Memories

The Beginnings with Victor Wright

by John Dhanaraj

Sometime in 1990 when I was pretty new to the United States, while house-sitting Dr. McGavaran, Founding Dean of School of World Mission, Fuller Theological Seminary – now known as School of Inter-Cultural Studies, I was introduced to Victor and his mom by a local television news channel. It was a special day for Victor and his family because he was graduating from college. Victor Wright attended John Muir High School from 1975 – 79, was severely injured in a football game in tenth grade, and became a quadriplegic but graduated high school with his class and went on to get his college degree in counseling.

Victor was in a wheelchair with equipment attached and was assisted by his mom and others. As they were interviewed by the reporter, I was inspired by the uniqueness of Victor and his family. It took only a couple of phone calls and, believe it or not, an hour later I was sitting with Victor and his family in Altadena, CA. Ever since then – it is almost 18 years now (2008) – we have been friends.

A few weeks before celebrating my first Christmas and birthday in this country, Victor asked me whether I could come over to pick up my present – a fax machine. Though I didn’t take the fax machine, I knew the best gift that I received in the year 1990 was Victor and his family’s friendship.

1992 Barcelona Olympics

‘Reach the whole world in one place was the motto of ‘Sports Ministry,’ when Paul and I started to help athletes in India. As professional athletes, our interest was to reach out to young and aspiring athletes. After moving to the USA, I continued planning to reach out to the whole world but with a difference because ever since I met Victor and his family my focus started changing to families.

Asking Victor to be part of my mission trip to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics was a no-brainer. So, I asked Victor to record his testimony but was shocked when he handed me 1 hr. 30 minute recording on a cassette tape! I really didn’t know how to react because even main speakers and preachers do not get that kind of time. But God had a different plan!

To meet an Indian diplomat in France, whom I never met, I changed my flight plans and stayed in Paris with the Akpans before going to the Olympics! The Akpans are from Nigeria and Anthony worked for the ELF oil company. They lived on the outskirts of Paris and had 5 kids. To my surprise, on the very 1st night of my stay, the Akpans listened to Victor’s testimony as a whole! During that trip, I visited Paris, Barcelona, and Madrid before flying to India and Malaysia! So, I know that I shared Victor’s testimony in all those countries. However later on I came to know that the Akpans carried his testimony to Africa. Today, God only knows where all of Victor’s testimony is being shared!

Victor, FMPB, and FOFI in 1998

Ever since the Lord gave the name ‘Family of Friends’ the thought of registering it came up many times. It was one of those moments in 1998 when Patrick Joshua from FMPB approached us. The document attached below is evidence of Victor’s leadership and commitment to getting FOFI started.

FOFI was not officially registered in 1998 but Victor’s action made us participate with FMPB – Friends Missionary Prayer Band, the largest mission organization founded and funded indigenously by the Christians from India in the 20th Century. FOFI simply responded to the request made by the then General Secretary of FMPB Patrick Joshua, whom I admire for his commitment to Christ, respect for his simplicity, and adore for his affection and respect for others.

The attached e-mail document is not about FOFI’s connection to FMPB, but about Victor’s support to get FOFI started officially! The domain name ‘Family of Friends International’ wasn’t available in 1998 and became available in 2005! God’s timing is awesome. All those who wait on Him will never be ashamed. Victor is an example to all.

Victor’s letter from September 1998

NOTE: The fact that…

Victor doesn’t mention the amount in his letter, which shows his character. He is not self-seeking! Being sure of how much to send shows his confidence in God. He doesn’t do things to please people! Suggesting starting an organization shows his leadership skills. His actions speak louder than words!

Hope this inspires you to do something with what you have!!!