At the Church of the Sacred Heart

the inner coolness refreshes,

thoughts have echoes

as a man walks with measured tread

to the confessional.

 

Perched in penitence he hears

a disembodied voice.

 

"Welcome O troubled one -

your confidences are safe with us,

your welfare is our main concern.

   In recent times we may have overreached our agenda

   but wish to reassure you that you are in safe hands.

 

   We have turned over a new leaf, a new page -

   have you turned over a new leaf too?

   we'd love to know.

We would like to assure you

that we are listening.

 

When my voice stops

please commence your confession.

You will have five full minutes in which to do so.

When you hear a final alert (like this......)

you will have ten seconds left in which

to complete your story today.

 

In the meantime, we wish you a long

and fruitful peaceful interlude

until we will no doubt meet again.

 

This has been the voice of Brother Stephen today.

Thank you for stopping by.