September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Suicide is an urgent and growing public health crisis. More than 49,000 people in the United States died by suicide in 2022, which is one death every 11 minutes. (hhs.gov) Men continue to die by suicide at rates more than twice as high as women globally (12.3 per 100,000 vs. 5.6 in 2021), with the gender gap especially pronounced in high-income countries (3.2:1 ratio). Young people remain especially vulnerable, with suicide ranking as the third leading cause of death among those aged 15–29 years. (iasp.info) Since the beginning of 2025, St. Gregory the Great and Our Lady of Hope Families of Parishes have offered Spiritual Support Groups for individuals living with mental illness and caregivers. The teams report that the fruit of this time together brings healing and hope. They have hosted Masses, prayer services, and walks to raise awareness, break the stigma of mental illness, and foster community. As our next teams complete training and planning this fall, they will be prepared to support members of their community as they return to the table.
On September 14th at 10:00 a.m., the Mass at the Cathedral Basilica will be a Survivors of Suicide Loss Mass celebrated by Archbishop Casey. Lit candles will be arranged leading toward the altar in remembrance of loved ones who have died by suicide. If you would like to reserve a candle, please click HERE. A light lunch in the undercroft will be provided, and Mental Wellness Ministry teams will be there to share more about their dedicated work. We have all been affected by suicide. Let’s come together to promote healing and hope!
For more information about Mental Wellness Ministry, email Lisa Averion [email protected]