Vale René Padilla
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We mourn the passing of René Padilla, who is often referred to as the ‘father of integral mission’. Tearfund Australia, together with the team here at The Justice Conference, pass on our deepest condolences to the whole family and in particular our dear friend and Renés daughter, Ruth Padilla DeBorst.
René’s legacy is embodied in the work of hundreds of Christian relief and development organisations whose practice is built upon the theology of integral mission. “Jesus Christ came not just to save my soul, but to form a new society,” he said at the 1974 Lausanne Conference.
Tearfund Australia celebrates René's lifetime work - and his profound commitment to those on the margins. His theological insights and wisdom contributed to many organisations, including Tearfund, and the flow on impact has been the transformation and empowerment of millions of the world’s most vulnerable.
Matthew Maury, Tearfund Australia CEO said, “anyone who had the privilege of spending time with René was blessed by his passion for Christ and his love for others. His often prophetic voice challenged all of us to understand that following Jesus was a call to a radical faith that challenged unjust systems. He certainly had a huge impact on my life, and he will be deeply missed.”
You can read more about René and his incredible legacy here.