HEALING AFTER PERINATAL LOSS: MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH, ECTOPIC PREGNANCY, ACCIDENT, OR INFANT DEATH

We are very sorry for the loss of your dear child(ren). There are countless women and men who experience the grief of losing a baby before or shortly after birth. It is a tremendous cross that the Lord has entrusted to many families. We would be honored to spiritually accompany you on your journey of healing. Please connect with our volunteers at: 608-860-6698 Email: Hope4U@diolc.org

“When people are hurting, it is necessary to share in their desperation. In order to dry the tears from the face of those who suffer, we must join our weeping with theirs. Only looking to the love of God who gave His Son, who offers His life for us, can point us to a path of consolation. And that is why we say that the Son of God entered into the suffering of men; He shared and accepted death; His Word is definitely a word of consolation, because it is born of tears. God’s response to our tears is the offer of hope—hope in the promise of eternal life.”

– Pope Francis 2017 First General Audience

Words of Encouragement:

“As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you.”

Isaiah 66:13 RSV

“Jesus said, ‘Let the children come to me and do not hinder them; for such belongs the kingdom of heaven.’ And he laid his hands on them…”

Matthew 19:14-15 RSV

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.”

Psalm 34:18 RSV

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”

Matthew 5:4 RSV

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

1 Peter 5:7 RSV

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

Psalm 147:3 RSV

You may have questions about what the Catholic Church teaches and what to do during and after your loss. We hope these listed resources will also be of some assistance as you continue forward, persevering in the Love of Christ.

Catholic Miscarriage Support: For practical and spiritual guidance during and after loss

Red Bird Ministries at: https://www.redbird.love/carried-with-love or: https://redbirdministriesinc.breezechms.com/form/42a241

A Quick, Catholic Guide to Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss: Free Printable Download

Children who die without Baptism

Some parents find the words of St. Bernard of Clairvaux helpful (abbot and theologian 1090-1153). He wrote an answer to the question of a couple that had a miscarriage. “What is going to happen to my child? The child didn’t get baptized.” St. Bernard responded, “Your faith spoke for this child. Baptism for this child was only delayed by time. Your faith suffices. The waters of your womb—were they not the waters of life for this child? Look at your tears. Are they not like the waters of baptism? Do not fear this. God’s ability to love is greater than our fears. Surrender everything to God.”

Catechism of the Catholic Church

#1283 With respect to children who have died without Baptism, the Liturgy of the Church invites us to trust in God’s Mercy and to pray for their salvation.

The Hope of Salvation for Infants who die without being Baptized by the International Theological Commission https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/cti_documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20070419_un-baptised-infants_en.html

A PRAYER FOR LOST INFANTS

Lord Jesus Christ,
I entrust my beloved child
to the tender and merciful care
of Your Most Sacred Heart.
Please, bring your peace
that surpasses all understanding into
my heart as I remember and grieve
the loss of my little one,
whose life was, and continues to be,
such a precious gift from you. Amen

Family held together by Prayer

Phone Number:

608-860-6698

Email:

Hope4U@diolc.org

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