Saint Gabriel's Church looked just like an old farmhouse on the outside, except for the tall steeple and bell that chimed every hour. People were crammed by the truckload inside, so there was no escape from the humidity and took all available air. Yet the congregation sang loudly and said phrases in unison. Hands were raised in praise. Some fanned themselves, while others just pulled on their collars with little relief.

Most of all, Courtney hadn't gone up in flames when ...