Keep Watch: Suicide, Christ, and Community

by Holle Tubbs, Mary Chase Mize

'Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night...' Inspired by the first words of this prayer, Keep/Watch is a resource for people and communities who want to understand faith- and evidence-based suicide prevention. With content informed by peer-reviewed studies, Scripture, the Book of Common Prayer, personal experiences, and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, Keep/Watch is designed to foster inclusive conversations about suicide and mental health in the Church. This workbook includes: a model for community-based suicide prevention; personal testimonies of people who have been impacted by suicide; ministry resources for engaging mental illness and suicidality; a theological framework for how to engage suicide and mental illness; and original art by the author. Recommended for individuals and groups.

157 pages, Paperback

Published December 16, 2022

Reviews

[Elizabeth Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is truly phenomenal and it will save lives! With these tools and practices, churches can support and improve acute care to those that need it so critically. Impeccable.

[Mary Chase Mize · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am biased, because I co-wrote it. But I am so very proud of this book.

Keep/Watch combines faith and science to provide effective strategies to make church congregations a place where those who are having thoughts of suicide can receive help and support. The VISIT model we propose provides a layered approach to creating safety in the church; and when a church community is a place where suicide safety is prioritized, the world will be a safer place indeed.

I hope this is helpful and hopeful to anyone who finds this book.