Arthur stood behind the pulpit podium, a stapled four-page document in his right hand.

“We’ll now open the annual parish business meeting,” Arthur said into the microphone.

“The first item on the agenda is final approval of the church land transfer.”

I walked directly down the carpeted center aisle, carrying my leather briefcase by its brass handle.

Wade walked at my left with a thick blue folder, and Helen walked at my right with the signed hospital visitor ledger.

“Pastor Tom,” Arthur said, resting his forearms on the edge of the podium.