Bro. Paschal Ross C.P., R.I.P.

Homily of Fr. Aidan Troy C.P. 6th September 2005

Last night at the reception back to Holy Cross chapel of Paschal a crucifix and Passionist sign were placed on his coffin. The crucifix is associated with preaching of missions and retreats. Paschal never gave a mission or retreat. Paschal never had a district in any parish. Paschal never was rector, vicar or in charge.

But then, remember when, Christ came on earth he didn't come as a king or great political leader. He came as a carpenter to a small and obscure village. Nothing spectacular about those thirty years of Jesus life at Nazareth, except fidelity. If Paschal had lived another, few months he would have celebrated 60 years as a Passionist; most of those years in Holy Cross with shorter spells in Scotland and Crossgar. During those almost 60 years Paschal was rock solid. He was a backbone in Holy Cross.

He welcomed visitors - especially Passionists. He loved to be at Mass in the chapel. He prayed the rosary. He loved the Missions and raised great sums of money. He counted money, tended the furnace, mended things.

Of course, he had a mind of his own and could let you know what was what. He did this out of his love especially for Holy Cross and the people of the parish and area. He loved everyone and he was loved in return. Over the years I appreciated him as part of what made Holy Cross Ardoyne what it was and is.

Gradually, his strength began to wane and his energy levels fell. His sight began to get worse until in the end he lived in a world of darkness. He lasted as long as he could being lovingly cared for by the monastery staff and the carers who came to him a few times each day. But the day came when ill health dictated he go to Nazareth Care Village. He was heartbroken but his reply was that if that was what I was asking he would do it. I was so humbled by his reply.

The going to Nazareth opened a new chapter in his life. Paschal and Angelo began visiting one another. Paschal got his own list of names for the staff - there was tinsey, linsey, and many others. He loved them and they loved him. No words could express our thanks to them.

Friendship meant so much to him. He loved visits - Danny, Mary, Gemma, and staff members would have been regulars. He loved phone calls particularly from Fernando. His soul mate and life long friend was Sean McKeever. Paschal had no brothers or sisters and Sean was closer to Paschal than any blood brother. They lived the Gospel message. In the end Sean would have to lift him physically and emotionally. Sean called Paschal Sang and Paschal called Sean George. Sean we could never express our admiration and thanks to you.

One lovely little gift from God at the end of Paschal's life. As Sean was getting the phone message that Paschal was dead, he was also getting the call he had another grandson in Derry, now named Connor Paschal. A baby who will learn one day what his name means.

God called Paschal and all his prayers and sufferings were heard and he slipped away. It must have been a wonderful moment when Paschal opened his eyes for the first time in years to see before him the face of God. The years of darkness were over and the brightness of eternity shone before him. There was colour and faces and brightness in the rich pastures of paradise. Now Paschal is setting about preparing for us and I have no doubt that he will keep God busy ensuring that all his friends, but especially those in Ardoyne, have a place prepared for them.

Paschal you modelled Passionist life in its beauty and simplicity. Thank you for the example and may you rest in peace.