Demos Shakarian

"The Lord showed me an idea.."

Founder of Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship International (1913–1993)

Explore His Legacy

EARLY LIFE

From Armenian Heritage to American Dream

Born on July 21, 1913, in Los Angeles, California, Demos Shakarian was the son of Armenian immigrant parents who had fled persecution in their homeland. His family settled in the fertile farmlands of Southern California, where they established a dairy farming operation. Through relentless hard work and unwavering determination, the Shakarian family built what would become the largest private dairy in the United States by 1943 — a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit that defined the Armenian-American experience.

Yet it was not only material prosperity that shaped young Demos. His family carried with them a rich spiritual heritage rooted in the Armenian Pentecostal revival — a movement that had swept through their community in the early twentieth century. This deep faith and the stories of divine encounters passed down through generations would profoundly influence Demos's calling, setting the stage for a life devoted not just to business success, but to a greater spiritual mission that would eventually touch millions around the world.

THE FOUNDING

A Vision Born in 1952

When God spoke to a humble dairyman about reaching businessmen around the world

Clifton's Cafeteria

In 1952, Demos Shakarian gathered a small group of businessmen at Clifton's Cafeteria in Los Angeles — a simple lunch that would spark a worldwide movement of faith and fellowship.

Global Expansion

What began as a local gathering has grown into a global fellowship spanning 190+ countries, uniting businessmen and professionals across every continent in shared purpose and faith.

Bridging Worlds

Demos envisioned a place where the spiritual and commercial realms could meet — where businessmen could find deeper meaning and carry that purpose into their professional lives.

LEGACY & IMPACT

A Legacy That Spans the Globe

The enduring impact of one man's obedience to a divine calling

190+ Countries

10,000+ Chapters

40+ Years of Leadership

1952–1993 Years of Service

"The happiest people on earth are those who have discovered that God's way of living is not a set of rules but a transforming relationship"

— Demos Shakarian

1960s

Decade of Expansion

FGBMFI launched its historic "Airlifts," sending hundreds of businessmen overseas to spread the gospel. Chapters multiplied across the United States and began appearing on every continent.

1970s–80s

Media & Influence

Demos supported major ministries including Oral Roberts and Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN). The bestselling book "The Happiest People on Earth" reached millions worldwide.

1993–Present

Continuing the Vision

After Demos's passing in 1993, his son Richard Shakarian succeeded him as International President, earning the title "The Great Encourager" and continuing to expand the fellowship globally.

Books & Resources

Explore the writings and publications that have inspired generations of Christian businessmen