(I think this poem is by Fr Mateo Crawley-Boevey SSCC.)
In Spain, there is a crucifix, with one arm of Our Lord
Hanging down, not fixed thereon, they say with one accord -
It happened that a certain man fell deep in sin and shame.
He, to the priest for pardon, with deep contrition came.
The priest was loathe to give it, the man though pleaded sore,
And so the good priest pardoned him but warned, "Now sin no more!"
The sinner went off happy, but, sad it is to tell,
Into the rut of evil ways, again he weakly fell.
Back to the priest for pardon, he came with grief anew,
The priest refused it, saying, "Your sorrow is not true!"
The poor man begged and pleaded, and so the priest gave in,
But said that nevermore would he absolve such a grievous sin.
The sinner went off, full of joy, his weakness though was great,
And soon alas, he fell again, into his sinful state.
This time the priest was adamant, "I will not pardon you,
Your sorrow and repentance are shallow and untrue!"
In vain the sinner pleaded, for pardon as before.
The priest was now determined to absolve the man no more.
Suddenly they were disturbed by anguished sobs of pain,
So loud, so unmistakable, they listened once again.
It was as if the tenderest heart, with bitter grief was broken,
The sound just pierced their very souls, although no word was spoken.
They looked, the church was as before, but then they saw above
The crucifix was there alive, the sobs were those of Love.
Then Jesus to His own dear priest said tenderly, "My son,
You have not shed your blood for him, as I his Lord have done!"
Then that dear hand, transfixed by love, detached itself instead
To make a large "Sign of the Cross" over the sinner's head.
Until this day that loving Hand so often raised in blessing,
Has not returned to where it was, but now all priests addressing -
Says, "Pardon, pardon, mercy, mercy, on sinners pity take.
Ah, draw them to My loving Heart, and love them for My sake!"
