If a loved one dies by suicide, are they in Heaven?

Sr. Josephine Garrett shares the heartbreaking story of her father’s suicide and how it led her to the Catholic Church’s teaching on this difficult question: Are my loved ones in Heaven?

She reminds us that asking the hard but direct question, “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”, can save a life, and encourages us to pray for those who have died while trusting in God’s mercy.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches:

2282 If suicide is committed with the intention of setting an example, especially to the young, it also takes on the gravity of scandal. Grave psychological disturbances, anguish, or grave fear of hardship, suffering, or torture can diminish the responsibility of the one committing suicide.

2283 We should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance. The Church prays for persons who have taken their own lives.

If you or someone you know has expressed suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255 or Text: 741741