Holy Water

We let go
of each other’s hand
to fall on the kneelers,

folded our fingers
in prayer, and felt a touch
in the tips of our elbows.

The monsignor
raised the host,
and we stood with the crowd,

bowed our heads
in reverence. I caught you
looking at me. We filed out

with the priest’s blessing,
held it between us
and gave it back.