FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Organization
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About The Organization
What is FGBMFI?
FGBMFI stands for Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International) is a worldwide Christian fellowship dedicated to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, helping believers grow in the Holy Spirit, and equipping people to fulfill the Great Commission through personal testimony, fellowship, and outreach.
Founded in 1952, we are in 90+ nations, meeting in chapters. In the United States there are hundreds of members representing chapters across our 10 regions. Read our History.
Is FGBMFI only for businessmen?
No. While it began as a fellowship for businessmen, it has since expanded to include professionals, entrepreneurs, retirees, young adults, women, and children in various capacities and events. The focus is on reaching people through testimony and marketplace ministry.
What is the mission of FGBMFI?
The primary mission of FGBMFI is to reach people for Jesus Christ and call them back to God so that they may receive and grow in the Holy Spirit to fulfill the Great Commission as is written in Matthew 28, and promote Christian fellowship, and unity within the Body of Christ.
About Our Beliefs
Is FGBMFI a church?
We are not a church, nor do we intend to become one. Our purpose is to create a welcoming environment where people who may not normally attend a church can feel comfortable hearing the message of Christ. We keep our gatherings accessible and welcoming so that those who do not yet know Christ can come and listen.
What denomination is FGBMFI?
We’re interdenominational. We welcome all people.
What does FGBMFI believe about the Holy Spirit?
We teach the baptism in the Holy Spirit and his gifts to perform all kinds of miracles as described in 1 Corinthians 12.
What is the “Full Gospel”?
The term refers to the belief that all aspects of the New Testament Gospel—salvation, healing, the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, and Christ’s return—are still active today.
About Our Meetings and Chapters
What is a Chapter?
A Chapter is a group of layman members and believers who gather in a neutral venue to share their personal testimonies in a business-style atmosphere—without religious formality—so that others can come to know our Lord Jesus Christ. Find a Chapter.
We are a laymen’s ministry and organization and we create platforms where the Gospel is presented through testimony, allowing people to hear real stories of how God transforms lives.
What happens at our chapter meetings?
Typically we gather in a fellowship meal to hear testimony of the power of Jesus Christ for salvation. We sometimes also have a time of worship and prayer. There are many types of Chapters, and no two will ever be exactly the same. Each Chapter reflects the people and community it serves. The Lord loves diversity, and that diversity allows each Chapter to reach people in unique and meaningful ways.
Why are testimonies so important?
Our primary evangelistic method is personal testimony—people sharing how Jesus transformed our lives. This has been central to our movement since its founding. Watch recent testimonies.
Can non-Christians attend?
Absolutely. Our many meetings are intentionally designed to be welcoming to seekers and unbelievers.
About Our Leadership
Who was Demos Shakarian?
Demos Shakarian, a Christian businessman from California, founded FGBMFI in the early 1950s after receiving a vision that businessmen around the world would share their faith and impact nations. Read more on Demos Shakarian.
What is ‘The Vision’?
“The Vision” is the foundational revelation received by our founder describing businessmen and professionals carrying the Gospel into cities and nations worldwide. Read our vision.
What is the book ‘The Happiest People on Earth’?
The Happiest People on Earth is the autobiography of Demos Shakarian, recounting his family’s miraculous journey, his business success, and the founding of FGBMFI. The book has been translated into numerous languages and has inspired millions of readers worldwide.
How do I start a chapter?
Generally, prospective leaders complete affiliation requirements, obtain memberships, receive training, and work with regional or national leadership. Read chapter starter resources and guides.
What is the School of Vision?
The SCOTV is a leadership-development and discipleship tool designed to train members to understand and carry out our vision and mission. Read more about The SCOTV.
About Our History
Who founded FGBMFI?
FGBMFI was founded by Demos Shakarian in 1952 after receiving a vision from God to create a fellowship where average people could share their testimonies of God’s transforming power.
Why is the Shakarian family important to FGBMFI’s history?
The Shakarian family’s journey from Armenia to America demonstrates faith, perseverance, and God’s provision. Their story laid the foundation for the values and vision that would later shape FGBMFI.
What happened after Demos Shakarian’s passing?
After Demos went to be with the Lord in 1993, leadership transitioned to his son, Richard Shakarian, who served as the second International President and emphasized encouragement and spiritual growth.
Who is the current International President?
Francis Owusu was elected International President in 2023 and continues to lead the Fellowship’s global mission under the theme “Protect the Vision.”
What does “Protect the Vision” mean?
“Protect the Vision” refers to preserving the God-given mission, values, and purpose of FGBMFI while expanding its reach to future generations and nations.
Where was the first FGBMFI chapter established?
The first chapter began meeting in 1952 at Clifton’s Cafeteria in Los Angeles.
Who was Mario Garcia?
Mario Garcia Olvera was elected International President in 2018. He led efforts focused on rebuilding and renewing the global organization before his passing in 2023.
What was FGBMFI’s impact during the 1980s?
By the 1980s, FGBMFI had thousands of chapters worldwide and was reaching hundreds of thousands of people every month through regular meetings, conventions, and outreach programs.
What is “The Great End Time Harvest” prophecy?
In 1982, Demos Shakarian shared a prophetic message about God’s desire to prepare believers for a worldwide harvest of souls before Christ’s return. This message remains a significant part of FGBMFI’s vision and mission.
What were the ‘Airlifts’ of the 1960s?
The Airlifts were international missionary journeys organized by FGBMFI. Teams of members traveled to different nations sharing testimonies, encouraging believers, and establishing new chapters around the world.
Why are the Airlifts considered significant?
The Airlifts helped transform FGBMFI from a national movement into a truly international fellowship, expanding its presence across Europe, Africa, Asia, and other regions.
How has FGBMFI grown globally?
Over the decades, FGBMFI expanded into more than 85 nations, becoming one of the largest Christian business fellowships in the world through local chapters, conventions, and outreach initiatives.
What is VOiCE USA?
Originally inspired by the historic VOICE Magazine launched in 1953, VOiCE USA is the official magazine of FGBMFI USA, published to share inspiring testimonies, upcoming events, ministry news, and the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Read more about the rich history, impact, and latest editions of VOiCE USA.
Other Questions
How can someone donate?
Because we’re a NPO, your contribution is tax deductible. You can make a contribution through our Seeds of Blessing. Learn how you can contribute.
Why focus on businessmen instead of everyone?
Historically, Demos Shakarian observed that many evangelistic meetings attracted mostly elderly, women, and children. He sought to reach businessmen that would later influence workplaces, communities, and nations through their testimony.
Is FGBMFI prosperity gospel?
We emphasize testimonies from the marketplace, but our mission centers on evangelism, the Holy Spirit, discipleship, and the Great Commission rather than wealth accumulation.
Why does FGBMFI emphasize miracles and healing?
Our fellowship’s Statement of Faith affirms divine healing and the continuing work of the Holy Spirit, consistent with its Pentecostal heritage.
How is FGBMFI different from a men’s ministry?
We’re is a global movement organized around testimonies, marketplace outreach, and chapter-based fellowship rather than solely men’s discipleship programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About The Organization
What is FGBMFI?
FGBMFI stands for Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International) is a worldwide Christian fellowship dedicated to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, helping believers grow in the Holy Spirit, and equipping people to fulfill the Great Commission through personal testimony, fellowship, and outreach.
Founded in 1952, we are in 90+ nations, meeting in chapters. In the United States there are hundreds of members representing chapters across our 10 regions. Read our History.
Is FGBMFI only for businessmen?
No. While it began as a fellowship for businessmen, it has since expanded to include professionals, entrepreneurs, retirees, young adults, women, and children in various capacities and events. The focus is on reaching people through testimony and marketplace ministry.
What is the mission of FGBMFI?
The primary mission of FGBMFI is to reach people for Jesus Christ and call them back to God so that they may receive and grow in the Holy Spirit to fulfill the Great Commission as is written in Matthew 28, and promote Christian fellowship, and unity within the Body of Christ.
About Our Beliefs
Is FGBMFI a church?
We are not a church, nor do we intend to become one. Our purpose is to create a welcoming environment where people who may not normally attend a church can feel comfortable hearing the message of Christ. We keep our gatherings accessible and welcoming so that those who do not yet know Christ can come and listen.
What denomination is FGBMFI?
We’re interdenominational. We welcome all people.
What does FGBMFI believe about the Holy Spirit?
We teach the baptism in the Holy Spirit and his gifts to perform all kinds of miracles as described in 1 Corinthians 12.
What is the “Full Gospel”?
The term refers to the belief that all aspects of the New Testament Gospel—salvation, healing, the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, and Christ’s return—are still active today.
About Our Meetings and Chapters
What is a Chapter?
A Chapter is a group of layman members and believers who gather in a neutral venue to share their personal testimonies in a business-style atmosphere—without religious formality—so that others can come to know our Lord Jesus Christ. Find a Chapter.
We are a laymen’s ministry and organization and we create platforms where the Gospel is presented through testimony, allowing people to hear real stories of how God transforms lives.
What happens at our chapter meetings?
Typically we gather in a fellowship meal to hear testimony of the power of Jesus Christ for salvation. We sometimes also have a time of worship and prayer. There are many types of Chapters, and no two will ever be exactly the same. Each Chapter reflects the people and community it serves. The Lord loves diversity, and that diversity allows each Chapter to reach people in unique and meaningful ways.
Why are testimonies so important?
Our primary evangelistic method is personal testimony—people sharing how Jesus transformed our lives. This has been central to our movement since its founding. Watch recent testimonies.
Can non-Christians attend?
Absolutely. Our many meetings are intentionally designed to be welcoming to seekers and unbelievers.
About Our Leadership
Who was Demos Shakarian?
Demos Shakarian, a Christian businessman from California, founded FGBMFI in the early 1950s after receiving a vision that businessmen around the world would share their faith and impact nations. Read more on Demos Shakarian.
What is ‘The Vision’?
“The Vision” is the foundational revelation received by our founder describing businessmen and professionals carrying the Gospel into cities and nations worldwide. Read our vision.
What is the book ‘The Happiest People on Earth’?
The Happiest People on Earth is the autobiography of Demos Shakarian, recounting his family’s miraculous journey, his business success, and the founding of FGBMFI. The book has been translated into numerous languages and has inspired millions of readers worldwide.
How do I start a chapter?
Generally, prospective leaders complete affiliation requirements, obtain memberships, receive training, and work with regional or national leadership. Read chapter starter resources and guides.
What is the School of Vision?
The SCOTV is a leadership-development and discipleship tool designed to train members to understand and carry out our vision and mission. Read more about The SCOTV.
About Our History
Who founded FGBMFI?
FGBMFI was founded by Demos Shakarian in 1952 after receiving a vision from God to create a fellowship where average people could share their testimonies of God’s transforming power.
Why is the Shakarian family important to FGBMFI’s history?
The Shakarian family’s journey from Armenia to America demonstrates faith, perseverance, and God’s provision. Their story laid the foundation for the values and vision that would later shape FGBMFI.
What happened after Demos Shakarian’s passing?
After Demos went to be with the Lord in 1993, leadership transitioned to his son, Richard Shakarian, who served as the second International President and emphasized encouragement and spiritual growth.
Who is the current International President?
Francis Owusu was elected International President in 2023 and continues to lead the Fellowship’s global mission under the theme “Protect the Vision.”
What does “Protect the Vision” mean?
“Protect the Vision” refers to preserving the God-given mission, values, and purpose of FGBMFI while expanding its reach to future generations and nations.
Where was the first FGBMFI chapter established?
The first chapter began meeting in 1952 at Clifton’s Cafeteria in Los Angeles.
Who was Mario Garcia?
Mario Garcia Olvera was elected International President in 2018. He led efforts focused on rebuilding and renewing the global organization before his passing in 2023.
What was FGBMFI’s impact during the 1980s?
By the 1980s, FGBMFI had thousands of chapters worldwide and was reaching hundreds of thousands of people every month through regular meetings, conventions, and outreach programs.
What is “The Great End Time Harvest” prophecy?
In 1982, Demos Shakarian shared a prophetic message about God’s desire to prepare believers for a worldwide harvest of souls before Christ’s return. This message remains a significant part of FGBMFI’s vision and mission.
What were the ‘Airlifts’ of the 1960s?
The Airlifts were international missionary journeys organized by FGBMFI. Teams of members traveled to different nations sharing testimonies, encouraging believers, and establishing new chapters around the world.
Why are the Airlifts considered significant?
The Airlifts helped transform FGBMFI from a national movement into a truly international fellowship, expanding its presence across Europe, Africa, Asia, and other regions.
How has FGBMFI grown globally?
Over the decades, FGBMFI expanded into more than 85 nations, becoming one of the largest Christian business fellowships in the world through local chapters, conventions, and outreach initiatives.
What is VOiCE USA?
Originally inspired by the historic VOICE Magazine launched in 1953, VOiCE USA is the official magazine of FGBMFI USA, published to share inspiring testimonies, upcoming events, ministry news, and the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Read more about the rich history, impact, and latest editions of VOiCE USA.
Other Questions
How can someone donate?
Because we’re a NPO, your contribution is tax deductible. You can make a contribution through our Seeds of Blessing. Learn how you can contribute.
Why focus on businessmen instead of everyone?
Historically, Demos Shakarian observed that many evangelistic meetings attracted mostly elderly, women, and children. He sought to reach businessmen that would later influence workplaces, communities, and nations through their testimony.
Is FGBMFI prosperity gospel?
We emphasize testimonies from the marketplace, but our mission centers on evangelism, the Holy Spirit, discipleship, and the Great Commission rather than wealth accumulation.
Why does FGBMFI emphasize miracles and healing?
Our fellowship’s Statement of Faith affirms divine healing and the continuing work of the Holy Spirit, consistent with its Pentecostal heritage.
How is FGBMFI different from a men’s ministry?
We’re is a global movement organized around testimonies, marketplace outreach, and chapter-based fellowship rather than solely men’s discipleship programs.