How we cite our quotes: (Section.Paragraph)
Quote #7
It's all my fault, he told himself. Everything that's happening. Because I'm afraid to offend the people who provide for me. It's true; I owe them my livelihood. I get nothing from the poor, and God knows prayers don't fill a stomach. That's how it's been up to now. And we're seeing the consequences. (16.4)
This look into Father Rentería's thoughts shows that he honestly understands his mistakes and his weaknesses, even if he can't fix them. Aww. We kind of feel bad for him… until we remember that he's condemned the impoverished members of his community to purgatory or worse.
Quote #8
"I mean maybe, just perhaps, with Gregorian masses. But for that we would need help, have to bring priests here. And that costs money."
And there before my eyes was the face of María Dyada, a poor woman still ripe with children.
"I don't have the money. You know that, Father."
"Let's leave things as they are. Let us put our hope in God."
"Yes, Father."
Why did she look courageous in her resignation? And what would it have cost him to grant pardon when it was so easy to say a word or two—or a hundred if a hundred were needed to save a soul? (16.12-17)
This tearjerker of a negotiation explains why Eduviges is still in Comala. It also lets us see how Father Rentería treats the poor people of the town: as though they were buying a car on Craigslist instead of trying to save their souls.
Quote #9
"The priest wants sixty pesos to overlook the matter of the banns. I told him he'd get it in due time. He says he needs it to fix the altar, and that his dining room table is on its last legs. I promised that we'd send him a new table. He says you never come to mass. I promised him you would. And since your grandmother died, he says, no one ever here has tithed. I told him not to worry. He'll go along." (22.1)
More wheeling and dealing here—Father Rentería knows how to work Pedro, allowing him to get away with some sins, or play hooky at mass, as long as he pays the price.