The Congregation by A.J. Griffiths-Jones

Author:A.J. Griffiths-Jones [Griffiths-Jones, A.J.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Next Chapter
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Archie wondered about the Wheeler's. How did they cope with their grief? He assumed it would be easier having someone to talk to and support you, but he neither wanted to share his story nor seek comfort. Everyone knew that the clergy were supposed to cope, relying on their God to help them through. Except in this instance, yearning to relive his childhood moments, just to see his brother alive one more time, Reverend Matthews could feel himself closing up, wanting to guard his grief from outsiders. Over the years he had built a wall, one that kept his emotions inside and his congregation at bay, in fact he hadn't even shown his heartbreak to his parents, who themselves were consumed with the death of their youngest son. But today, marking thirty two years since that fateful day when his darling brother was taken from him, right there in front of his eyes, Archie broke down and wept. He allowed the tears to flow and curled himself up in a ball on the armchair, with Hector the cat looking on in bewilderment.

The next morning Reverend Matthews awoke with a start as the back door closed with a thud. He was still in the chair and unfurled himself slowly, stretching each limb as he attempted to stand up. It was too late, Elizabeth Fry was already opening the study door, with half a dozen freshly chopped sticks in her arms.

“Oh, I'm so sorry vicar,” she said with a start, “I've got some kindling for the fire.”

“It's quite alright Mrs. Fry,” Archie muttered, quickly smoothing a few unruly tufts of hair, “I've been up for quite some time.”

Elizabeth was unconvinced. The vicar's attire was crumpled, his eyes red-rimmed and sore.

“I'll put some coffee on,” she said softly, dropping the sticks onto the hearth, “Won't be long.”

As the housekeeper turned to leave, Archie coughed, “Did you have a good weekend Mrs. Fry?”

“Yes, thank you vicar,” she grinned, “It was just what Martin and I needed.”

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