NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. - Community Missions will present its 15th Annual Interfaith Community Prayer Service for Mental Illness Recovery and Understanding on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 4:00 p.m. at Bacon Memorial Presbyterian Church (166 59th Street, Niagara Falls). 

The event is part of Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW), a national event that falls on the first full week of October each year. It is designed to raise public awareness about mental illness and break down the stigma that too often discourages people from seeking help when needed. Tuesday of MIAW is designated as the National Day of Prayer for Mental Illness Recovery and Understanding.

“Each year we organize this service to send help get out the message that there is hope for those who are effected by mental illness,” said Rev. Mark Breese, Agency Minister at Community Missions and organizer of the annual event. “Along with the sharing of prayers, we want to make sure that people know these simple facts: treatment that works is available, recovery is possible, and we need not fear those living with mental illness. We want to say this clearly and with one voice.”

The service will feature readings, prayers, and music offered by representatives of various faith traditions and community members. It is anticipated that traditions including Native American, Sikh, Muslim and various Christian traditions will participate in this year’s event. 

“We are so glad to offer this service in honor of this national day of prayer,” said Robyn Kruger, President and CEO of Community Missions. “Each year it is moving to see our neighbors who practice different religions come together to speak with unified voices and offer prayers and blessings—all in support and love for those in our communities who struggle with mental illness. Our religious beliefs and practices may be different, but hearts of all faith-filled people are full of compassion, love, and the desire to serve others.”

One in five adults experience mental illness each year, while one in every six American youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder annually. Although many people understand that mental illness is a medical condition, individuals and families affected by it are still often subjected to unnecessary and unjust stigma and discrimination.

“This is our third year hosting this event,” said Pastor Lisa Giacomazza of Bacon Memorial Church. “We love the way this service brings together so many different voices to show love to our family, friends, and neighbors who struggle with mental illness.”

“This year is also the 100th anniversary of the founding of Community Missions” said Rev. Breese. “The Mission has a long legacy of standing with those in need and providing them hope and help. The Mission was founded by people of faith, and throughout our history we have always been able to do this work only because of the cooperation and support of the whole community. This interfaith prayer services is simply another manifestation of this: even with all our different beliefs, we can come together to build community and serve others, especially those in need.”

For more information, please contact Rev. Mark Breese at 285-3403, ext. 2259 or mbreese@communitymissions.org.