The Saying of the Mass

There’s a roman efficiency to pontification
in their no-nonsense Eucharistic celebration;

an economy of how time will pass
in the Irish saying of the Mass.

Deftly lead by their parish Priest
his simplicity elevates to holy artiste.

A curious mix – a brevity of word
with glorious song and musical chord.

Parishioners lined in their pew
readily respond upon cue;

their prayers, petitions, and intercession
executed flawlessly without hesitation.

Homily - swift poignant turn of phrase,
constructed to hasten one’s praise.

Back to prayer in Irish cadence and fast precision
visitors try to keep up with unfair competition;

“AreFodderWhoAretInHeavenHallowedBeeDyeNaimeDyeKingdomCoomDyeWillBeeDone
OnEartAsItBeeInHeavenGeiveUsDisDayeAreDailyBreadtAndtForgieveUsAreTreaspasses
AzWeForgieveDemWhichTreaspassAgaingstUs”,

come up for air,
continue the prayer…

“AndtLeadUsNotInTooTemptationButtDayliverUsFroomEvilAhmen”.

Synchronize your sign of the cross
there is no virtue in chaos.

When it comes time for taking Holy Communion
looks like generals deploy the congregation;

expediency, order, and piety abound
a flurry of activity until the choir's sound.

After the musical interludes cease
it's “Mass has ended let us go in peace”

Then with a sprinkle of holy water,
and on the heels of the father,

out vestibule doors parishioners rub
following monsieur to the local pub.

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Note: this poem is part of a collection, to read more please see:  "Ireland "  E: Barúlacha Fileata~poetic observations~poems inspired by my trip to my ancestoral home   Sláinte!