A Tribute to José Leal
A life dedicated to faith, education, and inspiring young leaders to spread God's word throughout the world.
A life dedicated to faith, education, and inspiring young leaders to spread God's word throughout the world.
José Leal dedicated his life to nurturing young minds and hearts, believing deeply that education combined with faith could transform communities and spread God's love throughout the world.
Born with a servant's heart, José spent decades mentoring young leaders, supporting educational initiatives, and building bridges between communities. His vision was simple yet profound: empower the next generation to become champions of faith who would carry forward the message of hope and love.
Though José has joined our Lord in heaven, his mission continues through this foundation. Every student we support, every leader we develop, and every community we touch carries forward his legacy of faithfulness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to God's work.
"Education without faith is incomplete, but faith without action is powerless. We must equip young leaders with both knowledge and conviction to transform the world for Christ."— José Leal
A life of faith & calling
José del Carmen Leal Rojas (1935–2025) was born in Flandes, Tolima, Colombia, to a humble family of fishermen. With only a 3rd-grade education and long days assisting his parents in the fishing trade and selling produce, his early life seemed far from the classroom or the pulpit.
At age 23, José entered the army. Just one year later, a bullet to the stomach nearly ended his life. Doctors doubted he would survive. Yet in the wake of that crisis, José encountered the good news of salvation in Christ Jesus and discovered a new purpose for his life.
1960s · A new start
At 25, he returned to the studies he had abandoned as a child, completing elementary and high school, and later enrolling at university at age 31. In 1970, at 35 years old, José finished a degree in Education with a minor in Theological Studies.
1970–2025 · A lifetime of ministry
For the next 55 years—until two days before his passing on July 2, 2025—Pastor José Leal served as a Seventh-day Adventist minister. He pastored 98 churches, preached the Word, planted new congregations, built schools, led young people, and encouraged countless new pastors to live with purpose.
Today · A legacy that opens doors
His story proves that, regardless of background or obstacles, there is always an opportunity to fulfill God's divine purpose. The José Leal Foundation draws directly from his life and legacy—offering young people the chance to be formed as pastors, no matter their circumstances, and serving as a beacon of hope for those who sense the same call to ministry.
Join us in continuing José's mission by supporting the next generation of faith-based leaders. Your contribution helps us expand educational opportunities and strengthen communities around the world.
Share your favorite memory of José with us, and let his legacy continue.
The José Leal Foundation has been instrumental in my spiritual and educational journey...
Marcus R.
Seminary Graduate & Youth Pastor
Receive updates about how the foundation is continuing José's work and the lives being transformed through his vision.