The youngest son, Matthew, has committed suicide.
The evangelical megachurch called Saddleback Church, announced the death of the 27-year-old today Saturday. The son died Friday night.
Described in the church statement as a good person who “suffered from mental illness that resulted in deep depression and suicidal thoughts…“Despite the best healthcare available, this was an illness that was never fully controlled and the emotional pain resulted in his decision to take his life… “We ask everyone to join us in praying for the entire Warren family and that God’s comfort and peace will be with them as they deal with this difficult situation.”
Founded by Pastor Warren, Saddleback serves the Southern California community with many locations.
Warren is the author of, “The Purpose Driven Life,” which the church said has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide. Pastor Warren has been prominent in politics, taking a religious conservative viewpoint on social concerns. He was recently on Piers Morgan CNN show speaking about his views of gay marriage.
May, if I can say, this spur on even more research throughout the world that can bring intervening ways that truly help persons who are afflicted with endogenous depression, so they can be and remain productive, have a wide world view without being dogged by pain, be loving, hale, healthy, and alive. For the sake of the person, and also very much so, for the sake of their often weary and frightened families and all those they come into contact with who dearly wish they had a magic wand that could take away all pain, but know they do not.
May Matthew, rest in peace.