As part of his prayer intention for November, Pope Leo XIV has called for prayers for those facing suicidal thoughts, that they may find in their communities the necessary emotional and spiritual support to rediscover the beauty of life. “Let us pray that those struggling with suicidal thoughts may find in their communities the support, care, and love they need and open themselves to the beauty of life,” the Holy Father said in English at the beginning of the video produced by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, in collaboration with the Diocese of Phoenix, Arizona.

The Pope insisted that the Church—parishes, dioceses, religious orders, and movements—must prevent loneliness from exacerbating the suffering of those contemplating suicide. Even the faithful can fall into “hopeless sadness,” so he urged them to learn to “approach with respect and tenderness,” with “attentive and compassionate hearts,” offering comfort, support, and guidance toward essential professional help.

Pope’s Prayer

“Lord Jesus, You who invite the weary and burdened to rest in Your Heart, we pray for those who live in darkness and despair, especially those struggling with suicidal thoughts. May they find a community that welcomes, listens to, and accompanies them. Grant us a compassionate heart capable of consoling, healing wounds, and opening new horizons. May we rediscover together that life is a gift and that there is beauty and meaning even in suffering. Amen.”

Diocesan commitment in Phoenix

The video footage was filmed in the Diocese of Phoenix, which has made mental health a pastoral priority. It has a dedicated office, listening spaces, community training programs, partnerships with healthcare facilities, an annual Mass for suicide victims, and anti-stigma campaigns.

The local bishop, Monsignor John Dolan, shared his personal experience: he lost his brother Tom, his sisters Terese and Mary, and his brother-in-law Joe to suicide. “If you are heartbroken or struggling with suicidal thoughts, know that you are deeply loved and that the Church is here for you. You are not alone,” he affirmed.

Role of the Church and community prevention

Father Cristóbal Fones, international director of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, emphasized that the Church does not replace specialists, but it can offer closeness, listening, and hope. In parishes and communities, people learn preventative lifestyles: comforting the sorrowful, caring for their neighbors, and sharing hope. The *Click To Pray* app dedicates one day a month to this intention.

Alarming global figures

According to the WHO, approximately 720,000 people die by suicide each year (almost 2,000 per day). Fifty-six percent of suicides occur before the age of 50; among those aged 15 to 29, suicide is the third leading cause of death (second among young women). Seventy-three percent of suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries, although in the United States the current rate is one-third higher than it was in 2000.

Catholic doctrine

The Catechism (nos. 2280-2283) teaches that suicide contradicts love of self, neighbor, and God, but factors such as severe mental disorders or extreme distress can lessen responsibility. It urges us not to despair of the salvation of those who have taken their own lives, entrusting them to divine mercy and communal prayer.

International Congress in Rome

From November 5-7, the Catholic Ministers of Mental Health (CMHM), under the auspices of the Pontifical Academy for Life, will hold a congress in Rome on pastoral care in mental health and suicide prevention. The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network will lead the joint prayers and screen the November video.

Context of the Holy Year 2025

In the Jubilee 2025, the Pope’s monthly intentions take on special significance for obtaining plenary indulgence through prayer for them.