Demos
Shakarian
"The Lord showed me an idea..."
Our Founder
Born on July 21, 1913, in Los Angeles, California, was a pioneering entrepreneur and a devout Christian. His family, originally from Armenia, fled persecution and settled in Downey, California, where they started a modest dairy farm. Through hard work, faith, and dedication, Demos transformed this small venture into the largest private dairy in the United States by 1943.
Founding the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International
In 1952, Demos Shakarian founded the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI). His vision was to create a platform where Christian businessmen could come together to share their faith and experiences in a supportive, informal setting. The idea was inspired by a God-given vision and the desire to see more men actively involved in spiritual life.
FGBMFI quickly grew from its humble beginnings in Los Angeles to become an international movement. The Fellowship aimed to bridge the gap between the spiritual and business worlds, providing a space for men to testify about the impact of faith on their professional and personal lives.
A Legacy of Faith and Expansion
Under Shakarian’s leadership, FGBMFI expanded globally, establishing chapters in over 190 countries. The organization became known for its vibrant meetings, which often included testimonies of faith, miraculous healings, and personal transformations. Demos’s efforts were instrumental in supporting other ministries and evangelists, including Oral Roberts and the founding of the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN).
Continuing the Mission
Demos Shakarian passed away on July 23, 1993, leaving behind a robust and thriving organization. His son, Richard Shakarian, succeeded him, continuing the mission to bring the message of the Full Gospel to businessmen globally. Today, FGBMFI remains one of the largest networks of Christian businessmen, dedicated to transforming lives and communities through the power of faith.
Books by Demos Shakarian
Explore the inspiring works of Demos Shakarian, which capture the vision, faith, and the transformative power of FGBMFI. Click on the cover to download the book's PDF.
FGBMFI Digital Showcase
Explore the history and impact of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International through our comprehensive digital archive. Visit the FGBMFI Digital Showcase to access historical documents, photos, and multimedia resources that highlight our founder’s legacy and the ongoing work of the Fellowship.
