The moisture from his clothes clung uncomfortably to his body while he prayed, ultimately causing a distraction far more prevalent to his mind than the roaring thunder outside. Still, Joseph pushed ahead of him his desire to tend to his personal needs for the time being, arguing that somebody might yet make an entrance in time for the sermon; or they might just come here to seek shelter from the storm
In such a case he would do well to remain present, showing them that neither God nor his messengers had abandoned his most devout followers - but stood steadfast by their side, ready to fight their battles alongside them. Those who made it so far deserved as well Ansgar's praise for their victory; as by design they had shown a great measure of vitality and endurance, and not to mention faith - by turning up on the doorstep to the church.
A grand victory, indeed, to have overcome such obstacles laid on your path. Not only for your own sake, but also for Him.
Father Joseph felt certain that Ansgar looked down at those people and smiled; After all, He had the heart of a warrior himself, no doubt were He able to see and appreciate that quality where it could be found in the hearts of his people, too.
The priest collected his mind, allowing the sounds of the storm to pass through his ear without lingering, while he attempted one more time to focus on the content of his prayer. His body shivered, however; and hadn't it been for the fact he would have to return to the armageddon washing about on the outside to get there, the walls of his own home or a nice tavern's would have been a lot more desirable to him at this point. Better to stay here, he told himself. He would feel a lot more comfortable once he'd changed into one of the ceremonial garments stored in the sacristy. At least those would be dry.
His attention snapped into a wholly different focus, and his head jerked upward as he'd heard someone - a person other than himself, make a sudden noise. Joseph let his gaze wander into the direction where he believed he had heard the noise, and offered a smile to the woman he could now detect standing there.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Madamoiselle. I didn't realize there was anyone here. Please do come in!"
He gave her an inviting gesture while he got back onto his feet, abandoning for now his spot beneath the altar in favor of human company. It was then Joseph noticed the frightened look upon the woman's face, and the tears brimming in her eyes.
"You will be safe here," he assured her gently, offering her another, gentle smile.