Before J left

Communion
Ria Rivera

Like the faithful
lined up along the aisle,
each button
of your black cassock
solemnly leaves the line.
One by one
they step aside
revealing a carpet of dawn.

Like the people
heading south
of the sanctuary,
feet shuffling over wool,
I tread through its
salty-sweet length
where I find
an altar.

Hands together
I bless the offering.
Living body and blood
Pulsating
between cupped fingers.

I come down on my knees
and receive the sacrifice.

___

For A. You didn’t have to ask.