Milliways, upstairs
Room 215 is not terribly fancy. There are several rows of chairs and a makeshift altar, covered by a pristine tablecloth. Considering that Father Mulcahy's usual gig is a tent, though, he's quite pleased with this.
It's a relatively simple Mass, and as nondenominational as possible (though Father Mulcahy is quite aware -- and freely admits the fact -- that his bias is showing); he leads the familiar prayers and reads from the Gospel according to John. He takes a moment to offer the Eucharist to any Roman Catholics in attendance.
The songs may be familiar even for those in attendance who are not regular church-goers. There are a few typewritten sheets of lyrics placed in each row of chairs, for people to share; "Silent Night" is the first.
The homily is as humble as the rest of the service. Father Mulcahy -- in full vestments, glasses (and smile) polished to a sheen -- thanks everyone for coming; cracks a little joke or two; speaks about love and celebration, holding true to the spirit of the holiday and to each other. This is one of his favorite times of year, and it shows.
"O Come All Ye Faithful" closes the mass. There are cookies and punch -- kindly provided by the bar -- for those who choose to stick around; Father Mulcahy is happily shaking hands and making introductions as he moves in and among a ragtag group of parishioners.
Merry Christmas, Milliways.
It's a relatively simple Mass, and as nondenominational as possible (though Father Mulcahy is quite aware -- and freely admits the fact -- that his bias is showing); he leads the familiar prayers and reads from the Gospel according to John. He takes a moment to offer the Eucharist to any Roman Catholics in attendance.
The songs may be familiar even for those in attendance who are not regular church-goers. There are a few typewritten sheets of lyrics placed in each row of chairs, for people to share; "Silent Night" is the first.
The homily is as humble as the rest of the service. Father Mulcahy -- in full vestments, glasses (and smile) polished to a sheen -- thanks everyone for coming; cracks a little joke or two; speaks about love and celebration, holding true to the spirit of the holiday and to each other. This is one of his favorite times of year, and it shows.
"O Come All Ye Faithful" closes the mass. There are cookies and punch -- kindly provided by the bar -- for those who choose to stick around; Father Mulcahy is happily shaking hands and making introductions as he moves in and among a ragtag group of parishioners.
Merry Christmas, Milliways.