Orlando Costas was a pioneering Latinx theologian, pastor, and educator whose work significantly advanced liberation theology and inclusive theological education. Born in Puerto Rico in 1942 and raised in diverse Christian communities, Costas immigrated to the United States as a youth, confronting racism and cultural displacement—experiences that deeply shaped his theological outlook and lifelong commitment to justice.

Ordained in 1965 by the American Baptist Churches of Puerto Rico, Costas served in pastoral and academic roles across the U.S., Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, and beyond. He emphasized ministry to the marginalized, rooted in a theology that uplifted the poor, the oppressed, and the culturally displaced. His work included missionary service, teaching at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and publishing influential writings on homiletics, evangelism, and missiology.

In 1984, Costas was appointed academic dean of Andover Newton Theological School, where he championed access for minority students and led the creation of a Latinx theological studies program that endures today as a lecture series. His vision of contextual and liberative theological education remains influential across denominational lines.

Costas passed away in 1987 after a short battle with cancer, but his legacy continues through his theological contributions, institutional impact, and enduring influence on justice-oriented ministry.