About Joe Warren

Joe Warren's personal story is one of hope, and the transformative power of faith.  As Joe states, “If God can do it for me, He will do it for anyone.”  Once a  rebel to his upbringing, Joe rejected Christianity at a young age, which led him down a path of alcohol, drugs, and criminal activity. His life took a dramatic turn at the age of 20 when he found himself in jail, facing the possibility of a 5-10 year prison sentence.

While sitting in that jail cell, in the midst of being lost and denying God, it felt as though God was pressing upon Joe that this was his last chance to make an about-face.  Up to this point, Joe had the misconception that he was “free”, doing whatever he felt like in the moment. Staring out that jail cell window, watching people walking about, Joe realized he was not free.  The veneer of what he thought was freedom, living life for himself, was actually a lie.

As Joe contemplated this epiphany, memories of Sunday school songs and Bible lessons flooded Joe’s thoughts. God met Joe where he sat.  He was given a peace, that is beyond all understanding, and a sense of assurance that he was not going to prison.  A friend of his has a saying, "faith isn't faith until it's all you're holding onto”.  Joe was called before the magistrate and granted the option to be free. No prison time.  Since Joe's decision to surrender and trust in Jesus, Joe has discovered true freedom.  In the worldly sense, and in the spiritual.

Joe’s old lifestyle is a long ways behind him. He has been married to his beautiful wife Emily for over 25 years.  She is a faithful partner in their ministry.  Together they have six children and one grandchild. Joe felt called to full-time ministry and, along with Emily, founded Compassion Church in Butte, Montana, in his parents' basement in 2005.

The Warrens are dedicated to helping people find true freedom in Christ. Joe and Emily encourage others on their personal journeys. Particularly for those struggling with addiction.  Compassion Church is partnered with Hope Center Ministries, a yearlong, in-house discipleship program for those struggling in addiction.

Joe Warren's story is a testament to the power of the transformative love of God. His journey is an inspiration to all who seek true freedom. Joe continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals.