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Pope Tawardos II of Alexandria
It is with deep sadness that I received the news of the passing of Father Patrick. Father Patrick was deeply loved and highly appreciated by all ofus. Through the years, he left a remarkable and lasting impact on the Papal Office for Projects through his kindness, sincerity, compassion, and faithful dedication. He was a true friend and a valued partner whose presence brought encouragement, hope, and genuine Christian love to many. His blessed life and faithful service will always remain remembered with gratitude and affection. We will always cherish his beautiful spirit and the meaningful relationship we shared with him. In this time of sorrow, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Rosemary, TBF Trust Team and to all who mourn the loss of Father Patrick. I pray that our Lord grants you comfort, peace, and strength, and that He repose his pure soul in the heavenly peace of His Kingdom. With sincere sympathy and prayers, Pope Tawadros II Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark
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Women’ Work of Intercession
We remember Patrick with affection and great respect for his faithful work for the persecuted Church over many years. More than once he was such a good Guest Speaker at our national Women’s Intercession and Bible Week, equipping us to see the dangers of Islam to the UK as well as enabling us to pray for the persecuted Church. In particular, we remember how he stood firm with grace and dignity when he faced such opposition to his work as he shared, in a measure, in the sufferings of Christ. May his reward be great from the Lord he so loved. Gay Hyde. (and on behalf of the women’s work of intercession).
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Rev Ian Clarkson (Chair Australian Barnabas board of directors)
Patrick Sookhdeo would be one of the most singularly directed and calculated minds I have known. And the object of his mind was the care and help of persecuted brothers and sisters in the family of God and Body of our Lord. And that in the extension of the true Kingdom. With his devoted and stalwart Rosemary, the committed work of Ms Kerslake and a vast surrounding team of loyal supporters an amazing amount was achieved with a solid platform for growth and extension into the future. Patrick and the Founders team which visited Australia over many years was always warmly welcomed, eagerly awaited and very well attended with full venues. People were informed by Patrick with detailed knowledge of political movements affecting Christians in relevant parts of the world ignored by secular media. Projects large and micro were discovered, evaluated and effectively supported amongst our suffering family. Many of Patrick’s and Rosemary’s books are as relevant, if not more so in some cases as when they were first published. My wife and I enjoyed and benefitted at a level of friendship with Patrick. – Ian Clarkson
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From Dr Josef Onder, Germany
It was with great sadness that I received the news of the passing of Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Sookdeo. His departure has touched me deeply. Over the years, I had the privilege of meeting Fr. Patrick on several occasions, and I always experienced him as a remarkably kind, compassionate, and thoughtful person. His warmth, wisdom, and sincere concern for others left a lasting impression on all who had the blessing of knowing him. While our hearts mourn his loss, we are comforted by the certainty of our Christian faith. I firmly believe that Fr. Patrick is now with Christ, whom he served faithfully throughout his life and ministry. May the Lord grant him eternal rest among the saints and reward him abundantly for his devoted service to the Church and to so many people around the world. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I assure you of my prayers for Fr. Patrick, for his family, and for all who grieve his passing. With deepest sympathy and in the hope of the Resurrection, Dr. Dr. Josef Önder, M.A., Germany
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Tribute from Patriarchal Vicar of Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch
It was with deep sorrow that I received the news of the passing of our beloved brother in Christ, Ahuna Chorepiscopos Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo. This painful and unexpected news has deeply moved me and the faithful of my Archdiocese. In Abuna Patrick, Christendom has lost a faithful servant of God whose faith, scholarship, and tireless dedication to the Gospel touched and inspired many lives. With gratitude, I recall our warm and fraternal meetings here in Istanbul, most recently last year. His sincere attachment to the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch and his steadfast support for our Church throughout the world will remain unforgettable. He was a man of deep faith, great kindness, and genuine Christian brotherhood. In the hope of the Resurrection, we pray that the Lord may grant rest to his soul and receive him into the communion of the saints. May Christ, the Resurrection and the Life, grant comfort, strength, and peace to you and to all who mourn his passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences, united with the prayers of the clergy and faithful of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch in our Archdiocese. In fraternal fellowship and in the prayer of our Risen Lord, Filuksinus Yusuf Cetin Patriarchal Vicar of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir
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Rev Tariq Waris – Full Gospel Assemblies of Pakistan
I met Rev. Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo for the first time at a church in London in 2008 when I was a theological student in England. On that night at a London church, he eloquently reported on the persecution of Christians around the world and the challenges of religiously inspired terrorism in the West and beyond. His highly clear, articulate, and persuasive communication style greatly inspired my mind and touched my heart. In subsequent years, I got to know Patrick as an individual through personal interactions and as an intellectual through reading his books. Patrick had a high academic capacity for writing books and exceptional organizational skills to lead a large charity, which he was also a founder of. He was uniquely gifted to simultaneously engage with the academic world and arrange distribution of relief among persecuted Christians. If his mind was occupied with complex intellectual ideas, his heart would be burning with sheer compassion for the persecuted church. The breadth and depth of his knowledge was also very wide-ranging. He could preach expository sermons at Christian leaders’ gatherings and deliver lectures on Jihadist ideologies and global security in military settings. And he would not disappoint his audience in either context. His ability to distill complex ideas into a clear, concise, and comprehensive speech would captivate the audience. Patrick Sookhdeo was an outspoken and brave advocate of the persecuted church. Through his words and actions, he expressed resolute solidarity with the majority world Christians who were hated for no reason except for their faith in Christ. He led initiatives in providing food, housing, education, legal aid, and other forms of support to suffering brothers and sisters all over the world. These acts of compassion and support were performed irrespective of a Christian community’s denominational background. That is why he was much…
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Dr Russell Blacker
None of Patrick’s outstanding global ministry would have been possible without the many relationships he was able to form with influential people of all faiths who appreciated his intellect, grasp of theology, compassion, and sincerity. He was also able to adapt and both creative and effective when addressing the many sudden political and other crises that those working in the field of minority persecution often face. The work goes on and, in many ways, the persecution continues to already and to deepen. Patrick showed how it could be done, particularly through working with local partners which enabled the overheads of Barnabas Fund ti remain so low thereby ensuring the maximum possible connection between donor and recipient. Patrick regularly risked his life travelling to dangerous areas in order to bring spiritual and practical comfort to those who were often the poorest of the poor. Despite suffering from several chronjc illnesses which would debilitate a lesser man Patrick showed an energy and drive which exhausted those around him. In this he was ably supported by his wife Rosemary, and his manager and secretary Caroline Kerslake, who travelled everywhere with him and shared the hardships and risks. It was my privilege to know him and to be able to support his work during some of the darkest times and he was, without exaggeration, a great man called by God. May he now enjoy his much-earned rest in the company of the Lord he loved and served. Dr Russell Blacker
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Kashif Kamran Khan- EQUIP Pakistan
A Tribute to Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo There are some lives whose influence cannot be measured by titles, achievements, or years of service alone. Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo was one such person. He was a man whose faith was not merely professed but lived out with courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment to those who suffered in silence. I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Patrick once, and even in that brief encounter, I witnessed a man of remarkable wisdom, humility, and deep spiritual conviction. What impressed me most was not only his knowledge but also the sincerity of his concern for people who were often forgotten by the world. For decades, Dr. Patrick stood alongside persecuted and marginalized Christians, giving a voice to those who had none and drawing the attention of the global Church to their struggles. Through his leadership, writings, and the ministry of TBF Trust, he brought hope to countless individuals facing hardship, discrimination, and persecution. His work was never about recognition; it was about faithfully serving Christ by serving others. Across Pakistan and many other parts of the world, there are believers who may never have met him personally, yet their lives were strengthened because of his advocacy, compassion, and dedication. His legacy is woven into the stories of those who found encouragement in times of despair and support in moments of great need. Today, we remember not only a respected leader and scholar but also a faithful servant of God whose life reflected the love, justice, and mercy of Christ. While his earthly journey has come to an end, the impact of his work and witness will continue to inspire future generations. On behalf of myself and the thousands of persecuted Christians in Pakistan whose lives have been touched by his vision and commitment, I offer heartfelt…
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Tribute from Professor Moussa Bongoyok from Cameroon
A Tribute to Professor Doctor Patrick Sookhdeo: A Visionary Voice for the Persecuted Professor Sookhdeo’s contribution to those who are persecuted and suffering around the world is undeniable. Through rigorous research, prophetic vision, and an extraordinary ability to mobilize people around a vital cause, he has established himself as a world-class strategic thinker. His life’s work truly places him among the top 5% of global leaders dedicated to human rights and religious freedom. We honor his legacy of advocacy and sharp strategic intellect. As we look to the future, our prayer is that the Lord will raise many men and women who are equally gifted, and even more, to advance His kingdom and defend the vulnerable. Moussa Bongoyok from Cameroon, director of the Holistic Mission Institute of the Nations and Ph.D. programme director at William Carey International University, Pasadena, CA. – Moussa Bongoyok
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Beverley
Dr Sookhdeo spoke at a Christian student conference that I attended in, I think, 1985. His sermon made a deep impression on me. I am glad he has been exonerated of any wrong-doing. I’ve read several of his books and am currently reading “Lifting up the downcast”. – Beverley
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Esther Wambui, Sheepfold Ministries, Kenya
Many years ago, when our ministry was still young, we had no office of our own and depended entirely on rented facilities. We had been praying and trusting God to provide a permanent place from which the ministry could operate and grow. It was during this season that God used Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo in a remarkable way to answer our prayers. Dr. Patrick visited our office together with the International Director of Sheepfold Ministries and asked us a simple question: “What do you need?” At the time, our immediate need was an office computer and printer, so that was what we mentioned. Dr. Patrick graciously offered to provide them. However, he sensed there was a deeper need and pressed further, asking, “What do you really need?” Our International Director then shared our vision and explained that what we truly needed was funds to enable us to break ground and begin construction of an office block. Through God’s provision and the generous support of Dr. Patrick and the Barnabas Fund, that need was met. Today, that office stands as a testimony to God’s faithfulness and to the impact of Dr. Patrick’s generosity and obedience to God’s leading. It has become the headquarters of our ministry and continues to serve as a base from which we reach unreached people groups, equip leaders, and advance the Gospel. We thank God for Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo’s life, vision, generosity, and willingness to respond when God called him to help. His investment has borne fruit far beyond what could have been imagined at the time, and countless lives have been touched because he chose to listen and obey. May the Lord richly bless him and may his legacy continue to inspire others to support God’s work with faith, courage, and generosity. – Esther Wambui
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Bishop Nason Bakulu
Dear Canon Patrick Sookhdeo, you’ll be missed more than words can say; Your memory will live on; Gone but never forgotten; Missing you already, but grateful for all we shared. You brought light to so many; May your soul rest in peace and love. Bishop of South Rwenzori Diocese, Uganda – Rt. Rev. Nason Baluku
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Rev Gavin Mitchell for TBF and OCRPL
Personal Tribute to Dr Patrick Sookhdeo and on behalf of The Barnabas Fund Trust and the Oxford Centre for Religion and Public Life Given at the funeral service: It is a great privilege, though for me a deeply sad one, to pay tribute to Dr Patrick Sookhdeo today. For many around the world, Patrick was known as an author, a scholar, a defender of the persecuted Church, and a public Christian voice of remarkable courage and conviction. Those achievements are significant and deserve to be remembered. But for those of us who had the privilege of working with him, Patrick was much more than the public figure that many knew. He was a colleague, a mentor, a friend, and above all a faithful servant of Jesus Christ. I first came to know and appreciate Patrick not through his writings or public ministry but, having been introduced to him by a dear friend, through the example of his life. He possessed a rare combination of intellectual rigour and deep personal faith. He could engage complex issues with remarkable clarity yet never lose sight of the people whose lives were affected by them. Patrick cared deeply about truth because he cared deeply about people. He loved the Church. He loved the Gospel. And he loved those Christians around the world who suffered because of their faith. What struck me most was that his concern was never merely theoretical. Behind the books, lectures, reports, and public engagements was a man whose heart was burdened for the Kingdom of God and for the welfare of God’s people. I, like many of us, experienced his encouragement personally during a particularly difficult time in my ministry. He challenged us to think more deeply, pray more earnestly, and serve more faithfully. He expected much because he believed…
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Institute for Theological Education by Extension in Nepal
On behalf of ITEEN, we thank God for the life and faithful ministry of Patrick Sookhdeo. His dedication to the Lord and his commitment to strengthening Christian ministries have left a legacy. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire TBF Trust family, and pray that God’s comfort and peace will be with them during this time. Our prayers are with his family, friends, and the entire TBF Trust family during this time of loss. May they find comfort in the promise of Christ and in the assurance that Patrick has entered the presence of the Lord whom he faithfully served. – Suroj Shakya
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Prayer group 2000
We have counted it a privilege and a joy to be alongside Patrick, Rosemary and Caroline over these eventful years and to learn so much from their commitment vision and faithfulness to the call THE LORD gave them to HIS merciful Ministry of Barnabas Fund. We will press on and noting very especially –John 12 v 26–given to me I believe when I was told the day Patrick had passed into Glory to encourage us all. [ ‘Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honour the one who serves me’] What a wonderful Day it will be when we meet again! Meanwhile ‘ He will never leave us or forsake us ‘ and all the Glory will be HIS —Hallelujah! – Mary Cole
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CONDOLENCE TO THE FAMILY OF REV. PROF. PATRICK SOOKHDEO FROM OCRPL-AFRICA
Dear Members of the Sookhdeo Family, Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. On behalf of the Oxford Centre for Religion and Public Life (OCRPL)-Africa, we extend our heartfelt condolences to your family on the passing of Rev. Prof. Patrick Sookhdeo. We mourn with you and with the wider Christian community around the world the loss of a distinguished scholar, visionary leader, faithful servant of Christ, and tireless advocate for theological education and Christian witness. While we grieve his passing, we also give thanks to God for a life extraordinarily lived in service to the Kingdom of God. Rev. Prof. Sookhdeo’s influence reached across continents, denominations, and generations, leaving an indelible mark on theological scholarship, Christian mission, public engagement, and leadership development. It was our great privilege to welcome him virtually to the OCRPL-Africa Conference held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 6–9 May 2026. During the conference, he delivered a thought-provoking address on the importance of conscience in Christian life and witness. His reflections demonstrated the clarity of thought, spiritual depth, and moral conviction that have characterized his ministry for decades. Participants across Africa were profoundly enriched by his contribution. In recognition of his exceptional service, OCRPL-Africa conferred upon him the Distinguished Leadership Award in Global Theological Engagement on 8 May 2026. The award acknowledged his outstanding leadership and enduring contributions to global theological education and mission. Looking back, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to express our appreciation to him publicly and to celebrate a legacy that has significantly strengthened Christian scholarship and ministry worldwide. The news of his passing, only days after the conference, has made that moment especially meaningful to us. We now treasure his participation in Nairobi as one of his final public engagements and as a lasting gift to…
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Cranston Knowles – The Bahamas
We are deeply grateful and blessed by Patrick’s ministry and the support you and Rosemary gave. We stand with you. Feel with you. Pray for you.
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Tribute By Imran Salim Shahid, Executive Director, SHINE Society-Pakistan
Tribute to Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo By Imran Salim Shahid, Executive Director, Board of Directors and Team of Shine Society, Islamabad – Pakistan Every time I met with Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo, I loved him and his vision more and more and grew in faith and love. What a committed and faithful disciple of Jesus Christ filled with the Holy Spirit and blessed with the amazing grace, clear vision, love and compassion to serve the persecuted Church of Jesus Christ in the world! A man of God and warrior of faith who loved God with all his heart, soul, and mind and made every possible effort to put his purified faith in action in every single moment of his life to share God’s love put in his heart through Jesus Christ, Good News and living hope with millions of people in need around the globe. A servant leader with the mind of Christ who inspired and influenced a team of dedicated servants of God to wholeheartedly serve and burn their lives to seeking the good of all and entered in the eternal peace of God which passes all understanding to eternally dwell with our Triune God along with His holy people and saints. We love you and commit to carry on your “Global Mission” to serve the persecuted Church and suffering communities. It was a wonderful experience for me to go through His hymns book “With the Eye of Faith” Meditation and Prayers and translate 18 hymns in Urdu and Punjabi and compose music and do the audio and video recording of 4 hymns and audio recording of 14 hymns. Going through this book helped me to deeply understand his prophetic knowledge about God and His chosen and suffering people. His hymn “Walk with me Jesus” (Yesu Chal Mere Sath – Urdu…
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Chairman WORLD TAMIL ORGANISATION(UK)
Great human being, Dr. Patrick I worked with him this last 5 years. Sadly he left from us. RIP. My deepest condolences message to his family members.. Jacob Ravibalan – Jacob Ravibalan
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Ven. Dr. Julius Adekoya
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Patrick Sookhdeo. Patrick’s life was a beacon of compassion and courage. Through his vision and tireless work, countless communities across Africa found hope in the midst of hardship. He stood with the persecuted, gave voice to the forgotten, and brought practical aid to those who had lost everything. Through Dr Patrick Sookhdeo, Barnabas Aid became a lifeline—feeding the hungry, sheltering the displaced, and strengthening churches so they could stand firm in faith and dignity. He reminded the world that African Christians were not alone, and through his advocacy, their struggles were heard on a global stage. Patrick’s legacy is one of encouragement, service, and unwavering love. He leaves behind not just memories, but living testimonies of resilience in the lives he touched. As we celebrate him, we honor a man who gave himself so that others might endure with hope. Dear ‘Abuna (Fr.) Patrick’ (as I always call you), you live on in our hearts. May your memory continue to inspire acts of courage and compassion across generations. Finally, our heartfelt condolences to Rosemary and Caroline. Ven. Dr. Julius Adekoya. Nigeria – Ven. Dr. Julius Adekoya
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Patriarchal Vicar of the Archdiocese of Germany
With profound sorrow and heartfelt grief, I received the news of the passing of the Very Rev Dr Patrick Sookhdeo – a faithful servant of Christ, a compassionate advocate for the persecuted Church, and a man whose entire life was devoted to the suffering, forgotten and persecuted Christians of our world. On behalf of the Syrian Orthodox Archdiocese of Germany, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife Rosemary, to his family, to the entire TBF Trust family and all who were privileged to labour alongside him in his noble and Christ-centred mission. From the time I served at the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate in Damascus, I came to know Dr Patrick Sookhdeo as a man of remarkable generosity, sincere faith, and unwavering dedication to charitable service. During some of the most painful years endured by the peoples of Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and the Middle East in general he stood steadfastly beside the poor, the displaced, the persecuted and the needy. Through his compassionate efforts and tireless support, countless Christian families received humanitarian assistance, encouragement, and hope, together with the comforting assurance that they had not been abandoned or forgotten by the wider Body of Christ. His love and concern for the suffering Church knew no bounds or limitations. Even after my appointment as Archbishop in Germany, Dr Patrick continued to support generously our Mor Jacob Monastery and numerous pastoral, humanitarian, and charitable initiatives within our Archdiocese. His kindness, encouragement and practical assistance were always offered with humility, wisdom and genuine Christian compassion. Dr Patrick Sookhdeo leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of faith, courage, scholarship and sacrificial service. He dedicated his life to giving a voice to persecuted Christians and to bearing the burdens of those who suffered in silence. In many ways, his life reflected the words of our…
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Bishop Yassir Eric
Grace and peace to you in the name of our risen and victorious Lord Jesus Christ. I write these words with a very heavy heart, with tears, and with deep sorrow. The news of our very dear brother Dr. Patrick’s going home to the Lord has touched me profoundly. This is truly a day of great sadness. I feel the weight of this loss deeply because Patrick was not only a respected servant of God but also a dear brother, a faithful friend, and a man whose life and ministry meant so much to me personally. Words feel inadequate in such a moment. Some losses cannot be easily expressed, and some bonds of brotherhood leave a mark upon the soul. Our dear brother Patrick was such a man. His faith, courage, clarity, love for the Lord, and deep commitment to the Body of Christ will remain with us. His voice, his witness, and his example will not be forgotten. Patrick fought the good fight. He stood his ground. He remained faithful even when faithfulness was costly. He carried the truth of the Gospel with courage and humility. He loved Jesus, the Word of God, and the people of God. In a very special way, I will always remember his love and concern for believers from Muslim backgrounds. He stood with us, encouraged us, strengthened us, and gave dignity and attention to many of us whom many others overlooked. For this, I will remain forever grateful to our dear brother Dr. Patrick. “When the days of his priestly ministry were completed, he went back home.” (Luke 1:23). These words speak with quiet beauty and deep meaning. They remind us that a servant of God is entrusted with a ministry for a season. He stands before the Lord, serves faithfully, carries the…
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Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Garissa
Dear Rosemary, Esther and family; and our dear sister Caroline, I grieve Patrick’s sudden departure. A reality I am still grappling with. We give thanks to God for the life, the suffering, and the witness of our brother, whose friend I was privileged to be. For more than three decades of partnership in the Lord’s service, we became reliant on each other, and he fondly called me his younger brother. We pray God to lead us, too, through his discipleship from this world into His heavenly kingdom. May God fulfil in us that other word with which Dietrich Bonhoefer concluded his obituary of Harnack: ‘non potest non laetari qui sperat in Dominum’- ‘while in God confiding I cannot but rejoice.’” Blessings, +Francis Bishop Anglican Diocese of Garissa. – Francis Omondi
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Archbishop Eustathius Matta Roham
Dear Rosemary Sookhdeo and Caroline Kerslake, Peace in the Lord Jesus Christ. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Abuna (Father) Patrick Sookhdeo. He was more than a friend to me; he was a big brother who stood beside me and supported me during some of the most difficult times in my life. His kindness, wisdom, and encouragement were a blessing that I will always treasure. Abuna Patrick dedicated his faith, scholarship, and life to the service of our Lord Jesus Christ. Through his work as one of the most active founders of Barnabas Fund, he tirelessly supported persecuted Christians around the world and became a voice for those who suffered for their faith. His life was a testimony of faithful service and Christian love in action. Today we grieve his departure from us, yet we also rejoice in the assurance of our faith. Abuna Patrick is now with our Lord Jesus Christ, enjoying the blessings of heaven and the eternal joy prepared for those who faithfully serve Him. May all who feel sorrow because of his passing find comfort, strength, and peace through the Holy Spirit during this difficult time. Though Abuna Patrick has departed from this earthly life, he continues to live in our hearts and consciousness here on earth, while he now lives forever in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. May God’s grace and peace be with you, and with all who mourned him. With peace and grace, Archbishop Eustathius Matta Roham Archbishop of Jazirah & Euphrates of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch – Mor Eustathius Matta Roham
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Takim Adriono
With deep gratitude, I honor Dr Patrick Sookhdeo for his faithful teaching, inspiring ministry, and generous support. I have learned so much from his insights on the biblical truth, mission, courage, and the challenges facing the church today. Thank you Dr Patrick Sookhdeo, for being a blessing. May your life and ministry continue to inspire many to serve Christ faithfully, courageously, and humbly. – Takim Andriono
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Rev. Dr. Jibu Ninan
It is with deep respect and gratitude that I pay tribute to Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo, a remarkable scholar, Christian leader, theologian, and advocate for truth and justice. Through his faithful ministry, academic contributions, and courageous witness, Dr. Sookhdeo has made a lasting impact on the global Church and Christian mission, and his legacy will remain significant in Christian history. During my PhD studies, I had the privilege of interacting with him regarding my research. I deeply admired his profound knowledge of interreligious relations, his unwavering commitment to biblical truth, and his thoughtful scholarship. He spoke courageously on difficult issues while maintaining genuine concern for justice, compassion, and Christian witness. His life and ministry beautifully demonstrated the integration of scholarship, mission, and practical ministry. As I honor Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo, I thank God for his faithful service, visionary leadership, and enduring contribution to theological education and global mission. His influence will continue to inspire future generations of Christian leaders, scholars, and missionaries. May the Lord strengthen and comfort his family during this difficult time. Though he has departed from this earthly life, his legacy and influence will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.” (Revelation 14:13) – Jibu Ninan
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Lead Commissioner to Religious Liberty Commission, Nepal Christian Society
Prayerful Shalom to all bereaving family and sojourners of Patrick Sookhdeo!🙏💐 Though I have no long and ongoing relation with Patrick, but what I had by a short times (twice in Colombo and Bangkok) of face to face, interaction and a longer time spent in his books will remaim in me until I meet him again! I would aleays remain grateful for his compassionate heart and ongoing attempts to the persected brethren in Christ, which will keep me be courageous to speak up and continue serving the churches in Nepal… Thank You Lord Jesus Christ for imparting such a vision to take the lead in and through Barnabas Fund…. 💐 – BP Khanal, PhD
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Dr Nick Ridley
A true scholar and a gentle and kind individual speaking for and doing good works. – Nick Ridley
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Sohail Hameed
Dear TBF Trust Team, Greetings from Education And Life Foundation. It is with profound sorrow that we received the heart breaking news of the passing of Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo. We extend our deepest condolences to the entire TBF Trust family, especially to Mrs. Rosemary Sookhdeo, the family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his remarkable ministry and leadership. Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo was a man of unwavering faith, wisdom, and courage. His lifelong dedication to serving the persecuted Church, defending truth, and advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ has left a lasting impact across nations and generations. Through his faithful leadership, countless lives found hope, strength, and encouragement even in the darkest circumstances. His legacy will continue to inspire ministries, leaders, and believers around the world to stand firm in faith and serve humanity with compassion and integrity. At the Education And Life Foundation, we thank God for the extraordinary life and service of Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo. We pray that the Lord grants comfort, peace, and strength to all who are grieving during this difficult time. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23 Please know that you remain in our thoughts and prayers. With heartfelt sympathy and prayers. Regards, Sohail Hameed Education And Life Foundation Pakistan – Sohail Hameed
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Rev Fred George Pastor and Ph D Researcher Lagos Nigeria
This is such shocking and sudden news. Ah, Dr Patrick – an incredible man of God, a blessing to Christianity and mankind. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace in Abraham’s bosom, with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. – Revd Fred George
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From Rosemarie and Albrecht Hauser, Germany
Dear Rosemary, Esther and Family, Dear Caroline, The sudden death and home call of Patrick has deeply touched us. We share in your pain and grief and pray that Jesus Christ may be your loving comforter and that Christ surround you with his Peace and sustaining Grace. We stand with you in this difficult time. Patrick has been a great Scholar and deeply dedicated Servant of Jesus Christ. We know him now with Jesus Christ in Glory. Patrick has joined now the great cloud of Witnesses of those, who have overcome. It has been a deep privilege and honour for us to stand together to share in the ministry for the suffering Church around the globe. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Saints”. (Psalm 116:15) Yours in the fellowship of the Gospel, Albrecht and Rosmarie and family – Albrecht and Rosmarie Hauser
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Canon Dr Vinay Samuel. India
Having known Patrick for nearly five decades and worked closely with him for two there are many memories. His pioneering work with the persecuted church stands out most. His unique contribution to Christian Muslim studies is next. His interpretation and study of God’s word blessed many . He was always a generous friend and will be greatly missed. – Vinay Samuel
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A Tribute to a Scholar, Mentor and Advocate of the Faith by Dr Joseph Buertey, Ghana
Some academics merely occupy posts in academia, while others are extraordinary characters who profoundly influence the world of thinking, belief, and their pupils’ lives. Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo is, undoubtedly, a distinguished scholar, a staunch defender of the Christian faith, and a vital mentor whose influence on my intellectual and spiritual development is profound. A Scholar Par Excellence To know Dr. Sookhdeo is to meet a mind of great depth, an intellect of rigour and a commitment to truth that is uncompromising. His literary oeuvre stands as a testament to his intellectual excellence. His writings have repeatedly and piercingly probed the intricate theological, geopolitical, and cultural realities in a society that too often settles for cursory inquiry. His work transcends the confines of academia and serves as a guiding light for the intricacies of global religious freedom, contemporary theology, and institutional politics. A Valiant Christian Apologetic In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dr Sookhdeo has lived out the biblical injunction to “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people” (Jude 1:3). He’s been bold and important as a Christian apologist. He is willing to go into difficult arenas, to speak for a long time, to speak up when others have not spoken up. His defence of the faith is always twofold: intellectually rigorous for the critic and profoundly sympathetic to the afflicted and persecuted Church. His clarity of thought has articulated the concerns of the marginalised and provided the global Church with the intellectual framework to stand firm in turbulent times. The Architect of My Doctoral Journey I still have fresh memories of his exciting and intriguing lectures when we met at Stellenbosch University at South for residency during our PhD journey. His international ministry and creative gifts have made him a household name around…
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