Frankie San

This is Frankie San's story. Born in Tokyo to a Buddhist family, Frankie San's childhood was marked by sickness and quarantine, parental divorce, and fighting for Japan in WWII at 14 years of age. Experiencing major depression, he tried to end his life – but God had a better plan.


Light filled Frankie San's heart and soul after an American missionary introduced him to Jesus Christ. Through miraculously opened doors, Frankie San traveled to the United States to attend seminary. He overcame cultural and language barriers and prayed for direction for his future. Direction came in the form of busses filled with prisoners. 


When Frankie learned where the busses took their prisoners, he surprised the director with his request to visit the prison and perplexed him when he wanted to remain. What happened next was incredible love confirmed by action, as Frankie literally believed and followed through on those famous words from Scripture: Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me (Matthew 25:40).


Frankie San's life and testimony is unique, heartwarming, and inspiring. You'll be challenged to love those who can give nothing back, to truly trust Christ as you follow Him, and to persevere despite overwhelming odds. If it's not too late for prisoners on death row, it's not too late for you and me. Follow me, said Jesus, and I will make you fishers of men.