A group of Filipino Christians is standing against the spirit of suicide that is affecting a local bridge. They battled the increasing suicide rate with prayer rally and worship gatherings.
Growing suicide rate
In the Philippines, citizens in Cagayan de Oro City were concerned about the news surrounding the Marcos Bridge. The bridge was famed for its central location, but today, many have labeled it negatively because of many suicide attempts.
Within just a month, four young people jumped off the bridge in an attempt to end their lives.
Sadly, three lives were lost. All of them were teenagers.
The tragic news alarmed the locals and the government. As such, mental health awareness groups are strengthening their advocacy within the city and offering support.
But the local Christians know that there is a spirit behind it, aiming to steal, kill, and destroy lives. So, they are rising up to war, claiming the victory Jesus had already won.
John 10:10 says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Filipino Christians
Last Sunday, the churches in Cagayan de Oro city united for a powerful purpose. They rallied in the same spot where the teenagers have been jumping off. And they worshiped God, sang praises, and prayed against the spirit of depression and suicide. They consecrated the area and declared their city for Jesus.
The local police conducted the effort and partnered with them in assisting with traffic and security.
Many residents who passed by joined in the prayer and declaration of life for their beloved city.
CDO Soldiers of Christ praying at the bridge, Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/JesusGangCdo/posts/pfbid0BSVxzGh6enHuTrhT26AK4zAnsJGCvxohjZN2o2q2VK2rKzFkV6vRSv1Zz8HRPd26l
The CDO Soldiers of Christ proclaimed, “We are praying for our city. We are claiming our City is for Jesus. We declare in the mighty name of Jesus that these spirit of depression will cease to take hold of our young people or mentally depressed individuals. That these troubled brothers and sister will get to know our Lord Jesus Christ and that they will also experience the transforming power of our Lord Jesus.”
Header Image: David Otamias, Prayer Rally at CDO, Facebook, May 7, 2023, https://www.facebook.com/Davidotamias.9/posts/pfbid03PJKMFwF63sMAZEJAEfe26gvFqz2Hrdzs5TR4QWJE1U6F64YRGweGTosxMVVKtixl