Gabriel's Memorial Service

On June 24th, we held a small memorial service for our baby Gabriel, who went to be with Jesus on January 13, 2010.

I'd asked the boys to sing "Jesus Loves Me," which they sweetly sang, but only after insisting on singing "I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy...Down in My Heart" first.

Melissa and Joey beautifully sang "How Great is Our God."

We placed white baby rosebuds on the memorial stone.

This is where our sweet baby boy is buried - a very special place for miscarried babies, provided by St. Luke's Hospital.

Of course there were tears, but we also rejoiced in knowing that Gabriel will never know suffering or pain in this life. He is safe in Jesus' arms; knowing he is in heaven makes it an even more special place.

Our dear friends, Pastor Joy and Dave Streight, have been such a constant, loving support throughout this entire experience. They were there supporting us while I was in the hospital, as well as right after Gabriel died. We were very blessed to have them with us at Gabriel's service, where Pastor Joy shared a graceful and beautiful message, helping us say goodbye to our dear Gabriel -- until we see him again in heaven.

This special bench is provided for families at the St. Luke's Memorial Garden.

The boys reminded us all of how joyful life continues to be, with their joyful songs, their happy smiles, and the fun and laughter they found in running through the sprinklers at the cemetery.

After the small service, we enjoyed a special dinner at our home with Pastor Joy and Dave and our family who could be here. Dave and Joy gave us these beautiful roses in memory of Gabriel.

It was a special and emotional day; a comforting way to bring some closure to the difficult past five months.

Gabriel remains a very precious part of our family. We are blessed to know where he is now and that we'll be with him again someday. ♥