Fernando Lay Sun

Fernando was born in 1944, in Lima, Peru. At age 16, Fernando found Jesus and immediately went home to tell his family. Through his prayers and sharing of faith, one by one, each of his family members came to know Jesus too. Generations of Lays later describe him as the catalyst in their family! His humble character, servant heart, and willing spirit led him to seminary in Costa Rica immediately after high school. 57 years of faithful ministry followed, first through youth ministry, teaching and modeling what a disciple and servant look like. He never stopped. His fervor and love for God's Word and His people led him to Ecuador. When the IEVI church in Quito needed a youth pastor and didn't have the funds for his salary, his future wife among others in the youth group came together to fund the position. Fernando described that as the best investment she ever made! A few years later, he became the senior pastor, a role he filled up for almost three decades until the day he died.

Not only did his family in Peru come to know Jesus because of how he loved them, but countless others in Ecuador, Peru and across the globe did too, many of whom are now pastors, leaders, and missionaries. Fernando regularly talked and challenged all of us to gaze and keep our eyes on eternity, the ultimate gift. He was known by the way he loved others, and for his compassionate words of hope and wisdom. Well done, good and faithful servant!

Fernando went in for a surgery to remove mutliple pancreatic cysts on Monday (September 19). Although he was high risk, due to his age, the surgeons were hopeful. So was his family, for the next few days while he recovered in the hospital. On Sunday (September 25), his family rushed back to the hospital after doctors moved him back into the ICU. He was losing blood and blood pressure quickly. Sadly, a few hours later Fernando passed away early Monday morning (September 26) with his wife (Teresa), his son (Samuel), and his daughter (Sara) by his side; their hearts moved from praying for healing to thanking God for his life and the life they were blessed to share as a family, embracing the truth that this is not goodbye, but rather a "see you later." We grieve with them.

Many of you have written and asked how you can help, how you can meet the needs of the Lay Yela family. So, let us honor Fernando's legacy of love, faith, and service, and demonstrate the generosity and abundance of God in the midst of sorrow. Thankfully, medical costs were covered. Those who have lost loved ones know that costs accrue and add up post, and the impact of Fernando's unexpected death as the main provider weighs heavy on the family, now and for months to come. Thank you for giving to the Lay Yela family fund and for supporting them! THANK YOU/GRACIAS!