Thanks to constant recordings by Cy Draven, the group learns that Wicks had planned to expose everyone’s secrets and leave the church. A hidden family fortune also plays a major role, a rare jewel swallowed by Jefferson’s grandfather, Reverend Prentice Wicks.
Here’s what happens
Wicks’ flask contains a paralytic, but the fatal blow is delivered by dentist Nat Sharp, who pulls out a fake knife and stabs Wicks for real. Later, when the monsignor appears to “rise from the dead,” it is actually Samson Holt in disguise. Nat kills Samson, hoping to secure the jewel for himself.
Martha Delacroix, Wicks’ devoted aide, uncovers Nat’s intentions. She switches their coffee cups, causing Nat to poison himself. She then stages the scene to make it appear as though Jefferson drowned Nat in acid. Martha confesses everything to Jud, with Blanc listening. She also admits to poisoning herself to protect the jewel from greedy hands.
By the end, the investigation shows how Wicks manipulated his congregation for years. Each member battles personal guilt, resentment, or hidden truths, including Vera Draven learning that Cy is Wicks’ illegitimate son.
Martha dies with the jewel in her hand. Jud decides to protect it from further chaos. He renames the church Our Lady of Perpetual Grace, in memory of Jefferson’s mother, Grace Wicks. He hides the jewel inside a wooden figure of Jesus above the altar, hoping for a peaceful future for the parish.
