In response to the rising number of suicides in Trinidad and Tobago, the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission (AFLC) continues to provide compassionate spaces for those affected by suicide loss through its grief support series, When a Loved One Dies by Suicide. The initiative offers hope and healing to individuals and families navigating the deep pain of loss, grounding their journey in faith, understanding, and community support.
On Monday, September 22, 2025, the AFLC hosted its latest session, featuring the video Praying After Suicide Loss. The evening invited participants to explore how prayer can lead to peace and reconciliation with God amid profound grief. Facilitators began with an opening prayer and outlined group guidelines, confidentiality, attentive listening, and respect, to ensure a safe and supportive space for sharing.
The featured video told the story of a mother’s journey through heartbreak and healing after losing her son to suicide. Her experience illustrated the power of bringing sorrow before God, showing that prayer does not erase pain but allows faith to coexist with it. Participants were encouraged to see prayer as more than words, an act of surrender, silence, and presence where healing begins.
Following the presentation, participants reflected on their own experiences of loss, guilt, and hope. Many expressed gratitude for the chance to discuss suicide openly within a faith-based setting, noting that such conversations are often avoided due to stigma or discomfort. Facilitators reminded attendees that God’s mercy is infinite and that the Church’s mission is to offer compassion and accompaniment to those who grieve.
The session also included a guided visualization exercise where participants imagined placing their heavy emotions into a symbolic “container” and entrusting it to God’s care. This practice, paired with gentle breathing and prayer, provided calm and spiritual grounding. One participant described it as a “practical tip” that was deeply helpful in managing overwhelming emotions.
The evening concluded with prayer and a reminder of available crisis hotlines and mental health resources. Participants noted that the “approach of the facilitators, their concern, kindness, and non-judgmental attitude, was most impactful.”
This series continues on Monday, December 8 and 15 from 7pm online. To register or for more information on this series, please email: aflc.pc@catholictt.org
Need support? Call 800-COPE (2673) Resources: https://aflcrc.org/suicide-awareness/