Novena for Souls in Despair During National Suicide Awareness Week
In preparation for the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows (September 15) and in recognition of National Suicide Awareness Week, all Catholics are invited to join St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Wichita, in a Novena for Souls in Despair and Those Contemplating Suicide.
The novena will be prayed September 7–15 in the church after Mass at the following times:
Sundays (Sept. 7 & 14): after 8:30 a.m. Mass
Weekdays (Sept. 8–13 & 15): after 8:00 a.m. Mass
This novena is not only being offered up for those currently struggling with despair, but also for the souls lost to suicide and for the healing of the grieving hearts left behind. All are welcome to take part in this prayerful effort for hope, healing, and solidarity with those who suffer.
“Let us join together in prayer—whether in person or in spirit—asking that through Our Lady’s tender intercession, God may bring comfort, healing, and a lessening of the tragedy of suicide throughout the world,” said Father David Lies, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Wichita.
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The novena is hosted in collaboration with Suspenders4Hope, a diocesan-supported mental health and suicide prevention program. If you would like more information on this initiative, or would like support in hosting this novena at your local parish, please contact suspenders4hope@wichita.edu.