The late evangelist Luis Palau had many friends, and many who admired his personality and determination to tell people about Jesus.
Here are some thoughts from Christian leaders on the passing of this remarkable man:
Luis Palau has just graduated to heaven. What a powerhouse he was! As an evangelist, he preached the gospel across the globe to more than 25 million people in 72 countries. Luis lived what he preached. He once said, ‘When you face weariness, carelessness, and confusion, don't pray for an easier life. Pray instead to be a stronger man or woman of God.’ After his battle with cancer, Luis entered into his eternal reward. Please pray for his wife, Pat, and his sons Andrew, Kevin, Keith, and their families.” - Pastor Skip Heitzig of Calvary Church/New Mexico
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"When I think of how to describe Luis Palau, the first thing that comes to mind is his joy. His radiant smile, his enthusiasm, his energy came from a deep love for Jesus and a passion for sharing grace and truth with anyone who would listen.
"Although Luis would not desire to glorify himself, we celebrate his faithfulness: because of his obedience over a lifetime, more than 1 billion people around the world have heard the Gospel.
"Luis has received the victor's crown, the 'Well done, good and faithful servant' from his Savior. Though he is rejoicing in heaven, he will be sorely missed here. His friendship and mentorship meant more to me than words can adequately express. My prayers are with the Palau family in this difficult time." - Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference
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"In an age of movie superheroes, Luis Palau was and is a real-life hero of the faith. Luis preached the gospel of Jesus Christ to millions and was a father of the faith to thousands of Christian leaders around the world. It was my great honor to be with Luis on a number of occasions including those times of preparation for his Reno Festival in 2004 and his Sacramento Festival in 2012. I never had an experience with Luis that was not full of the love of Jesus Christ, a passion to reach the world with the good news of God's love, and an unfailing concern for his family and ministry. We celebrate Luis's life and pray for the comfort and encouragement of his family.” - John Jackson, president of William Jessup University
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James Dobson, who broadcasts the Christian radio program “Family Talk" to 1,300 stations, and founder of Focus on the Family, called Palau “a beloved friend.”
“His passion for sharing Jesus Christ around the world was immeasurable,” he said in a statement. (AP)
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“Luis Palau was the Apostle Paul to the Spanish-speaking world. He was a leader whom God used him to usher in the great revival that swept South and Central America, and that was just the beginning! Today, we lost a giant in Christian history.” - Rev. Johnnie Moore, president of The Congress of Christian Leaders (AP)