Jude Chukwuemeka Muoneke

THE SAINT BOTTLE\'S CATHEDRAL

 

The Agwu diocese, 
With scattered outstations, 
Parishes in primitive cities, 
Chief priests ordained 
For each services.

Some worship in the morning, 
While many worship in the evening, 
Worship is worship, 
Men faithful worshippers, 
Slay Queens song singers.

Burukutu outstations
Are for morning devotions, 
Father and son at worship centres, 
Though silent prayers uttered 
With holy calabash.

Then comes the New Jerusalem
outstations,
Evenings set aside for weekly services, 
Officiating ministers ordained, 
By the size of their wallets.

Methanol the communion wine, 
Cigarette, Indian hemp, and shisha
Are incense of sanctification, 
What a holy worship! 

Church members in twos, 
Skirts and trousers in love, 
Facing each other,
Both anointed by alcohol.

Ethanol and methanol
smile at them,
Secret shared, 
Shekels sacrificed for pleasure, 
Though gainful and painful.

Animalistic desires gratified, 
Homes stranded and starved, 
Wives curse and caused to weep, 
Why blame her for your misfortune?

Retrieve and retract your steps, 
Turn a new leaf, 
Pervert or perish, 
Your deeds speak for you.