We gather: For the blood and body broken in bread by the celebrant, a good man, devout. My Aunt is 80 and more; she likes a gift of lilies given this time of year. The Minister is a comfort. Thank you for bringing Easter with us in blood and body. Dr. Brown is old, she comes every week. The blind woman knows Christ’s promise, and wants company. Secret, mystical things happen. Yes. Say yes. I do. I went for the candle lighting, and wanted to hear bells ring. I looked at parents, shared their companionship with their children, and saw the aged; spectacle of harmony and energy. I know some come to sit in quiet moments. A man lights a candle for his wife, gone. This other Sundays. But more than this touches us-- as God is among us. The swirling morning colors through windows bring hallowed light, it does enlarge and bring us together enlisting life to dry bones. Easter. Many pray and know their Bible. Easter brings people together in promises that are unknown; these secret hearts, sacred minutes, oh, mystery. In Earthtime we see the lilies gathered, and they are for us. Heavenward. The tomb is empty. (CAPTION) Candles in the Church of the Nativity Bethlehem Photo: Rick White ©2004