Well-known Pastor, Evangelist, and Theologian Jack Sequeira Dies at 89

E. H. “Jack” Sequeira, a well-known and at times controversial Seventh-day Adventist pastor, evangelist, and theologian, died in Portland, Oregon, United States, on March 26, 2022, after a stroke. He was 89.

During almost 60 years of service to the Adventist Church in various capacities, Sequeira was a sought-after preacher and evangelist on three continents. Many church members trace their connection to the Adventist Church to Sequeira’s preaching and teaching.

A Life in Ministry

Jack Sequeira was born in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1932. His parents had immigrated to Kenya from Goa, a Portuguese enclave on the west coast of India. He joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church through evangelism in 1957, being baptized by Robert Wieland. At that time he was also taught Wieland’s unique doctrinal position, which Sequeira would eventually adopt.

According to his official website, after he felt called to the ministry, Sequeira rode from Nairobi to England on his motorcycle and spent 14 months working as a literature evangelist before enrolling at Newbold College. He graduated in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in theology and later earned a Master’s in systematic theology at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, United States.

Together with his wife, Jean, Sequeira served as a missionary for 17 years in Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia. He served as Bible teacher, departmental director, university chaplain, ministerial director, and college president.

In 1982, the Sequeiras moved to the U.S., where Jack served as a local church pastor until his retirement in 2001. Even after retirement, he enjoyed preaching and seminar appointments. Jean was an editorial secretary for Adventist Review for eight years. She was well known as a presenter for women’s events and for her animated missions and children’s stories.

Sequeira’s Influence

In various church regions, church members and leaders acknowledge Sequeira’s contribution in revival and evangelistic meetings. For example, according to the Encyclopedia of Seventh-day Adventists, the Adventist Youth Organization in Kenya traced its roots to a series of sermons preached by Sequeira in 1966. At that time, Sequeira was a teacher at Kamagambo Adventist College. “[His preaching] created a passion in some young people who decided to do something for their fellow youth,” it states.

Several church members and leaders have commented that they remember Sequeira’s “infectious smile” and preaching on righteousness by faith. Many attest that he was used by God to bring many to accept Jesus as their Savior.

Sequeira is survived by his wife of 58 years and two children. Jenny, born in Uganda, was a Peace Corps volunteer in the Gambia and worked with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Azerbaijan, among other NGO service projects. She still oversees programs for children’s and women’s health in Africa. Christopher, born in Kenya, and his wife, Nenette, serve at Livingston Adventist Academy in Salem, Oregon.

A memorial service has been announced for May 22. Details are pending. 

Last updated May 29, 2022.