Joshua Harris, writer of the popular Christian book 'I Kissed Dating Goodbye' posted on Instagram that he and his wife Shannon Bonne have decided to separate after over 20 years of marriage.
The pair have not revealed whether they plan to officially divorce in the future, but Pastor Harris has said they will continue their lives together as friends.
In a joint statement, they said: "We're writing to share the news that we are separating and will continue our life together as friends.
"We hope to create a generous and supportive future for each other and for our three amazing children in the years ahead.
"In recent years, some significant changes have taken place in both of us. It is with sincere love for one another and understanding of our unique story as a couple that we are moving forward with this decision."
Following the success of 'I Kissed Dating Goodbye', which Mr Harris wrote in 1997, he released another book on dating, 'Boy Meets Girl: Say Hello to Courtship'.
His books encourage Christians to be intentional in pursuing marriage and avoid traditional dating in the pursuit of purity. He also warned of the dangers of emotional and physical connections with someone you do not intend to marry.
The author has since spoken out to apologise for the two publications, after re-evaluating the pressure their ideals had placed on his own marriage and upon learning of the harm it had caused to other people's relationships.
Harris ended his Instagram post by asking followers to respect the family's privacy at this time.
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