News

The annual Wesley Mission LifeForce Memorial Service for people struggling with suicide and its equally tragic aftermath will take place on Wednesday, 1 October at the Northern Boardwalk of the Sydney Opera House at 12 noon.

“The service has proved profoundly moving for people as they realise that they are not alone in their grief,” said Rev Keith Garner, Superintendent of Wesley Mission, Sydney.

“It’s vital to break the silence on suicide so that we don’t perpetuate the cycle of despair that began the tragedy.”

The memorial service brings together people in a spirit of trust, support and prayer. Each year, he said, Wesley LifeForce was honoured by people who shared their stories of dealing with the loss of a loved one or friend.

“By sharing together we are removing the stigma of suicide while building mutual hope and trust,” he said.

“The service draws together a diverse group of people and shows that suicide obeys no demographic profile – it just looks for troubled hearts.”

LIFEFORCE MEMORIAL SERVICE:

When: 12 noon, Wednesday, 1 October, 2008

Where: Northern Boardwalk, Sydney Opera House

Speakers:

• Rev. Keith Garner, Superintendent, Wesley Mission
  
• Enrique ‘Topo’ Rodriguez, former Wallaby who played in an incredible 42 test matches before retiring, and who has struggled with bipolar disorder
  
• Bianca Dye, Nova FM Radio presenter, three-time winner of Best Radio Personality in Australia

Paula Duncan (actress and LifeForce patron) will conduct the traditional sunflower ceremony at the end where people are invited to cast a sunflower into the ocean in memory of someone lost to suicide.  

Jessica Rowe (television presenter and LifeForce supporter) will act as MC

* Media are requested to observe the protocols of working with mourners who desire anonymity and respect for their condition.

Dinoo Kelleghan
Wesley Mission Public Affairs Officer
Mobile: 0434 076 644

Graeme Cole
Wesley Mission, Public Affairs Manager
Mobile: 0408 470 722