I just lost the Priest of our church to suicide. He was young, and an awesome Priest. We don’t know why he did what he did. I Just came from his vigil and here is this video, and I was mad at him and at God but my grief had overwhelmed me. The vigil and this video has put it all in perspective. Thank you Father Mike, please,say a prayer for Father Dennis Conway, his family, and our parish, we all loved him and we will all miss him. Peace be with you.
Suicidal thoughts are so hard to fight, especially for someone like him who gave his life to God in the priesthood. May God have mercy and give him eternal peace.
Our son died by suicide 5 years ago and I miss him so very much. On the day he died, I crawled into God's lap and stayed there until I could stand and breathe again. Our Lord did not let me question why or stay in anger. Listening to the Lord, at times, was very hard, but I knew He was there to help me, protect me and care for me so that I could be there for my husband and 3 other children. Thank you for this beautiful message, I will pray that it reaches the people that need it.
Having lost two of my three children, I know the pain. My daughter died almost 17 years ago due to seizures from epilepsy. People have asked me, "Aren't you mad at God?" Then, 9 years ago, I lost my oldest son to cancer. Same question. I've never been mad at God. My adult children are with our Lord. Do I miss them? Terribly! But I have one adult son and two teenage grandsons. I try to live for them. My heart aches every day for the two children who are gone from my sight. But I know they are with God. It gives me some peace. Thank you for this, Fr. Mike. 🙏🏻
My husband passed away August 29th of this year. He was 52 years old. This came as a complete shock and surprise to me. When the state police call you at work, you know it’s not going to be good news. I was in total disbelief. I couldn’t drive myself home from work. He seemed fine when he left for work that morning. He died at work of a heart attack. Totally unexpected. He wasn’t particularly religious, so I pray for his soul. I don’t know what God’s plan is in this, but I know God does indeed have a plan. I still emotionally can’t come to grips with this. I miss him so much.
I'm so sorry. I too lost my husband in August, unexpectedly. He was 42. It isn't easy. We are part of a club we wanted no part of. I will pray for you. Keep going. Keep trusting. Have hope. God is with you, and your husband is looking down on you with love. Keep being the person he loved. Take care friend.
I pray for strength for you. I can understand, I lost my brother 2 months ago and it's still really hard. We were really close and I have still have lots of trouble with grief
My wife died VERY YOUNG in a car wreck and we were about to have a child . Mandy was that once in a lifetime schoolteacher and when she died I was VERY ANGRY !!!!! We were VERY involved in church , volunteering WEEKLY .I HATED GOD ,ANGRY AT HIM AND BECAME A NOT SO NICE PERSON !!!!! Now after a LOT of years I'm back in church again ,the anger is STILL THERE SOMEWHAT ,STILL NOT A VERY NICE PERSON BUT IM ON A ROAD TO REDISCOVERING MY FAITH .
(sorry, English is not my native language, I used google translator): Sincere testimony. This means that you are a normal person. Like Saint Peter, who denied Jesus, and wept bitterly, but later became the head of the Church and died for Jesus. I mean: we are not little angels of God who don't complain about anything. It's impossible for us to accept and enter into situations of death. When you feel that infinite horror will swallow you up. Christ was the first to voluntarily enter into that horror of death because no one else could do it. Now, after him, we can too. So in anger and despair we have even more need for Christ. Otherwise, he would be of no use to us.
@carlosgarza1962 Thank you ,There was a LOT of drinking and chasing women for about 7 years TRYING to destroy myself after one failed attempt at suicide . My best friends wife kept me from putting a bullet in my skull for 3 hours and I am thankful for thank !
God called my 12-year old son. That was 23-1/2 years ago. I still miss him; sometimes I even choke up when I talk about him. But, I know he is with God and I'm doing my best that I'll join him when it is my time. I think the hardest thing I had to do was not asking, "Why?" God's way is not our way. He is infinite wisdom. I just remember that not a sparrow falls from the sky that He gave the nod.
Thank you for the message. It’s so difficult to cope with having lost my boyfriend. He was only 27 and was killed by a drunk driver on the way home from helping a co-worker on his day off. I know he is with Jesus and the peace and love he has with God is beyond what we can ever experience on Earth… but it is so hard to keep going without him here and seeing our hopes and dreams together fade away.. especially since it was such an unfair and terrible accident. God please help me
May God bless and comfort you and grant him eternal rest. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.
I lost two babies by miscarriage and it was painful. I take comfort that Jesus has got them and I hope one day I will be united with them. Thank you Fr Mike. Even difficult topics need to be talked about. 🙏🏽
I experienced this revelation recently. I lost my husband unexpectedly, he was 42 years old. He suffered with much anxiety, depression and panic. And suddenly in my grief I thought: It's selfish of me to want him back with me on Earth when I know he is so free in Heaven. He has no more worry or fear or sadness. He gets to watch over me and our loved ones. And now it's my job to just be the person he loved. It's my job to keep living. I miss him terribly, but I'm not selfish enough to wish him away from where he is supremely happy now. I'll join him in eternity someday...and then finally we'll always get to have another day together forever.
I miss my mom every moment. She died September 2024. At her wake, my brother told a story of our mom telling him (when he was six and the principal of our school had died) to never be mad at God, there is a plan for everything. My mom was at home in hospice, I was her primary caregiver. I grieve, but also know she is out of pain.
My condolences over the loss of your mother. I know how you feel as I lost mine in 2021, just before my 63rd birthday, and my father a little over a year later just after my 64th.
Thank you Father Mike, I just lost my mom three weeks ago from Pancreatic cancer. This week are the services and I am most grateful for being her caregiver for about 20 years. She had RA and suffered many health issues. Every Sunday she received communion at home and had the anointing of the sick towards the end of her life. I will miss her terribly but I know she is rejoicing with God. I think all that time I took care of her God was preparing me for this moment. I am sad, but she is not suffering anymore.
Hello Patricia, I just wanted to say that I read what you’ve written to Father Mike. It moved me. I lost my mother in 2016 to Pancreatic cancer. She was a devout Christian. She loved Christ with all her soul and heart, and was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met and ever known. It has been eight years this November 1, All Soul’s Day, that she went forward to be with Christ. I miss her terribly every day. And I want to tell you that for certain your mother is rejoicing with God in Christ. I, too, do think about all the time I took care of her as God was preparing me for her moment of transition from this life to the next. Am I still sad? Yes. Yet the Lord is binding up my wounds even now and as you are; I am so glad she’s not suffering anymore. I say all this to say that your disposition and outlook is the right one. And I do grieve with you as the loss you share with me is rather unique. Yet common to mankind. I wish you the best in this life as you move forward and may Christ be with you as I know you are broken-hearted right now but know your mother is safe and at home in the Lord and at peace. May Christ bless you.
Thank you, Father Mike. My sister passed 17 months ago. Next to my daughter, she was the person I was closest to. The more time that has passed, the angrier I have been feeling. But…of COURSE I am so happy she is with Jesus and no longer suffering. She is home. Thank you for the reminder! Prayers for you. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
My almost three year old son drowned in a neighbors swimming pool. He was in a coma for 21 days. This tragedy drove me so close to Jesus. I never was mad at him. And like you said I was very sad for a very long time. It took me five years to even feel somewhat better. One day I was looking out my kitchen window and saw some young boys getting into trouble and I thought my son doesn’t have to go through the pains of bullying or getting in to trouble. He’s in Heaven with Jesus and he’s my little saint. I’m going to see him again.
Thank you for this message Fr. Mike. I lost my baby boy at 21 weeks over a year ago and it completely broke me. It was my first pregnancy, and my husband and I were already struggling to get pregnant, as it took us almost 2 years to finally get the positive pregnancy test. My faith was definitely shaken after we lost our baby and I relate so much to how angry I was at God. It was even so hard for me to pray. I just kept asking God why? How could He let this happen? But I know God is also grieving and mourning with us, and I take comfort now in knowing that my baby never knew pain, harm, or anything bad. He only knew love from within the womb and when he woke up, he was immediately with God and his love and grace. It’s taken a lot of healing and time but now I can say my faith has gotten stronger because of this immense grief that will always be with me. Praying for all those who are grieving and mourning losses 🙏🏼❤️
As someone who lost his Father this year I can say will full confidence that you said everything with grace, respect and with a loving caring tone. You are the perfect person to deliver that message Father Mike. God Bless!!!
My father passed away unexpectedly at the age of 56. I happened to talk him that morning and later that day I received a phone call he passed away. I remember being angry, which I understood later was part of the grieving process. I recall asking God why he would take our father away from our mother and away from his children. I just couldn't understand why it happened. I felt I was in a bad dream that I would never wake up from. Back then grief counseling wasn't available so I had to work through it on my own. One evening I was incredibly despondent and was sobbing uncontrollably. In that moment I felt God's presence very strongly and He was telling me everything was okay, my dad was with Him. Thank you Father Mike, you are very kind.
I lost my husband to Motor Neurones disease. It was God who helped my children and I through it! A couple of things happened we feel was divine intervention - giving us the strength to go through it and my husband a peaceful death. Never ever thought about blaming God. Sometimes life just happens!
My husband and I were blessed with 6 beautiful healthy children. Our youngest daughter died at 2 months old in 2021. Shattered the hearts of our family. SHATTERED. We had never known grief that intimately - even with loss of other family members and friends. THIS was the grief that broke me. We have grown closer to God but the path of grief is gigantic especially when you lose a child out of the natural order of life. Thank you so much, Father for this message today. St Capri, Ora pro nobis.
Thank you Father Mike. I lost my husband Dec 3,2024 - I've have found myself to be at peace because he is not suffering any longer and he's recently returned to the Church . So I know all the right sacraments where in place and performed before his passing. I was raised Catholic and although I never lost faith or believe- I hadn't had a parish and was not active-I have recently become very active and ii am a member of an amazing parish that feesl like i have found my home. Although the pain is hard and I'm sure there will be hard days ahead, but I will lean into my faith and God's grace. Thank you for being a major part of my journey as well as a source of comfort. God Bless you
Thank you, Fr. I lost my father on Valentine’s Day and I felt an overwhelming feeling of anger. Then I realized that my father is in Heaven with God. Sometimes, it’s not enough to be consoled. The realization comes like an epiphany - and that is when God is speaking directly to our hearts.
Thank you for this Fr. Mike. I was 19 when I lost my Father and for many years I turned my back on the Lord, as you mentioned, I was angry, upset, and not in a good place for a longtime. 30+ years later I know my Parents on with God, I miss them daily, but as you mention, I know they would never want to come back, because they are with him. Hopefully will be with them again one day.
Thank you Father for these videos. I lost my husband August 2023 and my mom the day before. I never was mad at God. Their time had come. My husband had major health problems for 25 years, so I am happy for him. I miss him but he was not living the way he wanted with all those medical problems. My mom had dementia and my dad passed in 2022. She missed him so much, they had just had their 69th anniversary when he passed. Though she would forget at times he was gone, she was a trooper and strong. I want to be strong like her. ❤️
Hello Father Mike, I just needed to write to tell you that you have gently and kindly spoken as best you could about this topic. Thank you for the deep attempt at kindness in speaking upon the subject. And please don’t think that it wasn’t good or insensitive or unkind. I needed to hear this. And I know that this was a God-ordained thing to hear. Thank you for being obedient to God to post this and speak on it and none of us are good only Christ is good and thankfully, His spirit moved through you to touch all of us in His body through your words. Christ bless you in all that you do.
I needed to hear this, Fr. Mike. My Mom went to be with Jesus in September & our dear friend was buried last Wednesday. I’ve had some bitterness and anger. This video reminded me we just passing through and they are, both, home. Thank you.
Not angry. Just very sad. My brother was quite a bit younger. I expected him to come to my funeral not I to his. He had such joy and loved life Even tho he had a modest life. When you crossed his and his wife's threshold, you were enveloped in peace and joy. I miss him so much.
Thank you for this Father Mike. I lost my 17 year old son at the end of April this year and our family is so, so sad. But I know he's happy with Jesus now, and I want that more than I want him here in this broken world. Someday we'll be together again, and neither of us will be hurting anymore.
Since my childhood, my family has suffered many accidents and illnesses. The first accident was my mother who was hit by a car and almost lost her legs. The first thing they told us when we met (I was 7) was, never ever blame God for these things. He is our Father, he loves us and a father who loves his children never wishes them harm or suffering.
Thank you, Father Mike - your words and homilies have been guiding me as I navigate a new landscape without my parents and without my only sibling whom I lost suddenly last year. I have been trying to find meaning, praying a lot, and attempting to make sense of it all - and your words ring true. Thank you, thank you for the wisdom and for sharing the grace. I really appreciate it
Thank you Father Mike. Yes, losing someone we love is very painful and so unfair, but your explanation is one of hope for the rest of us who are still here. Someday we can be with God in heaven. Wow!
My mother was killed in a freak accident six months ago at the time of this post. I can certainly relate to this pain. You keep searching for answers about why this incident happened, but you can’t. Please pray for me, my family, and my mother, who was killed.
I praise and thank the Lord for the gift of Father Mike Schmitz and for this reflection I lost my parents ( my mum died when she in her 40th and my dad joun her 4 years later) in my growing up years, where I needed them to guide me in my choice in life. I was sad and for years very sad, after more than 40 years I still miss them When people asked me about them about them, I just told them God loves them a lot and now rhey with Him May their souls and souls of all dearly departed rest in peace ❤
Loss is a part of living on this plain of existence. Take heart, because He is coming back to make all things right. Death, estrangement, disappointment...I've found growth through these things, as painful as they are. Letting go of those people and things that gave me earthly joy has made me cling to Jesus all the more, to find my joy in Him. He is near the broken-hearted. He never leaves or forsakes us. As I grieve in His arms, I find that He grieves with me and for me.
Thank you Father Mike. This message today helped me with my grieving the loss of my husband. I’m happy for him to be with Jesus and not sick anymore. God bless you and all of your followers.
I lost my only son this year. A friend had a son who died also, but a year earlier. Both stuggled with depression and addiction. She said that someone told her God took her son to save him. That's how I look at it now. He's healed now and I can't be mad at God about that.
89… I would’ve been ecstatic if my mom had lived that long… and people who’ve lost their moms earlier than their 70’s would’ve loved more time with them… to truth is love your family members always and tell them constantly.
Thank you Father Mike. I lost my father earlier this year. I didn't really grow up religiously, but I have been trying prayer and reading/studying the Bible and everything recently. I had been praying for my own health (I've had health problems of one sort or another most of my life) but when my father's health took a turn, I prayed for him instead. It felt like every single time I asked for something, I got the opposite. I know that everyone dies, but my father died so painfully. In the end, the only thing left to hope for was for him to pass quickly, and I couldn't bring myself to ask for that. I still don't pretend to be certain if there is a God, but I do know that when I think about Him I do feel angry. I've said as much in prayer; no idea if that's the right or wrong thing to do. One other thing, I totally understand Father Mike's statement about people wanting someone to be there for them in their grief but that is such an alien thing to me. To my recollection, I've never really wanted or enjoyed having someone just "be there with me" when I'm having a hard time. It always felt like the person being there to express their concern for me was getting more out of it than I was, and that I was basically just letting them feel like they were doing something when there really wasn't anything they could do and it made them feel better. I don't know if there's some specific religious perspective on that, but I guess if anyone else is that way, at least you're not alone. Anyway, sorry for oversharing, but I don't have any experience with religious communities or asking religious questions or anything, so here I am.
Not over-sharing. Your comments resonated with me. I too don’t want someone to physically sit with me. Or do some showy thing that lets them check the box that they did something to “help” me. But I have few friends who have nevertheless found ways to walk with me in my grief in supportive, non-self-serving ways starting with just being aware that I am in pain. That I am not myself and won’t be for a long time. That understand there is no fix for grief. They might share a bible reflection, use my husband’s name, hug me a little tighter, give me space when I don’t feel like responding, etc. And sometimes the people you thought would be there for you are not, but others emerge whom you would’ve never expected. The people who are not helpful, I tend to stiff arm. Those that are, I let in. It’s your grief. You call the shots.
Uffdah, Father! That was a tough one to tell but you did a great job. I lost 4 family members in a very short time. Each one was ready to be with Jesus and it left me with great joy for them that they were able to “finish the race”. I’m still sad they’re not part of my life but they’ve achieved what I hope for.
My mom passed away on August 4. I miss her terribly. I burst out crying at different times and places. I keep telling myself that it's only temporary. I will hold my mama again.
My wife and I had three children die in utero. I have dealt with grief and anger for over ten years. I never thought of it this way. Thank you Fr. Mike, this is something I needed to hear.
Thank you. I lost 3 close relatives within a few months earlier this year. I really needed to hear this perspective. I only wish I knew if they went up, down, or purgatory.
Twenty years ago I had a total of seven miscarriages. In a span of four years. Unfortunately I was so consumed by my grief that I abandoned God. I believed the lie, God wasn’t there for you when you needed Him the most! Fast forward to today I have rekindled my relationship with the Lord. What He has helped me to see. Is that in the lowest and darkest times of my life. When I believed that He was a “million miles away “ He was in fact right there with me holding me when no one else could! I think of them often and I can’t wait for the day until I see them again.
my grandma just passed away this october (2024). she was very religious (not catholic, but christian) but i never really cared about it. she used to read her bible every night before bed. religion and christianity has really helped me feel more at peace with her loss and coming to terms with the fact that i miss her so much. but i know she’s happier in heaven with my grandpa and the rest of her family.
I've lost so many loved ones, my dad, grandpa, grandma and aunt all died within 1 year of eachother when i was just 13. I never got mad at God for taking my dad, though it took me a very long time to get over the anger i felt that God wouldnt take me too. Of course, I had no idea He would save my life at 32 with a miracle child. But even now, on this bright side of the darkness that I never thought would end, I find myself paralyzed by the fear of how to live and care for myself and my son when my mum passes. I worry because I'm not currently able to support myself or my son financially without my mum, that if she passes before I'm able to, it will cause a rift in my relationship with Christ and sever my trust in God. Please pray that in the time i have left with my mum here on earth, i'm able to build an unshakeable hope and trust that God's plans are always good and that when that day comes, when i lose my mum, i pray that i dont also lose myself....
Its true, i lost my son earlier this year, to me to be with God is now a sweet love. I am.longing for God and to see my son again. I am not angry with God, i long for the other life, not this one.
Great talk I can really relate. I prayed for my oldest son to be well. He was such a good person who loved Jesus as his Lord and savior. At 26 years old he took his life I found him He shot himself in the head 13 years ago. Words cannot describe the grief. One thing i know is that Josh was dealing with anger and mental issues and now he is safe and happy with God. Thank you Father' Mike I had to accept this. I will never get over this
It was their calling to come home. We are left with the aftermath and sadness, asking why, but we often fail to rejoice that they are home with HIM and everyone before us.
God bless you father Mike. Thanks for sharing this message. To all the ones that have lost a loved one, please know that you are not alone. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and feel Gods presence around you. He's always with us, no matter what the circumstance. Have a blessed day.
I cried when my husband and 2 of 3 children died . One day I felt Jesus cry for and with me. He is loving Mercy, how could he not cry for us? What I could give my children would never be as much as what God can do. I now live alone but I believe life is fleeting, heaven is eternity. I understand Hope now. A blessed thing - Hope
@Ascension Presents, thank you so much for sharing these videos and all the work that you do! May God Bless you all and may the readers of this message know His Love and cling to Him. Hopefully, people can look up towards heaven and our LORD Jesus during times of suffering and loss, knowing that this world is temporary, His Love and Heaven are Eternal, and the goal of this life is to go to Heaven! Easier to say than to believe. May our Lady of Lourdes pray for & help us, especially those who mourn
A friend of mine lost her son to a congenital heart condition. He was 19, just finished Marine boot camp and was home for Christmas leave. He was not doing anything strenuous prior to his heart attack, he was getting ready for bed, went into arrest, 911 was called. The paramedics could not help him, he died in her arms and she could not believe that God would allow it so she gave up her faith in anger.
Unexpected deaths seem so painful and frightening. Nothing is permanent. I havent experienced a close death and I feel anxious knowing that one day at any moment my relationship with a loved one could be severed
It's hard to lose somebody you love that we never own but think of it, it's harder for God to lose one of His children here on earth because of the wickedness of the world that it may bring them to eternal damnation. It's better to let God's will than be angry with Him that it may only cause the souls of our loved ones to eternal fire.
Anger is typically the proper response to injustice. As Christians, we know the wages of sin is death, BUT, we also know that death was never God's Plan A for us. Sin was never God's Plan A. God created Adam and Eve and intended for them to live forever. Death is a result of the brokenness of sin in the world. And after sin broke the world, it affects everything, even the most innocent. We know this, because babies die. Even our Lord Jesus Christ suffered and died because of the brokenness and sin in the world. We grieve when people die. And often we feel angry. And that anger is a reaction toward death, because we know sin and death were not God's Plan A. At nearly every funeral I've been to, especially of a younger person, someone almost always says, "It's just not right." Deep within our souls, we know that sin and death is not what God wants for us; we know it's not what he originally planned on. We know that because of the injustice of sin, we all suffer death. I've felt anger toward God after my dad's death, my cousin's death by suicide, my unborn child's death. But that anger toward God is misplaced. The anger should be toward the fact that things are injust because of sin and brokenness. It's difficult in grief to accept that you don't understand God's will or purposes. It's especially difficult when you really don't know if the people you lost are actually in Heaven, and God Himself is so mysterious and seemingly silent in your sorrow. A priest once told me that our God is big enough for our anger. We know we shouldn't be angry with God, but Christ went to the cross for us. If we're angry with him, take that anger to the foot of the cross and lay it down. He'll do the rest.
Thanks Fr Mike. During Thanksgiving and Christmas the grief of missing our teenage son sometimes feels too much to bear. You are correct when you said that our loved ones are with Jesus and he can give them a level of happiness that we could never give them here in the best of circumstances. Please pray for all of us who grieve our children and other loved ones.
I feel like God is talking to me through you. I’ve been angry with Him before but not this bad. I’ve lost my mom, an amazing friend and my best friend, a pug named Penny, all in a year and a half. I feel like I’m praying wrong. Everything I pray for, the exact opposite happens. So. I’ve had to really step back from God. I still go to mass. I tell Him that I don’t know what he wants from me. That’s my prayer. That’s it. 😔😭
My daughter passed from cancer 9 years ago. I'm only now moving past denial. It very nearly killed me (the grief, stress, disappointment & lack of support from family in my grief). I've come to see that losing my daughter was part of God's plan, that I no longer have to fight my family or her mother (my ex wife) & I'm free to re-engage with my faith, pray the rosary with my current wife & explore faith together with her (non Catholic). Grief is not easy, it takes as long as it takes to process. For me, part of me died with my daughter, but now I am renewed, with new goals, values & appreciation of life & faith. I only have two choices, life with faith, or death without. I still struggle daily, but that is the price of coming back to faith after a long absence.
“I only have two choices: life with faith or death without.” Brilliantly said. And I still struggle daily with my faith and had not stepped away from it. Glad you’re back. You’re right there with so many of us.
I appreciate the discussion. And of course I’m glad my Mom has Jesus. Im incredibly grateful for that. I’m not (or wasn’t…. Not sure if I still am) mad because of that. I was mad because I asked for her healing and I didn’t get it. I was mad because this death destroyed our family. I was mad because of the effect it had on my sisters and the trajectory her death sent us careening down. I was mad for my own sake, not for hers. Also I was 14. So.
Educational videos really can be done anywhere! I pray that Ascension Presents Advent Prayer-a-thon goes really well and that the students and everyone who subscribes can give their time, talent and treasure (if possible) to contribute to Duluth Minnesota 's student center and Church. God bless you, Father Mike Schmitz.
Wow, I just lost my Aunt a few days ago. One of the first things I thought was, ‘she’s home.’ She LOVED the Lord so much. I’m sad she’s gone, but my family and I know she’s in heaven and is in so much joy.
Great video. My mom lost faith after her father died. She flatly told me that there was no God because if there was, God would have saved him. She never got over losing him and was very angry for the rest of her life. So I grew up without any faith. My dad divorced and had no contact with me afterwards. After my mom died I found my dad some 35 years later. Dad lived and breathed Jesus Christ. His prayer to reunite with his three boys happened. Shortly afterwards he died of cancer. He was never upset about his death. All he talked about was going home to the Lord. Not long after I became catholic. I attend mass, pray the rosary and divine mercy every morning. Death is something I accept without getting upset or angry. I’m happy that my dad is with Jesus. In fact so is my stepmom who was excited that angels came into her home to take him home.
🕊️”The righteous man perishes, and no one lays it to heart; devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from calamity,” Isaiah 57:1
I wish I could understand a lot of The Catholic Church ⛪️ Mike! I am ገብሩ born in ETHIOPIA and Died in California and I born to live for Eternity on EARTH 🌍 Mike! I am not leaving EARTH after I Pass Away because I can not live on a another Planet! Jesus Christ was made for us on EARTH! US-POWER 🦁🌍⛪️🏍️⛪️🎸!
I just lost the Priest of our church to suicide. He was young, and an awesome Priest. We don’t know why he did what he did. I Just came from his vigil and here is this video, and I was mad at him and at God but my grief had overwhelmed me. The vigil and this video has put it all in perspective. Thank you Father Mike, please,say a prayer for Father Dennis Conway, his family, and our parish, we all loved him and we will all miss him. Peace be with you.
Oh wow. So sorry to hear about that. I looked him up and they are reporting it was due to a mental health crisis.😢
I looked it up as well. Prayers offered for him.
God, in your mercy, be with all who are suffering from mental health crisis.
Suicidal thoughts are so hard to fight, especially for someone like him who gave his life to God in the priesthood. May God have mercy and give him eternal peace.
Our son died by suicide 5 years ago and I miss him so very much. On the day he died, I crawled into God's lap and stayed there until I could stand and breathe again. Our Lord did not let me question why or stay in anger. Listening to the Lord, at times, was very hard, but I knew He was there to help me, protect me and care for me so that I could be there for my husband and 3 other children. Thank you for this beautiful message, I will pray that it reaches the people that need it.
😢you are not alone.same here my friends son died by suicide.Sorry for your lost.Stay strong my friend 🙏
Having lost two of my three children, I know the pain. My daughter died almost 17 years ago due to seizures from epilepsy. People have asked me, "Aren't you mad at God?" Then, 9 years ago, I lost my oldest son to cancer. Same question. I've never been mad at God. My adult children are with our Lord. Do I miss them? Terribly! But I have one adult son and two teenage grandsons. I try to live for them. My heart aches every day for the two children who are gone from my sight. But I know they are with God. It gives me some peace. Thank you for this, Fr. Mike. 🙏🏻
God Bless you🙏♥️
This is a beautiful testimony! We are so sorry for your loss. God bless you!
@@AscensionPresents Thank you.
Bless you 🙏🏻
Sending you a HUG. Thank you sharing. ❤️🩹🙏🏼
My husband passed away August 29th of this year. He was 52 years old. This came as a complete shock and surprise to me. When the state police call you at work, you know it’s not going to be good news. I was in total disbelief. I couldn’t drive myself home from work. He seemed fine when he left for work that morning. He died at work of a heart attack. Totally unexpected. He wasn’t particularly religious, so I pray for his soul. I don’t know what God’s plan is in this, but I know God does indeed have a plan. I still emotionally can’t come to grips with this. I miss him so much.
I'm so sorry. I too lost my husband in August, unexpectedly. He was 42. It isn't easy. We are part of a club we wanted no part of. I will pray for you. Keep going. Keep trusting. Have hope. God is with you, and your husband is looking down on you with love. Keep being the person he loved. Take care friend.
Hugs to you mums. God's comfort is around you
I think Father Mike was right when he said that we will be with them again one day. This is not our real home. God Bless.
@michelejones5538 sorry for your loss. May the holy spirit guide you and comfort you know that he is with you always.
I pray for strength for you. I can understand, I lost my brother 2 months ago and it's still really hard. We were really close and I have still have lots of trouble with grief
My wife died VERY YOUNG in a car wreck and we were about to have a child . Mandy was that once in a lifetime schoolteacher and when she died I was VERY ANGRY !!!!! We were VERY involved in church , volunteering WEEKLY .I HATED GOD ,ANGRY AT HIM AND BECAME A NOT SO NICE PERSON !!!!! Now after a LOT of years I'm back in church again ,the anger is STILL THERE SOMEWHAT ,STILL NOT A VERY NICE PERSON BUT IM ON A ROAD TO REDISCOVERING MY FAITH .
(sorry, English is not my native language, I used google translator):
Sincere testimony. This means that you are a normal person. Like Saint Peter, who denied Jesus, and wept bitterly, but later became the head of the Church and died for Jesus.
I mean: we are not little angels of God who don't complain about anything. It's impossible for us to accept and enter into situations of death. When you feel that infinite horror will swallow you up. Christ was the first to voluntarily enter into that horror of death because no one else could do it. Now, after him, we can too. So in anger and despair we have even more need for Christ. Otherwise, he would be of no use to us.
Prayers for healing for you. It's a really hard thing that you had to go through
@carlosgarza1962 Thank you ,There was a LOT of drinking and chasing women for about 7 years TRYING to destroy myself after one failed attempt at suicide . My best friends wife kept me from putting a bullet in my skull for 3 hours and I am thankful for thank !
God called my 12-year old son. That was 23-1/2 years ago. I still miss him; sometimes I even choke up when I talk about him. But, I know he is with God and I'm doing my best that I'll join him when it is my time. I think the hardest thing I had to do was not asking, "Why?" God's way is not our way. He is infinite wisdom. I just remember that not a sparrow falls from the sky that He gave the nod.
This was a very hard pill to swallow, but it’s true.
Thank you for the message. It’s so difficult to cope with having lost my boyfriend. He was only 27 and was killed by a drunk driver on the way home from helping a co-worker on his day off. I know he is with Jesus and the peace and love he has with God is beyond what we can ever experience on Earth… but it is so hard to keep going without him here and seeing our hopes and dreams together fade away.. especially since it was such an unfair and terrible accident. God please help me
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🕯️💙🙏🙏🙏
Praying for you. Youll get through it by God's grace.. trust Him that he will indeed help you.
May God bless and comfort you and grant him eternal rest. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.
I lost two babies by miscarriage and it was painful. I take comfort that Jesus has got them and I hope one day I will be united with them.
Thank you Fr Mike. Even difficult topics need to be talked about.
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🙏🏻🙏🏻
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Consider Activity book “ I Can Only Wonder”
I experienced this revelation recently. I lost my husband unexpectedly, he was 42 years old. He suffered with much anxiety, depression and panic. And suddenly in my grief I thought: It's selfish of me to want him back with me on Earth when I know he is so free in Heaven. He has no more worry or fear or sadness. He gets to watch over me and our loved ones. And now it's my job to just be the person he loved. It's my job to keep living. I miss him terribly, but I'm not selfish enough to wish him away from where he is supremely happy now. I'll join him in eternity someday...and then finally we'll always get to have another day together forever.
"another day together forever"....wow that hit me
That made me tear up. I’m sorry for your loss because it’s lonely being the one left behind. God bless you on your journey.
@@wiiildfire thank you ❤️
I miss my mom every moment. She died September 2024. At her wake, my brother told a story of our mom telling him (when he was six and the principal of our school had died) to never be mad at God, there is a plan for everything. My mom was at home in hospice, I was her primary caregiver. I grieve, but also know she is out of pain.
My condolences over the loss of your mother. I know how you feel as I lost mine in 2021, just before my 63rd birthday, and my father a little over a year later just after my 64th.
Thank you Father Mike, I just lost my mom three weeks ago from Pancreatic cancer. This week are the services and I am most grateful for being her caregiver for about 20 years. She had RA and suffered many health issues. Every Sunday she received communion at home and had the anointing of the sick towards the end of her life. I will miss her terribly but I know she is rejoicing with God. I think all that time I took care of her God was preparing me for this moment. I am sad, but she is not suffering anymore.
Hello Patricia, I just wanted to say that I read what you’ve written to Father Mike. It moved me. I lost my mother in 2016 to Pancreatic cancer. She was a devout Christian. She loved Christ with all her soul and heart, and was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met and ever known. It has been eight years this November 1, All Soul’s Day, that she went forward to be with Christ. I miss her terribly every day. And I want to tell you that for certain your mother is rejoicing with God in Christ. I, too, do think about all the time I took care of her as God was preparing me for her moment of transition from this life to the next. Am I still sad? Yes. Yet the Lord is binding up my wounds even now and as you are; I am so glad she’s not suffering anymore. I say all this to say that your disposition and outlook is the right one. And I do grieve with you as the loss you share with me is rather unique. Yet common to mankind. I wish you the best in this life as you move forward and may Christ be with you as I know you are broken-hearted right now but know your mother is safe and at home in the Lord and at peace. May Christ bless you.
Thank you, Father Mike. My sister passed 17 months ago. Next to my daughter, she was the person I was closest to. The more time that has passed, the angrier I have been feeling. But…of COURSE I am so happy she is with Jesus and no longer suffering. She is home. Thank you for the reminder! Prayers for you. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
My almost three year old son drowned in a neighbors swimming pool. He was in a coma for 21 days. This tragedy drove me so close to Jesus. I never was mad at him. And like you said I was very sad for a very long time. It took me five years to even feel somewhat better. One day I was looking out my kitchen window and saw some young boys getting into trouble and I thought my son doesn’t have to go through the pains of bullying or getting in to trouble. He’s in Heaven with Jesus and he’s my little saint. I’m going to see him again.
😢
Great testimony of faith!
Thank you for this message Fr. Mike. I lost my baby boy at 21 weeks over a year ago and it completely broke me. It was my first pregnancy, and my husband and I were already struggling to get pregnant, as it took us almost 2 years to finally get the positive pregnancy test. My faith was definitely shaken after we lost our baby and I relate so much to how angry I was at God. It was even so hard for me to pray. I just kept asking God why? How could He let this happen? But I know God is also grieving and mourning with us, and I take comfort now in knowing that my baby never knew pain, harm, or anything bad. He only knew love from within the womb and when he woke up, he was immediately with God and his love and grace. It’s taken a lot of healing and time but now I can say my faith has gotten stronger because of this immense grief that will always be with me. Praying for all those who are grieving and mourning losses 🙏🏼❤️
@@biancadizon8082 😭
As someone who lost his Father this year I can say will full confidence that you said everything with grace, respect and with a loving caring tone. You are the perfect person to deliver that message Father Mike. God Bless!!!
My father passed away unexpectedly at the age of 56. I happened to talk him that morning and later that day I received a phone call he passed away. I remember being angry, which I understood later was part of the grieving process. I recall asking God why he would take our father away from our mother and away from his children. I just couldn't understand why it happened. I felt I was in a bad dream that I would never wake up from. Back then grief counseling wasn't available so I had to work through it on my own. One evening I was incredibly despondent and was sobbing uncontrollably. In that moment I felt God's presence very strongly and He was telling me everything was okay, my dad was with Him. Thank you Father Mike, you are very kind.
@@cy7025 I felt the same thing at my low point. Good to know others are experiencing this.
I lost my husband to Motor Neurones disease. It was God who helped my children and I through it! A couple of things happened we feel was divine intervention - giving us the strength to go through it and my husband a peaceful death.
Never ever thought about blaming God.
Sometimes life just happens!
My husband and I were blessed with 6 beautiful healthy children. Our youngest daughter died at 2 months old in 2021. Shattered the hearts of our family. SHATTERED. We had never known grief that intimately - even with loss of other family members and friends. THIS was the grief that broke me. We have grown closer to God but the path of grief is gigantic especially when you lose a child out of the natural order of life. Thank you so much, Father for this message today. St Capri, Ora pro nobis.
Thank you Father Mike. I lost my husband Dec 3,2024 - I've have found myself to be at peace because he is not suffering any longer and he's recently returned to the Church . So I know all the right sacraments where in place and performed before his passing. I was raised Catholic and although I never lost faith or believe- I hadn't had a parish and was not active-I have recently become very active and ii am a member of an amazing parish that feesl like i have found my home. Although the pain is hard and I'm sure there will be hard days ahead, but I will lean into my faith and God's grace. Thank you for being a major part of my journey as well as a source of comfort. God Bless you
Thank you, Fr. I lost my father on Valentine’s Day and I felt an overwhelming feeling of anger. Then I realized that my father is in Heaven with God. Sometimes, it’s not enough to be consoled. The realization comes like an epiphany - and that is when God is speaking directly to our hearts.
Absolutely. You made me cry. It's my first Christmas without him
Thank you for this Fr. Mike.
I was 19 when I lost my Father and for many years I turned my back on the Lord, as you mentioned, I was angry, upset, and not in a good place for a longtime. 30+ years later I know my Parents on with God, I miss them daily, but as you mention, I know they would never want to come back, because they are with him. Hopefully will be with them again one day.
Thank you Father for these videos. I lost my husband August 2023 and my mom the day before. I never was mad at God. Their time had come. My husband had major health problems for 25 years, so I am happy for him. I miss him but he was not living the way he wanted with all those medical problems. My mom had dementia and my dad passed in 2022. She missed him so much, they had just had their 69th anniversary when he passed. Though she would forget at times he was gone, she was a trooper and strong. I want to be strong like her. ❤️
Hello Father Mike, I just needed to write to tell you that you have gently and kindly spoken as best you could about this topic. Thank you for the deep attempt at kindness in speaking upon the subject. And please don’t think that it wasn’t good or insensitive or unkind. I needed to hear this. And I know that this was a God-ordained thing to hear. Thank you for being obedient to God to post this and speak on it and none of us are good only Christ is good and thankfully, His spirit moved through you to touch all of us in His body through your words. Christ bless you in all that you do.
I needed to hear this, Fr. Mike. My Mom went to be with Jesus in September & our dear friend was buried last Wednesday. I’ve had some bitterness and anger. This video reminded me we just passing through and they are, both, home. Thank you.
You’re the perfect to send this message Fr. Mike.
May the Holy Spirit be with you always. Amen
Not angry. Just very sad. My brother was quite a bit younger. I expected him to come to my funeral not I to his. He had such joy and loved life Even tho he had a modest life. When you crossed his and his wife's threshold, you were enveloped in peace and joy. I miss him so much.
Praying for all Marian Priests and helpers, and seminarians,. God bless you all
Thank you for this Father Mike. I lost my 17 year old son at the end of April this year and our family is so, so sad. But I know he's happy with Jesus now, and I want that more than I want him here in this broken world. Someday we'll be together again, and neither of us will be hurting anymore.
Since my childhood, my family has suffered many accidents and illnesses. The first accident was my mother who was hit by a car and almost lost her legs. The first thing they told us when we met (I was 7) was, never ever blame God for these things. He is our Father, he loves us and a father who loves his children never wishes them harm or suffering.
Very difficult topic, but as always, handled very well by Father Mike
Yes, the world is not our true home, but its sad to see parts of it that we love leave.
Thank you, Father Mike - your words and homilies have been guiding me as I navigate a new landscape without my parents and without my only sibling whom I lost suddenly last year. I have been trying to find meaning, praying a lot, and attempting to make sense of it all - and your words ring true. Thank you, thank you for the wisdom and for sharing the grace. I really appreciate it
Thank you for this Fr Mike. You spoke to my heart..... the grieving heart of a mother, a child & a sibling.
Thank you Father Mike. Yes, losing someone we love is very painful and so unfair, but your explanation is one of hope for the rest of us who are still here. Someday we can be with God in heaven. Wow!
You are a good enough person to deliver this message. It was beautiful and wise and helpful. Thank you. ❤
My mother was killed in a freak accident six months ago at the time of this post. I can certainly relate to this pain. You keep searching for answers about why this incident happened, but you can’t. Please pray for me, my family, and my mother, who was killed.
I'm so sorry for your loss !! Praying for you your family!!
I praise and thank the Lord for the gift of Father Mike Schmitz and for this reflection
I lost my parents ( my mum died when she in her 40th and my dad joun her 4 years later) in my growing up years, where I needed them to guide me in my choice in life. I was sad and for years very sad, after more than 40 years I still miss them
When people asked me about them about them, I just told them God loves them a lot and now rhey with Him
May their souls and souls of all dearly departed rest in peace ❤
Loss is a part of living on this plain of existence. Take heart, because He is coming back to make all things right. Death, estrangement, disappointment...I've found growth through these things, as painful as they are. Letting go of those people and things that gave me earthly joy has made me cling to Jesus all the more, to find my joy in Him. He is near the broken-hearted. He never leaves or forsakes us. As I grieve in His arms, I find that He grieves with me and for me.
Thank you Father Mike. This message today helped me with my grieving the loss of my husband. I’m happy for him to be with Jesus and not sick anymore. God bless you and all of your followers.
This was enlightening & humbling. 😢🙏🙏🙏 Thank you, bless you. ✝️❤️
I lost my only son this year. A friend had a son who died also, but a year earlier. Both stuggled with depression and addiction. She said that someone told her God took her son to save him. That's how I look at it now. He's healed now and I can't be mad at God about that.
89… I would’ve been ecstatic if my mom had lived that long… and people who’ve lost their moms earlier than their 70’s would’ve loved more time with them… to truth is love your family members always and tell them constantly.
Thank you, Fr Mike. This was very powerful
Thank you Father Mike. I lost my father earlier this year. I didn't really grow up religiously, but I have been trying prayer and reading/studying the Bible and everything recently. I had been praying for my own health (I've had health problems of one sort or another most of my life) but when my father's health took a turn, I prayed for him instead. It felt like every single time I asked for something, I got the opposite. I know that everyone dies, but my father died so painfully. In the end, the only thing left to hope for was for him to pass quickly, and I couldn't bring myself to ask for that. I still don't pretend to be certain if there is a God, but I do know that when I think about Him I do feel angry. I've said as much in prayer; no idea if that's the right or wrong thing to do.
One other thing, I totally understand Father Mike's statement about people wanting someone to be there for them in their grief but that is such an alien thing to me. To my recollection, I've never really wanted or enjoyed having someone just "be there with me" when I'm having a hard time. It always felt like the person being there to express their concern for me was getting more out of it than I was, and that I was basically just letting them feel like they were doing something when there really wasn't anything they could do and it made them feel better. I don't know if there's some specific religious perspective on that, but I guess if anyone else is that way, at least you're not alone.
Anyway, sorry for oversharing, but I don't have any experience with religious communities or asking religious questions or anything, so here I am.
I an so sorry for your loss. You are welcome here, with all your questions! I hope you'll continue searching and seeking God 🙏
Not over-sharing. Your comments resonated with me. I too don’t want someone to physically sit with me. Or do some showy thing that lets them check the box that they did something to “help” me. But I have few friends who have nevertheless found ways to walk with me in my grief in supportive, non-self-serving ways starting with just being aware that I am in pain. That I am not myself and won’t be for a long time. That understand there is no fix for grief. They might share a bible reflection, use my husband’s name, hug me a little tighter, give me space when I don’t feel like responding, etc. And sometimes the people you thought would be there for you are not, but others emerge whom you would’ve never expected. The people who are not helpful, I tend to stiff arm. Those that are, I let in. It’s your grief. You call the shots.
Uffdah, Father! That was a tough one to tell but you did a great job. I lost 4 family members in a very short time. Each one was ready to be with Jesus and it left me with great joy for them that they were able to “finish the race”. I’m still sad they’re not part of my life but they’ve achieved what I hope for.
My mom passed away on August 4. I miss her terribly. I burst out crying at different times and places. I keep telling myself that it's only temporary. I will hold my mama again.
I'm so sorry for your loss , I miss my mom too everyday and it's been years , we will see them again !!
My wife and I had three children die in utero. I have dealt with grief and anger for over ten years. I never thought of it this way. Thank you Fr. Mike, this is something I needed to hear.
I don't know anyone that could have put it better. God bless you as he has us by putting you in front of us in this media. 🙏
Thank you. I lost 3 close relatives within a few months earlier this year. I really needed to hear this perspective. I only wish I knew if they went up, down, or purgatory.
Twenty years ago I had a total of seven miscarriages. In a span of four years. Unfortunately I was so consumed by my grief that I abandoned God. I believed the lie, God wasn’t there for you when you needed Him the most!
Fast forward to today I have rekindled my relationship with the Lord. What He has helped me to see. Is that in the lowest and darkest times of my life. When I believed that He was a “million miles away “ He was in fact right there with me holding me when no one else could! I think of them often and I can’t wait for the day until I see them again.
Nice sharing.Thank you Fr Mike.❤
my grandma just passed away this october (2024). she was very religious (not catholic, but christian) but i never really cared about it. she used to read her bible every night before bed. religion and christianity has really helped me feel more at peace with her loss and coming to terms with the fact that i miss her so much. but i know she’s happier in heaven with my grandpa and the rest of her family.
I've lost so many loved ones, my dad, grandpa, grandma and aunt all died within 1 year of eachother when i was just 13. I never got mad at God for taking my dad, though it took me a very long time to get over the anger i felt that God wouldnt take me too. Of course, I had no idea He would save my life at 32 with a miracle child. But even now, on this bright side of the darkness that I never thought would end, I find myself paralyzed by the fear of how to live and care for myself and my son when my mum passes. I worry because I'm not currently able to support myself or my son financially without my mum, that if she passes before I'm able to, it will cause a rift in my relationship with Christ and sever my trust in God. Please pray that in the time i have left with my mum here on earth, i'm able to build an unshakeable hope and trust that God's plans are always good and that when that day comes, when i lose my mum, i pray that i dont also lose myself....
Its true, i lost my son earlier this year, to me to be with God is now a sweet love. I am.longing for God and to see my son again. I am not angry with God, i long for the other life, not this one.
Fr.MIKE, you're so blessed with Holy Wisdom. Thank you. I thank God for you. Greetings from South Africa🇿🇦
Thank you father! The timing of the video is perfect like God inspired you to make it to answer to my prayer.
Great talk
I can really relate. I prayed for my oldest son to be well. He was such a good person who loved Jesus as his Lord and savior. At 26 years old he took his life
I found him
He shot himself in the head
13 years ago. Words cannot describe the grief. One thing i know is that Josh was dealing with anger and mental issues and now he is safe and happy with God. Thank you Father' Mike
I had to accept this. I will never get over this
It was their calling to come home. We are left with the aftermath and sadness, asking why, but we often fail to rejoice that they are home with HIM and everyone before us.
God bless you father Mike. Thanks for sharing this message. To all the ones that have lost a loved one, please know that you are not alone. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and feel Gods presence around you. He's always with us, no matter what the circumstance. Have a blessed day.
I cried when my husband and 2 of 3 children died . One day I felt Jesus cry for and with me. He is loving Mercy, how could he not cry for us? What I could give my children would never be as much as what God can do. I now live alone but I believe life is fleeting, heaven is eternity. I understand Hope now. A blessed thing - Hope
Lord please hear my prayers, and give me all I need too do What I have do for you Jesus help me understand and Be Wise in this Walk I have Take. Amen
Father Mike, you are such a gift. Thank you for this message. ^.^
❤❤❤
@Ascension Presents, thank you so much for sharing these videos and all the work that you do! May God Bless you all and may the readers of this message know His Love and cling to Him. Hopefully, people can look up towards heaven and our LORD Jesus during times of suffering and loss, knowing that this world is temporary, His Love and Heaven are Eternal, and the goal of this life is to go to Heaven! Easier to say than to believe. May our Lady of Lourdes pray for & help us, especially those who mourn
Beautifully said, Father Mike
God bless you father Mike!
I love you Father Mike, you did wonderfully delivering this message.
A friend of mine lost her son to a congenital heart condition. He was 19, just finished Marine boot camp and was home for Christmas leave. He was not doing anything strenuous prior to his heart attack, he was getting ready for bed, went into arrest, 911 was called. The paramedics could not help him, he died in her arms and she could not believe that God would allow it so she gave up her faith in anger.
I've just needed this video right now. Thank you Fr Mike❤
Unexpected deaths seem so painful and frightening. Nothing is permanent.
I havent experienced a close death and I feel anxious knowing that one day at any moment my relationship with a loved one could be severed
Absolutely enlightening Father…Beautiful and inspiring and so spot on…👍🏻🙏
Thank you Fr. Mike for your discussing this topic
I'm mad, I've been made to feel emotions. I often wonder if I be better off as a machine rather than a human.
I literally cannot believe the timing of this video
Same. I was just telling myself that this is temporary. I will see my mom again.
That was so beautiful
Fr Mike. Thank you for this ❤
It's hard to lose somebody you love that we never own but think of it, it's harder for God to lose one of His children here on earth because of the wickedness of the world that it may bring them to eternal damnation. It's better to let God's will than be angry with Him that it may only cause the souls of our loved ones to eternal fire.
Very good message, Fr Mike. Thank you. God Bless. Claire.
Anger is typically the proper response to injustice. As Christians, we know the wages of sin is death, BUT, we also know that death was never God's Plan A for us. Sin was never God's Plan A. God created Adam and Eve and intended for them to live forever. Death is a result of the brokenness of sin in the world. And after sin broke the world, it affects everything, even the most innocent. We know this, because babies die. Even our Lord Jesus Christ suffered and died because of the brokenness and sin in the world. We grieve when people die. And often we feel angry. And that anger is a reaction toward death, because we know sin and death were not God's Plan A. At nearly every funeral I've been to, especially of a younger person, someone almost always says, "It's just not right." Deep within our souls, we know that sin and death is not what God wants for us; we know it's not what he originally planned on. We know that because of the injustice of sin, we all suffer death. I've felt anger toward God after my dad's death, my cousin's death by suicide, my unborn child's death. But that anger toward God is misplaced. The anger should be toward the fact that things are injust because of sin and brokenness. It's difficult in grief to accept that you don't understand God's will or purposes. It's especially difficult when you really don't know if the people you lost are actually in Heaven, and God Himself is so mysterious and seemingly silent in your sorrow. A priest once told me that our God is big enough for our anger. We know we shouldn't be angry with God, but Christ went to the cross for us. If we're angry with him, take that anger to the foot of the cross and lay it down. He'll do the rest.
Death is an illusion, but so is life in this world
🌹
Thanks Fr Mike. During Thanksgiving and Christmas the grief of missing our teenage son sometimes feels too much to bear. You are correct when you said that our loved ones are with Jesus and he can give them a level of happiness that we could never give them here in the best of circumstances. Please pray for all of us who grieve our children and other loved ones.
Hello Father, good morning from the Philippines. Wishing you a Merry Christmas in advance!
Thank you. I needed to hear this today. It's a valuable lesson. ❤
I feel like God is talking to me through you. I’ve been angry with Him before but not this bad. I’ve lost my mom, an amazing friend and my best friend, a pug named Penny, all in a year and a half. I feel like I’m praying wrong. Everything I pray for, the exact opposite happens. So. I’ve had to really step back from God. I still go to mass. I tell Him that I don’t know what he wants from me. That’s my prayer. That’s it. 😔😭
Your great man
My daughter passed from cancer 9 years ago. I'm only now moving past denial. It very nearly killed me (the grief, stress, disappointment & lack of support from family in my grief). I've come to see that losing my daughter was part of God's plan, that I no longer have to fight my family or her mother (my ex wife) & I'm free to re-engage with my faith, pray the rosary with my current wife & explore faith together with her (non Catholic). Grief is not easy, it takes as long as it takes to process. For me, part of me died with my daughter, but now I am renewed, with new goals, values & appreciation of life & faith. I only have two choices, life with faith, or death without. I still struggle daily, but that is the price of coming back to faith after a long absence.
Thanks for sharing. God bless
“I only have two choices: life with faith or death without.” Brilliantly said. And I still struggle daily with my faith and had not stepped away from it. Glad you’re back. You’re right there with so many of us.
im scared im going to lose my mum and i needed to hear this. thank you.
I appreciate the discussion. And of course I’m glad my Mom has Jesus. Im incredibly grateful for that. I’m not (or wasn’t…. Not sure if I still am) mad because of that. I was mad because I asked for her healing and I didn’t get it. I was mad because this death destroyed our family. I was mad because of the effect it had on my sisters and the trajectory her death sent us careening down. I was mad for my own sake, not for hers. Also I was 14. So.
Educational videos really can be done anywhere! I pray that Ascension Presents Advent Prayer-a-thon goes really well and that the students and everyone who subscribes can give their time, talent and treasure (if possible) to contribute to Duluth Minnesota 's student center and Church. God bless you, Father Mike Schmitz.
Love your topics ❤
Wow, I just lost my Aunt a few days ago. One of the first things I thought was, ‘she’s home.’ She LOVED the Lord so much. I’m sad she’s gone, but my family and I know she’s in heaven and is in so much joy.
god bless her soul 🙏
Great video.
My mom lost faith after her father died. She flatly told me that there was no God because if there was, God would have saved him. She never got over losing him and was very angry for the rest of her life.
So I grew up without any faith. My dad divorced and had no contact with me afterwards. After my mom died I found my dad some 35 years later.
Dad lived and breathed Jesus Christ. His prayer to reunite with his three boys happened. Shortly afterwards he died of cancer. He was never upset about his death. All he talked about was going home to the Lord.
Not long after I became catholic. I attend mass, pray the rosary and divine mercy every morning.
Death is something I accept without getting upset or angry. I’m happy that my dad is with Jesus. In fact so is my stepmom who was excited that angels came into her home to take him home.
I'm sorry that you lost so much time with your dad but he gave you such a great gift.
This was POWERFUL!!!
🕊️”The righteous man perishes, and no one lays it to heart; devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from calamity,” Isaiah 57:1
Actually, that is an excellent perspective, because its the truth. But it is very difficult for us left here....
Please pray for me, my little boy loves and needs me.
If only this was the same for our beloved pets when they die
I wish I could understand a lot of The Catholic Church ⛪️ Mike! I am ገብሩ born in ETHIOPIA and Died in California and I born to live for Eternity on EARTH 🌍 Mike! I am not leaving EARTH after I Pass Away because I can not live on a another Planet! Jesus Christ was made for us on EARTH! US-POWER 🦁🌍⛪️🏍️⛪️🎸!
Good thing GOD forgives us for being mad at him!
Amen😇🙏❤
God Bless You