The cathedral waits quietly.
Soft shadows occupy the pews.
The moon is shining mistily
her silver beams fall where they choose.

The pulpit is unoccupied
the congregation long since gone.
The quietude is magnified
by the clock tower striking one.

An air of hushed expectancy
now permeates the atmosphere.
My heart stops momentarily
I am consumed by mortal fear.

I only sought a place to rest
some shelter from the bitter wind
it is some years since I confessed.
I did not think that God would mind.

Although I know I should not be
intruding in this holy place.
The height of impropriety
for such as I to show my face.

For Christian charity is cold
I would not get a warm welcome
as pilgrims did in days of old.
When by nightfall overcome.

Then suddenly I felt a sense
of love and everlasting peace,
As if forgiven my offence
I felt my confidence increase.

I am accepted as a guest.
God knows I have no ill intent.
It was as if I had been blessed
by God himself omnipotent.

I slept well past the break of day.
I was awoken by the sound
of other folks who came to pray.
So I sat up and looked around.

The morning worshippers were few
the faithful come to early mass.
Which as a boy I used to do
But I had long since lapsed alas.

I was well rested and could face
another day upon my quest.
My endless search to find a place
to call my own where I could rest.

The dream of every homeless man.
I offered up my gratitude
to God not to the sacristan.
I knew I would be understood.

For shelter which was given me.
Throughout a long cold winter night,
although without authority,
I could not claim it as a right.

I left the church quite confident,
today I would meet with success
I did: I found a flat to rent
No longer was I shelterless.

Perhaps it was coincidence
I found the home I had long sought.
A reward for my diligence
but I can not escape the thought.

My sins have been forgiven me.


Ivor E. Hogg
7-Jan-07