At the Altar Rail

After the concerns, the celebrations
the pastors moved to the altar rail
to lead us in prayer
A small smiling face
looked my way, asking for permission
to walk forward, kneel beside her pastor
She stride was determined, purposeful
half-standing, half-kneeling,
leaning into her robe
next to the stole, so close to her face
Going forward, to pray at the altar rail
her faith, her certainty, a joy to see

December 12, 2007