Irish cardinal laments increase in suicide

(January 03, 2012) The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland has urged parents to t take time to spend time with and listen to their children as he lamented the increase of suicide. “The ability to listen is necessary in many areas of life but this is one which is extremely urgent,” said Cardinal Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh, during his Mass on New Year’s Day. Preaching in his January 1st homily the Primate of All Ireland said, “Suicide is now the biggest killer of young men in Ireland, but not only young men. It is vitally important therefore that society as whole, take on board its responsibility in this matter and give careful consideration to the challenge of listening appropriately to the concerns of young people.” Cardinal Brady noted the frustration of young people in finding a job and forming a family. But the greatest challenge he said is that of communicating to young people an appreciation for the positive value of life.