He began the prayers in a low voice. Introibo ad altare Dei . As he recited, the air grew thick, as if the crypt were filling with invisible water. The candle flame stretched sideways, then stood straight again.
Father Lorenzo had served the same dusty hilltop parish for forty years. But he had never, until tonight, celebrated the Messa Volto Santo . messa volto santo
He blew out the candle.
He did not turn around.