Archdiocese dedicates first-ever memorial to those lost to suicide

Auxiliary Bishop Larry Sullivan, vicar general of the Archdiocese of Chicago, leads a prayer service with Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago for the dedication of the “At Peace” memorial at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside on June 26, 2026, for surviving families and loves ones affected by suicide. The memorial honors the lives lost to suicide and offers a sacred space for prayer and remembrance. The Archdiocese of Chicago is the first Catholic archdiocese in the United States to create a memorial in a Catholic cemetery for survivors and lives lost to suicide. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

Rubey speaks to guests about his experience ministering to families who lost loved ones to suicide. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

Auxiliary Bishop Larry Sullivan, vicar general of the Archdiocese of Chicago, give the homily during the service. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

Bishop Sullivan blesses the angel monument while people follow. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

Deacon Glenn Tylutki holds the holy water as Bishop Sullivan blesses the memorial during the service. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

People walk around the memorial during the service. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

A woman is brought to tears while thanking Father Charles Rubey for his part in the monument. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

People visit the middle part of the monument with an angel whose outstretched wings and arms are meant to symbolize God’s loving embrace. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

Deacon Tylutki holds the book while Bishop Sullivan prays. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

Participants pray the Our Father together during the service. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

A young girl watches the final blessing of the service. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)