From Bishop Burgos: Suicide Prevention Training Resource

By UNY Communications | Email

Editor's Note: The following message was sent on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez to United Methodists of Susquehanna and Upper New York on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 sharing an important new resource about suicide-prevention.

Dear Pastoral Leaders of Susquehanna and Upper New York,

Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ.

I write to share an important new suicide‑prevention training resource developed by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church, in partnership with the E. Stanley Jones Foundation. 

Why this Matters

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, affecting individuals and families in every community. Rates have risen over the past decade, underscoring the urgent need for compassionate, informed responses. Faith communities are often among the first places people turn in crisis, making preparedness essential.

What you will Learn

This training equips ministry leaders with practical tools, theological grounding, and compassionate practices for responding to one of the most urgent pastoral and public‑health concerns of our time. While we are not clinicians, we are often among the first people individuals turn to in moments of deep distress. Our calling is to be prepared—to listen well, respond with care, and connect people to life‑saving support.

The resource can be used in multiple settings:

• Faith leaders seeking to strengthen their pastoral response

• Leadership teams who share responsibility for congregational care

• Entire congregations or small groups who want to grow in awareness and compassion

Bold Love in Action

I urge every pastor to complete the online training and to invite your leadership team to do so as well. This is a meaningful opportunity to deepen our collective capacity for care and to help cultivate congregations that are more aware, more compassionate, and more prepared to respond faithfully when it matters most.

You may access the training here.

Thank you for the many ways you continue to serve with courage, compassion, and faithfulness amid the complex pastoral realities of our day.

Together in the journey,

Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez

The United Methodist Church   

Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area