Evangelist doesn't get visa by tender (6)

I believe the answer is:

gentle

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'tender' is the definition.
('gentle' can be similar in meaning to 'tender')

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gentle that I've seen before include "Mild; a maggot" , "Mild-mannered" , "Mild and considerate" , "Not violent, tender" , "'Do not go ... into that good night'/Thomas" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.

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