Poverello

I would not venture
Beyond the confines
This valley sets
Declining an invitation
To visit your home
Many miles a far
My sister brought me back
A small crucifix of
The One who spoke to you
My father a small purse
Graced with the picture of
Your hillside town
A wallet usually empty
As befits you
Poverello.

We did not meet except
Passing in time of
Sadness you called out
A melody heard
Gone again
Until one eve before the tabernacle
Did appear in my mind's eye
In company
The soul stamped with your
Image bearing his cross
You who loved
Brothers tenderly
Keep company with your sons
Raising their hearts with your comfort
To love beyond this world.

Now that you in heaven
Shine through clouds that cover
I am pierced with thoughts of you
I stumble to follow the tune
Poverty not always
Easy to bear each day
But then
There is always tomorrow
Let me show forth my hands like yours
Marked with love of Him
Searching into our hearts
Let me be with you
In harmony enfolded
Poverello.