've decided to begin legal proceedings against the archdiocese and the former archbishop."

"So does that mean you have reason to believe the former archbishop covered up for priests within Manhattan?"

"We have reason to believe the archdiocese and Francis Wesson knowingly moved abusive priests around, failing to protect those they claimed to serve," Joe answered carefully.

"District attorney, is it true that evidence was found that the former archbishop sought to place his nephew at this church... to make him the pastor of St. Mary Magdalene's?"

"Mindy, I hope you and your viewers will understand that this is an active investigation and, as such, I can only speak about it at a very high level.  I can't answer that question," Joe deflected.

Back at St. Genesius', Owen pointed at the screen.

"Look!  His ears are turning red.  He's ticked.  I think that means he knows it's true and is mad it got out."

"Unbelievable..." Shane grumbled.  "So it wasn't just his nephew that Wesson protected..."

"And did you read the article in the Times yesterday?" Kemara asked.  "The earliest accusations against Wesson were made by a couple of students at an all-girls high school."

"His first assignment," Emma added, shaking her head.  "I wonder what those people who were accusing gay people at the meeting think now?"

"One thing I still don't get..." Eric began.  "You said that the archbishop... former archbishop, I mean... copped to the cover-up within a minute of Kyle pressing him.  Why?  Why after decades... assuming he knew about the earliest cases... does he just drop the act right there?  Why resign the very next day?"

"I've thought about that," Andrew replied.  "It's strange.  But then it occurred to me... Joshua was standing right behind Mason and Kyle."

"You think he saw something?  In Joshua, I mean?" JenniAnn questioned.

The angel of death shrugged.

"I'm not sure.  But maybe.  Or maybe not...  It's not like he didn't try to weasel his way out of it later."  Andrew dragged his hand through his hair in frustration.

"Right.  He did that interview with some sympathetic right-wing Catholic rag saying, yes, he knew about Mason's accusation and he knew his nephew had 'crossed a boundary.'  But Mason was a troubled kid who made more of it than he should have.  And Francis was shocked... just shocked!... when he read about Kyle," Owen recounted, eyes rolling.

"And he thought his nephew had been the perfect angel before and after St. Richard's, I suppose?"  Kylie shook her head and patted her tummy.  "It just makes me so sick and sad."

Adam stroked her back.

"It is sick and sad.  And so tragic."

"I'm just glad that Joshua is still around.  Not only for Mason and Kyle but..."  Monica played with the sleeve of her angel dress.  "It's been very helpful having Joshua there as Arthur and I explain to Liam why we don't go to St. Mary's anymore."

"I know it's been hard for Ivy.  She's dismayed, angry... but the Catholic Church is her mother's church.  She can't bring herself to switch to El-Chanan no matter how similar it is," Zeke reported.  "And I can understand how she feels."

"And I'm proud of her for standing strong.  For fighting from within the Church," JenniAnn replied.  "I just... can't.  But you better believe that if Ivy and Sy get married in a Catholic Church... I will be there.  Beaming."

Diana smiled at the thought.

"Me too.  And I think they will.  With Zeke as a co-celebrant."

"Aww!" Kemara brightened at the idea.  "It'll be a beautiful, wonderful day no matter where it happens."

"And you'll have the most adorable grandkids, Zeke and Diana!" Emma gushed.

With their imaginations turned towards the future and babies, the Friends' moods lifted as they prepared themselves for their evening show.


Feeling somewhat nervous, Bishop Tony knocked on the rectory door outside of St. Rafiq's.  He smiled when the door opened without the bolt sliding and multiple unlocking noises he was used to.

"Bishop Tony!" Eunice greeted with a warm smile.  "Come in!  Come in!"

"Thank you, Mother Eunice, I..."

"Eunie, please.  And go on."

"Only if you stick to Tony."

Eunie chuckled.

"It's agreed.  Eunie and Tony."

"Thank you."  Tony smiled as the other priest ushered him into her home.  "I'm sorry for just showing up.  I intended to make an appointment but..."

"Nonsense!  Gabriel and I appreciate the company.  How were your Masses in Albany?"

"Very good.  Fr. Mike celebrated two of them.  It's nice to sit back and enjoy the Mass as a parishioner sometimes."

"Most definitely.  Gabriel and I switch off sometimes for just that reason.  He's in the study.  Come on back."

Bishop Tony followed Eunie through the couple's quaint, warm home.  He could understand why Kyle and Ana-Maria had visited the pair so often during the past month.

"Honey, Tony from Albany is here!" Eunie called before entering the study.

Gabriel set down a book he was reading and held a hand out to their visitor.

"Tony!  Welcome!  I was hoping you'd make it back to El-Chanan soon."

"I'd hoped to come so many times but, umm, I've been busy and..."

Gabriel waved to a comfortable chair.

"We understand.  Please sit."

"Thank you."

"Reuel has kept us informed," Gabriel shared.  "We've seen many of your media appearances since Kyle's statement at St. Mary's."

Tony smiled wearily.

"There have been so many of them...  But I've felt the need to speak up.  So many of my fellow bishops and priests are offering half-baked apologies with no real solutions.  Enough is enough."

Eunie, who had stepped into a nearby kitchenette, returned with a cup of tea.

"Yes, you're very much correct in that, Tony.  But you also need to take care of yourself."

Tony laughed.

"Have you been talking with Joshua?"

"Yes though he hasn't said anything of his concerns for you.  But if he has spoken to you about your health... I think you know he knows best."

Tony sighed and took a long, slow sip of the tea.

"Chamomile... and something else?"

"A touch of lavender."

"Delicious.  Thank you.  It's just what I need."

"That and more food," Eunie pressed.  "You look like you've lost a good ten... maybe even twenty pounds?"

The bishop only bowed his head giving silent assent.

"Let me get you something to eat," Gabriel offered.

"No, no.  I'm fine.  My family has a huge feast planned for this evening.  I promise I'll eat.  Greedily even.  I just..."  Tony peered at the two priests.  "I have a reason for coming here.  And it will help my health, I think.  I'd like to know... would you be willing to accept Kyle into your priesthood?  Not right away, of course.  I know there will be lots of training but...  I know it's still the desire of his heart.  And... I would feel he was safe here."

Gabriel and Eunie exchanged a quick glance, the latter nodding at the former.

"Of course we would welcome Kyle!  He's expressed interest but we haven't wanted to push," Gabriel explained.  "As far as training... we utilize an apprenticeship model.  He'd be paired with an older, experienced priest.  It would be up to Kyle whether he'd want to reside with that priest, remain at home, or we've even had parishioners sponsor candidates.  And Reuel has, too."

"That's very wise... to have those options," Tony opined.  "But about the older priest...  If he was interested... even though he's not from your tradition... could Fr. Mike be Kyle's... adviser priest?"

"Does Fr. Mike want to be a priest in the El-Chananite Church?" Eunie checked.

The bishop's eyes filled.

"I think so.  Yes.  He comes back glowing after he tags along with Kyle to visit you.  I think he only remains with the Catholic Church because of, well, me.  He's seen what this past month and a half has done to me and he's reluctant to leave Albany... the Catholic Church... because of it.  But I don't want to hold him or Kyle back."

"Selfishly, I'd like to count so noble and selfless a man among our priesthood," Gabriel replied.  "And we would be willing to.  Eunie and I have read his blog.  His heart seems to be aligned with us in every way in which we differ from the Catholic Church.  His training would be minimal.  I'd like to consult with other priests but..."

"I imagine they'll agree with us," Eunie finished.  "But it would have to be Fr. Mike himself who asked to enter into our priesthood."

"Of course," Tony agreed.

"And I do wonder..."

"Yes, my dear?" Gabriel encouraged.

"Based on our visit last week and from what Reuel has told us, Asteriana seems to have a fair share of Catholics... some of which have begun attending Mass here," Eunie pointed out.  "So, perhaps, Fr. Mike and Kyle would be interested in ministering as part of the El-Chananite Church in Asteriana."

"To Fr. Mike's own people..."  Gabriel nodded.  "I like that idea very much.  And I believe Joshua would, as well.  Nothing can restore what they've lost, of course.  But to be able to retain a piece of their former Church... Fr. Mike... as they enter into communion with a new one...  I like it very much."

Bishop Tony beamed, his tears now joyful.

"Thank you.  I appreciate this so very much."

Eunie hugged him first, then Gabriel.

"Of course!  Now... I would be remiss if I didn't ask... are you interested in joining us?" the man inquired.

Tony let out a deep, ragged breath.

"Oh, Gabriel...  I would love to.  But I need to remain where I am.  I... I haven't told anyone yet but I've been asked to help with the Archdiocese of New York in the wake of Francis Wesson's resignation.  Which means... it'll fall to me to find a permanent pastor for St. Mary Magdalene's.  I owe that much to Mike.  And to Joshua, of course.  But maybe some day..."

Moved by the man's selflessness, Eunie kissed his cheeks.

"God bless you, Tony.  And just remember... we're all part of the same Great Church, serving the same Wonderful Creator.  You're our brother."

"Thank you..." Tony murmured.  "Thank you... my brother and my sister in Christ... in Joshua."

"Always, Tony.  Always," Gabriel vowed.


Joshua sat between Renee and Ana-Maria in the Levines' living room, watching a magazine photographer take shots of Kyle and Mason.  Since the latter still didn't know about Dyeland, the Levines' home and St. Genesius' had become the de facto headquarters for the Friends as they sought to include Mason, Renee, and Roger whenever possible.

"Roger, I have some of those little pastries you loved so much last time," Tiva enticed.  "Rugelach."

"Rugelach," Roger repeated from where he sat with the rabbi on a couch across from Joshua and the girls.  "I know I've heard of it before.  I don't know why I have such a hard time remembering the word."

"You'll get it eventually," Tiva assured.

"Because she'll keep jamming it down your throat," the rabbi whispered.

"What was that, dear?" Tiva asked with exaggerated sweetness.

"Nothing, my precious buttercup."

Ana-Maria laughed with delight.

"I want to be like you two when I'm old and married."  Her face flushed.  "Umm, I mean..."

The rabbi chuckled.

"Relax, dear girl.  We are old."

"And married!" Tiva chortled.  "Joshua, can I refill your spiced milk?"

"No, no.  Still working on this one.  Thank you, though."  Joshua smiled up at their courteous hostess.  "I appreciate this.  Things are just a little crazy over at St. G's right now."

"You don't think Ilana wanted to shout questions above 'Hey-sanna, Hosanna.  Hey, JC, JC?'" Yakov teased.

"Probably not..."

"Well, in any case, it's our honor.  What the boys are doing is very important."

Tiva sat down beside her husband and nodded.

"They've come a long way in a month.  Especially your Mason."  She smiled at Renee whose face shone with pride.

"He really has changed...  He even..."  She lowered her voice.  "Roger and I have started going to an Episcopal Church and... Mason actually went with us this morning.  He says he's still an atheist but... I wonder sometimes."

"He asked to borrow my Bible," Roger shared.  "I thought that was interesting."

"Very..." a pleased Joshua replied. 

Kyle approached with Mason a few steps behind him.

"They're done with the photos, thankfully.  Now..."

Tiva handed him a plate of rugelach.

"Thank you..."  Kyle eagerly popped a bite into his mouth and held the plate out towards Mason.  "I wanted some so badly but my mom would kill me if there were photos of me in Time Magazine with gooey goodness all over my shirt."

"It is gooey... and good," Mason agreed.  "Thank you, Tiva."

"You're very welcome, Mason.  Are they starting your interview soon?"

"Yeah.  We have a quick break first."  Slightly panicked, Mason looked over at the reporter.

Yakov squeezed his hand.

"You'll be okay.  Ilana is a member of our synagogue.  She's a good girl.  She won't press too hard."

"Thanks...  Speaking of... I keep meaning to ask.  Are you Joshua's rabbi?" Mason looked back and forth between Yakov and Joshua.

Yakov spoke first.

"Actually... I feel it's more accurate to say that Joshua is my rabbi."

Joshua beamed at the other man.

"Thank you, Yakov.  I appreciate that.  Truly.  But, Mason, I do usually attend Yakov's synagogue, Beth El, when I'm in town."

Visibly confused, Mason nodded.

"Okay... gotcha..."

Kyle clapped him on the back.

"Just one of the many mysteries of Joshua, right?"

"Guess so!"

"Fellows, are you ready?" Ilana asked upon approaching. 

"Yeah, I think so," Kyle answered.

"Sure," Mason agreed.

Joshua and their respective girlfriends gave the two men hugs.

"So proud of you," Joshua applauded.  "This is going to do a lot of good for other survivors."

"Thanks, Josh."

"Thank you, Joshua."

Mason and Kyle gave brave smiles to their audience before joining Ilana on the other side of the room where she promptly started the interview.

"To start, in only as much detail as you feel comfortable sharing, could you please tell me about the abuse you suffered at the hands of Blaine Wesson?" Ilana asked gently.

Joshua and the others, teary-eyed despite the fact that they'd witnessed many such interviews during the past month, listened as Kyle told the reporter about cleaning the bathroom, Wesson's surprise intrusion, and the rape.  They grew more tense when Kyle finished speaking and Ilana turned to Mason.  He had yet to reveal the full extent of his abuse.

Mason looked over at Renee and Joshua who offered him loving, encouraging smiles.  He managed a small smile in return and turned back to Ilana.

"He was my math teacher.  I wasn't very good at math so he asked me to come by after school for tutoring.  I... I was hoping to go to college on a basketball scholarship and I knew I needed to raise my GPA.  So I went.  And at first it started out with innocuous stuff.  Setting a hand on my back as he gave me instructions.  Then it got... weird.  His hand would drift a little too far down.  But I thought maybe it was just... he zoned out, you know?  I stopped showing up for tutoring, in any case.  Sometimes, during the weekends, I'd bike over to the school to practice dunking, three point shots, that sort of thing.  And this was before schools were locked up all the time.  At least a handful of teachers were usually around so the side door would be open.  I'd go in, play, shower, go about my day.  One Saturday, I came out of the shower and Wesson was there.  He started talking.  Just normal stuff.  About my classes.  The team.  Except he kept getting closer and closer.  We'd been sitting on a bench but I stood up when I started to feel uncomfortable.  I said I'd forgotten my necklace in the shower and I'd see him later.  I thought he'd leave but... he followed me into the shower, threw me against the wall, and... did it.  And I just... I went somewhere else.  In my head I mean.  It was like I was watching this horrible movie from outside my body.  Then he just walked away.  I picked up my stuff and... left.  That night, I woke up screaming.  My parents came running into my room and... I told them.  Everything."

Kyle clasped Mason's trembling right hand.

"Did your parents believe you?" Ilana softly inquired.

Mason shook his head.

"They aren't bad people.  They just...  Like... like I said... he was my math teacher.  And... and my parents knew I hated math.  And they were also very Catholic.  Like Mass every Sunday, sometimes on week days Catholic.  They said it had just been a nightmare..."

Across the room, Renee wept in Joshua's arms.

"I'm so sorry," Ilana murmured.  "How... how did that impact the rest of your life?"

Mason laughed darkly.

"It destroyed it... at least for several years.  I barely graduated from high school.  Forget about getting a scholarship.  I moved out, bounced from buddy's couch to buddy's couch.  Didn't go to college... at least not until nearly a decade later when I started at a community college.  I got a pretty good job.  Enough to make ends meet, anyway.  I... I have a serious girlfriend for the first time in my life."  Mason turned to Kyle.  "I... I'm just so glad that you had the support you needed.  Right from the start."

"Me too," Kyle agreed.  "I... I only wish you could have had the same, Mason."

Mason sighed and nodded.

"At least I have it now." 

Both men looked over to the couches, to those who loved and supported them.

"I'm very glad for that, too, Kyle and Mason.  Now, I'm wondering if you could tell me how those experiences have impacted your faith?" Ilana asked.

As before, Mason turned to Kyle to go first.

"My feelings about the Catholic Church are... complicated," he addressed.  "I will never forget everything it taught me.  And I have great respect for men like my uncle, Bishop Tony Merriman, who have selflessly served the Church and done so without trying to cover up its ugly flaws.  But... I don't feel comfortable in the Catholic Church any more.  I don't trust it.  So my girlfriend and I have been going to a different, still Christian but non-Catholic Church."

Ilana smiled.

"Your girlfriend.  Can we talk about that for a moment?"

Kyle blushed as he smiled over at Ana-Maria who nodded.

"Sure."

"I trust this is a new development?"

Kyle chuckled.

"New and old.  Ana-Maria and I were dating for years before I joined the seminary.  I, uh, broke up with her when I entered it.  Thankfully, she was still there for me when I left... through all of this... and, for that, I'm eternally grateful.  I still hope to serve God, with her at my side, but... outside the Catholic Church."

"I'm so glad you have each other," Ilana replied before turning to Mason.  "Do you have anything to add, Mason?"

"Uh...  Yeah, I guess so.  Unfortunately, I wasn't able to hold onto my faith like Kyle has.  He's still very... Jesus-y.  Sorry.  I don't mean you're obnoxious or preachy, man.  I just mean... you still believe.  In Jesus," Mason rambled.

Kyle nodded, sneaking a look at Joshua.

"I do, yeah.  Very much."

Mason nodded.

"And, umm, I have I guess... started contemplating Jesus more, I guess you could say?" he continued.  "I've been hanging around St. Genesius' Theatre where they do Jesus Christ Superstar every year.  And it hits me, you know, that Jesus... he was abused.  So I feel like... even just as a historical person... he would... get me?"

Back on the couch, Ana-Maria laced her fingers through Joshua's as he peered at Mason, misty-eyed.  The girl could just hear Joshua murmuring.

"I do..." he whispered.

"And I have been going to an Episcopal Church with my girlfriend and best buddy," Mason continued.

Roger perked up then his face softened.  He hadn't realized until that moment just how highly Mason had come to value him.

"I don't really get into it like they do... but I also don't hate it," Mason finished. 

"Thank you.  So you both mentioned girlfriends, friends.  And maybe I can chat with them quickly... but how would you say this has impacted them?"

This time, Mason spoke first.

"My girlfriend and buddy were both Catholic.  Regular Mass attendance sort of Catholics.  And, like I said, we're all going to an Episcopal church now.  So... I think that says everything.  It wasn't just the rape.  Bad people are everywhere.  I think it was more the archbishop not believing me... not looking into my accusation... and now knowing that happened over and over.  He disregarded and covered up and denied over and over.  And he wasn't the only one."

Kyle nodded.

"That's so hard for me to fathom, too.  Except for my uncle, of course, none of my close family members have attended Mass since it happened.  I know we will again some day.  Uncle Tony is celebrating his fiftieth anniversary as a priest next year and I'll be there for his jubilee Mass.  We all will be.  Because he deserves that.  I can't imagine what it feels like to devote your entire adult life to the Church and then watch it hurt a child you love.  I... I look at him sometimes and I just... I want to cry.  He's trapped in this impossible, middle place.  But... he has his faith.  And... and I know God is with him.  In the middle."

On the couch, Joshua thought of Tony with immense love and nodded.

As Ilana's interview turned to Mason's and Kyle's suggestions for how the Church could make amends and prevent further abuses, the men and their supporters began to relax.  Once Ilana and her photographer had packed up, the group moved the Levines' living room back into its normal arrangement and visited together.

Joshua smiled as he gazed at them... Kyle and Ana-Maria seated together, hands clasped... Mason sitting on the floor in front of Renee, her lightly stroking his back... and Roger... staring at Joshua.

Joshua cocked his head and smiled at the man.

"Doing okay, Roger?"

Roger snapped out of his reverie and nodded.

"Oh, uh, yeah.  Actually... I could use the restroom.  Josh, could you remind me where it is?"

Sensing something was up, Joshua hastened to his feet.

"Sure thing.  Be right back."

Roger followed Joshua into the hallway.

"So it's just right..."

"I don't really need the bathroom... Josh."

Joshua's eyebrow crooked upward upon hearing the odd tone in Roger's voice as he said his name.

"Roger, what's..."

"Where were you born?" Roger pressed, his voice gone husky.

"I was born in Bethlehem," Joshua answered honestly.

"And I... I'm guessing not Bethlehem, Pennsylvania?"

Joshua shook his head.

"A-and what's your mother's name?"

"Maryam."

"Mary..." Roger murmured.  "And the name of... of the man who raised you?"

Joshua knew with absolutely certainty, in that moment, that Roger knew.  He hadn't said "dad's name" or "father's name."

"Roger..."  Joshua reached out to set a hand on his arm.  "The name of the man who raised me is Yosef.  Yosef of Nazareth."

Roger's face crumpled and he began to weep.

Joshua pulled the man to him, embracing him tightly.

"I'm so glad you know, Roger.  So very glad."  Joshua pulled away just enough to beam at the man.

"I... I can't believe you're here... really here."

"I am, Roger."

Roger nodded against Joshua's shoulder.

"Ever since I... I met you...  Little things...  Even... what you yelled at the bar.  I Googled it... posted on message boards about it.  Someone... they said it was Aramaic.  'Be gone, Satan.'"

Joshua nodded.

"He was there... in the bar?"

"Yes.  But you don't need to worry about that."

"Because you sent him away?"

"Yes.  And your prayers...  Renee's prayers... they've keep him away from Mason."

"Good...  I'm glad.  This evening... whenever God came up.  It was like... you were answering," Roger continued.

"I was.  Even though Mason's not ready to hear it from me, his soul is listening to me... for me.  I wanted him to know that I do understand him, that I'm with him. I'm here for all of you... my beautiful children."  An amused smile lit up Joshua's face.

"What is it?" Roger questioned.

Joshua chuckled.

"I was just remembering... back in junior high, you were so worried that your face wasn't going to clear up.  You even looked to see if there was a patron saint of acne."

Roger, too, laughed at the memory.

"I decided that St. Anthony of Egypt was as close as I was going to get."

"Good choice...  Anthony..." Joshua smiled fondly.  "Roger, you were always beautiful to me... but it did clear up very nicely, huh?"

Still laughing, Roger nodded.  He smiled as Joshua held his face in his hands.  He felt the same sort of pride as he did when his mother bragged about him to her friends... but more.

"Do the others know?  Does Renee know?" he asked.

"Not yet.  All of the St. Genesius crowd knows.  Kyle, Ana-Maria, Tony, Mike..."

"The Levines?"

"Yes."

"But... they're Jewish so..."

"So I'm Jewish, too," Joshua reminded.  "They're like my earliest followers."

"So... that's what Rabbi Yakov meant when he said that you were his rabbi."

"Yep."

Roger sighed happily.

"I... I hope Renee does come to know.  And Mason.  Definitely Mason."

"I do, too.  Very much.  But it has to happen in their time.  It needs to be that way for everyone... well, almost everyone."

"Otherwise they'll think the person trying to persuade them... or you... or both are crazy?"

"Exactly.  On rare occasion, I need to make myself known... like with Paul on the road to Damascus.  But otherwise... patience is the best option."

"It must be hard," Roger suggested with a frown.  "Like... having a kid and knowing they're your kid but... they don't know that.  And if you get too close... too soon..."

"They'd be afraid... annoyed... intimidated," Joshua finished.

"Especially..." Roger trailed off.

"Especially in this case... when Mason has been betrayed so completely."  Tears filled Joshua's eyes.

"Your heart must be broken by all of this," Roger murmured.

Joshua nodded but forced a smile.

"Broken... but still hopeful, still touched by all the goodness I see.  What the Wessons did is like... like a nail...  But then when I see how Ana-Maria and Renee have supported their guys...  And how you've stepped up for Mason despite your initial misgivings...  To feel that warmth, that love... it's... everything."

His smile relaxed, the tenseness in his face easing away, too.

"Now..."  Joshua clapped a hand on Roger's shoulder.  "We'll find more time to talk soon but we better head back lest they all think you have a bladder issue."

Roger burst into laughter.

"Good idea.  Thank you... for this."

"Thank you.  This did me so much good, Roger."  Joshua squeezed his shoulder and then the two returned to the others.

"Did you get lost?" Mason teased.

Roger shook his head.

"No... just got to talking."

"More rugelach?" Tiva offered.

Roger smiled and nodded.

"Yes, please.  Thank you."

Yakov eyed the younger man with some interest then looked over at Joshua who was still smiling. 

"Roger knows," he whispered to Tiva when she sat back down beside him.

"About Joshua?"

The rabbi nodded.

"I'm so glad..."

"Me too."

The couple joined hands and admired their visitors, praying that, very soon, Renee and Mason would learn what the rest of them had.


"Mason, are you ready?" Amber-Marie asked as she stepped into the lobby of her office. 

Mason set down the magazine he'd been perusing and nodded.

"Yeah.  Thanks."

Amber-Marie ushered the man into her consultation room and sat across from him.

"So how have things been since we last spoke?"

"Pretty good.  It's been weird, you know, with the press and everything but... Josh, especially, has been really great.  He's been coming to work with me whenever there's a big story.  Just a... human buffer, I guess.  I mean my co-workers are all great but... people are people.  They're curious.  They gossip.  The first time was a little weird.  Josh and I overheard someone refer to him as my 'emotional support human.'  You know... like an emotional support animal."

"I do, yeah."  Amber-Marie grimaced.

Mason laughed.

"So Josh just shrugged and said 'I guess that's fair.  I had a donkey for emotional support once.'  And it was just so weird and quirky that this co-worker just kind of nodded and ran back to his office."

Amber-Marie smirked, thinking of Yoktan. 

"My boss absolutely loves him.  And I can see why.  The office morale is just so much better with Josh around.  He remembers everyone's kids' names, always seems to say just the right thing to calm down an intense meeting...  My boss, Doug, actually offered Josh a position in our HR department but he turned it down.  He has his carpentry and stuff, ya know."

"Right.  So I can understand not wanting to go into things with your co-workers... and I think it's great that Joshua is helping to diffuse tense or awkward situations.  But how are you doing with opening up with Renee and Roger?"

"Well... they were both there when a Time Magazine reporter interviewed Kyle and me this past Monday.  So they've heard the story.  I haven't said much more about it to Roger.  But that night... Renee and I had a long talk.  I, umm, I was... pretty crass when we first started dating.  About sex and stuff, I mean."  Mason hung his head.  "Said things that I shouldn't have.  I apologized to her for that.  I think I just did it because... well, I was trying to convince myself that I was okay... sexually, I mean.  As a guy, it's like you're supposed to love sex and think about sex all the time.  And I never felt... totally there.  Like a part of me would check out when Renee... and the girls before... were, umm, intimate."

"That's very normal with survivors of sexual assault, Mason."

"Yeah.  So we're, umm, taking a break.  I mean... we're still dating.  Just not... having sex.  Until I work some more things out and can really be there with her."

"I think that's a good idea," Amber-Marie agreed. 

"I... uh... I told her I loved her," Mason admitted, blushing as he smiled.

Amber-Marie returned his smile.

"That's great!"

Mason nodded.

"I'd never said it before.  To any girl.  I mean... to my mom before... you know."

Amber-Marie reached over to pat his hand.  During their first Joshua-suggested session, Mason had told her about his parents' disbelief.

"But it felt... safe to say it to Renee.  I feel like anyone who stuck with me during the past couple of months... well, she's not going to run out.  And I do... love her."

"I'm so glad that you've made that progress, Mason.  I'd also like to check in about the guilt you expressed feeling... about Kyle and the other victims."

"It's still there... in the back of my mind," Mason admitted.  "Kyle says I shouldn't blame myself... I was just a kid.  But he's barely older than I was.  And he did tell."

"You told, too, Mason.  The difference is the first person who Kyle told believed him without a moment's hesitation.  You... you didn't have the same experience."

"No...  I didn't."

"Have you heard from your parents at all?" Amber-Marie gently inquired.

Mason let out a heavy sigh.

"A letter showed up yesterday...  From them."

"And... you haven't opened it?" Amber-Marie guessed.

Mason shook his head.

"Do you want to?"

The man shrugged.

"What are you most afraid will happen if you read the letter?"

"I guess that it'll just be the same old thing again... denial.  Maybe even anger for daring to attack the Church."

"And, if it was, what would you do?"

Mason considered the question.

"I guess... I mean I'd be hurt.  But nothing.  Because it really wouldn't be any different than before."

"And what if that's not what was in the letter?  What if it was an apology?  How would that make you feel?"

Mason was silent for several moments.

"A lot of different things, I guess.  Relief.  But also anger.  Because it would still mean my word wasn't good enough.  It took Kyle and others to speak up before they'd believe."

"That's fair.  Anger would be an extremely understandable reaction."

"Yeah, I guess.  I'd also be sad.  Because... as angry as I am... I imagine they'd feel tremendous guilt.  And I know what that feels like.  How... heavy it is.  They're still my parents.  I... wouldn't want that for them but..."

"But?" Amber-Marie encouraged.

"But I guess I'd also be happy.  Because maybe... if I could get past the anger and they could get past the guilt... maybe we could be a family again."

"Do you want that?"

"Yeah," Mason murmured.

"Have you considered... and this is only an idea... having someone you trust read the letter first?  Maybe, whatever it says, it would be easier if they relayed it to you first."

"That actually..."  Mason gave a nod.  "It sounds like a good idea.  Do you think... since you've known him longer... do you think Josh would, uh, do the honors?"

"I think if you asked him to, Joshua would definitely do that for you, Mason.  He wants what's best for you."

"Yeah..."  Mason smiled.  "I've got that.  I'll, umm, make arrangements with him for that."

"Good idea.  Now, is there anything else you'd like to discuss?"

As the two discussed strategies for coping with stress and anxiety, Amber-Marie prayed... prayed that she hadn't put Joshua in a heart-breaking position... and prayed that Mason's letter would give him the peace he needed.


"King me!"

Fr. Mike sighed and put a checker atop one of John's as they played in the St. Bregwin's rectory.

"You're going to win again.  I just know it."

John grinned.

"Don't feel bad, Mike.  It was bound to happen.  After all, I have kingly blood in me."

"Ha ha..." Fr. Mike replied as he made his next move.

John paused before proceeding and rested a hand on the priest's.

"In all fairness, I think my winning streak is only because you're distracted.  What's going on?"

"Yeah...  I guess I am.  Just... worried about Tony."

"I thought so."

"He's looking pretty ragged."

"I've noticed.  Joshua has noticed.  People on message boards have noticed."

"Really?  I've been trying to stay away from those."

John nodded.

"I've read a few.  And, yes, people are commenting about how much thinner and more haggard Tony looks from his first interview right after Wesson resigned to yesterday's interview with Good Morning America.  People genuinely feel for him."

"That's good.  Gladdy's over every day, cooking and fussing over him.  And he is eating.  But it's just all... too much.  And I feel badly that now he's in charge of NYC... and St. Mary Mag's.  I offered to go back but..."

"But?" John prodded.

"I miss my parishioners.  And I do want to go back... to visit them, to pray with them.  But I just... John, I can't do it anymore," Fr. Mike confessed, tears pooling and beginning to trace down his cheeks.  "I can't get in front of them and pretend like everything's all right.  I don't trust the Church.  I don't trust the Pope."

John moved to sit beside Fr. Mike and rested an arm across his shoulders.

"Mike, take it from a man who knows distrust of religious leaders very, very well...  It can be tremendously hard to mend that trust... especially when you feel like the attempts at mending are all happening from your side.  And when that mistrust looms so large, it can become a distraction.  And you can't see what it is you're truly meant to do: serve God and share His love with others.  If you've reached that place... maybe it's time to move on."

"But then Tony is left..."

"No.  You will still be his friend.  You'll still be around to help him, Mike.  But if you... and Kyle... were in a better place... maybe that would be just the relief that Tony needs.  Maybe, right now, dealing with his church duties, the media, AND knowing how dissatisfied and frustrated you and Kyle are is just too much.  There's only one part of that which you can help with."

"But how John?"

"How about you, Kyle, and Tony meet me at the Romanos' tomorrow?  Around 4:00 PM?" John suggested. 

"Okay...  I'm sure Kyle's available.  I'll have to check with Tony."

"Tony's available, too."

Fr. Mike smiled. 

"Joshua knows about this?"

John grinned.

"His idea."

The priest laughed.

"Then I guess that settles that.  Okay."

"Okay!" John beamed.  "Now... dry your eyes and focus on our game, man!"

With a chuckle, Fr. Mike nodded.

"Okay, okay..."

After a few moves, he grinned at John.

"King me!"

"Blast it!" John jested before placing a checker on Fr. Mike's.

For the next hour, the two played checkers with Fr. Mike making an admirable comeback.


Andrew and JenniAnn walked the familiar path to Reuel's house.

"It's so beautiful... all the flowers..." JenniAnn admired.

Andrew squeezed her hand.

"We'll have flowers in Dyeland soon.  I definitely saw crocuses and daffodils peeking up out of the ground."

"Oh good!  Although... I suppose if we were going to have an unusually cold winter, this was a good one.  With Joshua around and so much going on, I hardly noticed."

"Same here.  It has been nice.  Especially since it means Rose and Max have been staying over more than usual."

"Mmm hmm...  It's been nice to have all the kids under one roof.  Well, I guess Violeta is under a different roof.  But with the tunnel, Serendipity seems like it's the same roof."

"You didn't used to think that," Andrew recalled with a rakish smile.  "If you did, maybe I'd still be over there."

JenniAnn halted and wrapped her arms around him.

"Distance is relative, I suppose.  It did seem like a way's away when you lived there.  Musta just been psychological distance.  And also... I didn't just want you under the same roof.  I wanted the same ceiling, too."

Andrew grinned back at her.

"One wonders why you even gave me my own room in the castle..."

"In case you start snoring when you get older," JenniAnn teased.

The angel of death laughed and nuzzled her hair.

"I hope that doesn't happen, Laja."

"I don't think I could send you away even if it...  And I definitely think someone just took our picture."

Andrew pulled away and looked in the direction of JenniAnn's tilted head.  There were two teen girls, giggling and staring down at one's phone.

"Excuse them," Reuel called as he approached with Val Jean trotting beside him.  "You two have a bit of a... fan following, let's say, around here.

"Because of the anam cara thing?" Andrew checked.

Reuel nodded.

"Monica and Arthur get the same treatment."  He paused to hug first JenniAnn and then Andrew in greeting.  "History come alive!"

"You don't have any human/angel pairings here now?" JenniAnn questioned, picking Val Jean up after he started scratching at her leg.

"Not nearby, no.  Nearest couple is a little over a hundred miles from here."

"Maybe we can meet them someday," Andrew suggested.

"I'll put in a good word," Reuel agreed.  "But for now... we have much to discuss.  I thought we might visit on the porch since the weather's so pleasant."

"Sounds like a plan to me!" JenniAnn agreed.

She and Andrew followed the principality to his screened in porch where they found a pot of tea and scones waiting.

"You really don't have to feed us every time we visit," Andrew protested.

"Yes, I do," Reuel countered with a grin.  "Hospitality code, remember?  I do think it's only fair to warn you, though, that this little one is a horrible beggar when it comes to sweets."  He stroked Val Jean beneath his snout as JenniAnn continued to hold him.  "If you feel so compelled... he can have a little.  Just not any of the chocolate ones."

"Got it," JenniAnn replied with a giggle as the fox began to squirm upon glimpsing the laden table.

The three sat down, with Val Jean moving to Reuel's lap and eagerly eying the two guests.

"So you have some questions about the El-Chananite Church?" Reuel began.

JenniAnn nodded as she poured some tea.

"Just a couple, I think.  Firstly... is there anything you can think of that I would miss from Catholicism?  Like tradition-wise?"

"Are you fond of the sacrament of Reconciliation?"

JenniAnn blushed.

"No, not really.  I, umm, haven't been in a long while."

Reuel patted her hand before responding.

"It's not that we don't have the sacrament.  It's just... different.  Optional.  In all fairness, this is a Church that grew up in a world that Yeshua... Joshua... occasionally visits.  Who needs an intercessor when you can go to the Source of mercy?"

"I felt that way even before I met Joshua.  Like... I could go to him even if I couldn't see him or directly hear him," JenniAnn shared.

"And many Christian denominations will agree with you there.  Still... some people find the practice of confessing to another therapeutic.  Even in less religious settings you find that.  AA, for one.  So it's an option.  But only an option.  Thus, our children don't have a First Reconciliation... event... for lack of a better word."

JenniAnn looked to Andrew who shrugged.

"Don't just shrug, please," JenniAnn encouraged.  "This isn't just about me.  This is about Belle, too.  Are you okay with losing that?"

Andrew dragged his hand through his hair.

"Laja, I feel like I've already said too much about the Catholic Church and..."

JenniAnn sighed and clasped his hands.

"Andrew, you're not infallible.  I know that.  Think about Halloween.  You hated it.  Did that dissuade me from celebrating?  No.  It didn't.  Maybe it changed how I celebrated just a bit.  But barely so.  I'd like to hear your opinion and then I can weigh it against my own, if different.  I promise I won't just automatically agree with you because you're, you know, an angel and watched Christianity develop."

Smiling, Andrew nodded and squeezed JenniAnn's hands.

"All right.  Yes, I'm okay with losing Belle's First Reconciliation.  I wasn't entirely comfortable with it, either.  I know it's not the same but when I make a mistake... I take it to God.  I feel like everyone should be free to do the same without being penalized."

"Good, thank you.  I'm more than okay with scuttling it, too.  So... the rosary?" JenniAnn questioned.  "Do you have that?"

Reuel nodded.

"The prayers would be slightly different.  We use the Aramaic names in all our prayers.  But, yes, the rosary is part of the ECC tradition.  But please keep in mind that even if a given prayer wasn't, it's not as if it were banned."

"Good point, thanks.  So now a big one..."  JenniAnn bit her lip.  "Obviously, things aren't perfect here."

Reuel shook his head.

"We have our problems, yes."

"So probably in the history of the ECC, there have been cases of abuse by priests?" JenniAnn ventured.

Reuel nodded sadly.

"There have been."

"And how are those cases handled?"

"First, the accused priest is sent to a monastery.  Second, an investigation is begun.  If the allegations are found to be credible, the priest is defrocked in more severe cases.  In less severe cases, he or she is charged with living the life of a contemplative," Reuel explained.  "We have a zero tolerance policy, you might say."

JenniAnn and Andrew both relaxed.

"That... that sounds really good."  The angel of death gave Reuel a small smile.

"It's necessary," Reuel affirmed.  "This is a world that was founded, in large part, by survivors of systematic sexual abuse.  Our collective psyche won't allow us to be anything but vigilant and decisive when it comes to combating the same."

"I... I can understand that," JenniAnn murmured, thinking back on the story of El-Chanan's founding and the misery that had preceded it.

"Do you have someone like the Pope?" Andrew asked.

Reuel chuckled, welcoming a lighter question.

"Well..."

"You're him?" JenniAnn guessed with a grin.

"Not exactly...  But I am the second-to-final word when it comes to making a decision on doctrinal matters.  After all, I have the greatest breadth of experience.  But before that, the priests gather and see if they can't come to a consensus on their own."

"And the final word is... God?" Andrew guessed.

Reuel nodded.

"I'm just an angel.  I don't know everything.  As you well know, sometimes even we need counsel from our Father."

"We do," Andrew agreed, his tone tender and reverent.

"You might be interested to know that we have a sacrament for angel/human anam caras," Reuel pointed out.  "Of course, your own blessing with Joshua was unique and special to the both of you and can't be improved upon.  But I know it can sometimes be important to have one's religion validate one's relationship so... yours would be within the El-Chananite Church, whether you join us or not."

JenniAnn was so taken with this news that she didn't notice Andrew's eyes well nor him hastily brushing the tears away.

"Tell me more about this sacrament, please?" the woman requested.

As Reuel explained its history, dating back to his own time with Rafiq and the others, JenniAnn grew more and more enchanted while Andrew became increasingly hopeful.


JenniAnn awoke to a half-empty bed and an alarm clock reading 5:16 AM.  She stretched her legs then turned towards the sound of the fireplace crackling.  With a dreamy smile, she watched Andrew whittle away at something as he sat in front of the fire.  She wondered for how long he'd been up.  Pulling on her glasses, she could just make out the tiny form in his hands.  A fox... surely a thank you gift for Reuel. 

The previous night, he'd commented on how much more relaxed she'd seemed.  And JenniAnn felt relaxed... mostly.  The El-Chananite Church truly seemed to be everything she'd hoped it would be.  But she still felt a pang of regret as she thought about signing her name into a membership book, officially leaving behind the Church into which she'd been born.

But...

JenniAnn watched Andrew's strong but gentle hands bring the semblance of life to the fox.  She thought of those hands, joined to hers, in their chapel as Joshua prayed over them.  Holding their baby girl... later clasping her hands as he coaxed Belle to take her first steps.  JenniAnn thought of them holding her close after the archbishop's rudeness. 

Andrew deserved to be recognized and celebrated.

JenniAnn stepped out of bed and made her way towards the angel. 

Smiling when he saw her, Andrew sat down his knife and the fox.

"Good morning.  I hope I didn't wake you."

"Morning," JenniAnn replied.  "And no.  How long have you been up?"

"Since a little after 4:00."

JenniAnn perched on his right knee and nuzzled into his neck.

"Couldn't sleep?"

Andrew shrugged.

JenniAnn sat up and traced the contours of his face, paying special attention to the subtly deepening lines near his eyes.

"Laja?" a quizzical Andrew asked.

"Hmm?"

"This is nice but... what's going on?"

"Just thinking...  Thinking about what it would be like to go to Mass with you and be recognized for who we truly are... in a church founded by angels and humans.  To raise our daughter in a church that doesn't look at her parents with suspicion.  Somewhere that we can say... I'm yours and you are mine... forever and ever.  A... a church that... that will support you when... when I'm gone..."

"Laja..."  Andrew shook his head.  "Don't think about..."

"No.  I want to think about it.  Because that matters.  Andrew..."  JenniAnn rested her forehead against his.  "I don't want to hide any more...  I don't necessarily want teenagers taking our photo but..."

Eyes filled, Andrew laughed.

"But I'd prefer that to living under a cloud of suspicion.  Because I can't imagine the archbishop was the only one to make that assumption about us... he was just the only one prideful and rude enough to say it aloud to my face.  And I don't blame them.  I'd assume the same.  But... I also know that if I stood in front of St. Mary Magdalene's and declared that my true love was an angel of God... no one would believe me.  And I can't blame them for that, either.  But I... I want the religion we're raising Belle in to recognize us, to validate us.  And I... I don't want to have to worry over her being in that church... for other reasons.  Andrew, my love, I want to convert."

"You're sure?" the angel checked.

JenniAnn nodded.

"Maybe... with our twentieth anniversary in a couple years... maybe we could even celebrate it in the Church."

Andrew beamed.

"I'd like that."

"Me too."

The pair kissed then continued to smile at each other.

"Maybe a special breakfast to celebrate?" JenniAnn suggested.

"What did you have in mind?"

"Maybe... red velvet pancakes?"

Andrew smiled and nodded.

"Yeah, I could definitely go for that."

Together, the two made their way to the kitchen where they prepared enough pancake batter to feed their burgeoning household then, in the precious minutes before the others roused, they shared a dance in the ballroom.


Just before 4:00 that afternoon; Fr. Mike, Kyle, and Ana-Maria met with John outside of Randall's and Dot's house.

"Thanks for coming!" the saint greeted.  "Let's head on inside so we're not late."

"Are Joshua and Uncle Tony inside?" Kyle questioned.

"They went on ahead.  I told them we'd meet them there."

"Where exactly is there?" Ana-Maria asked.

John grinned.

"You'll see!"

The three followed John into the house and to the portal.  They briefly appeared in the gazebo in Dyeland and then watched as John tapped the symbol for El-Chanan.

"Are we visiting with Reuel?  Or Eunie and Gabriel?" the priest guessed.

"You'll see!" John repeated.

"Not gonna get anything out of you, are we, John?" Fr. Mike needled.

"Nope!  This way."

The group headed towards St. Rafiq's were they were surprised to find a variety of cars, carriages, horses, and donkeys in the parking lot and stable.

"Looks like something's going on," Ana-Maria commented.  "And something big!"

John had grown increasingly solemn as they approached the church.  When he opened the door, soft music drifted out.

Stepping inside; Fr. Mike and the teenagers were surprised to find dozens of men and women of myriad ethnicities lining the nave.  All of them wore priestly robes and were beaming.

At the end of the aisle, Joshua sat between Reuel and Bishop Tony, robed, crowned, and smiling.

When the trio turned to John to question him, they found that he, too, was now robed.

"What... is... this?" a stunned Fr. Mike questioned.

"Just head towards Joshua.  He'll tell you."

The Baptist nudged the priest and he moved forward.

"Now you two..."  John indicated for Kyle and Ana-Maria to follow.

Confused but excited, the couple joined hands and followed Fr. Mike with John trailing them.

As the quartet approached Joshua stood and raised his arms to either side.

Fr. Mike was so focused on Joshua that he didn't notice his parents and several of the Friends filling the first pews.  Nor did Kyle notice his family on the other side of the aisle.

"Welcome, Mike.  Welcome, Ana-Maria and Kyle," Joshua greeted.

"Thanks.  Umm..." Fr. Mike replied.

Joshua chuckled and embraced him then did the same with the teens before moving back to the center of the nave and taking in the crowd.

"Thank you, everyone, for coming this afternoon.  My special thanks to Reuel and to Tony and to John for getting Mike, Kyle, and Ana-Maria here."  He smiled at the person as he said each name.  "This has been a difficult time for the Christian Church.  The pain... it's touched some much more deeply than others... including some here.  Regardless of one's denomination, as Christians, as my children, you must never turn your back on another who is suffering.  However, as I well know, sometimes you need to step away from a place you love in order to better serve God.  For me, that meant leaving Nazareth... my hometown... which I loved.  I never gave up on Nazareth.  I never stopped loving Nazareth or its people.  But I needed to leave it in order to save it.  Some among you have found yourselves in a similar situation.  You have struggled... intensely... weighing your devotion to the Catholic Church against the yearning of your hearts to be somewhere you felt safer... freer...  And that struggle is especially difficult for those who devoted their lives to the Church."

Joshua stood in front of a now weeping Fr. Mike and took his hands.

"Mike, I know the desires of your heart.  I always have.  You have a noble, good heart, Mike.  Don't be afraid to say what it is you want," he gently coaxed.

Fr. Mike peered into Joshua's soft eyes and nodded.

"I... I want to be a... a priest.  But I... Joshua... I want to be a priest in... in this Church."

Joshua rested a hand against Fr. Mike's right cheek and nodded.

"Dearest ones, Fr. Mike has asked to become a priest in the El-Chananite Church," Joshua declared.  "I ask that you please stand with me as we welcome him."

The sound of several people getting to their feet caused Fr. Mike and Kyle to turn around and see their family and friends.  The former barely had time to process this when Tony and Reuel approached him.

"Tony..." Fr. Mike murmured.

The bishop grinned, looking like his old self.

"Don't worry, Mike.  As I was recently reminded, we're all part of the same Great Church, all brothers and sisters.  You will remain my brother.  Always."

Fr. Mike nodded.

"Yes, Tony...  Always..."

"Fr. Mike, this book contains the name of every priest to ever serve the El-Chananite Church," Reuel explained as he held out a massive tome.  "As it's your will to become an El-Chananite priest, I ask that you please add your name."

Joshua handed Mike a quill.

As the priest signed his name, the bishop stood behind him, a hand on his shoulder.

"Fr. Mike," the principality continued, "please kneel.  As a sign of your pledge today, we ask that you reaffirm the promises made at your Baptism and Confirmation."

Fr. Mike knelt in front of Joshua.

"Do you reject Satan and all his works, all his empty promises?" Gabriel called from the nave. 

"I do," Fr. Mike vowed.

"Do you believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth?" Eunice asked.

"I do."

"Do you believe in Yeshua ben Yosef, his only Son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Maryam was crucified, died, and was buried, rose from the dead, and is now seated at the right hand of the Father?" a third priest questioned.

"I do."

"Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting?"

"I do."

John moved behind Fr. Mike and with ill-concealed glee, dumped a cup of water over his head.

"God, the all-powerful Father of our Lord Yeshua has given us a new birth by water and the Holy Spirit, and forgiven all our sins.  May he also keep us faithful to our Lord Yeshua forever and ever," the Baptist prayed.

"Amen," the crowd replied.

Joshua helped Fr. Mike to his feet and handed him a towel.

"I told you a sprinkling was fine, John," he reminded in a hushed but amused tone.

Fr. Mike laughed.

"I'm okay... definitely okay."  He sighed happily then noticed the bishop standing with a white chasuble and a familiar stole... it was one of the ones Fr. Mike had been given during his anniversary celebration at St. Mary Magdalene's.

Tony approached and smiled.

"Eunie made you this chasuble.  Joshua suggested the stole," he informed.  "I think it's right.  You're not leaving us behind, Mike.  You're carrying us with you."

"Yes...  I always will," Fr. Mike agreed. 

Bishop Tony helped him into the garments and the congregation cheered as Fr. Mike faced them in his priestly garb.

After the applause had died down, Joshua again spoke.

"Fr. Mike's union with the El-Chananite Church is reason enough to be glad.  But we're also here for another reason.  We're here to celebrate a young man who, years ago, chose to give his life to me and to my Church.  During recent visits with Fr. Gabriel and Mother Eunice, he's made known his desire to become a priest in the El-Chananite Church... with his beloved Ana-Maria at his side.  Kyle, is that still your wish?"

"Yes... very much," the young man replied as Ana-Maria nodded eagerly beside him.  "Please."

"Kyle and Ana-Maria, please kneel," Reuel requested.

As with Fr. Mike, the two were led through the baptismal promises.  Also like Fr. Mike, Kyle had a cup of water dumped over his head while Ana-Maria received a gentle sprinkling.

Joshua shot John a look as Ana-Maria giggled.

"I'm a buffoon," John confessed.  "But I'm not ungentlemanly." 

Joshua chuckled as he helped the teenagers to their feet.

Tony approached his nephew and hugged him tightly then did the same with Ana-Maria before turning to the crowd.

"I've been informed that the El-Chananite Church apprentices its seminarians to an older, more experienced priest.  As Kyle's uncle, I would like to request that Fr. Mike be his mentor.  Fr. Mike, do you accept?"

Stunned but utterly pleased, Fr. Mike nodded.

"Absolutely.  Thank you, Tony, for your trust in me."

Kyle hugged his new mentor then pulled Ana-Maria into their embrace.

"Thank you, everyone, for celebrating with us today.  We'll be having a reception downstairs to further welcome Fr. Mike, Kyle, and their friends and family.  I hope you'll join us.  Now... go in peace to love and serve... me," Joshua finished with a cheeky grin that caused everyone to burst into laughter.


"So... how?" Kyle asked as he sat down with his family. 

Leo laughed and shook his head.

"It was pretty incredible.  I was just leaving work when Tony rolls up in a van with Romano Family Farm on the side.  I joked and asked if he'd gotten a second job.  He just told me to get in.  And there's Joshua just sitting there.  Then we're off and we picked up Becca next.  Then the kids."

"I thought Uncle Tony had lost his mind," Theodora reported with a grin. 

"Probably have," he joked.  "But not like you were thinking."

"Gladdy and I were next," Mac added.  "Joshua told us that it was a surprise for Kyle..."

"Then he glowed real, real bright!" Mandy chirped.  She leaned over and hugged Joshua's arm.  "I like you better than the Jesus in the pictures at church.  You smile more."

Joshua wrapped an arm around the little girl and kissed her hair.

"Thank you, Mandy.  You make me smile."

"Grandma screamed," Patrick revealed.

"Well, now...  One doesn't expect to meet the Son of God in the back of a van," Gladdy defended.  "But I'm so glad we did."  She smiled at Joshua.

"Then we went to the farm and then to a place with a purple castle!" Mandy shared.  "It was so pretty."

"You can come visit whenever you like, sweetheart," JenniAnn called from the next table over.

"Okay!  Thanks!"

"And then we came here," Becca explained.  "And Joshua told us all what was going to happen and we... Kyle, we were all so proud.  Are so proud..."  She hugged her son.

"It... it's so amazing.  And I'm so glad you all know.  Now... now you know that I really have been in good hands these past couple of months."  Kyle beamed at Joshua and reached across the table to squeeze his hand.  "I just wish..."

"What is it?" Tony encouraged.

"Well, I wish I hadn't been wearing jeans and a ratty flannel shirt for all that."

Joshua laughed and waved away the boy's concern.

"You were just fine.  This is the same robe I wore when in my workshop back in Nazareth."

"The crown really spruces it up, though," Kyle teased.

"Pretty crown..." Mandy cooed.

Joshua took it off and placed it on her head.

"Prettier on you."  He chuckled at its lopsidedness.  "You'll grow into it, kiddo."

"I... I get to keep it?" Mandy asked, eyes huge.

"Absolutely."

"Thank you, Joshua," Becca smiled at him.  "For..."  Tears welled in her eyes and began to fall.  "For the crown but also for... for being with my... my boy."

Joshua stood and encircled his arms around the weeping mother, comforting her as her family looked on. 

Kyle rose and placed a hand on his mother's shaking shoulders.

Ana-Maria clasped Tony's hand tightly.

"We'll be fine now, Uncle Tony.  We'll all be fine," she assured. 

Tony heaved a sigh, letting go of all his lingering worries for his family and nodded.

"I know, my girl.  I know."


"I'm just so glad that so many of you are here!" Fr. Mike gushed from a nearby table.  "How long have you known about this?"

"JenniAnn and I came here shortly after noon," Andrew replied.

"I'd decided to convert and I wanted to make it official.  Joshua had left earlier and I thought he was with Mason but..."

"He'd actually gone to pick up Tony from St. Bregwin's," John shared.  "They'd come here, Joshua had filled the bishop in and they'd run through the ceremony.  So they were here when Andrew and JenniAnn showed up."

"We were curious, obviously," the angel of death interjected.

"So Joshua filled us in and told us to contact everyone and see who was available for 4:00.  Which was just about everyone, thankfully," JenniAnn added.

"Then Joshua left to come talk to your dad and me in person."  Sibyll smiled proudly at her son.  "Of course we had to come!"

"Ivy and I skipped a class to be here!" Violeta exclaimed.

"Which was totally worth it," Ivy opined.  "I'm so happy for you, Fr. Mike!"

"Thank you, Ivy.  I know you're sticking with the Catholic Church and I think that's wonderful.  I just hope you know..."

"Oh, I'll still be coming to you with questions all the time, Fr. Mike," Ivy assured with a grin.

"Good!"

"Marco and I will still come to Mass with you, once you're settled in, Fr. Mike.  You tell some of the most poignant, delightful homilies... and one hears a lot of homilies over a few hundred years!" Isolde complimented.  "Marco's sorry to have missed out on being here but he's training some new hires from the Chrysalis."

Kemara nodded.

"Sean wishes he could have been here, too.  Thankfully, Owen recorded everything."

Owen held up his phone. 

"I can't vouch for the quality but... yes, I got it all."

"Good.  Thank you for that."  Fr. Mike's smile remained as his gaze traveled around the table, taking in all the beloved faces. "I can't wait to see where this new chapter brings us all."

John tapped his water glass and raised it.

"To Fr. Mike and to Kyle... may your ministries be long, fruitful, and filled with joy," he toasted.  "May you always remember that, whether you see him or not, Joshua is always with you..."

As everyone else called out in agreement and added to the toast, only Fr. Mike and Joshua heard what John had added at the end of his toast.

"...and may you also remember that I'm six months older."

The priest laughed happily while Joshua shook his head and did the same.


At Mason's request, Joshua arrived at his apartment a little after 10:00 on Saturday morning. 

"Good morning!" Joshua greeted once Mason had opened the door.  "How are you doing?"

"Good... nervous but good.  How about you?"

"Doing good.  The kids made me Froot Loops encrusted waffles this morning so... I have a little bit of a sugar high," Joshua joked.

Mason wrinkled his nose.

"I love sugar but... yikes."

"Josh!"

Renee rose from the kitchen table and dashed towards Joshua, embracing him.

"I'm so glad you're here."

"Glad to be here.  Hey, Roger."

"Josh..."  The man rose and also hugged Joshua.

"So... the letter..."  Joshua eyed the piece of mail on the table.

Mason nodded.

"Yeah.  Thanks for agreeing to come read it... and for your patience.  I decided today would be good because, if it's bad, I have the rest of today and all of tomorrow to recuperate before work on Monday."

"Good thinking," Joshua affirmed.

Mason waved him over to the table.  Once Joshua had taken a seat, he handed him the letter.

Joshua himself felt a bit nervous as he unsealed it.  He well knew how much Mason's parents regretted dismissing their son's accusation.  But what they felt after news of Blaine Wesson's repeated abuses had reached them?  He could only guess.

"Can I get you some tea first, Josh?  Or water?  Anything?" Renee offered.

Joshua smiled at her and shook his head.

"No.  I'm fine.  Thank you, though.  I'll start reading now."

With a nod from Mason, Joshua took in the familiar handwriting of Virginia Edwards.

My sweet Mason,

I hope this letter reaches you.  Your dad and I found your name on your company's web site and then picked the Mason Edwards nearest to your office building.  I pray it's you reading this, my son.

Earliest this week, your dad was watching the local news and saw a report about that young man who was raped at his seminary.  We were devastated when we realized the priest he named was the same one you had named so many years ago.  Our heartbreak and regret increased when we read about your very brave declaration at that church meeting.

Mason, you can't know how many nights we've laid awake thinking of the night you told us you'd been raped by that awful man.  And we don't want you to know.  We don't want you to pity us or feel sad for us.  We committed one of the gravest sins that parents can commit: we failed to believe our boy when he needed us most.  We put our church above our son.  For that, we are tremendously sorry. 

We'd love to hear from you, Mason... to apologize in person, to hug you, to truly listen.  But if that's not what you want, please know that we believe you now.  We love you.  And we are so very proud of you.

We're still at home and we'll stay here as long as we can... hoping. 

Take care, Mason.

Love,
Mom and Dad

Joshua wiped a tear from his face and held the letter out to Mason.

"You need to read it, Mason."

"Oh... okay..."

As Renee stroked his back, Mason read the repentant words from his parents.  Tears streamed down his face.  When he was through, he continued to weep in Renee's arms for several minutes.

Roger stared across the table at Joshua who gave him a trembling smile and a nod.  Roger let out the breath he was holding, grateful that his friend had been given some measure of peace.


Rabbi Yakov sat in his study, making notes for a discussion he was holding at the ecumenical meeting the following day.  It would be a special one... the last with Fr. Mike representing the Catholic Church. 

"Yakov?" Tiva called from the hallway.

"Hmm?"

Tiva poked her head through the doorway.

"You have a visitor."

The rabbi frowned when he saw the alarm and confusion on his wife's face.  He rose and rested his hand at the small of her back.

"Tiva, what's wrong?"

"It's... the archbishop.  I mean... the former archbishop."

"Was he rude to you?"

Tiva shook her head.

"Only curt.  He's in the parlor."

Yakov nodded, gave his wife an affectionate squeeze, and went to greet his guest. 

Francis Wesson stood, examining a Marc Chagall print on the wall.  He stepped back when he saw the rabbi had entered the room.

"Rabbi Levine," he greeted.

"Fr. Wesson," Yakov responded.  "What brings you here?"

"I came... seeking information," Wesson replied.

Rabbi Yakov motioned for him to take a seat.

Tiva entered with a tray that contained a tea pot, two cups, and some cookies.

"Thank you, my dear."

"Thank you," the priest added without meeting Tiva's gaze.

"You're welcome.  Call if you need anything else."  Tiva gave her husband a pointed look.

"Of course."  The rabbi smiled at her then poured a cup of tea for Wesson and another for himself.  "Information about?"

"Last month...   At the meeting...  There was a man with you."

"I had several men among my group of friends."

"This one...  He looked...  Well, there were two of them who appeared..."  Wesson's hand waved in front of his face.

"Jewish?" the rabbi suggested, both amused and annoyed.

"Well, yes...  The one spoke.  But the other... he was silent.  I want to know who that man was."

"Why?"

"There was something about him... it unsettled me."

Yakov laughed darkly.

"Everything that's happened and Joshua unsettles you?"

"Joshua..." the priest echoed.

The rabbi frowned.  He hadn't meant to say Joshua's name.  But then what harm was there in it?  Joshua was more than capable of protecting himself and it wasn't as if Wesson could look him up in a phone book and hunt him down.

"Yes.  That was my friend, Joshua Davidson."

"Is he a friend of Fr. Michael's?"

"Yes, he's a friend of Fr. Mike's."

"I see.  He seemed very supportive of the two young men who spoke up."

"Someone needs to support them.  Their Church hasn't," the rabbi rebuked.

Wesson's fist clenched.  Noticing, he unfolded it.

"I find it interesting that your... group... managed to connect with two of my nephew's alleged victims."

"They are his victims," Yakov growled.

"I find the timing interesting... This Joshua... your group... they befriended them shortly after I dismissed Michael... your friend."

The rabbi rose to his feet and stared down at the priest.

"What else do you find interesting, Francis?  Do you think my little group ran all over the world, encouraging people to make accusations against priests?  You think we hopped into a time machine and planted the earliest accusations?  Your Church has a problem!  My group has nothing to do with it beyond supporting those survivors who come to us."

"I saw the paintings!" Francis shouted.

"Paintings?"  The rabbi sat back down.  "What are you talking about?"

"I saw the paintings that Michael kept in the rectory... paintings of this Joshua... dressed up to look like Christ."

Yakov sighed.

"Joshua played Jesus in a production of Jesus Christ Superstar.  He did a superb job and a friend, who is an artist, did a series of paintings."

"That's all?"

The rabbi was stumped.  Of course it wasn't all.  But the priest was quite obviously not ready for the truth.

"That's all I feel the need to tell you."

"I see.  Well... I have a theory.  I think this Joshua Davidson is responsible for Fr. Michael's... indiscretions.  I think he has undue influence over your group and, as a professed man of God, I'm shocked that you've allowed a pretender to have so much sway over your friends."

Rabbi Yakov's ears tingled with rage.  But then he thought of Peter in the Garden... Joshua hadn't liked violence then and he wouldn't like it now.

"You are wrong.  And I won't have you defame my friends in my house.  I've not forgotten your insinuation about my wife, Francis.  I won't hear any more," he shouted.  "Get out!  Now!"

The rabbi grabbed the priest's coat from a nearby rack and flung it at him.

"Out!  Now!" he repeated.

With a silent glare, Francis Wesson left the house.

Tiva returned from where she'd been lurking in the hall.

"Horrid man!" Yakov bellowed. 

"Awful," Tiva agreed.  "Should I call Joshua?"

Her husband nodded.

"Yes, please.  If for no other reason than I need to confess for the revenge scenarios running through my head right now..."

Tiva patted Yakov's back and left to place a call into Willowveil.


Joshua arrived soon after with Andrew in tow.

In a furious tumble of words and pacing, Rabbi Yakov relayed what had occurred to the two.  Andrew dragged his hand through his hair while Joshua rested his head in his hands.

"It angers me to no end that he hasn't accepted responsibility for his nephew's crimes and his part in covering them up!  But now to turn on Joshua!"

"Yakov, sit down before you hurt yourself," Tiva ordered.

The rabbi complied.

Joshua looked up.

"Francis lost sight of me long ago...  I'm not surprised.  And, right now, he's grasping at anything he feels can help him.  A conspiracy led by a strange Jewish man?  Why not?"

Andrew frowned upon hearing Joshua's bitter tone and rested a hand on his back.

"On the plus side, he no longer has a pulpit.  So there's no way he can publicly decry you."

Joshua nodded.

"And that's something to be grateful for.  But he still has his partisans.  And some of them have powerful media ties.  I don't want to think of any St. G familiars having their memories tarnished... not to mention any impact it might have on current attendance.  Although... the people who show up at St. G's don't tend to be the ones watching programs or reading articles sympathetic to Francis and his ilk.  But his continued denial..."

Tiva reached over to squeeze Joshua's hand.

"Did you make eye contact with him at all during the meeting?"

Joshua nodded.

"Once.  Only briefly.  He looked away."

Tiva shook her head.

"I'm so sorry, Joshua."

"Thank you, Tiva."  Joshua brought her hand to his lips.  "Thankfully, Francis can't hurt Mike any more.  And, come to think of it, Tony is his bishop now.  So he may very well order him to stop speaking to the media.  It's just sad.  He held such promise once..."

The other three were quiet, leaving Joshua to his memories.


The baby kicking stirred Emma from her sleep.  Smiling, she roused and caressed her belly.

"Hey there, it's okay.  It'd bedtime now.  Shhh..." she cooed.

Turning to her other side, Emma realized that Peter was gone.

"Hmm...  Are you awake because Daddy's awake?" she mused.  "Let's go find him."

Emma slid on her slippers and stepped into the living room.  She cocked her head in confusion when she heard singing.

"'Why waste your breath moaning at the crowd?'"

It was Joshua singing.

"'Nothing can be done to stop the shouting...'"

Emma glimpsed her husband sprawled on the couch, his face tinged by the TV.

"Peter?  What are you doing?" she called as she approached.

Peter paused the TV and sat up.

"Sorry.  I hope I didn't wake you."

"No, baby did.  He's kicking a lot.  I think he missed you."

Peter smiled and patted Emma's belly once she was seated beside him.

"I'm here, baby boy," he assured.

"So why are you watching the show?  You didn't get enough of it earlier?  The show only ended what..."  Emma checked the clock.  "Not even quite two hours ago?"

Peter chuckled and nodded.

"I guess I just wanted to see Joshua do it.  Emma, I've been thinking..."

"Uh oh..."

Peter smiled.

"It's a good thing, I think.  I think... Joshua should go on tomorrow."

Emma gaped.

"Have you told him this?"

"No... I just thought of it tonight.  I couldn't sleep and I got to thinking about how you... you had that experience while watching Joshua re-enact the Crucifixion.  It's how you came to believe he was... him.  Mason's coming tomorrow night so maybe..."

Emma stroked her husband's face.

"Sweetie...  I love that you had this idea.  I love that you want to do this for Mason and Joshua.  But... I also watched Joshua perform night after night and had all sorts of other experiences.  It... it's not like I saw him act once and was like 'He's Jesus!  I believe again!'"

Peter frowned.

"I know but..."

"But it's worth a chance.  I just don't want you being heartbroken if it doesn't work.  Because it's not the same situation."

"I won't be!" Peter assured. "If nothing else... we get to watch Joshua perform again!  Wouldn't that be great?"

Emma smiled dreamily.

"It would be pretty great...  But how are you going to convince Joshua to do it?  You can't pretend to be sick."

"I know.  I just figured I'd ask him... tell him it would do my soul good to see it.  That's completely true."

"I think..." Emma began, "that you should do it!"

"Great!" Peter hugged and kissed her.  "I can't wait!"

"Me neither."

"But for now... we better get you back to bed."

"In a little bit.  Just let him finish this song."

"Okay."

Snuggled together, the two watched Joshua face-off against the Pharisees.


Joshua stared across the breakfast table in Willowveil's ballroom while Emma and Peter sat on the other side, anxiously returning his gaze.

"Please, please, please do it..." Violeta pleaded. 

"Oh Joshua...  How can you resist that face?" JenniAnn teased.

"JenniAnn certainly never can," Andrew quipped before kissing her cheek.

Joshua chuckled.

"You're all gaining up on me.  And on today of all days..."  He gave them an exaggerated, disappointed scowl.

Peter took up his fork and spoon and banged them on the table.

"Joshua!  Joshua!" he hooted.

Soon, everyone in the ballroom was going the same thing, including those who had no idea why they were doing it.

"You're setting a bad example for the children!" Joshua shouted over the din.

"Joshua!  Joshua!" the crowd continued, uncowed.

Joshua laughed. 

"Oh fine!" he bellowed. 

There was an immediate silence.

"I'll do it."

The ballroom erupted in applause and shrieks of joy.


That evening, Peter met Mason, Renee, and Roger at the ticket booth.

"Hey Peter!" Roger greeted.  "What are you doing out here?  I figured you'd be in make-up already."

"Usually I would be but... change of plans.  Joshua's going on for me."

"Oh no!" Renee lamented.  "Are you sick?"

"No, no.  I just... wanted to watch Joshua do it again.  So I told him that I'd show you to your box since he is in make-up."

"Wow...  That'll be something to see.  And thanks again for the box.  It'll be nice to have some privacy.  I might need Renee and Roger to fill me in since my Gospel knowledge is a little rusty," Mason joked.

"Sure.  No problem.  Right this way.  Show will start in..." Peter checked his phone.  "Twenty minutes!  I'll see you afterwards."

"Thanks, Peter!"

"Thank you!"

"Thanks!"

Peter made his way back down to the main floor then backstage where JenniAnn was fussing over Joshua.

"Mason, Renee, and Roger are here," he reported. 

"I'm glad.  Peter?"

"Hmm?"

"Is that why you really asked me to do this?" Joshua inquired knowingly.

"Yeah..." Peter admitted.  "I didn't want to tell you in case it doesn't work out.  And I really did just long to see you do this again.  You... you are the best Jesus, after all."

Joshua smiled and squeezed Peter's hand.

"Thanks.  I appreciate this."

"You're welcome, Joshua!"  Peter bent to kiss his cheek.  "I need to go see Zeke, ask him to announce the casting change.  Break a leg!"

"Thank you!" Joshua smiled as Peter dashed away.

"I'll pray it works."  JenniAnn set down her make-up brush and squeezed Joshua's shoulder.

Joshua took her hand in his.

"Thank you...  I'll be praying, too."


Outside the theatre, John watched the last of the crowd pour in at five minutes til showtime.  He planned to stand in the back of the theatre with Peter, taking it all in.  It gave him a thrill to watch people fall in love with his cousin.

John was just about to step inside when a man came running towards him.  Politely, he held the door.

"Thank you," the man responded.

"You're welcome.  Better hurry.  Show's starting soon."

"Noted."  The man fished a ticket out of his pocket and looked up at John for the first time.

There was a moment of mutual recognition as John and Francis Wesson stared at each other.


To thunderous applause, Zeke walked onto the still-curtained stage.

"Thank you!" he called.  "Thank you, ladies and gentlemen!  Before we begin our show, I have an announcement to make.  Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have an understudy stepping into the role of Jesus Christ."

Disappointed murmurs and even some boos sounded throughout the theatre.

"Please, please...  Rest assured, our understudy will not disappoint.  Those of you who have been attending our Superstar productions may remember him....  Ladies and gentlemen, tonight only, Joshua Davidson will be reprising his role as Jesus!"

The "repeat-offenders" immediately outted themselves by screaming and shouting with glee.  Their enthusiasm put the kibosh on any of the newcomers' lingering concerns. 

Zeke grinned over at Joshua who stood just off-stage then turned back to the crowd.

"And now... Andrew Lloyd Weber's Jesus Christ Superstar!"

The instrumentation began and Joshua spoke.

"'Sh'ma Yis'ra'eil Adonai Eloheinu Adonai echad.'"

"'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.'"


"'Thirty!'" Adam bellowed.  "'Thirty one!'"

Up in the box, tears filled Mason's eyes.  Joshua looked so horribly anguished... he had to remind himself that it was all pretend.  Joshua was his friend.  Adam was Joshua's friend.  The blood was paint.  The whip was a trick.

"'Thirty two!  Thirty three...'"

Roger clasped the arms of his seat.  It was all at once terrible and wonderful to behold... Joshua pretending to be Joshua...  He peered over at his cousin and Mason.

Renee was hugging Mason's arm, sometimes turning into his shoulder to hide her tear-streaked face.

"'Thirty four...  Thirty five!  Thirty six...  Thirty sev-ven...  Thirty... eight...  Thirty nine!'"

Joshua collapsed and Adam held him by the shoulders like a rag doll before the two crumpled to the ground together.

"'Where are you from, Jesus?  What do you want, Jesus?  Tell me...  You've got to be careful... you could be dead soon.  Could well be.'"  Adam shook Joshua.  "'Why do you not speak when I hold your life in my hands?  How can you stay quiet?  I don't believe you understand!'"

Mason stared at Joshua... weak, abused, nearly naked, powerless...  But even from a distance, he could see a tenderness in Joshua's gaze as he looked at Adam.  Was it bad acting?  Joshua letting his fondness for his friend sneak through? 

No...

Mason realized it was exquisite acting.  Because if Jesus truly was who he'd said he was... he would have loved that man... that awful, bigoted, war-hungry Roman.

And if Jesus was who he'd said he was... he would still love him... for all his denial, his anger, his crassness... Jesus would still love him.

Mason's thoughts turned to that horrible night in the bar.  Most of it was blurry.  But one image was burned into his memory... Joshua, on the floor, bleeding and in pain...

But he'd come back.  He'd embraced Mason and welcomed him into his makeshift family.

If a mere mortal could do that... surely God could.


Following the Resurrection scene, Joshua walked backstage to the sound of the Friends applauding wildly.  Most of them had tears in their eyes as they launched themselves at him for a huge group hug.

"You still got it, Boss!" Adam complimented.

"That's my baby boy!" Violeta kidded as she pulled off her Maryam veil. 

Andrew beamed.

"Amazing show, everyone!  Joshua..."  He hugged him tightly.  "Absolutely amazing."

"Thanks, Andrew.  The energy out there was really great, wasn't it?  I can't wait to go out and visit with everyone."

"We might have to tie you down.  I have a feeling some of those people would like to take you home," Emma teased.

Joshua grinned.

"They can... just not quite in that way."

JenniAnn took his hand.

"C'mon.  Let's get the rest of that make-up off you.  And... Peter was going to bring our three friends backstage."

"Oh... great," Joshua replied, a touch nervous.

Violeta took his other hand.

"They had to have felt something, Joshua...  It's impossible not to."

Joshua smiled and went with the two to the blue room.

JenniAnn was still wiping red paint off his back and Violeta from his arms when Peter entered with Mason, Roger, and Renee.

Joshua grinned.

"The life of a sometimes-actor... isn't it glamorous?" he joked to ease the awkwardness.

JenniAnn smiled.

"We're almost done.  Just a couple more dabs and... spin."

Joshua did so.

"You're all good!  Violeta, come... umm... help me fold programs for tomorrow."

"But..."

JenniAnn grabbed the angel's hand and pulled her out of the room.  Peter followed them.

Joshua pulled a sweater over his head and again smiled at his guests.

"So what did you think?"

Renee approached first and clung to Joshua.

"You were so... so... great.  I... I...  Aww, Josh..."

Joshua held her close and gently swayed.

"There, there...  It's all right.  I'm all right."

Mason's eyes welled again as he watched Joshua tend to Renee.  Roger rested a hand on his friend's back.

"It... it was pretty unbelievable, huh?" Mason asked.

"In a believable way... sure," Roger replied with a smile.

Mason returned the smile.

"Okay... okay...  I can't hog you.  Mason, come talk to Josh."

Renee swiped at her tears and returned to Roger's side.

Mason shuffled forward and hugged Joshua.

"You really were amazing, Josh.  I remember you singing at the apartment, of course but... man, you've got some pipes."

Joshua chuckled.

"Thanks, Mason.  Means a lot to have you say that."

Mason nodded.

"And you're a great actor, too.  I..."  He sighed.  "Josh... after that happened to me... I lost my ability to believe that someone that good... that holy... that kind could have ever lived.  But now that I've seen you do that...  met you, even...  I think I can believe in Him again.  In Jesus.  I want to...  I..."  Mason met Joshua's loving gaze.  "I... do.  Believe.  In Him."

Joshua threw his arms around Mason.

"I'm so glad, Mason... so glad.  And he... he believes in you, too."

It wasn't the reaction that Peter had hoped for nor the one that JenniAnn and so many of the others had prayed for... but, for Joshua, it was perfect.


Maryam pulled a batch of cookies from the oven of a shelter for refugees in Canada where she, Yosef, and Eben were posted.

"Cookies are done, Yosef!" the angel called outside.

Pausing to brush away some sawdust, the carpenter entered.

"Very good.  Now to read Yeshu's letter..." 

Maryam plated the cookies and, once Eben had passed out milk, Yosef picked up a letter and began to read.

Dear Ama, Abi, and Eben.  I hope this letter finds you well.  And Yoktan, too!  I know he must be loving spending time with the little ones.  Things are great here.  Last night, Mason, Renee, and Roger attended JCS and... Renee and Mason still don't know who I am but he found his faith again!  He believes in me!  He believes that I'm with him always!  I'm thrilled.  Abba is thrilled.  John, however, is... strange.  I mean, of course, he is.

Maryam laughed.

But... strange for John strange.  Ever since after the show last night.  He's being very secretive.  I don't know whether to be concerned for him... or myself.  I'm half-expecting a large water gun to materialize at the most inopportune time and drench me.  Anyway, the Friends are well.  They miss you very much, Ama and Abi.  And...

Yosef cut off his recitation when the kitchen door flew open. 

"Yolanda!" Maryam cried as a sobbing young woman came careening towards them.

Yosef rose from the table and caught Yolanda in his arms.

"Yolanda..." Maryam repeated, softly as she stroked her quaking back.

"Yolanda, what's happened?" Eben asked in Spanish.

For several moments, the woman only wept in Yosef's arms.  Then, still shaking, she stepped back and told her story. 

"I... I was cleaning my hotel rooms.  Then one of the doors on the other side of the hall opened.  A man asked me to restock his bathroom.  It... it wasn't my side of the hall but I gave him the things.  Shampoo, towels... But he shook his head and said I needed to come in and replace them myself.  So... so I did.  And while I was in the bathroom...  I... I heard the room door close.  He... he grabbed me and threw me on... on the bed a-and tried..."

The men's faces darkened while Maryam's grew more tender. 

Yolanda gestured towards the front of her blouse which was mangled.

"I... I fought.  And bit.  I... I got away.  He screamed after me but... I ran... ran here."

Maryam cradled the woman's face.

"Yolanda... dear Yolanda... I am so very sorry that happened to you.  Precious girl..."  She wrapped her arms around the still shaking woman and rocked her.

"Would you like us to call the police?" Yosef offered.

"You would not be in any danger," Maryam hastened to add.  "You're safe here."

Yolanda looked back and forth between the three faces.  She trusted them to keep her safe.  She nodded.

"Brave girl," Yosef praised before turning to Eben.  "Call the police, please.  And tell them..."  He lowered his voice.  "Tell them to send someone who can be gentle.  Yolanda cannot be further rattled right now."

Eben nodded.

"Of course, I'll go do that now."

While the angel made the phone call, Maryam and Yosef continued to comfort their charge.


"Okay... just sit right here," John coaxed, leading Joshua to a chair in Willowveil's TV room.  "Are you comfortable?"

"Honestly, a little creeped out," Joshua confessed.  "John, what is this?"

"I just... I want you to watch a video."

"Okay..."

John rested the laptop he'd borrowed from Fr. Mike in Joshua's lap.

"And then click on that video file."

Joshua obeyed.

"And..." 

"Good morning, viewers!  On this week's edition of Faith of Our Fathers, I'd like to welcome back Fr. Francis Wesson, former archbishop of our great city," the host introduced.  "Fr. Wesson, how are you doing?"

The camera zoomed in on the priest, revealing a disheveled man who had clearly begged off shaving that morning.

"Hello," he replied.

"And how are you this morning, Father?" the host repeated.

"Fine..."

"He looks... drugged?" Joshua commented.

"Drugged on the truth!" John cheered.

Confused, Joshua returned his attention to the screen.

"Folks, Fr. Wesson is here to talk to us about a disturbing theatrical production taking place right here in our city.  Fr. Wesson, would you please tell us why you think the production of Jesus..."

"No," the priest interrupted, shaking his head.  "No...  I...  No.  There... there's no problem.  It's... it's glorious.  He...  He..."

Joshua watched, in sympathy and surprise, as the man began to cry.

"Folks, we're going to cut to commercial.  As I'm sure you can understand, Fr. Wesson has been under a great deal of strain following the misleading accusations being level..."

"No!" Wesson interrupted again.  "They're... they're true.  All true...  I... I covered up for... for my nephew.  For other... other priests.  It... it's all true.  I didn't... didn't honor my vows...  I... I betrayed the... the God I claimed to serve...  A-and for... for what?" 

"Okay, we need to wrap this up and..."

"I'm sorry!" Wesson bellowed.  "I'm sorry...  I'm so, so sorry...  My God... my God... I'm sorry."

The video abruptly ended. 

Joshua turned to John, his face glistening with tears.

"How...  John, did you..."

Joshua mimed his head being lifted off.

John smiled gently and shook his head.

"You told me not to so I didn't... as sorely tempted as I was.  That..."  He gestured to the computer screen.  "Was all you, my cousin.  He came to the show last night.  I bumped into him outside.  I think he came to gather evidence for his rant on the show.  But then I found him afterwards... weeping in the grotto."

"Do you... think he knows about me?" Joshua questioned.

"I'm not sure.  Here, I'll show you."

John offered Joshua his hand.

Taking it, Joshua closed his eyes.

"Memory, show Joshua last night!" John directed, mimicking a game show host.

Joshua smiled at his cousin's antics then found himself standing in the grotto at St. Genesius'.


"Who's there?" John called as he approached.

Francis Wesson shifted into view.

Shock was evident on John's face as he took in the man's expression.

"Hello again," John greeted.

"Good evening," Wesson replied, his voice hoarse.

"Why are you weeping?"

"The show... it was very moving.  The man playing Jesus..."

"He's my cousin," John proudly interrupted.

"He...  I've seen many passion plays in my life but he..."

"Joshua is the best," John boasted.

"Yes...  I see that now." 

Wesson sat down on a bench and John did the same.

"You were at the meeting.  At St. Mary Magdalene's," the priest recalled.  "Both of you.  You spoke."

"I did, yes.  And Joshua was there."

"Why?"

"Fr. Mike is my friend.  I needed to speak up for him.  And... I was born to testify to the truth.  You needed to hear some truth that night."

"The way you speak..."  Wesson shook his head.  "What's your name?"

"John."

"John who?"

"You wouldn't believe me if I said.  Would you like to meet Joshua?" John offered.

Wesson shuddered and shook his head.

"No... no...  I... can't."

"You could," John pressed. 

The priest shook his head.

"Why did you come here tonight?" John questioned.

Wesson hung his head.

"My reasons... weren't good."

John nodded.

"'And the Pharisees went, and they took counsel how they might catch him in discourse,'" he quoted, causing the priest to flush.  "And now?"

"I... have nothing to say against your cousin... or anyone here."

"Good.  Because these are good people who love and serve God.  And... they've done something that you haven't been able to bring yourself to do.  They've loved and supported two of your nephew's victims."

Wesson began to weep again.

"I... I truly don't know where he is right now.  If I did... I would tell.  I know now... as I should have known long ago... that he... he is a scourge on the Church.  And I... I'm an even greater scourge because I allowed it to go on."

"Why now... why do you only see this now?" John pressed.

"I... I lost my way.  I wanted to serve God... to teach others to serve and love Him.  But then... the promotions started.  I began to care more about power... esteem... than... than faith... love.  I was so very proud when Blaine followed me into the ministry.  And... and then the whispers started.  And that boy... Mason... he... he told me what Blaine had... had done to him.  But I couldn't... it would ruin me.  Ruin everything I'd built..."

"For yourself," John interjected, not bothering to conceal his annoyance.

"Yes... everything I'd built for myself."  Wesson sighed.  "But tonight... there was something so... kingly, so magnificent about your cousin.  And to watch him... diminish... willingly... purposefully... for the good of all mankind..."

"Yes..." John affirmed, his eyes sparkling with tears. 

"What... what do I do now?" Wesson pleaded.

John rose to his feet and stood before the priest.

"Francis John Wesson...  You were named for two saints...  St. Francis who put aside his wealth to help those in need... and St. John the Baptist... who spoke the truth, even when it meant surrendering my...  his life.  You have a choice now... be like them, surrender your life to God... or continue to walk apart from Him.  Which will you choose, Francis?"

Wesson clasped his hands together and rested his forehead against them as he wept.  When he raised his head to answer, John was gone.


Back at Willowveil, John looked expectantly at his cousin.

"Well... did I do all right?"

Before Joshua could answer, Andrew entered the room.

"Sorry to interrupt!" he apologized.  "But Joe's on the phone.  He said he really needs to speak to you, Joshua."

Joshua brushed away his tears and held out his hand.

"I'll talk to Joe."

Andrew handed over his phone and left the room.

"Hey, Joe."

"Hi, Joshua.  I... have some news."

"John's here with me.  Can he hear?"

"Sure."

Joshua put the phone on speaker.

"Okay, Joe.  Let's hear it."

"Well...  I just wanted to let you know that Fr. Wesson... Francis Wesson... just turned himself into the police.  Further... he informed them that he's the primary account holder on many of his families' bank accounts... presumably the ones that Blaine has been using to fund his flight from justice.  Francis froze them all."

Joshua heaved a sigh and lifted his eyes.

"Thank you, Abba," he murmured.

"There's more," Joe continued.  "This part is difficult...  Because we're so near to the Canadian border, we shared Blaine Wesson's photo with the RCMP.  They just contacted one of my colleagues in New Hampshire.  They received a report of an attempted rape and when they showed the young lady photographs of known rapists... she IDed Wesson.  They did the same with the front desk clerk at the hotel where the attempted rape occurred and... he also IDed Wesson.  Unfortunately, he'd already checked out.  So the Mounties have launched a manhunt for Blaine.  I'm hopeful that, without his wealth, he'll run out of places to hide and... we'll get him, Joshua."

"And the girl?" Joshua asked.

"Funny thing about that...  She's staying at a shelter for refugees.  And the police report lists the outcry witnesses as a Mr. and Mrs. Yosef Davidson and Eben Angeli.  Happen to know them?" Joe questioned, a note of amusement in his voice.

"Ha!" John barked.

Joshua smiled.

"Yeah... yeah, I do."

"So you know she's in good hands.  Listen, I have to go.  They want me to do a press briefing.  But call if you want to talk about any of this.  Angie and I are hoping to stop by Willowveil tomorrow to celebrate with you."

"Thank you, Joe.  Thank you so much and I... I look forward to seeing you and Angie.  I want to hug you both."

Joe sniffled.

"I look forward to that hug.  Talk to you soon, Josh.  See you, John."

"Until tomorrow, Joe," Joshua replied.

When he ended the call, Joshua pulled John to him.

"You're magnificent, John... my magnificent buffoon," he praised.

With tears drifting down his cheeks, John smiled back at Joshua.

"Anything for my baby cousin."