Heretics book 3 - The Apocryphile Press

62 :: JOHN R. MABRY
The Orthodox are interesting, because they mean, on one
level, the Church, but they also believe that the entire universe
is in the process of being transformed into God’s
Community. So in the Church they celebrate in miniature the
community of grace that is transforming the cosmos into
divinity itself.”
“Wow,” said John. “I’m not sure I follow, but it sounds
pretty trippy.”
“So...Fr. Dylan, where do you draw the circle?”
Dylan smiled, and it lit up his whole flat, Melungeon face.
“I think that everything that is, is in the circle.”
“So, what is baptism about?”
“I like to think of it as a ‘Welcome to Earth’ celebration,
because the whole world is God’s Community for those who
have their eyes open to it. And my hope is that you’ll be able
to bring her up so that she can see that.” He patted Jamie on
the head, and handed her another snickerdoodle.
In spite of her obvious efforts not to, Connie began to cry.
“Oh my God,” Dylan said, instantly chagrined, “did I say
something wrong?” He looked to John for help.
Connie picked up Jamie, and held her in her lap. “No, it’s
okay. I’m just...relieved.”
“Awww...bless your heart,” Dylan relaxed. He picked up
the plate and held it out to her. “Have a cookie,” he offered.
:: 12 ::
No sooner had the door shut behind the friars than Alan
Dane walked up behind Nurse Stahl. Thinking he had left
the room, she gave a little start, then opened her mouth to
say something. He held up his hand, and a paternal smile
spread across his face like a plague as he spoke. “Not a