Fernando

Several trustees and United Women of Faith members have gotten to know the delightful Fernando Candumbro de Castro, the seminary student pastor who is living in the FUMCAH parsonage.

Fernando was born and raised in Luanda, the capitol of Angola, a former Portuguese colony in southern Africa. His life story to this point involves being raised by a devout mother in an extended family that was hostile to her Christian faith. Besides his mother, Fernando’s faith influences include his local United Methodist pastors and Sunday School teachers and multi-denominational missionaries.

Fernando and his wife, Isabel, have been married for eight years. They have two daughters, aged seven and five. They are involved in the long process of applying for visas back home in Angola and are hoping to make it to Arlington Heights in time for Christmas.

Fernando attended African University in Zimbabwe and Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. in preparation for studies at Garrett-Evangelical. He has a special interest in children’s ministry and is in the process of writing a book on the subject. He has also worked extensively in international business, founded a church, and created a non-profit corporation to provide groceries, clothing, and school supplies for disadvantaged children.

A seasoned traveler, Fernando includes Japan, Zambia, Namibia, South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe on his list of nations visited. He has also traveled to seven states here in the U.S.

Fernando is passionate about his faith and his call to ministry. Along with his studies he is serving as an intern pastor at churches in Edison Park and Oak Park. He is deeply grateful for the use of the parsonage, the kindness shown by those he has met, and the love expressed by those who have helped provide furniture and furnishings.

Rick Carlson
Interim Lead Pastor