All About Mormons

I'm very sorry to hear that your father killed himself. Elder M. Russell Ballard, one of the worldwide leaders of our church, said the following about suicide, which you may find comforting: "Obviously, we do not know the full circumstances surrounding every suicide. Only the Lord knows all the details, and he it is who will judge our actions here on earth. When he does judge us, I feel he will take all things into consideration: our genetic and chemical makeup, our mental state, our intellectual capacity, the teachings we have received, the traditions of our fathers, our health, and so forth."

I think that if someone killed themselves for purely selfish reasons, it would indeed be a serious sin. I think that selfish suicide is quite rare, however. In the vast majority of cases, some sort of mental illness or chronic disease, like depression or chronic pain, is usually involved. I'm sure God takes into account these kinds of mitigating circumstances when he passes final judgment. He is a merciful God full of great compassion for those who suffer. I also think that after we die we'll discover that God takes no pleasure in condemning any of His children to hell. He's anxious to save us, if we'll let Him.

If anyone who is contemplating suicide comes across this message, I want you to know that there is always hope. Talk to your family about what's troubling you. Talk to a psychologist and to your ecclesiastical leaders who are anxious to help you. In the U.S., you can also call 1.800.SUICIDE (784-2433) if you're having a crisis. May God bless you with His comfort and love in your times of greatest challenge.

When I was in junior high we had boy in my school commit suicide. I remember in a testimony meeting we were having in our seminary class one girl standing up and bearing her testimony which included toward the end a moment of mourning about the boy and his doom to hell, followed by her running from the room. Back in those days, mid 90s, that was the belief of many LDS members. That belief has changed today with the brethren testifying that we are not to judge those that take their own lives. They pointed out how only God will know the state of mind of those individuals and he will be their judge not we in mortality.

I'm sure your dad tried to do his best here on this earth and he is learning more then we are in heaven above as we speak, read, and post back and forth. When the day of judgement comes your dad will be judged a righteous judgement and will be given a measure of glory equal to his merits here on earth and in heaven. (This life is a very small speck compared to our pre-life)

Your main goal probably needs to be pray and seek for an acceptance of your dad's choices, seek as well to forgive him, and live your life to it's fullest for your sake, as well as his.

Jesus overcame death and you will see your dad again this I know so make sure you gain all you can for your salvation and not spend your mortal probation mourning out your father's choices.

Best of luck brother/sister and seek Christ's help in finding your peace.

Suicide: Some Things We Know, and Some We do Not, Ensign, Oct. 1987, 8 may be helpful to you. In the meantime, pray for peace from Heavenly Father to ease your mind and calm the turmoil you undoubtedly feel, and ensure that your father's temple work is complete. By doing all you can do you may find some comfort from your grief.