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Waleed Zarou
Waleed Zarou (born June 3, 1966) is an American international Christian evangelist, author, entrepreneur, and ordained chaplain. Known for transforming from a life of rebellion to helping people come to know Christ, Zarou has spent over three decades preaching at global crusades and conferences, teaching in prisons, schools, and inspiring others through his book Why Not You?.[1]
| Waleed Zarou | |
| Waleed Zarou | |
| Born | June 3, 1966 |
| Birth Place | Silver Spring, Maryland, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Evangelist, Author, Entrepreneur, Chaplain |
| Years Active | 1989–present |
| Known For | Global Evangelism, Christian Literature, Ministry Work |
| Notable Works | Why Not You? |
| Spouse | Amy Zarou |
| Children | 3 |
| Website | Official Website |
Early Life
Waleed Zarou was born in Silver Spring, Maryland, United States, to Palestinian parents who had migrated from Yafa, Israel. His father immigrated to New York City in 1956 on the Queen Elizabeth with only $50 to start a new life. He worked hard as a barber and established his shop in Rockville, MD, where he raised Waleed and his siblings. At the age of 13, Waleed met his grandfather Peter, who was a pastor and evangelist, but he grew up far removed from his spiritual heritage. By the age of 16, Waleed became involved in drug dealing and lived in open rebellion against God.[2]
Life-Changing Encounter with Christ
In 1989, at the age of 18, Waleed embarked on a cross-country trip to California on a mission to kill a preacher who he believed converted his brother. After months of searching, Waleed found the preacher, but he had a life-altering encounter with God at the moment of confrontation. Overwhelmed by the realization of his sin and God's immense love, Waleed was transformed after seeking answers to several questions about Christianity. He became born again and was instantly delivered from the fear and hatred that had controlled his life. This experience set him on a new course, sharing God’s transforming power of love everywhere through the gospel of Jesus Christ.[3]
Ministry and Evangelism
For over 33 years, Waleed has dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel. He preaches at crusades worldwide and speaks at international conferences, schools, corporations, and prisons. He has been ordained as an Evangelist, serving through Calvary Temple Ministry and the International Fellowship of Chaplains (IFOC) as a Senior Chaplain. Waleed is also the president of Open Hearts, a non-profit organization that provides spiritual and vocational training and development for the impoverished domestically and internationally. His ministry emphasizes empowering the Church to preach the gospel, encouraging pastors and their churches, and raising a generation of believers to carry the message of Jesus Christ to the world. He also advises and sits on the board of several organizations and ministries.
Author
Waleed Zarou is the author of Why Not You?: An Invitation to a Spirit-led Life, Reaching Everyone, Everywhere, Everyday, a book that challenges readers to embrace a Spirit-led life and seize every opportunity to share Jesus' love. The book features a foreword by Dr. R.T. Kendall and reflects Waleed's journey of transformation and evangelism.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
In addition to his ministry work, Waleed is an entrepreneur. He founded businesses such as International Barbers, The Dons Wood-Fired Pizza, and Farook Systems of Virginia. His entrepreneurial efforts are designed to align with his mission to spread the Gospel through innovative and mission-focused enterprises.[4]
Bibliography
- Why Not You?: An Invitation to a Spirit-led Life, Reaching Everyone, Everywhere, Everyday. ISBN 979-8392530519