Son Of Pastor Rick Warren Commits Suicide

Matthew Warren the youngest son of Evangelical Minister Rick Warren, committed suicide as a result of a battle with depression.

Rick Warren is a famous author and minister. He is the founder of the Saddleback Church located in Lake Forest California. Warren is known for holding conservative religious views. During the 2008 presidential election Warren hosted the Civil Forum on the Presidency at the Saddleback Church, both candidates were present.

CBS reports the Saddleback Church has released a statement confirming Warren's son's suicide Friday night. The statement describes Warren's son as "an incredibly kind, gentle and compassionate young man whose sweet spirit was encouragement and comfort to many."

The statement went on to say, "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."

On Twitter there is a longer version of the statement confirming Warren's son's suicide. In it Warren says that his son has been struggling since birth with mental illness.

"But only those closest new that he struggled from birth with mental illness, dark holes of depression and even suicidal thoughts....Today after a fun evening together...in a momentary wave of despair at his home, he took his life."   

There is no further information about the circumstances of Rick Warren son's suicide. Rick Warren started the Saddleback Church in 1980 and is also known for writing the book, "The Purpose Driven Life" which has sold over 30 million copies.