Sonny Arguinzoni Sr., the ‘Godfather of Inner-City Ministry,’ Passes Away at 85
Pastor and Victory Outreach founder Sonny Arguinzoni Sr. passed away this week at the age of 85. His organization planted hundreds of churches both in the United States and across the world. In a post on Facebook, Arguinzoni's home church, Victory Outreach of Chino, California, announced that Arguinzoni died on Monday.
"Sonny wasn't just a man; he was a movement," the church stated. "His unwavering faith and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ inspired millions around the world. Through his vision and leadership, countless lives were transformed, and entire communities were uplifted."
"Pastor Sonny's legacy is one of hope, compassion, and relentless dedication. The impact he has made globally is immeasurable, and his love will echo through the hearts of many for generations to come."
Victory Outreach of Chino also asked for prayers for Sonny's wife, Julie, and the rest of their family.
"He was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. At this moment, we asked that you give Julie and the family time together to reflect on his remarkable life and legacy. Thank you for your continual prayers.
"We will carry his spirit forward, continuing the mission he passionately devoted his life to," the church concluded.
According to The Christian Post, The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference and pastor of New Season Church in Sacramento, paid tribute to Arguinzoni on social media, calling him the "Godfather of inner city ministry" and a "man of God that led countless lives into the hands of the redeeming Savior."
"The follower of Jesus that changed the world. …Sonny Arguinzoni passed into eternity. We will miss you," Rodriguez wrote on X. "My hero, your legacy lives on!"
The Godfather of inner city ministry,
The founder of Victory Outreach,
The man of God that led countless lives into the hands of the redeeming Savior,
The follower of Jesus that changed the world;
Sonny Arguinzoni passed into eternity.
We will miss you.
My hero, your legacy… pic.twitter.com/Dks3TqG4te— Samuel Rodriguez (@nhclc) March 5, 2025
Arguinzoni, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1939, was involved in gang activity and was a drug addict throughout his teens.
He later converted to Christianity in his early 20s and founded Victory Outreach with his wife in 1967. The ministry reportedly holds approximately 700 churches in 33 countries, with ministries focused on helping those in inner-city environments.
Photo Credit: ©Instagram/vowhittier
Originally published March 06, 2025.
