“Life is a sacred gift.”

That is the message 18 leaders of Catholic and other religious congregations in Saskatchewan are hoping to spread this World Suicide Prevention Day, Sept. 10.

The faith leaders, including Archbishop Donald Bolen of Regina and Bishop Mark Hagemoen of Saskatoon, released a statement today to draw attention to the urgency of suicide prevention in their province.

“An average of 10 people die of suicide every day in Canada, approximately 144 per year in Saskatchewan. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth between 15 and 24 years and the leading cause of death in northern Saskatchewan for people between the ages of 10 and 49,” the faith leaders said.

They added that First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people, especially youths, have “considerably higher” rates of suicide, as do young people who identify as LGBTQ.

“Across all religious and theological distinctions, a shared understanding that the Creator has given us the precious gift of life establishes a global ethic that connects all people of faith … We share a collective responsibility to care for those who are struggling, to offer hope and support, and to work for a society in which all can flourish.”

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, “We call upon our faith communities, the Government of Saskatchewan, and all sectors of society to work together to establish a comprehensive and effective suicide prevention strategy.”

They also invited their faith communities to pray for and work for a solution toward the “epidemic of suicide among Indigenous and youth in Saskatchewan.”

The letter was signed by five Catholic bishops as well as faith leaders of area Anglican, Baha’i, Jewish, Lutheran, Muslim, Orthodox, Presbyterian, Unitarian, and United communities.

People of all faiths were invited to join in a brief period of prayer for suicide prevention at a vigil at 7 p.m. Sept. 10 in front of the legislature buildings in Regina.

For crisis hotlines and online resources for people seeking support for themselves or their loved ones, click here.