Demos Shakarian

Demos Shakarian Jr. (1913-1993) was an American businessman of Armenian origin from Los Angeles. He founded the Full Gospel Business men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI).
The Happiest People on Earth (1975) is his story and the story of FGBMFI.

A large group of Pryguny (Christian Sect in Russia), including the Shakarian family, began to arrive in Los Angeles in 1905. They settled within a mile of the Azusa Street Revival and were delighted to meet spiritual faiths in America similar to theirs.

Demos was born 8 years later. When he grew up he entered the family business of dairy farming. Their milk herd grew to become the largest in the world at that time.

He used organizational abilities to facilitate Evangelistic campaigns with Charles S. Price and others.

He spent most of his adult life building the FGNFI (started 1952) for free. Honorariums and monies from speaking engagements he deposited back into the ministry. Every year he would resign his position as president, step into the hall, and allow the 200 board to vote for the next president!

He noted from his tent campaigns that they mainly attracted women. He wanted FGNFI to establish and encourage more participation by men by providing a platform for businessmen to give religious testimonies. The fellowship grew to 190 countries.

He also played a key role in working with Paul Crouch to help launch Trinity broadcasting network (TBN), working to fund Joel Olsteen’s father John Olsteen’s ministry and played a key role in helping grow the Voice of Healing Revival.
(Read ‘Healing Revival’)

For the full story of Demos Shakarian and FGNFI the book need to be read.
(See Amazon advert)

The FGB today, has 6,000 chapters in around 160 countries worldwide. The FGB allows for men and women an opportunity to come together, from any church or non-church background to hear something of the reality of the presence of God and His power at work within our lives. (Read ‘About FGB’)

Source used
Wikipedia