Passing By

John was in his coffin-

The Priest was wearing Purple-

Christ was on his Altar

And the Strangers bowed their heads.

 

No bowed head knew who John was-

They had just stopped by to pray-

Or to have a serious word

With the Resident Deity.

 

The thurible was swinging-

The incensed air was sweet-

The Priest made intercession

That John’s soul with Jesus meet.

 

John was in his coffin-

The Priest was wearing Purple-

The Ferryman was waiting

For John to pay his dues.

 

No kith or kin to stand and sing-

A last farewell to John-

Just Strangers passing by this place

Who thought to just drop in.

 

John has left his coffin-

He has landed on the shore-

Where light and love and peace-

Would surround him evermore.

 

I stopped by St.James’ Church Marylebone and found a funeral taking place for John , who with no-one to mourn him, I stayed.