Ministries

You are not alone: Suicide Memorial Day brings message of hope to mourners

Wesley Mission’s annual LifeForce Memorial Day for people who have been affected by suicide and live in its heartbreaking aftermath will take place on Thursday, 1 October at the Northern Boardwalk of the Sydney Opera House at 12 noon.

The memorial service will bring together people in a spirit of comfort and hope, allowing them the space to grieve and reflect.

“For every suicide death there are at least ten immediate family members and friends whose lives are changed forever,” said Rev Keith Garner, CEO of Wesley Mission, Sydney.

“Every day in Australia an average of five people complete suicide and 150 attempt suicide. That means there are many, many people in our society who are left deeply grieved and hurting when they lose a loved one. The LifeForce Memorial Day helps them realise that they are not alone in their pain,” he said.

“This year we are honoured to have special guests who will share their personal stories of loss. It is hard to put into words the despair of losing a loved one to suicide and we are so grateful to our guests who are willing to talk about their own experiences.

“Our guests are also involved in the crucial work of suicide prevention and, along with agencies like LifeForce, are striving to remove the stigma of suicide and let people know there is someone they can turn to in times of need,” he said.

Mr Garner will give the address at the service, bringing a message of hope to those gathered. This year, those who attend will also have the opportunity to place a photo and a personalised message on a Memorial Wall that will be displayed on the day.

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