The Grotto Network team is deeply moved and saddened by suicides in the news this week. Not only Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, but all those whose names will never be headlines. We are especially heartbroken to hear news of a recent report by the CDC detailing how suicide rates have risen in all 50 states in recent years.
Today, June 8, is the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Pope Francis shared on social media this morning, “The Feast of the Sacred Heart reminds us that God loved us first: He is always waiting for us, welcoming us into His heart, into His love.”
Please join us in praying that all people may know of God’s steadfast love for each and every one of them. We pray especially for those who struggle with depression and their loved ones.
If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for a list of additional resources.
But let’s not just talk about suicide — let’s actually do something to help prevent it.
Saint Faustina Kowalska wrote in her diary on this feast decades ago, “Today is the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. During Holy Mass, I was given the knowledge of the Heart of Jesus and of the nature of the fire of love with which He burns for us and of how He is an Ocean of Mercy. Then I heard a voice: Apostle of My mercy, proclaim to the whole world My unfathomable mercy. Do not be discouraged by the difficulties you encounter in proclaiming My mercy. These difficulties that affect you so painfully are needed for your sanctification and as evidence that this work is Mine. My daughter, be diligent in writing down every sentence I tell you concerning My mercy, because this is meant for a great number of souls who will profit from it” (Diary, 1142).
Join Grotto in proclaiming the message of God’s Divine Mercy. Share the hope of His everlasting love.
We invite you to call your loved ones today. Let them know how much they mean to you. Smile at the people you see. Be kind to all whom you encounter and radiate God’s love. These acts might not cure depression — but these small acts of love may be the hope that a person needs to keep fighting.
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