We just received word that my brother-in-law Allen passed away very unexpectedly today. Please keep his widow, my husband’s sister Susan, and his two daughters (our nieces, blog-named Ree and Junie B.) in your prayers. Reflections and memories to follow, but for now we are all shocked and grief-stricken, wishing that New Orleans was closer so that our prayers and our hugs could touch those who are ripped apart by pain.
We’ll say prayers for them at Mass today .
Prayers on the way.
They’re in my thoughts and prayers. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I’m broken hearted for you all!!!
Many prayers….safe travels…
sending prayers
Prayers going up for Allen and all of you, how dreadful this news is. It does not really help, I know, but I myself know the pain of unexpected loss acutely at the moment, as I lost my mother suddenly a month ago yesterday. It is a sudden and deep grief, for all of you, I am sure, and know that you are not alone in your sorrow. I do not know what help that is – for I myself in my grief do not really know what kind of help it is to have others tell me that, but yet… it DOES help to know that others are suffering and want to unite their suffering to Christ and to the rest of us who mourn.
For Susan and your nieces, and all of you, perhaps not for now when the shock is too great, but for the weeks ahead: “Rejoice always” says St. Paul – never more than at these moments is that truly put to the test, but do it anyway. Choose to do one thing that brings you and the children joy on each of these coming days. Nothing big or fancy, but something small like picking up a treat or spending time petting the dog. Remember that these things have brought you and Allen joy, that God is with you now as He was at those times, and that He will bring you joy again out of your sorrow. It does not always feel joyful, this past month has been almost unbearable to me, but by keeping the wound open slightly it seems to heal easier and yes, I have rediscovered, in a small way, joy in the midst of my sorrow. I am confident that step by step the Lord will heal the sorrow and help me to be more joyful and grateful than before – with Mom as my champion above, I pray this daily!
I pray that each of you, too, will be given great graces by our Lord, and through the intercession of our Sorrowful Mother come through this darkness and rejoice in Allen’s life, praying for him with confidence in the mercy of our Father in heaven.
Pax Christi.
We are so shocked . It did not dawn on me who it was at first. Please tell Susan we are praying and wish we were closer. Please tell Ann we are praying for the whole family and will have amass said for the family in Florida.
Praying for all of you at this most difficult time. Asking God to speed Allen into His light.
so sorry to hear that.
Thank you all for the tremendous outpouring of prayers and support. I am so very, very blessed by this online community, and I know the prayers will continue to be needed for many months. Thanks again!