Inland Hills Pastor Takes Own Life; Church Grieves

CHINO, CA — Pastor Andrew Stoecklein was beloved by his Inland Hills church family of Chino and San Gabriel Valley, but that was not enough to end his battle with depression and anxiety. Stoecklein, 30, died by suicide on Aug. 25 and has left behind his wife Kayla, and three young children, according to the church.

His wife shared these words through the church website, saying of her husband:

“…I love you so much and I will miss you every single day for the rest of my life. When I think of you I will smile, knowing that I will see you again one day. Thank you for 10 wonderful years together. Thank you for giving me the gift of three beautiful blue eyed boys who all resemble you. Thank you for choosing me, for believing in me, and for showing me how to live fearlessly…”

On Aug. 25, thousands gathered to light a candle and pray for the man they knew as "Pastor Drew."

The Inland Hills church is grieving, with a statement on Facebook saying: "It’s not the outcome we hoped and prayed for, and today we grieve as a church family."

Stoecklein became the head pastor of the church following the passing of his father in 2015, following a battle with leukemia. He had recently returned to the church following a summer sabbatical, according to the church.

His last series, originally planned to be a three part sermon on how the "biggest messes become the biggest miracles" was cut short. He returned to the church with a desire to "be real," and called himself a "hot mess" who was "living in the back of a cave."

Some of his last words were of thanks for his church and for those who were hurting, coming out of difficult seasons. Patch is honored to share the two videos of those sermons.

The church of Inland Hills reminded all that if you feel pain or are suffering, please call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-TALK (8255), or California mental health resources, both potentially life-saving resources.

"Pastor Drew loved Jesus, his family and church deeply. Mental health does not discriminate - it affects young, old, Christian, non-Christian, Black, White, rich or poor. Please check in with those who seem to be the strongest. Check in with those who deal with mental health. Check in with family, co-workers and anyone the Lord puts on your heart. If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts please know that we love you, Jesus loves you and that this world needs you. The National Suicide Prevention LifeLine: 1-800-273-8255"

Photo, courtesy Youtube