The Cowl

 

For centuries their head was covered by the cowl

as the brothers heard the cry of a distant owl

Compline's last verse prayed in whispers

by those who wore sandals and slippers

The dawn brought light and the bell of Lauds

as the devout put on their habit and tied cords

To chapel and psalm in gregorian continuity

they began the day in true fraternal community

Work and prayer was their daily order

with hospitality showed to the boarder

A day punctuated by endless hymns of praise

as the Holy Rule so clearly says

They move in unity of divine purpose

with cowl, cassock and sometimes surplice

Resilient for centuries and undeterred 

until each at last was faithfully interred