Beato. Poem by PAUL COLVIN

Your basilica, ornately dressed, with statues all around
Surround you as you lie so still, encased on Hallowed ground
And the plaque inscribed in Latin, I don’t know what it says
But the Torrese know, and tonight in church, they offer you their praise.
You are their Beato who one day will be their saint
And your name they hold in high esteem, your name they will not taint
You lie in state for all to see, within a small glass case
Plain and simple, like your life, with a smile on your face.
I see a man who’s now at peace, humble and content
And the locals, you once preached to, believe you’re Heaven sent.
I’ve seen how they look at you as they bless themselves in prayer
You gave them hope, restored their faith, you showed them how to care.
You prayed with them, you ate with them, you’re Torrese too
And the dreams they share, within their hearts, is shared because of you.