Arcnam

He remarked, "In May, we will have the annual church rite for those children wishing to receive the sacraments of Penance and Holy Communion. I will need the baptismal certificates for our second graders. Sister Anita, you have three students in your class, who haven’t received these sacraments.

"You need to obtain these certificates from the parents or guardians of Thomas Adams, Jane Whitmire, and Peter Logan."

The priest rose from his chair and commented, "This meeting is over for today. We will meet again next week. Mother Superior, I want you to remain."

After the nuns left, the rector lectured Sister Maria for speaking forthright on the morals of Mrs. McLaughlin in front of the other nuns.

Father Murphy suspected that her talk had been triggered by something else. This woman was an excellent administrator on school and Convent affairs. Her credentials were far superior to any nun he had ever worked with or observed in the parochial system.

"I detect, Sister, a second sense, maybe, but there is another problem here. Possibly, I should know about this?"

Sister Maria showed uneasiness. She replied after several moments of silence. "Yes. I have been giving considerable thought for some time about a career change."

Father was stunned. He couldn’t believe what this nun just said.

Maria continued, "I’m leaving the Convent, and my commitment to God. I am going to apply for guardianship of Peter Logan. My parents should be arriving in a few days from France.

"They have hired a law firm in New York City to represent me in this matter."

"Sister, you can’t be serious. This is a very foolish decision. Please don’t act on this crazy notion. It is utterly ridiculous!"

"Are you finished Father Murphy?" Without waiting for his reply, she continued. "Good!

This meeting is over. I have things to do." With a pleasant smile, she left his office.