Manila: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has asked forgiveness from families who felt alone or unwelcome after losing loved ones to suicide. In a pastoral letter approved during its 132nd plenary assembly in the Archdiocese of Ozamiz from July 8 to 10, the bishops called on parishes to accompany grieving families with compassion and hope. The bishops acknowledged that some bereaved families may have experienced misunderstanding or exclusion within the Church.

According to Philippines News Agency, the letter, which spans two pages, emphasizes the Church's regret for any feelings of exclusion experienced by families during their time of grief. The CBCP urged priests and church workers to accompany grieving families with compassion, celebrate funeral rites in accordance with Church discipline, and proclaim hope rooted in Christ. "As we say this, we reiterate the sacredness of human life," the letter stated, further highlighting the Church's stance on the sanctity and value of life.

The bishops also addressed the issue of mental illness, emphasizing that it is neither a sign of weak faith nor a punishment from God. Instead, they pointed out that it is a condition that warrants understanding, proper care, and compassionate accompaniment. They called on parishes, Catholic schools, Basic Ecclesial Communities, and families to become places where individuals can seek help without fear of shame or rejection.

The letter further commits the Church to build communities of encounter, break stigma, strengthen collaboration, and walk together in hope to ensure that every person is welcomed, accompanied, and freed from stigma. The bishops also encouraged those experiencing mental health challenges to seek professional care, reinforcing the Church's commitment to supporting those in need.