The Rev. Warren Savage, standing center, leads the Ferst Inter-faith Center at Westfield State University. (WESTFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY PHOTO)
WESTFIELD- Westfield State University’s Albert and Amelia Ferst Interfaith Center is partnering with the Diocese of Springfield to host an interfaith summit on suicide awareness and prevention on Jan. 9 in the WSU Owl’s Nest from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m..
The summit, which is being called “The Soul Workshop on Suicide Awareness and Prevention” is being organized by the WSU Interfaith Center and the Springfield Diocese’s Campus Outreach Center and the WSU Chaplain’s Council.
This workshop will be the second annual Interfaith summit being hosted by the Interfaith Center. The first one last year had a focus on racial issues and awareness.
Fr. Warren Savage, director of the Ferst Interfaith Center, said that this summit can benefit anyone who is involved in the work of dealing with the suicide epidemic. He stressed the summit’s timeliness, as suicide is the second leading cause of death for those aged 15 to 34. Across all age groups in the United States, it is the 10th leading cause of death.
“On our campuses our students suffer from mental illness, depression, and substance abuse, all of which can be precursors to suicide,” said Savage, “It is important for religious leaders to be able to deal with students struggling with these issues.”
He added that, in his experience as a religious leader, he has seen a lot of people who struggle with many of these problems.
“They sit in the pews, but underneath everything there is an internal struggle. We have to be sensitive to people who come to our churches looking for support,” said Savage.
The all-day event on Jan. 9 will offer the training and tools needed by clergy members, campus ministers, chaplains, advisors, and youth leaders to help those under them that are struggling with mental illness or suicidal thoughts.
There is a $23 registration fee which includes lunch for those who would like to attend. Parking is available on campus as most students will still be away for their winter break.
If yourself or a loved one is struggling with depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts, you should call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Just having a person available to talk to can save a life.
