How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
For Three Kings, I asked for a crucifix for above my bed. Nights, I laid it beside me so that my hands, waking, could touch his suffering flesh instead and be tamed from their shameful wanderings. (1.4.28)
The Three Kings holiday commemorates the story of the three wise men bringing gifts to baby Jesus. Patria uses the occasion in a very holy way, asking for a crucifix to distract her from masturbating.
Quote #8
I had seen the next best thing to Jesus, my earthly groom. The struggle was over, and I had my answer, though it was not the one I had assumed I would get. (1.4.40)
Up until now, Patria had assumed she'd spend her life married to Jesus, her heavenly groom. But one look at Pedrito's hairy feet (hey, whatever floats your boat) and she kisses the nun's life goodbye. But notice that Patria still associates her attraction and marriage to Pedrito with a religious calling.
Quote #9
El Jefe was no saint, everyone knew that, but among the bandidos that had been in the National Palace, this one at least was building churches and schools, paying off our debts. Every week his picture was in the papers next to Monsignor Pittini, overseeing some good deed. (1.4.57)
At first Patria doesn't see what the big deal is with Trujillo. She expects politicians to be crooks, so that part isn't surprising, and the church's support for him convinces her that he isn't all bad. Monsignor Pittini was the archbishop of Santo Domingo, and is often accused of putting the country under Trujillo's rule.