John Desai

I was introduced to John and Aruna in 1982 as I was helping and befriending international students at Westminster Choir College. Like others, my first impression of John was that of a humble servant. He invited me and some international students to the Friday night Bible study at their home at the time, a simple apartment outside of Princeton. Every Friday, he faithfully picked us up and drove us back to campus, investing in our lives and faith journeys. As musicians, soon we were actively involved leading songs in different languages at the Bible studies and monthly fellowship dinners.
When I first started attending, I was not a committed Christian, but John and Aruna accepted me where I was at, taught me the Word of God, encouraged me to pray about everything, and challenged me along the way. They literally loved me into the Kingdom! I have always considered John as my first pastor, Princeton ISI fellowship as my first church family, and John and Aruna as spiritual parents and mentors, although they aren't much older than I am. In 1983, I invited my new friend, David, to the Friday fellowship. We were married at Westminster Choir College in May 1984. John participated in our wedding ceremony, standing alongside David's pastor to witness our vows, and he led the bridal party in prayer.
David and I moved away from Princeton in 1985 but we have remained friends with John and Aruna, getting together whenever possible every few years. They embraced David as a son, and we will miss John's birthday calls every year to hear him sing and pray. They have loved us, encouraged us, and prayed for us and our two daughters. We have looked to them as role models of holiness, faithfulness, unity in marriage, and ministry partners. Our hearts break for Aruna, as well as Eva, Mona, and family, but we rejoice that John is no longer suffering and has received his heavenly reward. We look forward to the day when we are reunited around the throne of God for eternity. Thank You, Lord, for the life and legacy of Rev. John Desai.

John went beyond lengths to take care of international students at Princeton year after year. He will be greatly missed!

It has been our privilege to serve with John and Aruna at ISI. We are grateful for their selfless service not only to international students, but also to their coworkers. John and Aruna always showed an interest in us and demonstrated the heart of ISI--servant leadership. They welcomed us warmly and encouraged us to focus on Jesus and His heart for the students. We are richer for having known John and are grateful that God still has plans for Aruna. We have much to learn from her. May God comfort you, Aruna, and give you strength as you continue serving without John. We are praying. --Tim and Lyn Newbrander

We are saddened by the news of Pastor John's passing. His character and life will continue to be a precious guiding light for us all, indefinitely.

Pastor John had been one of the most giving, compassionate and tireless servant of God I have had the privilege to know. He had not only encouraged and cared for me but also provided an example of what it means to "shephard the church of God". Prayers for his family, grief at losing him but also joy that he is now with our Lord.

Faithfulness and hospitality are the words that come immediately to mind. The "Northeast" was a foreign land to this Southern California couple when we came out to attend Princeton Seminary. And John (and Aruna) provided such a gift of warm hospitality inviting us to particpate in Friday night Bible Study and monthly friendship dinners. Such an understated networker he was....all for the glory of God. Every update of their ISI ministry had stories from so many lives around the world that the Desais touch through their faithful committment to Christ and their heartfelt passion to always welcome the stranger into God's overwhelming grace and love!
May God give you strength Aruna and may the joy of memories of John bring you solace and a smile.
Keith and Laurena Kerber

John participated in our wedding ceremony. He led the bridal party and congregation in prayer.

In the spring of 1982. He invited a group of students from Westminster Choir College to the Friday night fellowship/Bible study in their home. He picked us up on campus and drove us home.

John Desai was a gem. Though I witnessed only a few of John´s multi-faceted colors, contours and contributions, what I did experience was a high encouragement to me. His chuckle served to temper words that might have been otherwise misunderstood by some. But I, for one, soon came to receive them as his his caring and wise word of support. Or of challenge. Underneath the carefully worded thoughts - they were that - was a Word-cultivated compassion. His deep reverence for God and God´s mission inspired me to keep going in my arena of that shared loyalty and love. Together with Aruna their perseverance in the Work and faithfulness to our Lord Jesus shall continue to flower, I believe, in the holy devotion to Jesus of those who knew and benefited from basking in the aroma of Christ through them. I am one who benefited. Shine on, respected elder brother.

- Scott Hawkins

John was a humble, faith-filled and godly servant of the Lord. We spent many precious hours together praying for Princeton, including numerous Friday night all-night prayer meetings ending with breakfast. God heard those prayers, there has been a huge upsurge of ministry at Princeton since then. John, I will see you in heaven later.

Tad and I were heartbroken to hear of John´s sudden passing. He would send frequent letters of care and concern with scripture underlined all over. A delight to read. I had the latest on my refrigerator and took it down before Christmas. How I wish I still had it!! I am still in touch with a Korean family whom we "adopted" 15 years ago through ISI. John, you will always be in my heart.

Rev. John Desai was a phenomenal teacher and spiritual leader. He encouraged me and many others to grow spiritually and to render service. He lived his beliefs and inspired everyone who knew him.
We extend our deepest condolences to Sis Aruna and the family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Bishop Rose-Sophrinia Bickel
PTSEM class of 2019

I remember John coming to help us unload our moving truck when we moved to New Jersey. It was a very hot day but John was there to be a servant to the new arrivals. John was one of the most servant minded leaders I have ever met. I am so grateful that God brought John and Aruna to the ISI family. Praise God for this faithful servant.

Our deepest condolences to the Desai family.
our hearts are broken at this very sad news.. Mr.
Desai was such a kind and loving person who always
put his family first. your work in the lords vineyard
has ended.. he is now calling you home for your reward.
RIP.