Everyone opened umbrellas as the rain changed from a gentle blessing into an angry storm.
The deacon held an umbrella over the minister’s head as the minister quickly finished the service.
Mr Field opened his umbrella and attempted to shelter Mrs Field and Theodore, but there wasn’t enough room.
Theodore waved the umbrella away, relieving Mr Field of the responsibility of protecting him from the shower.
Rain coursed down Theodore’s face in a poor imitation of tears as the minister completed the service,
“…..Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust; in the sure and certain hope of the Resurrection unto eternal life.”
The minister closed his book of services with an air of finality and the small group of mourners ran for their cars.
