#BeThe1To
From the United Methodist Book of Discipline (2016):
A Christian perspective on suicide begins with an affirmation of faith that nothing, including suicide, separates us from the love of God. (Romans 8:38-39) Therefore, we deplore the condemnation of people who die by suicide, and we consider unjust the stigma that so often falls on surviving family and friends. We encourage pastors and faith communities to address this issue through preaching and teaching.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is never an easy topic to cover, and for a lot of us, it seems so big and complicated we don’t know where to begin. “Isn’t just easier to not talk about it?”
It is a dangerous myth that asking about or talking about suicide with someone will put the idea in their head, and the National Prevention Lifeline as well as other mental health agencies across the country seek to bring awareness, help, and healing to those struggling with suicidality and their families. This year’s theme for Suicide Prevention Month is “Be The 1 To” and includes focusing on asking, being there and listening without judgment, keeping our friends and family safe, and helping them stay connected, by inviting each of us to “be the 1 to” support our friends and family who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide (also called suicidality).
This year, Franconia UMC will be recognizing Suicide Prevention Month in two very important ways. For the end of National Suicide Prevention Week, as well as in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10), we will have moments incorporated into our worship service to recognize the impact suicide has on ourselves, our community, and our world. We invite you to pray and seek out resources the entire month, and join us in worship at 10 a.m. on September 12 to pray for those affected by suicide.
Also, on Sunday, September 26 at 1 p.m., there will be an in-person presentation at the church as we seek to understand how to help more people in more ways; all are invited to come and learn more about this very important, very difficult subject.
Throughout the month, there will also be resources offered. To get started, check out www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
For any questions, or for more information, feel free to reach out to Sarah Sweeney at gro.cmuainocnarf@htuoy.