The Saddleback Church says that Rick Warrnen’s youngest son, Matthew Warren has committed suicide. He was 27 years old.
Described as an “incredibly kind, gentle and compassionate young man,” the statement said Matthew suffered from mental illness that resulted in deep depression and suicidal thoughts.
“No words can express the anguished grief we feel right now … He struggled from birth with mental illness, dark holes of depression, and even suicidal thoughts,” Pastor Warren said in an emotional letter to his congregation.
“In spite of America’s best doctors, meds, counselors, and prayers for healing, the torture of mental illness never subsided … Thank you for your love and prayers back. We love you back,” the pastor said.
Founded in 1980 by Pastor Warren, Saddleback Church serves a large Southern California community with several locations. The pastor is also known for authoring, “The Purpose Driven Life,” which has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide.