Suicide
What happens to someone who commits suicide? Fr. Mike articulates the answer that the Catholic Church offers on suicide in the video below. He offers hope to anyone who has considered suicide or experienced the impact of losing someone in this way. If you or someone you know struggles with suicidal thoughts, this video is for you.
If you struggle with suicidal thoughts, please know you are not alone. In fact, we're praying for you and we have a network of people praying for you. While we don't know your exact situation, we want to help you. First, know you are loved and needed in this world. In talking with people considering suicide, I've learned something: it's not that you want your life to end but rather you want the pain you feel to end. Isn't that right? The pain will never end, you may think. Even if you think you have tried everything, please don't give up yet.
As a young man, Karol Wojtyla lived through some of the darkest years in history. It's difficult for us to even imagine. By age 12, his mother, sister, and brother had all died. He was alone with his father. Years later, the Nazis invaded Poland. Their brutality was later replaced by the Russian Soviets who in many ways were worse than the Nazis. Although he had every reason in the world to give up hope, he kept fighting. Years later, as Pope John Paul II, he wrote: "I plead with you--never, ever give up on hope, never doubt, never tire, and never become discouraged" (Pope John Paul II: In My Own Words). If he can keep fighting, you can too.
Before making a decision, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Online chat is also available here. Feel free to reach out to us here too.
Artwork Credit: Cassie Pease Designs
