Console Celebration of Light in Swinford church on Sunday

FAMILIES and friends of people lost through suicide in Mayo will come together on Sunday (November 29) at a Christmas Celebration of Light organised by the national suicide prevention charity, Console.

The ceremony of song, music, poetry and reflection will take place in Our Lady Help of Christians Church in Swinford, starting at 5 p.m., and will include the lighting of candles and a minute’s silence to remember those who have passed away. Over 500 people lost their lives to suicide in Ireland last year.

This event is one of nine celebrations of light being held nationwide by Console, with over 6,000 people expected to attend them.

“The Christmas Celebration of Light provides a gentle and understanding environment for families and friends to remember their loved ones and celebrate their lives,” said Console founder and CEO Paul Kelly.

“The loss of a loved one is always devastating, but when that loss is through suicide it can be so much harder for the families and friends left behind.

“This special service is one of the most important events in the Console calendar as it gives families and friends the opportunity to come together in solidarity to honour the lives of their loved ones,” said Paul, who founded the organisation after his sister Sharon took her own life at the age of 21.

Console offers counselling services and 24-hour helpline support to people in crisis and those bereaved by suicide. The charity has a centre in Swinford at Whitethorn Cottage, Tullynahoo, Midfield, Swinford, and also has an outreach service in Ballina at the Family Resource Centre, Abbey Street.

The charity also has full-time centres in Dublin, Galway, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Wexford, Kildare and London. Counselling is available for individuals, couples, families or children who have been affected by suicide. Console can be reached at any time on freephone 1800 247 247 and many resources and useful information can be found at www.console.ie.