Famed evangelist Billy Graham has shared his thoughts on how to minister to those thinking of taking their own life and warned that "God will not hold those guiltless who glamorize or encourage suicide."



The 98-year-old founder of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association weighed in on the sobering issue in his syndicated advice column published Tuesday in the Bowling Green Daily News.



"My high school is in shock, because last week one of our classmates took his life," wrote a reader, identified only as "J.J." "He always seemed like a nice person, although I guess he didn't have many friends. What could we have done? I feel guilty for not helping him somehow."



"Whenever I answer a question about suicide in this column, I am deeply aware that someone may be reading this who is considering taking their own life, and I take this very seriously," Graham began "I only wish I could put my arm around your shoulder and assure you of my love - and most of all, of God's love for you. No matter how desperate or depressed you may feel, with Christ there is hope. Reach out to Him, and also to someone who can help you with your problems.



Without exception, suicide is a profound tragedy - always, said Graham.

