After welcoming the congregation

The priest continued to announce the opening hymn, making no mention of why he had replaced Father Carmichael for the service. It raised the curiosity in Connie, especially as the rest of the congregation seemed relaxed and familiar with the priest addressing them.

As the service continued

Connie found herself looking around the church to see if Father Carmichael had arrived. Peering through two pillars adjacent to their pew, her gaze fell upon a commemorative plaque set in the wall beyond.

Connie's discovery

In bold script cut into the stone, Connie focused on the name of the church's founder. She stared, stunned at the words In memory of Father Carmichael, followed by the dates of his life span several centuries earlier.