Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

More than 200 people gathered at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando on September 21, 2024, for the second Mass for Suicide Prevention and Remembrance. The event aimed to pray for loved ones lost to suicide, support those who have experienced such loss, and offer prayers for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts.

Luis Nieves, Director of Pastoral Ministry for the Diocese of Orlando, described the Mass as “a call to action to the wider Church to open our eyes and hearts, to reach out and allow others to reach out to us in their despair.” A significant part of the service was a candle ceremony where families received light from the Paschal Candle. Nieves noted that this act symbolized passing Christ’s light among those hurting: “It’s a symbol of what we can do and who we are as Church. No one should ever feel alone.”

Nieves emphasized that it is up to each baptized person to meet needs and share hope through actions: “Wherever there is a need, there is the Catholic Church.”

Artist Katherine Knapik contributed by incorporating floriography into the Mass's imagery. She explained how flowers symbolize loss, hope, grief, and eternity: “Floriography is a great way to increase that environmental storytelling...The combined message of the flowers is acknowledgment of the loss of a loved one and looking forward to rest in heaven.” The floral arrangement and an explanatory key were displayed in the basilica’s narthex alongside a Book of Remembrance.

Father Anthony Aarons, Missionary of Mercy and basilica rector, highlighted during his homily the importance of sharing positive messages amid despair: “Jesus...says ‘Come to me, you who find life burdensome. Come and I will give you rest.’ But...we who hear that message have to live that message.”

Bishop John Noonan assured attendees that God remains present even in times of despair: “Even those who despair, God is there with them.” He prayed for strength and consolation for families dealing with painful losses.

Father Aarons expressed relief that this Mass is held at the basilica due to Mary's role as a comforting figure: "We like to think of going home to Mama because a mother offers refuge; a mother offers comfort; a mother offers healing."

He also addressed church teachings on suicide in light of new understandings about mental illness: "When a person commits suicide...they’re not thinking straight; they’re not thinking right...The Church relies on the mercy of God."

Catherine Galda, Director of Behavioral Health for Catholic Charities of Central Florida pointed out how unique grief from suicide can be: "(Loss by suicide) is not the same as other types...There’s a lot of conflict...questions regarding our faith." She affirmed that God's love extends both to survivors and those who died by suicide: "This Mass is affirming God loves you and God loves the person who died. Come and be in His arms during your most difficult time."

Galda stressed community support during mental health challenges: "As a faith community that’s built on love, we need to do better at noticing...and supporting those facing a mental health challenge."