The crowd had gathered in front of the Church. People wishfully believed that there was no place more sacred than the Church, and that this would ensure a just verdict.
A large wooden chair was placed to the west of the Church, with a small table beside it.
On the table sat the Holy Communion Box, a round, silver container with a hinged lid. Engraved on its side was an image of Jesus nailed to the Cross. It held the holy wafers for Mass, and today, it would be used for the swearing of oaths.
Swearing an oath was a required part of the proceedings. For the common folk, it was one of the few comforts available to the powerless. It wasn't always effective, but sometimes, it truly made a difference.
The millennium of Christ's incarnation was approaching. Even those who were once impious had begun to grow anxious, though tragically, not all of them.
His kingdom was coming, and all would be judged.
