Three components comprise the You Are Not Alone programs

The new “You Are Not Alone: Hope and Healing for Survivors of Suicide Loss” program offered by Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House, 5353 E. 56th St., in Indianapolis, is composed of two separate components for survivors of suicide loss: a series of three two-hour sessions and a two-day retreat, both addressing the emotional, spiritual and healing journey of those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

A third component of the program will address suicide prevention through a training program called “safeTALK,” offered by the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This portion of the You Are Not Alone offerings is on hold as the AFSP restructures the safeTALK program post-COVID-19.

The three-part series is offered at no cost. Intended to be offered in-person, the series was offered this year online via Zoom due to stay-at-home orders to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Two of the sessions—one addressing the emotional journey and the other addressing the spiritual journey—took place in May. The third online session, which addresses the healing journey, will take place from 4-6 p.m. on June 14. It will be presented by suicide loss survivor Lisa Thibault and Providence Sister Connie Kramer, a suicide loss survivor, spiritual director, retreat director and grief specialist.

While the two-hour sessions are free, registration is required.

A “You Are Not Alone” two-day retreat is scheduled at Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House from 1-8 p.m. on July 11 and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on July 12.

The speakers and panel participants from the online series will present the retreat, which provides a forum for faith believers—and Catholics in particular—to come together to grieve, share experiences and learn how God helps them on their journey of survival after a suicide tragedy.

The cost is $25 for individuals and $50 for married couples. It includes the program, meals, snacks and guest room use during the program. Optional overnight accommodations are available for an additional cost.

For questions or to register for either the June 14 two-hour session or for the July 11-12 retreat, go to www.archindy.org/fatima or contact Jennifer Burger at 317-545-7681 or jburger@archindy.org. †

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