In recent years the Church has dedicated the fourth Sunday in July as the Day for Life. On this day we celebrate the dignity of life from conception to natural death and this year we focus on the theme of suicide. The main emphasis of Day for Life in 2009 is on the pastoral dimensions of this difficult and sensitive subject.
The Church believes that every life is worth living and cares about the reasons why people contemplate suicide, including acute mental illness and the possible spiritual factors involved. We pledge ourselves to support all that the professional services can bring and hopefully help to reduce the stigma too often associated with mental illness and depression.
Building upon last year’s focus on mental health, the bishops hope that this year’s day with its particular focus on suicide will help raise awareness of the vital role played by families and a supportive parish community in supporting and sustaining those who may be struggling to cope.
