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               "You thought you could compromise," Kevin said. "You thought they'd worship God if he

allowed them the earth. But once you convinced them that it was ok with God to enjoy themselves,

what did they need God for? They were too busy having fun. You thought they might worship a cross

if it were made of gold, but you never counted on them worshipping gold. You never counted on them

worshipping the earth. Now it looks like they're so impressed, they don't want to leave."

               Father Feinstein was playing with one of the toys that came in a Kids' Holy Meal box. It was a

plastic Job, holding a baby in his left arm. When a button on the bottom of the toy was pushed, Job

swung a blade to the baby's throat. Father Feinstein pushed the button and the blade swung.

               Another person had entered the church and was waiting by the doors. It was a woman. Kevin

heard the floor creaking and turned to leave, then looked back at Father Feinstein.

               "By the way, Father," Kevin said. "Remember what I said to the little girl about the Barbie

doll? Well, I've done my penance, Father. I gave her one for half price."

               Kevin walked to the door. The woman waiting there was the owner of the Jesus Christ

Superstore. "I'm done, Christine," he whispered.

               He took her hand. Her warm, soft fingers pressed the top of his knuckles. The polish on her

nails made little red polka dots against his skin.

               The owner and the president of Jesus Christ Superstores, Inc. burst through the church doors.

They walked down the steps, ready to greet their next customers.