NEW RIVER, ARIZONA — The congregation of a small Arizona church is grieving the sudden death of their pastor, William Schonemann, who was reportedly found unresponsive in his bed earlier this week.

According to Christian Post, Schonemann, the senior pastor of Christ Alive Church in New River, was discovered deceased on April 28. Authorities confirmed that he was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency responders were called to his residence. No foul play is currently suspected, and an autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death.

Described as a deeply compassionate leader and a devoted shepherd to his flock, Pastor Schonemann had led Christ Alive Church for several years, becoming a spiritual anchor for many in the region. The small but tight-knit church body is now left processing not only grief but also uncertainty about the future.

“William wasn’t just our pastor—he was our friend, our counselor, and someone who truly lived out the love of Christ,” said a longtime member of the congregation who requested anonymity. “His absence is a deep wound to our church family.”

According to CP, Schonemann had publicly shared about his health struggles in the past, including a spinal condition. However, no connection has yet been confirmed between these issues and his unexpected passing.

Members of the broader Christian community have begun offering prayers and condolences online, with many highlighting his faithful service and gentle spirit.

Church leadership has announced that grief counseling will be made available to members, and a memorial service is currently being planned.

As the church mourns, congregants are holding fast to their faith, clinging to the hope that their pastor so often preached from the pulpit—a hope rooted not in circumstances, but in the promises of Christ.

“This is a heartbreaking loss,” the church stated in an online message. “But we know Pastor William is now with the Lord he loved so deeply.”