The family and loved ones of Father Christopher Roberts wish to express their deepest thanks for the outpouring of prayers and support that you have made in the wake of Father Roberts’ death. There is no way to describe the pain caused by such an unexpected loss, but there is comfort in knowing that many others share in that same pain for having lost a beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, and pastor.
In order to provide a sense of peace and closure surrounding the cause of Father Roberts’ death, today Father Roberts’ family has authorized us to share that his death was caused by a wound sustained by an accidental discharge of a firearm that he was cleaning. This conclusion has been confirmed by both the coroner and the police who investigated his death. The tragic accident occurred in the rectory of St. Paul Church in Marion.
It is impossible, of course, to make sense of such a tragic loss. Let us strive, then, to be consoled by words from the Church’s funeral liturgy, remembering that “for your faithful, Lord, life is changed, not ended” and that “the mercy of God will gather us together again in the joy of his kingdom.”
“Therefore,” as the invitation from the liturgy concludes, “let us console one another in the faith of Jesus Christ.”
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. Requiescat in pace.