Losing His Father, Finding His Savior
Luis Palau's journey from a small town in Argentina to a global evangelist is a testament to the transformative power of Jesus. Born on November 27, 1934, in Ingeniero Maschwitz, Buenos Aires, Luis faced profound challenges early in life. At the tender age of 10, he lost his father, which plunged his family into financial difficulties. Despite these hardships, a pivotal moment came at age 12 when he attended a summer camp and encountered Jesus through the guidance of a counselor. This marked the beginning of his commitment to Christ, a moment he later described as a personal, life-changing experience. 'You don't have to have a jaw-dropping story of how you received Jesus. It just must be yours,' he wrote.
Inspired by Billy Graham
The seed of evangelism was planted in his heart at age 18 when he heard Billy Graham on the radio. This inspiration led him to pray for a similar path. In 1960, he moved to Portland, Oregon, to study at Multnomah Bible College, where he met his future wife, Patricia. Together, they embarked on a missionary journey that took them to Mexico and Colombia. By 1970, Billy Graham had provided seed money for Palau to start his own ministry, leading to the founding of the Luis Palau Evangelistic Association in 1978.
Festivals That Reached Millions
Palau's ministry was characterized by its reach and adaptability. He preached to millions across 70 nations, focusing on sharing the message of Jesus during a time when others leaned towards social work. He embraced modern media, launching radio programs that spread his message throughout Latin America. His events evolved from traditional crusades to vibrant festivals that included rock concerts and community service projects, appealing to younger audiences.
A Second Conversion
Throughout his life, Palau remained grounded in his faith. His 'second conversion' came after hearing a sermon on Galatians 2:20, realizing that God wanted not just his commitment but his entire self. This revelation brought new joy and power to his preaching, resulting in more people responding to the Gospel.
Luis Palau passed away on March 11, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of faith and dedication to Jesus. 'If you can walk with God and proclaim the good news, that's the greatest legacy,' he once said. His life continues to inspire many to follow Jesus, proving that even from humble beginnings, one can impact the world through God's grace.
