Acolyte

Sunday morning
Early church service
His mother liked the peace and quiet
The chance to be with her God.

Joining her the boy became an acolyte
Dutifully kneeling in the front
Helping the minister with communion
Saying prayers
Singing the occasional hymn
Part of the process.

He was athletic
But the service challenged his stamina
Kneeling for what seemed like hours
In reality only minutes
It tested his endurance
His resolve
His mother liked being in church
He liked being there with her
Sharing those quiet moments together
A chance to think about life and reflect
In truth he was still searching
Being with God?
That was another matter altogether.