The Birth of a Revival
In 1948, Gordon Lindsay and Jack Moore founded The Voice of Healing, joined soon after by prominent voices such as T. L. Osborn, Jack Coe, Richard Vineyard, F. F. Bosworth, Kenneth Hagin, Gayle Jackson, Raymond T. Richie, W. V. Grant, and Louise Nankeville. The resulting healing revival spread with remarkable power, prompting nearly 100 evangelists to form a fellowship and elect Lindsay as their president.
Formalizing the Fellowship
As pastors, missionaries, evangelists, and teachers—many of whom had left traditional denominations to embrace Full Gospel theology—sought connection with like-minded believers, the need for a unified network became clear. To harvest this growing movement, these leaders recognized they needed to coordinate their efforts.
Responding to this call, Gordon Lindsay convened a two-day conference on September 18–19, 1962, at the Baker Hotel in Dallas. Out of this meeting, the Full Gospel Fellowship of Churches & Ministers International was born. Temporary officers were elected to serve until the first National Convention in June 1963, where John Mears served as President, J.C. Hibbard as Vice-President, Gordon Lindsay as Secretary-Treasurer, and W. A. Raiford as Executive Secretary. By June 28, 1963, A. C. Valdez was elected president, leading into the second annual convention held at the Plankinton Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on June 16, 1964.
A Lasting Legacy and Vision
In the decades since, God has used the Fellowship to bless and support global ministries. By offering vital accountability, leadership, and community, the organization ensures that no minister has to labor with the isolation of feeling like the “only one still serving God.”
Guided by Proverbs 29:18 (“Without prophecy the people become demoralized”), the organization celebrated its 40th anniversary at the 2002 International Convention, honoring the original vision laid down by its founders. Today, supported by regional leaders, strong executive boards, and a dedicated headquarters staff, the Fellowship remains positioned for continued growth—honoring those who served their generation while keeping the vision alive for those who follow.