THE SPIRIT IS WILLING
By Bernardo Stella
A three hours black comedy, possibly a series.
It treats the celibacy of a catholic priest:
the fall, the addiction and the consequences.
CHARACTERS LIST;
SHEAMUS : A MIDDLE AGED IRISH PRIEST.
PAUL : THE VERGER.
RUTH ; THE VERGER’S WIFE.
BARTHOLEMEW SPENCER ; AGNOSTICS LORD FALLEN ON HARD TIMES.
LEILA ; THE MOSLEM LADY SPENCER
SIGGI JOHNSON ; A MEMBER OF THE CONGREGATION
ERIC ; MR. JOHNSON.
SAMANTHA; MISS JOHNSON.
CHRISTOPHER ; YOUNG JOHNSON.
MRS. BROWN; SIGGI’S MOTHER.
MRS. BOVINE; A MEMBER OF THE CONGREGATION.
MAN WITH THE PARROT; MR. BOVINE.
OLD MAN; NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
INCIDENTALS AT THE CONFESSIONAL.
BARMAN.
LADY AT THE PET SHOP.
THE SETTING IS AROUND A catholic church.
1 EXT. STREET BY THE CHURCH. MORNING.
It’s Sunday. It’s warm and festive. People stroll along the pavement. Children merrily scurry about.
Bells are peeling from the church tower.
-The blue sky sports white cirrus. A breeze fans the trees.
2.INT. BELL TOWER. LATE MORNING.
Hands pull and release the ropes in a dim lit attic room.
3. INT. THE VESTRY ROOM ADJACENT TO THE ALTAR.
Moving feet reveal the person getting ready.
4. INT. BEDROOM. SAME TIME AS ABOVE.
The sun floods the room from the open window. The radio is playing classical music. The room is neat. Over the bed there is a two piece suit. A lady from the back is doing her make-up.
5. INT. BELL TOWER
A churlish PAUL( Middle thirties) makes his way out.
6. INT. THE VESTRY.
SHEAMUS (early forties, Irish) in his robes exits into the church proper and heads for the confessional. Benches begin to fill up. Footsteps and the odd cough becomes part of the set up. SHEAMUS enters the confessional box on the side of the aisle where a statue of St. Patrick presides.
7. INT. THE BEDROOM.
RUTH(early thirties)puts a good lashing of talcum powder over her body. Satisfied puts on her clothes. She admires herself in the mirror. Satisfied she goes to the window. She closes one side and as she goes to shut the other half, she freezes for a moment then looks around uttering.
RUTH
Oh God — PAUL- never here when I need you.
She backs off gingerly then rushes for the door.
8 EXT. STREET BY RUTH’S HOUSE
RUTH rushes out of the house then slows down, stops and looks around herself touching her hips. She turns, hesitates then recomposes herself and walks away.
9 INT. RUTH’S BEDROOM
The camera focuses on a spider on the window sill and the handbag on the bed.
10. EXT. STREET FACING THE CHURCH.
In the main street a walking couple,Lord BARTHOLEMEW Spencer(early forties)and his olive skinned wife LEILA (late twenties) walk, self assured toward the church. By the entrance LEILA points the door to BART.
BARTHOLEMEW
That’s a bastion of Christianity…
LEILA
I’m fascinated.
SAMANTHA(10) and her brother,CHRISTOPHER (12) run toward the entrance of the church and bump into the couple. Full of laughter they turn back toward their incoming parents. SIGGI and ERIC Johnson,(both in late thirties)dressed in their Sunday best witness the incident. SIGGI turns to ERIC.
SIGGI
I give up!
Then to the kids
SIGGI
Why don’t you look where you are going?
Finally stopping by BART and LEILA
SIGGI
You wouldn’t believe they are going to church! I don’t know where they find the energy. They never stop,they wear me out.
LEILA
That’s your church?
SIGGI
I worship here.
LEILA
I’m a Moslem but I’m curious to see.
SIGGI
You can come in with me if you like.
LEILA turns to BART
LEILA
Do you mind darling?
BART remains silent for a moment then.
BARTHOLEMEW
I’ll have a Port in the pub opposite.
CHRISTOPHER rushes in. BART goes, SIGGI, LEILA and ERIC and SAMANTHA enter the church.
11. EXT. STREET BY THE CHURCH.
RUTH self assured now, walks toward the church.
12. INT. CONFESSIONAL
SHEAMUS listens to confession.
13. INT. OUTSIDE THE CONFESSIONAL
An old lady moves away to a nearby bench. A middle aged man takes her place.
14. INT. THE CONFESSIONAL
SHEAMUS
What sins have you committed?
MAN
I don’t know.
SHEAMUS
You must have something to tell me!
MAN
I’ve got a retail shop.
SHEAMUS
So!?
MAN
I lie sometimes about the price of goods I sell.
SHEAMUS
I absolve you, but don’t overdo it! Say two Ave Marias and three Pater Nosters and be generous during collection.
15. INT. BY THE CHURCH ENTRANCE
RUTH enters and overtakes an OLD MAN with a stick and
goes directly to kneel at the confessional.
RUTH
Father I committed a mortal sin last night.
SHEAMUS
Do tell me.
RUTH
I made love with my husband.
16. INT. INSIDE THE CONFESSIONAL
SHEAMUS wipes his forehead with a white handkerchief.
SHEAMUS
It is not a sin to make love with your husband!
Why do you tell me this?
RUTH
I was thinking of someone else!
SHEAMUS
Try not to do it again.
RUTH
But…..
SHEAMUS
I absolve you in the name….
SHEAMUS exits the confessional and hurries back to the vestry genuflecting upon passing the altar. LEILA and SIGGI look follows the priest.
SIGGI
A good priest.
LEILA
Your church is like a museum!
The organ music muffles SIGGI’s replay.
The verger puts the wine for be blessing by the altar.
15. INT. PUB. DAY
Lord BARTHOLEMEW enters. Above the hubbub voices.
MAN VOICE 1
What about Arsenal?
MAN’S VOICE2
What about them?
MAN’S VOICE 1
We will win the league and cup this year.
MAN’S VOICE 2
That’s the best joke I have heard today!
18. INT. THE CHURCH
SHEAMUS in his official robes follows CHRISTOPHER to the altar. From a distance we see SIGGI explaining to LEILA the meaning of the mass.
19. INT. THE PUB. NOON.
BART wades through the people to get to the counter.
BARTHOLEMEW
Port!
20. INT. CHURCH, THE ALTAR.
The priest blesses the wine then drinks it.
21. INT. THE PUB.
BART lifts his port and drinks it with relish.
22. INT. THE CHURCH, THE ALTAR
RUTH in line to receive the communion has only eyes for SHEAMUS. They stare briefly.
23. INT. IN THE PUB
BARTHOLEMEW is eating peanuts.
24. INT. THE CHURCH
The mass has finished. Sheamus to the congregation.
SHEAMUS
Ite missa est
CHORUS OF VOICES
Amen
SHEAMUS follow the altar boy to the vestry while the congregation turns toward the exit.
25. EXT. BY THE CHURCH ENTRANCE.
SHEAMUS reappears amongst his parishioners. He is the personified extrovert: head high, warm smile, suave manners like a benevolent grandfather saying good-byes, shaking hands, thanking. When he comes to SIGGI.
SHEAMUS
I don’t see Mrs BROWN today!
SIGGI
Mum is feeling a bit frail.
SHEAMUS
Give her all the best for me.
ERIC
She was eighty five last Thursday!
SHEAMUS
Oh, Did she manage to blow all the candles out in one go?
SIGGI
She enlisted the help of SAMANTHA and CHRISTOPHER .
SHEAMUS
I’m sure they were delighted.
SAMANTHA and CHRISTOPHER smile at the priest. SHEAMUS turns his attention to a black lady
SHEAMUS
Mrs Ovine! I you have failed again to take your man along!
WOMAN
If I want to keep the peace in the home I must let Joe have his pint on Sundays. You know, when he goes for his drinks he prefers Gonzo to me!
SHEAMUS
Gonzo!
WOMAN
His new acquisition- a parrot. If you ask me they compliment each other
26. INT. IN THE PUB. NOON.
People are standing by the counter. An open door leads to the patio-garden where open sun umbrellas give shade. LEILA enters. Looks around. Bart sees her and goes to meet her. The two walk back to Bart’s corner.
LEILA
So uplifting. One really feels as if one is in the house of God.
BARTHOLEMEW
What do I have here! A convert?
LEILA
Would that be so awful?
BARTHOLEMEW
No comment.
They reach the table and sit down
RUTH
Why?
BARTHOLEMEW
Don’t ask for my opinion!
LEILA
Shame on you. God is great.
BARTHOLEMEW
Yes. Where is He?
LEILA
In Heaven. Where else?
BARTHOLEMEW
Doing what?
LEILA
I don’t know!
SHEAMUS
More to the point. Where is Heaven?
LEILA
I don’t know!
BARTHOLEMEW
Have a glass of wine, it will clear your brain.
LEILA
You know I don’t drink.
27. INT. THE VESTRY.
SHEAMUS folds his robes and puts them in the Cabinet. PAUL empties the collection box on the table. A fifty pound note attracts the priest’s attention.
SHEAMUS
God moves in mysterious ways.
PAUL
Will you be needing me for something else this afternoon?
SHEAMUS
No PAUL, You can watch your football.
PAUL
Should be a good game.
SHEAMUS
Man United seems to be winning everything lately.
PAUL
Not today they won’t. We will beat them two nil.
PAUL gives the money to SHEAMUS and starts to exit. RUTH enters. SHEAMUS has his back turned but smells her perfume.
PAUL
I was just coming darling!
RUTH has eyes only for SHEAMUS who feigns surprise.
RUTH
A nice service Father!
SHEAMUS
Glad you could come.
PAUL exits, RUTH follows but turns to the priest saying.
RUTH
I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.
SHEAMUS alone ponders, kneels on the floor covering his face, then smells something familiar. He sees RUTH and gets up.
SHEAMUS
Forgotten something Mrs Wilcox?
RUTH
No.
SHEAMUS
What can I do for you then?
RUTH
I’m hoping I can do something for you.
SHEAMUS has a moment of hesitation then.
SHEAMUS
Tell PAUL we have mass at six.
RUTH
I’ll tell him. That’s all?
SHEAMUS
Thank you.
RUTH goes glancing back. SHEAMUS shakes his head.
SHEAMUS
God, she has been tempting me for a long time. She thinks I’m strong, but you know I’m a weakling.
28. INT. CHURCH. NOON.
SHEAMUS kneels in prayer by the altar. From behind an aisle comes the sound of a cough. SHEAMUS gets up and goes to investigate. He finds a smiling OLD MAN.
SHEAMUS
Can I help you sir?
The OLD MAN moves his head in a negative answer.
SHEAMUS
Sit on the bench. God will understand.
OLD MAN
I’m all right father.
SHEAMUS
You are new here, moved in the neighborhood recently?
OLD MAN
My nephew has gone on holiday so I moved in to look after his house, the yellow one just behind the church.
SHEAMUS
And who is- Never mind. Feel free, but sit down make your life easier.
SHEAMUS shakes his shoulders and goes out of the church
29 INT. THE PUB. NOON.
SHEAMUS goes to the counter. People acknowledge him, he smiles back.
BARMAN
Your usual father?
SHEAMUS
That’s my good man.
The barman pumps up the beer. A black man (Mr. BOVINE middle forties) with a parrot on his shoulder arrives at the counter next to SHEAMUS.
PARROT
Hello hello!
SHEAMUS looks up startled at the man.
SHEAMUS
What a beautiful specimen you have there! Where did you find him?
PARROT
In Africa. There are plenty of them there you know!
BLACK MAN
I’ll clip your wings and confine you to the garden shed.
PARROT
Bad sport, bad sport.
SHEAMUS
You must be Bonzo.
BLACK MAN
He pretends to be my trainer.
LEILA sees him and points him to BART then she goes to the priest.
LEILA
Hello, my name is LEILA I was at your service today.
SHEAMUS
Good on you!
LEILA
My husband would like to meet you.
LEILA indicates a smiling BARTHOLEMEW and the priest acknowledges him with a bow before following LEILA . SHEAMUS talks first.
SHEAMUS
Delighted……..,
BARTHOLEMEW
Same here!
LEILA
My husband was with the military in northern Ireland.
SHEAMUS
Any place in particular?
BARTHOLEMEW
Many places, Belfast- Londonderry –
SHEAMUS
Good old Derry! That’s were I come from.
BARTHOLEMEW
Do you miss the place?
SHEAMUS
Sometimes – but I’m far too busy to miss it. What about you?
BARTHOLEMEW
I was glad to get out. Can I get you another drink?
SHEAMUS
I won’t say no to a beer.
Mr. BOVINE is observing, the priest and BART. When BART gets up to head for the counter he moves outside.
30 EXT. A TERRACES HOUSE IN A TREE LINED STREET. NOON
RUTH AND PAUL walk towards the house. As they get closer RUTH stops and becomes deaf to PAUL’s prompting. PAUL, goes by the door and enters. RUTH left alone is agitated and moves to and fro. PAUL appears carrying her hand bag.
PAUL
You can come in now.
RUTH
Are you sure?
PAUL
A little insignificant spider can reduce you to this. Yours is not a phobia but an obsession. Come in!
31. INT. PAUL AND RUTH’S KITCHEN. SOON AFTER NOON.
PAUL is serving bacon and eggs. The table is laid out. RUTH comes to the table looking none too happy
RUTH
Not much for a Sunday lunch!
PAUL
And you wanted to invite father SHEAMUS.
RUTH
I wanted him to bless this house.
PAUL
You and your spiders!
RUTH
I want to show him what we eat.
PAUL
If you would spend less money on perfumes and clothes, we could have more money to spend on food.
RUTH
I spent hours making myself attractive. And what do I get?
PAUL looks at her.
PAUL
Bacon and eggs will have to do.
32. INT. RESTAURANT. LUNCH TIME
On the table we see half a bottle of red wine with a half full glass and on LEILA’s side a Coca Cola. A waiter comes with the food. BARTHOLEMEW and LEILA ignore him. They are too absorbed in their discussion
LEILA
I’m not renouncing anything. I’m a Moslem and believe like a Moslem, but I’m fascinated by the Christian dogma.
BARTHOLEMEW
Like?
LEILA
Like how Mary conceived Jesus Christ without making love with Joseph.
BARTHOLEMEW
What are you trying to say?
LEILA
You should know!
BARTHOLEMEW
That’s the only way I can prove to you, how much I love you.
LEILA
I’m a woman and I feel the need of motherhood. And anyway I’m curious to learn what I don’t know.
BARTHOLEMEW
We have each other and I can truly say that I’m the luckiest man in the world.
LEILA
It’s the wine!
BARTHOLEMEW
No it’s you!
LEILA
Funny way of showing it!
LEILA grabs BART’s hand and
BARTHOLEMEW
I’m doing it for you.
33. INT. SHEAMUS KITCHEN. EARLY AFTERNOON.
SHEAMUS enters the kitchen. A pine table with two chairs take most of the space. A sheet of paper is on the table. It reads: Dinner is in the oven. He sits down and his mind wonders.
RUTH V.O.
I was thinking of another man- Wondering if I could do something for you!.
SHEAMUS gets up and moves into the bedroom.
34. INT. SHEAMUS’S BEDROOM – DAY
The room is neat and Spartan: a single bed, a wardrobe with a full length mirror, a crucifix over the bed and an effigy of the Madonna on the wall. A bible and a book of Saint Francis on the side table. SHEAMUS enters puts the cassock on the bed, removes his shoes then undresses to his underpants and puts on track suit and trainers.
35. EXT. IN THE PARK AFTERNOON.
It is hot and sunny. SHEAMUS is jogging and panting. An Alsatian runs to a bitch and quickly mount her. A woman comes running.
WOMAN
Get that brute off my Betty.
VOICE
Your dog is in heat. You should have kept her inside.
SHEAMUS runs and shakes his head.
36. EXT. ALONG THE ROAD CROWDED WITH PEOPLE. DAY
SHEAMUS passes a cinema displaying Fatal Attraction.
SHEAMUS
A priest must walk on mud without dirtying his shoes ……
What I need is a pair of Wellington. Plus a pair of blinkers.
35. INT. THE JOHNSON DINING ROOM. AFTERNOON.
The table is laid. ERIC is sitting at the top of the table, SAMANTHA and CHRISTOPHER are on each side. SIGGI surveys the table then exits. The kids are eager to start but ERIC signals them to wait. SIGGI reappears with a frail old lady who looks at the prepared dish and shakes her head.
MRS BROWN
No way I can eat all that!
SIGGI
Mum you have eaten practically nothing these last few days, do your best. Keep your strength up. Father SHEAMUS asked about you today!
SAMANTHA sips the gravy.
SAMANTHA
Yummy yummy, the gravy is very tasty.
ERIC
Eat the meat.
CRISTOFER
I don’t like it.
SIGGI
You always liked chicken.
ERIC
You have been at the chocolate. Haven’t you?
SAMANTHA
Dad can I have a dog?
CRISTOFER
I want a rabbit.
ERIC looks at SIGGI and patronizingly
ERIC
Shall we turn this house into a zoo so that these two can find an excuse not to study?
SAMANTHA
I will study harder.
38. INT. LATE AFTERNOON. THE CHURCH
SHEAMUS is saying the rosary. The silence is broken by footsteps. RUTH goes to him. SHEAMUS turns his head.
RUTH
Hello father.
SHEAMUS
What’s up?
RUTH
I’ve got to talk to you.
RUTH walks to the vestry, SHEAMUS follows.
39. INT. VESTRY. AFTERNOON.
RUTH closes the door after SHEAMUS is in.
SHEAMUS
No need to do that!
RUTH
Privacy! We must make more use of it!
SHEAMUS
What is it?
RUTH
That’s what I want to know.
SHEAMUS
I don’t understand. Where is PAUL?
RUTH closes on SHEAMUS who backs off against the wall.
RUTH
He is busy, watching Chelsea.
SHEAMUS
What can I do for you?
RUTH
More to the point. Tell me what you badly want. And need. Open up SHEAMUS.
SHEAMUS
I am a priest….
RUTH
And a man!
SHEAMUS
I’m sworn to celibacy. It’s forbidden.
RUTH
You are the forbidden fruit I fancy. I have a phobia for spiders and a insatiable desire for you.
She is on him now and caresses his hair. SHEAMUS is trembling. She blows air into his ear. He presses himself against the wall.
SHEAMUS
Oh God!
RUTH
I am here now. You don’t need anybody else.
SHEAMUS is sweating profusely, RUTH kisses him and begins to unfasten his cassock. Her hands reach for the lower part of his body while her mouth looks for SHEAMUS’s who tries to avoid hers. RUTH kisses him on the neck. SHEAMUS presses himself against the wall, bewildered and clumsy while uttering.
SHEAMUS
I am supposed to be … Stop it.
RUTH
Relax. Paradise is here, don’t let this chance escape.
RUTH removes his cassock, then backs off to remove her camisole and then touches her zip and her skirt drops. She pushes it away with her foot while SHEAMUS looks bewildered. Now she turns on him and undoes his belt. SHEAMUS gives in to her, now with one hand she removes her knickers and then twirls them above her head before throwing them in the air. Their embrace is wild.
40. INT. PAUL’S SITTING ROOM. LATE AFTERNOON.
The TV is screening a John Wayne war movie in black and white. PAUL is on the couch fast asleep and snoring.
41. INT. VESTRY. LATE AFTERNOON.
We see RUTH and SHEAMUS, both naked lying on top of the cassock. RUTH caresses SHEAMUS.
RUTH
My beautiful SHEAMUS.
SHEAMUS
Bullocks!
RUTH
Very unbecoming for a man of your position!
SHEAMUS
A wasted life.
RUTH
I agree.
SHEAMUS
What now?
RUTH
We take one step at a time, but now-
She positions herself in the act of receiving.
SHEAMUS
Both of us are out of order.
RUTH
Aren’t we? Let’s make the most of it.
42. INT. PAUL’S SITTING ROOM
The TV is still showing the film, PAUL wakes up and gets up yawning
On the mantelpiece there is a wedding photograph of PAUL and RUTH, PAUL switches off the TV and goes out.
43. INT. VESTRY LATER
Footsteps are approaching. The door handle is turned first then a knock. SHEAMUS and RUTH are jolted out of their slumber. Blind panic gets them both.
PAUL [O.O.V.]
Anybody there?
The two are gathering their belongings. RUTH looks at SHEAMUS and whispers.
RUTH
Don’t you dare open that door!
SHEAMUS has a spell of coughing
SHEAMUS
Is that you PAUL?
PAUL [O.O.V.]
Yes father.
SHEAMUS
Give me five minutes!
The footsteps fade, RUTH and SHEAMUS sigh with relief.
RUTH
The creep! He shouldn’t be here now.
SHEAMUS
Conscientious worker,a good man.
RUTH
How do I get out of here?
SHEAMUS
The wrath of God is already upon us!
RUTH
There is plenty of time to be a martyr. Now let’s be rational.
SHEAMUS
How can I be rational!
RUTH
What have you done with my knickers?
SHEAMUS
What!?
RUTH
My knickers!
SHEAMUS
This is not the time. I’ll send PAUL to do an errand, so that you can get out.
RUTH
He will think something fishy is going on. There is another way.
She indicates the window. SHEAMUS brings a chair, RUTH steps on it and opens the window. She glances around before sliding down the wall. The camera zooms to the knickers over the lamp.
44. EXT. BY THE WINDOW. RUTH slides down the outside wall, her skirt becomes entangled to reveal her buttocks. The OLD MAN passes by and his face brightens, chuckles shaking his head while waving his stick in the air. RUTH comes down, readjusts her clothes, ignores him and walks away.
45. INT. THE CHURCH.
SHEAMUS demurely comes out and heads for the altar. PAUL meets him with a surprised expression.
PAUL
Are you alright father?
SHEAMUS stops holding his breath.
SHEAMUS
I am not quite awake yet.
PAUL points to the cassock not fully fastened. SHEAMUS feigns surprise and proceeds to readjust it.
SHEAMUS (TO HIMSELF)
Steady on. You adulterous philistine. Now you have become a double faced liar.
SHEAMUS kneels by the altar and takes refuge in prayer.
46. INT. IN THE JOHNSON HOUSEHOLD.
Siggi fully dressed looks into her hand bag. SAMANTHA and CHRISTOPHER sit on the floor playing draft. ERIC in shirt sleeves and with a bottle of beer in hand enters from the kitchen. SIGGI addresses ERIC.
SIGGI
Can I trust you with the kids?
ERIC
I don’t know why you want to go twice in a day. I’m sure God will understand if you give it a miss!
SIGGI
I promised LEILA I would introduce her to father SHEAMUS.
ERIC
I let you off this time.
Siggi goes to the kids
SIGGI
Now don’t you go on upsetting your daddy and keep quiet, your granny is not feeling too good.
She goes out.
47. INT. THE SPENCER HOUSE’S ENTRANCE HALL. EVENING
LEILA is putting the last touch to her dress. BART looks on with a benign smile. LEILA turns to him.
LEILA
Why don’t you?
BARTHOLEMEW
I will walk you to the church.
LEILA
I wish …
BARTHOLEMEW
I was raised a Christian. I think religion is a waste of time.
LEILA
Religion is a great moral support especially in time of need. A great refuge-
BARTHOLEMEW
It did nothing for me when father squandered the estate. My prayers got lost in the wind.
LEILA
Not the trust.
BARTHOLEMEW
For that I got to thank my grandfather who had the foresight to set it up for me. God is an illusion people need.
LEILA
That bad!
SHEAMUS
Nevertheless do whatever you want to, if that makes you happy.
LEILA
Do you love me?
BARTHOLEMEW
What a question!
He hugs her.
LEILA
You show it in a funny way.
BARTHOLEMEW
Stop being sarcastic.
LEILA
Why shouldn’t I be?
BARTHOLEMEW
You are a beautiful bruised flower…. And anyway now you are LADY Spencer and what you are implying is the pastime of the plebeians
BART offers his arm and the two walk off.
48. INT. VESTRY. EVENING.
PAUL enters and senses the perfume lingering in the air. Being an oddity to the vestry he looks around then up toward the ceiling and sees the knickers. He smiles knowingly,scratches his head.
PAUL
Is he trying to tell me something?
49. INT. BY THE ALTAR
SHEAMUS is kneeling in prayer
SHEAMUS
Forgive me Father for I have sinned.
PAUL observes SHEAMUS then coughs. SHEAMUS turns to him.
PAUL
Father there are people waiting for confession.
SHEAMUS
Well they get in line(then turns to the altar) What right have I now to guide the faithful?
SHEAMUS gets up and goes toward the confessional.
59. INT. IN THE CONFESSIONAL.
SHEAMUS enters. A man kneels at the grille.
MAN
I don’t know where to begin.
SHEAMUS
Try from the beginning.
MAN
I am a builder and I had to do this job. It was an emergency.
SHEAMUS
GOD will understand,I don’t think that’s a sin.
MAN
Is not that!
SHEAMUS
What it’s then?
MAN
When I came home I found my wife in bed with my best friend.
SHEAMUS has a jolt and clears his throat.
MAN
What am I to do?
SHEAMUS
Forgive, my son forgive. Jesus died on the cross to expiate our sins.
MAN
He chose to be a martyr…..
SHEAMUS
Try hard. Five Holy Mary and ….
51. EXT. OUTSIDE THE CHURCH EVENING
LEILA and SIGGI meet by the main entrance.
SIGGI
Father SHEAMUS he will be delighted to help you out. He is a good priest.
LEILA
He was very nice to me and my husband.
SIGGI
The Parish is lucky to have such a Priest.
50. INT. IN THE CHURCH. EVENING.
SHEAMUS goes through the motion of saying mass but his mind is elsewhere. The service is hurried. At the end SHEAMUS hurries to the vestry.
53. EXT. SIDE DOOR
SHEAMUS leaves by the side door and hurries away.
54. EXT. MAIN CHURCH ENTRANCE.
A group of people linger waiting for father SHEAMUS. PAUL arrives instead to usher them.
55. INT. FATHER SHEAMUS BEDROOM. EVENING.
SHEAMUS enters. He glances at the crucifix on the wall. Then at himself in the mirror. A severe stare confronts him. He begins to remove his cassock. The reflection remains the same.
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
Stupid, stupid, stupid.
SHEAMUS
I know.
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
You are an irresponsible cretin.
SHEAMUS
I don’t need reminding.
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
You are trained to be the torch bearer toward redemption.
SHEAMUS
I tried , oh how I have tried.
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
You got yourself bogged down like a common adulterer.
SHEAMUS
Why the church does not recognise that beside being priests we are also men.
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
Celibacy was the price when you chose to be a priest.
SHEAMUS
I thought I was strong.
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
You lost so much and for what?
SHEAMUS
Stop tormenting me!
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
What is the punishment for a double faced scavenger?
SHEAMUS undoes the belt and begins to lash himself with it. His reflection stares at him.
SHEAMUS’S REFLECTION
For the pleasure of a fleeting moment.. Fry on it!
SHEAMUS stops hurting and panting then begins again. The phone rings. SHEAMUS stops to pick the receiver up.
SHEAMUS
Hello!
RUTH (O.O.V.)
Hello forbidden fruit!
SHEAMUS
That’s you!
RUTH (O.O.V)
Are you with another woman?
SHEAMUS
What makes you think that?
RUTH(O.O.V.)
You are panting!
SHEAMUS
Why have you called?
RUTH (O.O.V.)
We are lovers aren’t we?
There is a pregnant pause.
SHEAMUS
I think, we should get on our ended knees and ask his forgiveness.
RUTH (O.O.V.)
Have you gone bonkers?
The door bell rings. SHEAMUS looks toward the door.
SHEAMUS
Look, there is somebody at the door!
RUTH (O.O.V.)
Very convenient.
SHEAMUS puts the phone down and goes to the door. SIGGI’s head pops in.
SIGGI
Does father SHEAMUS live here?
SHEAMUS
What can I do for you Mrs Johnson?
He lets her in. SIGGI looks at him with a surprised look.
SIGGI
You look so different-
I waited at the exit. I had promised Leila to accompany her-
Siggi beckons to Leila who comes in and looks at SHEAMUS with candid eyes.
SHEAMUS
We have met!
SIGGI
Lady Spencer wants to know more about Catholicism. I thought you might help on the subject.
SHEAMUS turns away, SIGGI notices the bloody shirt. SHEAMUS shakes his head.
SHEAMUS
I’ll see what I can do. Can we talk again? Today I have a lots of things on my mind.
SIGGI
What have you done to your back father?
SHEAMUS
It’s nothing. Thank you for your concern.
SIGGI
Well, sorry to have bothered you!
SHEAMUS
Any time Mrs Johnson.
56. INT. MORNING. THE VESTRY
PAUL enters and looks up at the lamp, shakes his head.
PAUL
Well, we shall have to wait and see.
PAUL is about to exit when SHEAMUS enters. They greet each other with a gesture. With PAUL out of sight, SHEAMUS begins to look around. He is moving the furniture when PAUL comes back. SHEAMUS shows surprise.
SHEAMUS
I…. Dropped a coin and would you believe it rolled underneath.
PAUL
Found it?
SHEAMUS
What?
PAUL
The coin!
SHEAMUS
Oh yes.
PAUL
Well if you need me I’m cleaning the church.
SHEAMUS
Righteo
SHEAMUS resumes his search. After a while he stops to think and looks around then up to the ceiling lamp. Now he is transfixed.
SHEAMUS
That’s what happens to a sinner who should have known better. Has PAUL seen it? Or .. Has he put it there! Is this a subtle retribution?
He ponders taking a few steps to and fro, then calls.
SHEAMUS
PAUL!
Footsteps then PAUL appears.
SHEAMUS
Does anyone else have access to this room besides you and me?
PAUL
Not that I know!
SHEAMUS
Do you think we have a joker around the place?
PAUL
Not that I know.
SHEAMUS
So it’s you and me!
PAUL
That’s correct.
SHEAMUS
Then could you throw some light-
SHEAMUS points up to the lamp.
SHEAMUS
How that thing got up there?
PAUL
Search me.
They both are transfixed to the lamp.
PAUL
What is it?
SHEAMUS
I was hoping you could tell me!
PAUL
It looks like- { Pause}
SHEAMUS
Like what?
PAUL
No it can’t be.
SHEAMUS
What?
PAUL
Do you really want to know?
SHEAMUS
Why do you think I called you here for?
PAUL takers a chair and and mounts it and takes the knickers down. He looks at them it as in a study. Sheamus looks away.
PAUL
Maybe a symbolic message.
SHEAMUS
Take it away.
PAUL
I’ll use it for dusting.
SHEAMUS
Whatever.
SHEAMUS goes out.
PAUL
Hypocrite.
PAUL examine the object in his hands, then smells it. He goes pensive, shakes his head and pockets it.
57. INT. OUTSIDE THE VESTRY
SHEAMUS goes towards the altar. The OLD MAN, stick in hand,furtively goes behind the aisle. SHEAMUS goes to him.
SHEAMUS
Go to the front? The Good God will be happy to see you!
OLD MAN
I am quite happy to be here if you don’t mind, father.
SHEAMUS
As you wish.
SHEAMUS goes out of the church.
58. EXT. OUTSIDE THE CHURCH.
SHEAMUS walks ignoring the passing people who try to attract his attention.
SHEAMUS
What Am I to do? Am I a phoney? Oh mother. You think I’m the angel of the family – If you only knew.
59. INT. CHURCH. AFTERNOON
SHEAMUS is reading his breviary. Quietude reigns supreme. Footsteps reveal RUTH directing herself to SHEAMUS. She stops by him. He turns and stares at her questioningly.
RUTH
I must talk to you
SHEAMUS
I’m listening.
RUTH
Not here. What I have to say to you must be said in private.
SHEAMUS closes his breviary and gets up to follow RUTH.
60. INT. THE VESTRY
RUTH enters and turns to SHEAMUS.
RUTH
How dare you! Treating me like that!
SHEAMUS
I don’t understand-
RUTH
Short on memory?
SHEAMUS
Could you be more specific?
RUTH
How could you? You make love to me. You cuckold him and then have the courage to involve him- Coming from you I find disgusting.
SHEAMUS
You making a mountain out of a pair of-
RUTH
The penny has dropped.
SHEAMUS
Your thing was above the lamp shade I only saw it this morning. Don’t you find that strange?
RUTH
Why so concerned?
SHEAMUS
PAUL might have put it there.
RUTH
So you saw fit to involve PAUL.
SHEAMUS
I had to play it safe.
RUTH
You played stupid.
SHEAMUS
I did it for us.
RUTH
You did it for us!
The two make eye to eye contact. RUTH gets closer and begins to caresses him. SHEAMUS relents.
RUTH
You’d better prove it then! Prove it to me that you care.
SHEAMUS
Oh God, why are we doing this?
RUTH
Don’t you know?
61. INT. BEDROOM. AFTERNOON.
PAUL is cutting his nasal hair. He sniffs the air, stares at the Eau de Cologne and the talcum powder in front of him. He smells first the eau de Cologne,then the talcum powder. Then gets up and goes RUTH’s cupboard and smells her clothes. He is in shock and utters.
PAUL
It can’t be!
He rushes out.
62. INT. THE CHURCH. AFTERNOON.
SHEAMUS comes from the vestry and looks around to see if anybody is in the church; a signal and RUTH hurries to the exit. SHEAMUS goes to the side enclave to face Saint Patrick. He looks up.
SHEAMUS
I know, I have traded a moment of ecstacy for a life of shame.
He moves away a few steps then goes back.
SHEAMUS
Here I am! Lost and scared. A disappointment to you, to God , to the church and everybody else including myself [PAUSE} All my resolutions melt away the moment I hear her voice.
63. INT. THE CHURCH ANOTHER DAY. AFTERNOON.
PAUL is behind the aisle. The OLD MAN with the stick enters and positions himself near PAUL who becomes agitated; the man notices and turns to him.
OLD MAN
Hiding as well?
PAUL
What are you doing in here?
OLD MAN
Same thing as you.
PAUL moves to another aisle. The click of a door. SHEAMUS appears and looks around then signals RUTH who with a hurried walk makes her way to the exit. PAUL unseen watches. SHEAMUS, rosary in hand, kneels and begins to pray. PAUL tip toes out of the church.
64. INT. BY THE ALTAR
SHEAMUS puts the rosary in his pocket and looks at the crucifix
SHEAMUS
I am along the road of damnation and yet on a pedestal with no right to be there, I want to hide. You are the only one I can tell my shame to. I’m weak- please give me strength-
A cough reverberates in the air. SHEAMUS freezes. A moment of hesitation; then he gets up and goes toward the sound, where he finds the OLD MAN.
SHEAMUS
Hello There!
OLD MAN
Good afternoon father.
SHEAMUS
How long have you been here?
OLD MAN
A while.
SHEAMUS has moment of fear.
SHEAMUS
Has anybody sent you?
OLD MA
Nobody.
SHEAMUS
Why do you hide like a thief?
OLD MAN
I can’t tell you.
SHEAMUS
Do you believe in the sanctity of confession?
OLD MAN
Of course I do.
SHEAMUS
Well, under the sanctity of confession tell me why you hide.
OLD MAN
You will not give me away, will you?
SHEAMUS
Only God will know.
OLD MAN
He is the one I don’t want to know.
SHEAMUS
All right, I will not tell him.
OLD MAN
I am 92 years old
SHEAMUS
So?!
OLD MAN
Can’t you see?
SHEAMUS
You are suppose to tell me.
OLD MAN
well….
The OLD MAN lowers his voice
OLD MAN
If I come to worship by the altar, God will see me.
SHEAMUS
What are you afraid of?
OLD MAN
Of God seeing me and saying: Why are you still here!
65. INT. BEDROOM. AFTERNOON
A made up bed with scattered woman clothes. The sound of running water and the humming of a song is heard from RUTH. PAUL walks in with a box of chocolate. He has an angry face, but from his lips come a sweet voice.
PAUL
Ruth darling, are you here? Oh oh..
There’s a moments silence. The running water stops.
RUTH (O.O.V)
Is that you PAUL?
PAUL
Are you expecting someone else?
RUTH [ O.O.V.]
Ah.
PAUL
You don’t usually shower in the afternoon.
RUTH comes out of the shower wrapped in a towel.
RUTH
A sticky day today.
PAUL
Yes I guess it is.
He shows her the chocolate.
PAUL
I passed the sweet shop and knowing you’re a glutton for chocolate-
RUTH
I was surprised not to find you home.
RUTH sits in front of the up mirror and begins to powder herself. PAUL stares at the box of powder. RUTH now starts to dry her hair.
PAUL
You washed your hair as well!
RUTH
So I did.
PAUL
You look beautiful.
RUTH
I’m glad you noticed!
66. EXT. MAIN STREET. MORNING.
PAUL exits”The Magic Shop”and proceeds along the street and enters a delicatessen.
67. EXT. SUNDAY. LATE MORNING.
Church bells are peeling. ERIC, his wife SIGGI and their two children are waiting by the main entrance. Lord BARTHOLEMEW and LEILA are approaching. They greet one another. Then BART goes alone towards the pub and LEILA goes with the Johnsons into the church.
68. INT. BEDROOM. LATE MORNING.
RUTH,in bikini briefs and bra. Satisfied she glances at her hair, then she take the powder puff and lashes herself with it, with emphasis under her arm pits, breasts and between her legs.
69. INT. THE VESTRY
PAUL fills the little jar to be used at the Mass.
70. INT. CHURCH.
The church is filling up and SHEAMUS comes out of the confessional and directs himself to the vestry.
71. INT. THE VESTRY.
CHRISTOPHER with his white tunic on, looks at SHEAMUS putting on his robes. When ready the priest beckons CHRISTOPHER to precede him.
72. INT. THE PUB.
The pub is full. BART goes to the counter for a refill. The black man is drinking his pint. The parrot on his shoulder seeing BART becomes restless.
PARROT
Hello hello.
BART looks up showing annoyance.
PARROT
Stupid cunt, stupid cunt.
The black man turns to BART
BLACK MAN
His vocabulary is limited but colourful.
BARTHOLEMEW
Why don’t you leave him at home?
PARROT
Shut up shut up!
BLACK MAN
The missus. It’s my excuse to go have a quiet pint. And this bugger has developed a taste for the beer.
PARROT
Liar, liar.
73. INT. THE CHURCH.
SHEAMUS is in the pulpit preaching to the congregation
SHEAMUS
We are all creatures of the earth. We are weak and prone to sin. God knows it. He sent his son to show us the way to redemption through forgiveness-
74. INT. RUTH’S BEDROOM.
RUTH is frantically scratching herself grunting and groaning like a newly caged animal.
75. INT. BY THE ALTAR
Silence is absolute. SHEAMUS aided by the altar boy, fills the chalice bless’s it, then drinks it. A bout of coughing, muffled with the palm of his hand.
76. INT. IN THE VESTRY
SHEAMUS is folding his robes deliberately slowly. PAUL comes in. SHEAMUS stares at him.
SHEAMUS
Do you know anything about the wine?
PAUL
No.
SHEAMUS
It was vinegar.
PAUL has a pause, scratches his chin.
PAUL
We are the only ones to have access to it. It must be the Holy Spirit!
SHEAMUS
What makes you think that?
PAUL
Lately strange things have been happening in this room. Who knows! Next time it might just be strychnine
PAUL turns and goes without saying a word.
77. INT. THE BAR BY THE COUNTERS
PAUL enters and signals to the barman the bottle of whiskey and indicates a large one. He drinks it and goes.
78. INT. PAUL’S AND RUTH’S HOUSE.
PAUL enters. He looks around. Grunts and groans come from the bedroom. A satisfied grin is on his face.
PAUL
Darling!? … Where are you?
Pause. More lamentable noises. PAUL goes by the door and with aggressive concern.
PAUL
Is that’s you RUTH?
RUTH (O.O.V.)
Don’t come in.
PAUL
Why weren’t you at mass today?
RUTH [ O.O.V.]
I didn’t feel like it.
PAUL
I wanted to take you out for lunch.
RUTH comes out in her dressing gown. Her face is red. And looking none too happy. PAUL feigns shock and steps backwards.
PAUL
What has happened to you?
RUTH
Can’t you see.
PAUL
Measles?
RUTH
Afraid to catch it!
PAUL
I had measles when I was five.
RUTH
You bastard.
PAUL
I resent that.
RUTH
What do you know about my powder ?
PAUL
What has come over you?
RUTH
(Offering him the powder)
Put some on. You vicious twerp.
PAUL
So you know who I Am.
RUTH
You are a nobody.
PAUL
Not even a twerp!
RUTH
What a abominable man you are. I have been married to you for nearly ten years. I still don’t know you!
PAUL
Same here darling!
She has an attack of itching. PAUL looks on
RUTH
What I want to know is what have you done to my talcum powder!
PAUL
You keep telling me.
RUTH
Somebody put itching powder in it and that someone can only be you!
PAUL
Are you sure it isn’t an allergy? Or …. The wrath of God.
RUTH, hesitant looks around her, then calmly.
RUTH
What makes you say that?
PAUL
Did I say something touchy?
RUTH
If you have got something to say out with it.
PAUL
In your condition I better call the doctor. You might have an infectious disease.
RUTH
Look ! …
PAUL
I’ll get a bite at the fish and chip and since I am alone, I will order a double portion and make a pig of myself.
PAUL opens the door. RUTH throws the powder at him. PAUL avoids it then indicates the mess to her .
PAUL
Now you have to clean it up and- while tidying watch out for spiders.
RUTH
You would say that.
PAUL goes. RUTH picks up the phone and dials. She gets no answer and begins to cry as she makes her way back to the bedroom.
79. EXT. EARLY AFTERNOON. THE PARK.
SHEAMUS is running and his mind wanders.
SHEAMUS
I have reached the pits. Hot and sunny but my heart is cold and clouded with remorse. Oh God, sex is a need in which every living creature on this planet indulges. Why have You allowed your servants to repudiate the natural law of nature? … He knows. But who told him? RUTH! Whomever; the time to pay is here. I’ll lose,Dignity. Position, respect. How I wish to die.
SHEAMUS stops gasping. He notices a boy running toward him gesturing for his attention. As the boy gets closer SHEAMUS recognizes CHRISTOPHER who stops panting for breath. He seems agitated, SHEAMUS gestures to him to take his time before talking.
CRISTOFER
Father come to the house quick. My granny is dying. Mummy want her to have the last rites.
SHEAMUS
Run along and tell her I’m coming.
The boy sprints away. SHEAMUS jogs with urgency along the street toward the church where he enters.
80. INT. BY THE VESTRY.
SHEAMUS makes to open the vestry. RUTH comes from behind the altar her faced covered with a scarf.
SHEAMUS
What are you doing here?
RUTH
We have to talk!
SHEAMUS
Not now, I’m in a rush ……
SHEAMUS notices her state.
SHEAMUS
Have you had an accident?
RUTH
No, but there is something you ought to know.
SHEAMUS
Come in and tell me while I get my things. I haven’t much time.
SHEAMUS enters and hurries to prepare his things.
RUTH
Something has happened.
SHEAMUS
Do tell me! But be quick about it.
RUTH
That’s a nice welcome.
SHEAMUS
I’m expected urgently.
RUTH
Hold me.
SHEAMUS
Look RUTH, this thing has gone far enough. We must end it before it destroys us both.
He takes the tabernacle box and makes for the door, RUTH bars the way.
SHEAMUS
I must dash.
RUTH
Just like that!…
SHEAMUS
Get out of the way.
He brushes her aside and goes out without looking back.
RUTH
You are all the same.
81. INT. THE CHURCH.
SHEAMUS walks speedily to the exit. RUTH follows. She sees the OLD MAN and satisfied nobody else is around, goes to him.
RUTH
What are you doing here this time of the day?
OLD MAN
Praying for my sins, in the hope that it will give me some favorable consideration when I go.
RUTH
Very good precaution. You never know!
OLD MAN
Yes, today is my turn , tomorrow will be yours. A journey, some can delay but nobody can escape.
RUTH
When you go let me know how it is.
RUTH breaks off and goes. The OLD MAN looks on.
82. INT. PAUL AND RUTH’S HOUSE
PAUL enters with two boxes and goes around the place.
83. INT. MRS. BROWN BEDROOM
Mrs BROWN lays in bed propped up with cushions. SIGGI is next to her holding her hand. As SHEAMUS enters SIGGI makes way for him. He takes the dying lady’s hand. Mrs BROWN opens her eyes and looks around the room. Then tiredly she turns to the priest, clear her throat.
MRS BROWN
I want to confess father.
SHEAMUS signals SIGGI to leave the room.
SHEAMUS
I’m listening Mrs BROWN.
MRS BROWN
Will my husband be waiting up there?
SHEAMUS
But of course. He will be delighted to be reunited with you.
MRS BROWN
I was unfaithful only once, with the milkman, and it has been my shame for forty years.
SHEAMUS
God will have appreciated your suffering.
MRS BROWN
My time has come.
SHEAMUS
Our Maker will receive you with open arms. Be strong.
MRS BROWN
Oh. I am happy to go. No more pain, no more loneliness, no more cold…. I’ll be free from all that.
SHEAMUS
Yes Mrs. BROWN.
MRS BROWN
I bet the D.A.S.S. will be pleased.
SHEAMUS
I bet…
MRS BROWN
You can have my bus pass.
SHEAMUS
Thank you.
MRS BROWN
Keep an eye on my grandchildren; show them the way of our good Lord.
SHEAMUS saddens and his eyes fill with tears.
MRS BROWN
Promise me father.
SHEAMUS
I promise Mrs BROWN.
MRS BROWN
Now I am ready.
SHEAMUS begins to pray. SIGGI comes in and, as SHEAMUS gives her the viaticum, SIGGI helps her mother to lifts her head. A clamoring of footsteps and SAMANTHA enters with a bunch of grapes. She is out of breath but her only concern is for her grand mother. Mrs BROWN with a tired smile touches her face. SAMANTHA give her a grape. She chews it slowly and life ebbs away at the same time. SHEAMUS closes her eyes. SIGGI begins to cry and hugs SAMANTHA .
SHEAMUS
She was a good woman. Decent, loyal and God fearing.
84. INT. INSIDE THE CHURCH.
PAUL goes around lighting the candles and readjusting the flowers then stops to look in his pocket, before proceeding to the altar. SHEAMUS arrives visibly tired. He goes toward the vestry soon to reappear rushing toward to the confessional where some people are waiting. SHEAMUS arrives in haste and enters. An old lady goes to kneel by the confessional box within seconds she is away another lady goes and with the same speed is dispatched. Now PAUL kneels and crosses himself then covers his face with the palm of his hands.
SHEAMUS
Well, what have you to confess?
PAUL
I have not sinned father.
SHEAMUS
Not even a white lie, a forbidden desire-
PAUL
No father.
SHEAMUS
I wish every one of us could be like you. Why have you come to confession?
PAUL
For reassurance.
SHEAMUS
Look in the name of the Lord I absolve you for your future sins; say a few Holy Marys and Pater Nosters-
PAUL
Actually.
SHEAMUS
Something you want to tell me?
PAUL
I came to confess two murders I’m going to commit.
SHEAMUS is out of his lethargy and looks at the confessee.
SHEAMUS
I can’t absolve you for that!
SHEAMUS recognise PAUL and shock fills his being.
PAUL
You just did, Father!
SHEAMUS
Killing is a very serious crime as well as a mortal sin.
PAUL
Unfaithfulness is a crime for the state and a mortal sin for the church.
SHEAMUS coughs nervously.
SHEAMUS
Who are the persons you intend to murder?
PAUL
My wife and her lover.
SHEAMUS
For how long have you known this?
PAUL
Suspected for a while, certain for a week.
SHEAMUS
Do you know the identity of her partner in crime?
PAUL
What a stupid question.
SHEAMUS
Don’t you think it would be better to discuss this serious matter with the people involved?
PAUL
They are beneath my contempt.
SHEAMUS
You can’t take lives just like that! Killing is so, so final.
PAUL
In this case, is befitting the crime.
SHEAMUS
What about you? Having two murders on your conscience for the rest of your days. Don’t you think this is a heavy burden to carry?
PAUL
I consider myself an executioner not a murderer!
SHEAMUS
God teaches us to forgive.
PAUL
God tells us not to sin.
SHEAMUS
Jesus died to expiate our
sins.
PAUL
That was his choice.
SHEAMUS
How do you intend to kill your victims?
PAUL
Weed killer.
SHEAMUS
As a sinful and humble servant of God and using all the power bestowed upon me by the church, I can’t absolve you.
PAUL
Neither can I forgive the wrong perpetrated behind my back.
SHEAMUS pauses, then blurts out.
SHEAMUS
Why don’t you expose then!
PAUL
If I do that I have to expose myself. My role would be that of the fool.
SHEAMUS
You can’t take the law in your own hands!
PAUL
Just watch me!
PAUL moves away lea
ving SHEAMUS in shock. A girl kneels and crosses herself and joins her hands in prayer. SHEAMUS is distraught. The girl waits for him to speak. She coughs. SHEAMUS shakes himself and turns to the girl.
SHEAMUS
Yes my child, tell me-
GIRL
Father, I must confess my sins.
SHEAMUS
Sins. Plural. Well that will be lots of Holy Marys and Paternosters plus a donations for the church fund.
GIRL
Yes, I’ll do that.
SHEAMUS
I absolve you in the name the Father, Son and Holy Ghost …
GIRL
But father!
SHEAMUS
What?
GIRL
I haven’t confessed my sins yet.
SHEAMUS
Do tell me.
GIRL
Last night I lied to my parents to go out with a boy friend and made love with him ….. Five times
SHEAMUS
Five times! Didn’ you feel any remorse?
GIRL
Not then, I do now.
SHEAMUS
I bet you enjoyed doing it!
GIRL
I was frustrated. It was a great relief.
SHEAMUS
Go and say your penance.
SHEAMUS exits, looks in the direction of PAUL before heading for the vestry. The congregation is small. The OLD MAN comes in his usual place.
CHRISTOPHER in white tunic precedes SHEAMUS to the altar. Once by the altar SHEAMUS smells wine. He looks up.
SHEAMUS V.O.
I have strayed,I can only say:” mea culpa, mea maxima culpa. What can I do to put things right?- The threat is the logical reaction of a hurt man. I deserve anything he throws at me. Please God, stop PAUL. He is the victim not the casualty. I will never again allow RUTH to be alone with me. Then there is Mrs BROWN dying wish-
The mass has reached the blessing of the wafers. As SHEAMUS opens the tabernacle the croak of a frog is heard as the animal jumps out of the tabernacle into petrified SHEAMUS who sags into the floor. A hush falls over the congregation before mayhem breaks out. PAUL rushes to help along with other willing Samaritans.
85. INT. RUTH’S BEDROOM. EVENING.
RUTH enters the bedroom, undresses to her bra and knickers then sits down in front of the mirror. She removes her earrings and opens automatically the top draw of the dressing table to put the removed earrings. She glances down. There’s a moment of silence before she lets out a scream and jumps up, looks around and her face acquires total fear as if in a daze she runs out of the room.
86. INT. THE HALL. EVENING.
RUTH comes into the hall trembling with fear. She slams the door. She shuts her eyes as to drive away the fear. But as she looks around her, she sees a rat is by her feet and spiders crawling on the wall. New screams. She runs into the kitchen.
87. INT. KITCHEN. EVENING
RUTH trembles and her nightmare increases as she sees more spiders crawling on the wall. She runs out into the street, screaming like a demented person.
88. INT. CHURCH. EVENING.
Confusion is everywhere as SHEAMUS comes around, and his only concern is to continue the Mass, gently brushing aside helping hands.
SHEAMUS
Where was I?
VOICE
Sit down father.
VOICE
Have a glass of water!
SHEAMUS feebly on his feet turns to the congregation.
SHEAMUS
Please return to your seat. God must be praised.
The congregation returns to the benches. During the consecration, the siren of an ambulance is heard passing by.
89. EXT. MAIN STREET. EVENING
RUTH runs along the street screaming, berseck. The siren of an ambulance is heard faintly at first and quickly becomes louder as it approaches RUTH. Two ambulance men have to wrestle to overpower her.
90. INT. THE VESTRY. EVENING
The Mass has ended. SHEAMUS returns to the vestry. He disposes of his garment and sits down and tells the boy
SHEAMUS
Go, don’t keep your mother waiting.
The boy goes while PAUL comes in. SHEAMUS looks at him. PAUL returns the stare. Each one waiting for the other to speak. SHEAMUS is the one to start.
SHEAMUS
You must feel very proud.
PAUL
Satisfied.
SHEAMUS
For defacing the tabernacle!. The very place the body of Jesus Christ rests.
PAUL
Eh, don’t make me laugh!
SHEAMUS
You are forgetting who I represent. Laugh, but if you deface the tabernacle you will never laugh again.
PAUL
Is that a threat!
SHEAMUS
I can take anything you throw at me but, I will not tolerate you insulting the Almighty that way ever again.
PAUL
Are you trying to get God on your side?
SHEAMUS
God is on everybody’s side. He is not responsible for my actions. In the end we are all answerable to him for our actions.
PAUL
Beautiful speech
SHEAMUS
If you have a grievance, take it out on me and leave God out of it. I’m a sinner but I am still responsible for the welfare of this church.
PAUL
You are doing a fantastic job. I can vouch for that anytime
SHEAMUS
If you want, carry out your vendetta, feel free, I’m here defenseless.
PAUL
I am not quite ready … Yet. Meanwhile I give you back the keys. You can ring your bells and light your the candles.
PAUL throws the keys at him and walks out slamming the door
90. EXT. MAIN STREET. PET SHOP. MORNING.
PAUL walks along the street carrying the boxes when he comes by the pet shop he enters.
91 INT. THE PET SHOP. MORNING.
A lady comes to meet him. PAUL puts the boxes on the counter.
WOMAN
What’s up sir?
PAUL
I’m returning these pets. My wife doesn’t approve.
THE END.
Copyright by BERNARDO STELLA Holding