Jarrid Wilson, a pastor from the Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, who had been very open about his problems with depression, has reportedly taken his own life this month, according to official statements made by his church.
Wilson was 30 years old at the time of the tragic incident, and he was well known in the community for his various sermons discussing mental health issues and other similar problems that many deem too sensitive for modern society.
About a week after his suicide, Wilson’s wife, Julianne Wilson, took to social media to wish him a happy birthday from heaven.
She wrote: “Happy 1st birthday in heaven, baby. Today, you would’ve been 31. You lived more in those years than most could in 100. I’m blown away by all God did in and through your life!”
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The mother of two went on to reveal the plans they made for his birthday, prompting many followers to share well wishes and prayers.
A commenter said: “So very sorry for your loss. I’m sure he’s very proud of your strength and unwavering faith. Many prayers for peace that passes understanding. The world is mourning with you.”
Another follower stated: “I love you guys. Happy birthday Jarrid, we are missing you extra today. Praying God gives us all comfort.”
Wilson was very open about his mental problems, admitting that he was feeling depressed and suicidal, and talking at length about his struggles over time.
He was very helpful to others in a similar situation as him and was always willing to lend a hand to those who needed it the most.
His suicide just days before his birthday has taken many by surprise, and it looks like a large number of people are still in shock from what happened.
Wilson reportedly made a post about depression and his struggles on social media just several hours before taking his own life. On that same day, he officiated the funeral of a woman who had died by suicide.
His last statements to the world included “Loving Jesus doesn’t always cure suicidal thoughts” and “Loving Jesus doesn’t always cure depression.”
There is reportedly an investigation into his suicide that will probably lead to an official cause of death, although it is not clear at this point if authorities have a reason to believe that his passing could have been caused by something else.
There have been very few reports from the police regarding the situation, and it will likely take a while before information starts coming out, given the sensitive nature of what has happened.
Dale Partridge, a pastor and a friend of Wilson’s, said before his death, he revealed that he wanted to leave the post because he could not cope with the pressure.
He sparked a heated debate by saying that it was “reckless” and unbiblical for churches to put someone with suicidal thoughts in a leadership position.
