Suicide
If you are thinking about committing suicide, please ask for help immediately. Call 911 and ask for help.
You may also try to reach one of the clergy for conversation, but that may take some time. Please call 911 now.
If you know someone who has committed suicide, we offer the following litany:
A Litany at the Time of Suicide
Most Gracious God, be with the friends and family of N. in their shock and grief over the sudden loss of their loved one.
We pray to you, O God.
Comfort them with the knowledge that you were with N. in his despair, and you knew the depth of his pain.
We pray to you, O God.
Sustain them with your limitless love when feelings of self-doubt, guilt, anger, or blame threaten to overcome them.
We pray to you, O God.
Hold them close to your heart in their dark night of endless questions and endless tears.
We pray to you, O God.
Remind his family that each one of them, and he, are all beloved children, created in your glorious image.
Hear our prayer, O God.
Help them as they remember the last days and moments of his life, that they may be healed of the wounds inflicted to their body, mind and spirit.
Hear our prayer, O God.
Guide them in the midst of their confusion and bewilderment as they seek to come to terms with the choice he made.
Hear our prayer, O God.
Surround them today and always with the love of their family, friends and church community in the aftermath of this tragic death.
Hear our prayer, O God.