Christianity
Arthur Attends A Funeral
An Advent Reflection: 5 December
Arthur sat in the church, waiting. His funeral coat was keeping him warm. The church was only slightly warmer than the bitter winter’s day outside. There weren’t many people present. Arthur’s brother had faded from his various communities in recent years. Not many knew him well enough to take the time to attend his funeral, so a few family members, a couple of old work colleagues, a vicar and a stray cat made up the congregation.
Someone spoke, and everyone stood up. Arthur copied them. He stood using a stick and turned to see the deep brown of the coffin adorned by some white flowers pushed down the aisle on a silver trolley. He could not connect the sight with his brother. A million memories stirred in Arthur’s mind. Tears blurred his vision as the coffin passed.
Everyone sat. Arthur copied them.
The vicar droned on about Resurrection and Death and words Arthur could not listen to.
Suddenly, everyone stood up. Arthur copied them. An organ blared from somewhere, and Arthur managed to open his Order of Service.
When peace like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
