New Hampshire Pastor Dies by Suicide

His death follows the church’s discovery of criminal investigation into sexual abuse

Jarrett Booker, youth and worship pastor at Nashua Baptist Church in Nashua, New Hampshire, took his life five days after his church discovered he was under criminal investigation for child sexual abuse.

Booker, 37, is survived by his wife Rachel and a young son. The church said in a statement released via Facebook and posted on its website that he had been an “integral part of the church” for nearly a decade.

Alleged abuse that had gone on for years surfaced suddenly as the responses unfolded publicly over the course of one week:

• 22^: church leaders become aware that Booker was under criminal investigation over credible allegations of sexual abuse of minors.
• An interval review found further evidence of misconduct by Booker.
• 25: the church terminated Booker.
• 26: elders communicated to church members about Booker’s termination.
• 27: Booker took his own life.
• 29: the church issued its statement, saying Booker’s death “has added immeasurably to the complexity and pain of the situation.”

Booker’s memorial service was Dec. 2. His death was first reported by the Newport Dispatch.

Booker was beloved by many members “who knew and respected him for years.”

His Facebook page said he served as youth pastor at Childrey Baptist Church in Nathalie, Virginia, between 2013 and 2014. The page also said he had been studying at Liberty University.

His crimes were being investigated by police departments in Nashua and other localities, and the investigation will continue.

“Nashua Baptist Church unequivocally condemns all forms of abuse,” said the church in its statement. “It is evil and our God hates it. We are committed to transparency and to supporting the healing process for victims.”

The statement continued: “We are dedicated to supporting everyone affected by Jarett’s inexcusable actions, both within our church and beyond. We ask for your prayers as we navigate this devastating situation.”

Main photo: Jarrett Booker / Photo courtesy of Davis Funeral Home

EDITOR’S NOTE:  Why does MinistryWatch report on sex crimes? These stories are tough to read and sometimes even tougher to report, but we think they are vital to our mission to bring transparency, accountability, and credibility to the evangelical church. To read more about why and how we report these stories, read “Why MinistryWatch Reports On Sex Crimes.” You can find that story here.

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