In Facing the Crucifix

I have:  

meditated on fall’s orange mortality; 

shivered through dark winter’s bite; 

been revived in spring’s morning renewal; 

sought light through summer’s greenhouse haze— 

All while dilated pupils focus lovingly 

on the floating crucifix 

above the altar.  

  

Christ in Gerald Bonnette’s bronze,  

inviting veneration with its shape; 

eternal Good Friday in effigy,  

still and radiant. 

I awake. 

Imago Dei flutters in my heart.  

Metallic Savior hangs— 

an image of Christ before me. 

Yet I seek His true face. 

  

I wait in patience for the RISEN Lord. 

I continue to gaze and think. 

Waiting, awaiting… waiting; 

I pray: 

a natural instinct.  

  

Soon the Abbey bells gently ring,  

I turn my head and see, 

A chasubled Christ enters in procession 

In persona Christi.