In the early hours of Saturday 7th May, the doors of Christ Church, Rushbrooke were opened as a landmark on the route of the annual ‘Darkness into Light’ walk through Cobh. The church was lit during the night as a reminder that those who suffer from mental health problems and bereavement from suicide are not alone.

The church was open for those on the walk who wished to pause, reflect, and to remember before God those who have died as a result of suicide. This event, organised by mental health charity Pieta, is held to raise funds to provide help for those in suicidal crisis or self harming.

The Rector of Cobh and Glanmire Union of Parishes, the Revd Canon Paul Arbuthnot, commented:

We were pleased to participate in this important event which is so well supported in Cobh. Many thanks are due to those parishioners who opened and prepared the church so that others might find space for quiet reflection before God.

We stand in prayerful solidarity with those who are affected by suicide and self harm. Events like this remind us of and reaffirm us in our commitment to live the commission of our Lord to be the light of the world.