The Argentine evangelist, Luis Palau, has died from lung cancer at the age of 86. He was known for leading powerful evangelistic gatherings.

Luis Palau

In 2018, Luis announced he was diagnosed with cancer, and he has been battling with the disease since. But on March 1, his son, Andrew, stated on Luis’ official Facebook page. He asked for prayers as his father’s health worsened, and they had to transfer him to hospice care.

Eventually, Luis passed away on the morning of March 11. His children shared their sentiments in an email. 

“It is with mixture of sadness and joy that we share with you that Dad passed away early this morning. He died suddenly and very peacefully, just as he had hoped,” they said.

Luis Palau: a life well-lived

“Mom and the family are doing well,” they added. “This is hard news, but Luis is experiencing the beauty of the Lord face to face. Love to you from the family. We’ll share more news and updates in the days ahead.”

Furthermore, the family plans to hold a “small, private service” in Portland that will be streamed online.

Luis was able to send a message to his ministry partners days before his death. Despite his condition, he thanked and encouraged his fellow workers in God’s kingdom.

He said, “God is good. There is nothing better than serving Him and sharing His Good News Gospel.”

“Don’t ever forget that truth,” he continued. “God delights in using you. He takes pleasure in your service. He is smiling down on you.”

The evangelist noted that he had no major regrets and “if the Lord wants to take me home, then I’m ready.”

Enter into the joy of the Lord

Luis Palau has gone to Heaven. It was my privilege to know Luis, and he was full of passion for Christ and for lost people. God used him to lead thousands to Christ. I know the Lord has said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord!” pic.twitter.com/ETyBrmFAyZ

— Greg Laurie (@greglaurie) March 11, 2021

Author and senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship, Greg Laurie, honored Luis in a tribute. He wrote, “It was my privilege to know Luis, and he was full of passion for Christ and for lost people.”

“God used him to lead thousands to Christ. I know the Lord has said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord.'”