13 November 2015
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Families and friends of people lost through suicide in Cork have the chance to come together to remember their loved ones at Console’s upcoming Christmas Celebration of Light.
The evening of song, music, poetry and reflection takes place in the Sacred Heart Church on Western Road on Sunday, November 29 at 4pm.
The evening also includes the lighting of candles and a minute’s silence in the presence of others to remember those who are no longer with us on life’s journey.
Over 500 people lost their lives to suicide in Ireland last year.
The event is one of nine celebrations of light being held by the national suicide prevention and bereavement charity Console, with over 6,000 people expected to attend nationwide.
“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.
Everyone is welcome to the Christmas Celebration of Light. If you wish to sponsor a light in memory of a loved one please phone 021-4274218 for more information.
Console offers counselling services and 24-hour helpline support to people in crisis and those bereaved by suicide.
The charity has a full-time centre in Cork at Console House, 1A Perrott Avenue, College Road (021 427 4218) and is also in Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Wexford, Galway, Kerry, Kildare, Athlone and Mayo. Console also offers liaison services in counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Tipperary and Clare.
Counselling is available for any individual, 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.
