We all know that suicide is difficult for the survivors. This time of year around Thanksgiving and Christmas makes it even harder because it’s a time we spend with family and those we love. In honor of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, the Diocese of Lafayette is offering a Mass to remember those loved ones lost to suicide.

Prayer with a rosary
Photo by Tim Boyle/Getty Images
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The Mass will be held at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Church in Lafayette on Saturday, November 21st at 10 am. Everyone is invited to attend this special Mass, but due to COVID-19 they ask that everyone pre-register because seating is limited.

If you have a loved one that died by suicide, you can register their name to be printed in the Mass program by calling 337-261-5653 or click here. Friends and family are also asked to bring a small framed photo of your loved one to display at the Mass.

The suicide rate in Louisiana is 15.26% per 100,000 people, which is above the national average of 13.26%. To put this into perspective, this means that, on average, one person dies every 12 hours from suicide in Louisiana, according to Longleaf Hospital.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day was designated by the United States Congress as a day when the friends and family of those who have died by suicide can join together for healing and support. This day always falls on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

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