Sorrow and faith…

One felt, the other clung to. How else does one survive the loss of a much wanted, much loved child?

Our dear friends, Jim and Lisa Ross, know only too well the full meaning of the words above. This past Monday, Jimmy and Lisa, pregnant with their sixth child, heard the words that no parent ever wants to hear: no heartbeat…the baby is dead. Three and half weeks before little Gabriel was to arrive…

On Tuesday August 12, 2008, Gabriel Alexander Ross was delivered into the waiting arms of his sweet mother. Much as our Lady received into her own arms the body of her Son, Lisa held little Gabriel for the first and last time. A lovely little boy, a cherub’s cheeks and a curly halo of dark brown hair…the image of his brother, James. Sleeping peacefully beneath the heart of his mother, he knew only love and comfort. He was loved and is now mourned by five siblings; Ben, Jack, John, Lucy and James.

Tomorrow, Fr. Lutz will offer a Requiem Mass of the Angels for baby Gabriel. We will celebrate his life, thankful to God that we were able to love him for a little while. His parents are amazing, seeing God’s hand in this loss, just as they have in the many blessings they’ve received. Lisa has asked that a picture be posted of her sweet baby. Such a beautiful boy, missed by his family and friends, watching and praying, waiting for the day that he can embrace us all.  Please keep the Ross family in prayer, as they continue to mourn their precious child; living in faith, hope and trust in God’s merciful love.

Having become perfect in a short while, he reached the fullness of a long career;
for his soul was pleasing to the LORD, therefore he sped him out of the midst of wickedness.

Wisdom 4:14

Gabriel Alexander Ross
August 12, 2008
Requiescat in pace