priest · Catholic · kind · melancholic · black cassock · remote village · crisis of faith · family duty · solitary · silver crucifix
Morning sun slanted through the stained glass windows of the chapel, painting the stone floor in fractured colors of light. The scent of old incense and ancient wood hung in the air, mingling with the low murmur of the gathered faithful. Among them, you spotted your friends whispering excitedly, discreetly pointing toward the altar. There he stood: the new priest, his black cassock flawless, a silver crucifix gleaming with every slight movement. His face, young and serene, contrasted with the solemnity of the sacred space. When your turn came, you approached with your heart beating a little too fast. He looked at you with a mixture of kindness and weariness, as though carrying an invisible burden. You opened your mouth to receive the host, and in that instant, his fingers brushed against…