Early Calling in Argentina
Luis Palau, born in Ingeniero Maschwitz, Buenos Aires, in 1934, was a beacon of faith who spread the message of Jesus across the globe. From humble beginnings, Palau's journey began in Argentina where, at the age of 12, he dedicated his life to Jesus after attending a summer camp. Despite facing financial hardship following his father's death, Palau was undeterred and began preaching on street corners and hosting a Christian radio program by the age of 19. Inspired by Billy Graham's broadcasts, Palau's passion for evangelism grew.
Building a Global Ministry
In 1960, an invitation to the United States by pastor Ray Stedman marked the beginning of Palau's global ministry. He studied at Multnomah Bible College, married Patricia in 1961, and served as a Spanish translator for Billy Graham. With seed money from Graham, Palau founded the Luis Palau Evangelistic Association in 1978. His impact in Argentina and Latin America was profound; his radio programs reached countless listeners, and his mother noted the widespread influence of his crusades.
Reaching One Billion
Globally, Palau held over 500 evangelistic campaigns, reaching major cities worldwide and preaching to over 1 billion people through media. His ability to unite Christians, including Catholics and Pentecostals, was a testament to his inclusive approach. Despite being diagnosed with stage-four lung cancer in 2018, Palau continued to share his faith, saying, "In many ways, I feel the Lord has much more in store for me. Yet whatever tomorrow holds — I'm completely at peace."
A Lasting Legacy
Palau's legacy is carried on by his sons and the countless lives he touched. He once said, "If you can walk with God and proclaim the good news, that's the greatest legacy." Indeed, his life exemplified unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
