2024 BSA Fact Sheets

An introduction from the CEO of Bible Society Australia

Dear Friend,

It is a joy to welcome you to Bible Society Australia’s 2024 Project Prospectus.

You will find inside many exciting and ground-breaking initiatives to reach even more people around the world and help them to Open The Bible in their heart language. And, as they do, the light of the gospel will shine in more homes, in more communities, in more nations.

Praise God!

The vision for this year is that all our faithful supporters, donors, prayer partners, volunteers and staff will be united to help Open The Bible around the world, through language, engagement, advocacy and distribution projects. As Jesus declared:

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” John 15:1-4, NIV

As you prayerfully consider the projects within the prospectus, may you be inspired by the tremendous harvest that God is preparing — the fruit that will be borne in the hearts of millions as his people unite to celebrate and share his word, through ...

Advocacy projects, including the goal of bringing the gospel to 10,000 people in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia through the Jesus. All About Life project. The church there is young and dynamic, and yet only 2% of Mongolians know Jesus.

Translation projects across the South Pacific, in nations such as New Caledonia. Local teams are preparing to translate the Old Testament in Ajië, the New Testament in Nelemwa, and digitise existing Bible translations among three other languages spoken in the nation.

Please, will you Open The Bible for people today?

$44 provides four people with a Bible around the world

The revision of the Tok Pisin Bible in Papua New Guinea, which aims to reach more than 8 million people. Local churches are desperate for an updated edition of this Bible to keep pace with changes in the language and invite a new generation of believers into the word.

$136 helps teach four people to read each with God’s word (your gift

Your impact doubled for China!

Training more Bible translators across Australia to expand the work of translating the Bible into Indigenous languages. More than 10,000 people will be impacted by the Pitjantjatjara Old Testament Translation alone — and this project will reach even more!

$20 provides the paper to print close China as your gift is doubled today

As well, the vital work of distributing the Bible to all corners of the earth continues, with projects in China and across Asia, throughout Africa, in hotspots in the Middle East, and many more. Millions who need the hope of the gospel will gain an opportunity to Open The Bible in their own heart language in 2024, through the generosity of friends like you.

$80 teaches up to eight believers to word, because your donation to

I invite you to prayerfully consider the opportunities outlined in the 2024 Bible Society Prospectus — and the impact you can make in the hearts of many, as you invest to help them Open The Bible.

You will change lives, as people encounter Jesus love and comfort in these uncertain times. And Christians in China.

Thank you so much. Your partnership, support we can bring the hope of Jesus and the message

Wishing you God’s every blessing,

Wishing you God’s protection and deep abiding

Grant Thomson CEO, Bible Society Australia Group

Grant Thomson CEO, Bible Society Australia

Where Needed Most

Bible Society Australia is a deductible gift recipient (DGR) in Australia and is registered to receive tax-deductible gifts or donations. Yet not all projects are tax-deductible.

Each project in the 2024 Prospectus is classified as either ‘tax-deductible’ or ‘non tax-deductible’, and is marked accordingly at the top-right corner of the project page.

Tax-deductible projects

Tax-deductible donations help to fund projects such as International Bible-based Literacy programs, Australian Indigenous projects (where Indigenous language and culture are preserved), distribution of Bibles for Public School Scripture and the Australian Defence Force, as well as the Auslan Bible project.

Projects that are also tax-deductible include international projects that incorporate benevolent relief work. Bible Society Australia is determined to be a Public Benevolent Institution by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). Work for the relief of poverty or distress, such as sickness, disability, destitution, suffering, misfortune or helplessness, is tax-deductible. This includes projects that include humanitarian aid and trauma healing beyond the suffering experienced as part of ordinary daily life. You will see that these projects are usually in places scarred by disaster or conflict, such as Syria and Jordan.

Non tax-deductible projects

Not every project is eligible for tax-deductibility. But every project does the vital work of helping more people to Open The Bible! Non tax-deductible projects include International Bible Distribution, Bible translation and Advocacy work, as well as Australian Chaplaincy and Parachurch Scripture grants.

Make an impact where it’s needed most!

Gifts and donations that are given to ‘Where Needed Most’ will be prioritised to meet all under-funded projects, from emergency needs to advocacy, Bible engagement, Bible translation and more.

Support for Where Needed Most provides the most flexibility and fastest response to projects that are most in need.

Of course, donations to non tax-deductible ‘Where Needed Most’ projects will only go to fund non tax-deductible projects. Support for tax-deductible ‘Where Needed Most’ projects will only fund tax-deductible projects.

Where Needed Most funding also meets the needs of projects categorised as mission work, including Centre for Public Christianity (CPX), staff and operating costs, and others.

Your prayerfully considered support for Where Needed Most is the most flexible way to impact and influence Australia and the world by Opening The Bible to all people, everywhere, by all means possible.

Australia

• Auslan Bible Translation

• Bibles for Bubs

• Remote and Indigenous Ministry Support

• Scripture Grants

Australia

Auslan Bible Translation

Overview

The Auslan Bible project is working on Bible translation for people in the Australian Deaf community, Opening The Bible to those who can’t hear it.

The Need

The Australia Census report indicates that just over 16,000 people use Auslan in Australia. This number includes both first language and second language users.

Auslan is the language of the Australian Deaf community, characterised by the use of hands, bodies, and facial expressions to convey meaning. It is a distinct visual language with its own grammar and vocabulary, not merely a representation of English through signs. The term ‘Auslan,’ a blend of the words ‘Australian Sign Language,’ was coined by Trevor Johnston in the 1980s, though the language itself has older roots, evolving from British Sign Language (BSL).

Auslan is not only an important language for Deaf people to be able to communicate with one another, it is also important as it has the potential for bridging gaps in communication and social interaction between deaf and hearing individuals. When an entire community embraces and uses Auslan, it can foster an environment where both Deaf and hearing have an equal voice and a means of communication through which they can easily connect with others.

To date, portions of the Old and New Testaments have been translated into Auslan, however there is much of the Bible yet to be translated, and there is a notable lack of Scripture engagement resources in Auslan, particularly for children and young adults.

Project

16,000+

people in Australia use Auslan at home (2021 Australian census)

4,000 +<2,000

reported Auslan users in each state of QLD, VIC, & NSW

reported Auslan users in SA & WA

100-400

reported Auslan users in NT, ACT & TAS

But as the Scriptures say, “Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard about him will understand.”

Romans 15:21, ERV

Goals

The goal of this project is to facilitate the translation of the Bible into Auslan. Amy Cruickshanks, a linguist and translation consultant at Bible Society Australia, is collaborating with Rebecca Thurrowgood from Wycliffe Bible Translators and the Auslan Committee to develop resources for Deaf communities and churches throughout Australia.

The growth of technology has made it possible to develop more Bible engagement resources in Auslan than ever before. In 2024, work will continue on updating the Auslan Bible website, making it easier for people to use. Another goal in 2024 is to produce children’s Bible Stories and other resources in Auslan, and to establish connections with Deaf communities nationwide to ensure effective engagement with the Auslan language community.

Impact

For two and a half decades, since Bible Society was approached by Christians in the Deaf community to help them translate the Bible into Auslan, a translation team has worked under translation consultant John Harris and project chair Mac Adam, and more recently with BSA’s Amy Cruickshanks and Wycliffe’s Rebecca Thurrowgood. The team have published John, Acts, selections of the Pentateuch, selections of Paul’s epistles, as well as a full retelling of the story of Jesus (a combination of all four Gospels). At times, the Auslan translation team were leading the rest of the world with innovative translation processes for the Deaf. In 2023, work was done updating the Auslan Bible website, making it easier for people to use.

The impact of this project will be seen as over 16,000 daily users of Auslan have the opportunity to engage with the Bible more fully. Through the Auslan translation, Deaf people in Australia are provided the tools to understand the message of the Bible in greater depth — many to understand it for the first time.

Testimonies

“I didn’t realise how isolated the Deaf community is, particularly Deaf Christians and how few resources there are available for them.” — Louise Sherman, Bible Society Australia

Prayer Needs

• Please pray for ongoing translation work, especially with a new committee on board.

• Pray for wisdom as the team chart the way forward.

• Praise God for the spiritual growth and sharing made possible by the Auslan Scriptures.

Australia

Bibles for Bubs

Overview

The Bibles for Bubs project introduces children to the Bible from a very young age by providing their parents with age-appropriate Bibles and resources in the first five years of their life. The project enables families to engage with the Bible and encourages them to develop a family Bible reading practice.

The Need

Reading aloud to children is one of the most rewarding and beneficial activities an adult can choose to do. A survey conducted by Australian publisher Scholastic showed that, across all ages, the overwhelming majority of children (86%) say they loved being read books aloud at home. The top reason children say they enjoy being read aloud to is because it’s a special time with their parents. Parents are encouraged to read to their children for at least 10 minutes a day. And what better book to read to children than the Bible?

Bibles For Bubs began in 2018 to celebrate Bible Society’s bicentenary. It is now in its sixth year and has become much bigger than anyone expected! The project helps enable parents to teach their young children the wonder of Opening The Bible and hearing God’s stories.

13,700+

children have Opened The Bible throughout the course of this program (2018-2023)

2,183

CEV Big Rescue Bibles were distributed to children turning 5 years old in 2023

1,600

new sign ups to the program in 2023

‘Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”’

Matthew 19:14, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to build a lifetime of faith and reliance on God’s word for children through early engagement with the stories of the Bible. Each year up until 2023, the project provided Bibles for 2,000 babies born in the previous year. Up until 2027, during their birthday month, the children receive a hand-written birthday card with an insert for parents with ideas to encourage faith and family Bible reading. On their fifth birthday, the children receive the gift of a CEV Big Rescue Bible that they can read through their primary school years.

There will be no further registrations for the Bible for Bubs program in 2024. Children registered in the program in 2023 and past years will continue to receive their annual birthday cards and a Bible for their 5th birthday.

Impact

Since its establishment in 2018, the Bibles For Bubs program has Opened The Bible to over 13,700 Australian children and their families. The project has provided parents with helpful resources and content to engage their children with the Bible, which have been received well.

Just as Timothy was ‘made wise for salvation’ from his childhood knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, taught to him by his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice (2 Timothy 3:14-15), so these children are being helped to build a foundational knowledge of God’s word.

The project has gained popularity as grandparents and friends encourage their loved ones to apply. The influx of applications in the program’s final registration intake in 2023 (reaching over 1,600 applications) is a testimony to the value that parents, grandparents and friends see in giving children the gift of God’s word.

Testimonies

“I am so grateful my Bub has been a part of this initiative! She has loved, and we have displayed in her room, the yearly card. The Bible itself is her choice of bedtime book at the moment and is a perfect one with all the great practical ideas in it! Thank you, Bible Society! — Kym, parent

“I just wanted to thank you for the Bible’s for Bubs program. My daughter was so excited to receive her new Bible in the mail! She wanted to say ‘thank you for my Bible I really like it. It’s the best Bible in the whole wide world. I like Jesus and I want to learn Him more and I love Him up to the moon and heaven’ (Khloe, 5 yrs). Thank you for the great work you do.” — Rosie, parent

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the children, that they would know God’s love through reading his word.

• Pray that parents will use the Bibles and resources to help build a lifetime of faith for their children.

• Pray for families that they may be united in Christ through reading God’s word.

Australia

Bibles in Schools

Overview

Bible Society Australia seeks to serve and equip volunteer teachers and instructors participating in Special Religious Education (SRE) and Christian Religious Instruction (CRI) by providing them with a Scripture Grant for Bibles in Schools to be used during lessons.

The Need

Many public school students in Australia lack familiarity with the Bible, with a substantial number of the 2.6 million students having never been exposed to the narrative of God found in its pages. For some, the relevance of the Bible to their lives and the world around them remains unexplored, as no one has guided them in understanding its significance.

Nevertheless, certain public schools offer religious education classes facilitated by volunteers from churches. Bible Society Australia is dedicated to supporting these committed volunteers in conveying the message of the Bible to Australian children. This commitment is manifested through the provision of free class sets of Bibles, made possible by the Bibles in Schools grant. This grant empowers Scripture Teachers to afford their students the unique opportunity to hold, navigate, and read a Bible during their classes in public schools.

2.6m

public school students in Australia

45% <32%

of Australians own a Bible of Generation Y’s own a Bible — that is, less than 1 in 3

“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

Joshua 1:8, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to help SRE teachers and CRI instructors to Open The Bible with their students, helping them to discover and engage with God’s word. This grant aims to resource Scripture teachers with God’s word.

In 2024, Bible Society Australia will again supply Class Sets of the CEV Big Rescue Bible (for Primary schools) or the CEV Youth Bibles (for High Schools). These class sets can be for any number of students and are kept by volunteer teachers and instructors for many years, to Open The Bible with students during class.

This project will also supply Borrow Bibles – The Jesus Storybook Bible (suitable for K-3 classes). Borrow Bibles come as a set of three per class for weekly borrowing. Equipped with protective plastic pouches for longevity, and stickers to help prompt returns, they are designed so that as many class members as possible can have a turn borrowing them. These Bibles also stay with the teacher for many years of Bible borrowing, for K-3 students to read by themselves or with their family at home (not sent home as gifts).

Impact

The impact of the Bibles in Schools Grant has been seen in the way it resources and encourages the Scripture Teachers who partake in the program. Furthermore, the stories and testimonies from the teachers reveal the impact of having Bibles available in their classes.

In the 2022-2023 financial year, 868 Jesus Storybook ‘Borrow Bibles’ were requested through the Scripture Grant. Around 5,128 CEV Big Rescue Bibles were requested for classroom sets and 334 CEV Youth Bibles were requested for classroom sets. In addition to this, BSA partnered with Scripture teachers, chaplains, and a SRE provider to prepare a new edition of the CEV Youth Compact Bible with an updated cover and custom pages, which is more accessible for youth.

Testimonies

“I think this grant from Bible Society is wonderful. I would never be able to afford whole sets of class Bibles for my classes. Thank you so much for the opportunity to share God’s precious book with children who’d never seen a Bible before.” — Julie, CRI

Prayer Needs

• Thank God for the families that have opted to participate in Special Religious Education and Christian Religious Instruction this year. Pray that God’s word falls like seeds in good soil.

• Pray for continued opportunities to Open The Bible with Australian school students.

• Pray that children will be introduced to the Bible through Scripture classes, and guided by their teachers, will feel confident to turn to God’s word throughout their lives as their light and guide.

Disaster Recovery Grant

Overview

Bible Society Australia (BSA) seeks to serve and equip groups who are ministering to Australians in all areas of life by providing Scripture Grants which can be used to acquire Bibles and Scripture resources. This includes the Disaster Recovery grant. BSA supplies Bibles and gospel resources via chaplains and gospel workers.

The Need

Emergency chaplains, front line gospel workers and local churches are often among the first responders in any emergency, helping people in difficult circumstances, sharing God’s hope and the good news of Jesus.

The Commonwealth and New South Wales governments have Disaster Recovery Chaplaincy Networks (DRCN) as part of their emergency management plan. The DRCN is a network of trained chaplains from different Christian denominations and religious faiths who provide spiritual and emotional support during and after major disasters.

There is a great need for the Disaster Recovery grant in providing Scripture resources, so that those ministering can help people begin a journey of healing with God’s word.

$250m

every year (estimated) is spent on flood recovery in NSW bushfires require responses from fire services in Australia each year.

45k - 65k

“Jesus said to his disciples: I tell you not to worry about your life! Don’t worry about having something to eat or wear. Life is more than food or clothing. Look at the crows! They don’t plant or harvest, and they don’t have storehouses or barns. But God takes care of them. You are much more important than any birds. Can worry make you live longer? If you don’t have power over small things, why worry about everything else?”

Luke 12:22-26, CEV

Goals

The goal of this project is to Open The Bible to people experiencing disaster. By resourcing front line workers, churches, and affected individuals with the Scriptures and gospel materials, they can engage people with God’s word. This grant shares the transformative hope of the gospel and equips gospel workers with both God’s word and the ability to encourage and disciple those they work with.

In 2024, this project is aiming to support more ministries, giving them the resources they need to share the Gospel and disciple people who are facing various emergency situations.

Impact

The impact of these grants has been seen in the changed lives of recipients, and the stories and testimonies from chaplains, outreach workers and the recipients of Bibles and Scripture resources.

As we know, many victims of disasters and tragedies need help immediately but also over the longer term. During the 2022-2023 financial year, BSA was in contact with various communities around the country that suffered devastations of various kinds.

BSA developed a new resource called, No Worries, God’s Got You to distribute to children whose families are going through difficult situations, as well as providing the Bible devotional by Nick Hawkes addressing suffering, Soar Above the Storm. These were offered along with BSA’s usual trauma healing resources and Scriptures.

In the 2022-2023 financial year, BSA supplied a range of resources to ministries on the front line helping those recovering from devastating events, including the popular No Worries tracts, specialised Bibles, New Testaments, and Gospels, ‘Meet Jesus’ Bible studies, trauma healing booklets and trauma healing postcards.

Testimonies

“I accepted the trauma related resources (Beyond Trauma booklet, the Beyond Trauma post-card, and No Worries for children) ... I’m glad I did! The card is a very accessible way for people to get some helpful and practical insights into what they’re experiencing. The booklet is also very accessible, is well informed, the ‘posture’ feels both pastoral and professional, the use of Biblical references and insights seems very appropriate — reassuring and powerful yet sensitive ... God is at work even, and perhaps especially at a time like this ...” — Rev Steve, Lismore, 2022

“These are the best resources to speak into their pain.” — Rosemary, chaplain

“Resources offered here are fantastic! We have been doing a lot of work in the disaster area over the last decade so excited to see dedicated resources!” — Carly, chaplaincy coordinator

Prayer Needs

• Pray for continued opportunities to Open The Bible with Australians in crisis situations, such as floods, the COVID pandemic and other natural disasters.

• Pray for emergency workers to be raised up, and equipped with soft hearts, listening ears, and wisdom to share God’s word with those facing seemingly insurmountable troubles and deep sorrow.

Australia

Distributing God’s Word

Overview

Each year, Bible Society Australia distributes Indigenous Bibles and Scripture Resources to organisations and churches who minister to Indigenous communities around Australia, free of charge, through our Scripture Grants program. This ensures that Indigenous Scriptures are not only published but are made available to the local church communities, engaged with, and lead to transformation.

The Need

There are many challenges and difficulties in ensuring the distribution of Indigenous Scriptures around the country. Most of the languages translated belong to remote communities in the Top End of the Northern Territory, central desert communities and remote communities in the Kimberley and Far North Queensland.

There is a great need for this work of distribution, as without it, decades of work on Bible translations would not be realised. A reliable method of distribution is needed, so that communities can receive and celebrate the availability of God’s word in their heart languages.

21.4%

43.8%

of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live in remote or very remote areas live in regional areas

“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

Isaiah 55:10-11, NIV

Goals

Bible Society’s goal is to develop and maintain effective distribution channels to ensure remote and Indigenous communities have access to translated Scriptures and Bible engagement resources. These include the Indigenous Scripture Grants Program, distribution through Koorong stores countrywide, digital technology (apps) and various partnerships with ministries and churches.

For the 2023 – 2024 financial year, through the Indigenous Scripture Grants Program, Bible Society’s goal is to provide $85,000 worth of Bibles and Scripture engagement resources free of charge for ministry to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia. This Scripture Grant helps ensure that translated Bibles reach remote communities where they are needed. For those unable to read the written text, translated audio Scriptures are loaded and sent on audio players.

Impact

This Bible distribution significantly impacts ministries, churches and communities who receive Bibles in their heart languages, empowering thousands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to face life’s challenges with Scripture in their hands and hearts.

In 2023, BSA conducted a 4,000km Distribution Tour to the APY Lands in central Australia. The team travelled by car from Adelaide to the APY Lands in northern South Australia, then onto Western Australian communities and north into the Northern Territory.

The Distribution Tour visited ten communities, from Mimili, Fregon, Ernabella in SA, Wingellina in WA and Docker River in NT, distributing Pitjantjatjara resources, including Bibles, Hymnbooks, posters in language, and the newly translated and published Jesus Calms the Storm children’s storybook, all well-received by the communities.

Testimonies

“[The] Indulkana mob swarmed our table like bees to a honey pot, very desperate to purchase resources. Lots of enthusiasm ... I am sure there will be lots of demand for Bibles, as some of these communities haven’t been visited in about four years. It feels good to get God’s word into peoples’ actual hands after spending so long translating it.

“At Mutitjulu yesterday I met Clem, a man in his 80s and one of the original members of the Ernabella Choir. He was so happy to receive a Gospel of Mark, and I gave him a Pitjantjatjara Hymnbook as well. We sang, ‘Jesu, Nyuntukunitjun’ (Jesus, Master, Whose I Am); this was a real highlight from the trip so far.” — Dave Barnett, Pitjantjatjara Translation Project Advisor

Prayer Needs

• Please pray that as these resources are sent out around the country, they will yield spiritual fruit and achieve God’s purposes.

Australia

Equipping Chaplains

Overview

Bible Society Australia (BSA) seeks to serve and equip groups who are ministering to Australians in all areas of life by providing Scripture Grants which can be used to acquire Bibles and Scripture resources. This includes the Chaplaincy and Parachurch grant (C&P), through which BSA supplies Scriptures and gospel resources in English and also heart languages for people from other nations via chaplains and gospel workers.

The Need

The C&P grant allows chaplains and those serving with Christian ministries to reach out to people in prisons, detention centres, hospitals, aged care homes, youth hubs, red-light districts and other circumstances of vulnerability, providing resources relevant and helpful for whatever situation people find themselves in.

The needs vary. Many of the patients in hospitals that these chaplains would minister to, for example, haven’t been to church for years and have no regular Christian teaching input. Hospital admissions, serious illnesses or injuries are often catalysts for them to rethink about their relationship with God. The Bibles and Scripture resources provide for them a gentle reminder of God’s goodness, love and mercy, and provide comfort.

This grant also supports ministries running English as an additional language groups and classes. The grant helps fund Bibles and resources for all these groups.

8.2%

decrease in number of people affiliated with Christianity in Australia from 12.2 million (52.1%) in 2016 to 11.1 million (43.9%) in 2021. (Australian Bureau of Statistics)

46%

of millennials in Australia have reported having no religion and have the highest proportion of ‘No religion’ across other age groups in Australia (2021 ABS census)

11.6m

hospitalisations in Australia from 2021-2022 (AIHW)

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”

Titus 2:11-12, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to Open The Bible to people in vulnerable situations, and to meet them where they are at. By resourcing front line workers with the Scriptures and gospel materials, they can engage people with God’s word. This grant shares the transformative hope of the gospel, as gospel workers are equipped with God’s word and the ability to encourage and disciple those they work with.

A goal of the project is to support Bible Society Australia’s grant partners, who are reaching out to their culturally diverse neighbours with friendship, English lessons and the good news about Jesus. To support churches in this valuable ministry, Bible Society Australia partners with Anglicare’s Cross Cultural Services to produce English teaching resources.

In 2024, this project will continue to serve existing partners, as well as find and support more ministries, giving them the Scriptures and resources they need to share the gospel and disciple people who have come to faith.

Impact

The impact of the C&P Scripture Grant has been seen in the changed lives of recipients, and the stories and testimonies from chaplains, outreach workers and the beneficiaries who have received Bibles and Scripture resources.

In the 2022-2023 financial year, BSA partnered with chaplains and supplied Scripture resources to:

• 40 prison ministries

• 25 hospitals chaplaincy teams

• 61 ‘other’ ministries.

From July 2022- June 2023, BSA gave away tens of thousands of Bibles and Scripture resources to front line gospel workers, including Bibles in languages other than English and specialised Christian tracts.

Testimonies

“One patient approached me for a Bible. After he received his copy, he read it ... He hooked up with another Christian on the ward and they have started reading and studying the Bible together daily. They have gotten numerous studies off me (including one that the grant allowed me to purchase). The patient has told me he feels a peace in his life that he has never felt before and he has set his heart on being baptised and finding a church when he gets out.” — Don, hospital chaplain

Prayer Needs

• Pray for continued opportunities to Open The Bible with Australians, for workers to be raised up, and for open hearts to hear God’s word, particularly those suffering great loss, seemingly insurmountable troubles and deep sorrow. Pray that many will turn to Christ and continue to grow as Christians with God’s word as their light and guide.

Indigenous Audio Bibles

Overview

Bible Society Australia (BSA) is working together with like-minded mission and Bible translation organisations to produce audio recordings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scriptures, providing the gospel in a format communities can readily access. This includes translation work, using the Oral Bible Translation method.

The Need

A printed Bible, even translated into a heart language, is at times not sufficient for people to Open The Bible for themselves. Because Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are oral cultures, important information is conveyed through story-telling rather than the written word. This means that Indigenous communities readily engage with audio content in a way non-Indigenous cultures do not often appreciate or understand.

Year 2023 saw a growing demand for audio players with Scripture ‘in language’, particularly via churches, hospital and prison chaplains.

“Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.”

Romans 10:27

8

Indigenous Australian languages currently have translated Scripture that require audio recordings

21/56

Indigenous languages with Scripture translated has some Scripture audio available

1,000

audio players were distributed by early 2023, and a new order for 1,000 placed to meet community needs

Goals

In 2024, BSA’s goal is to ensure greater accessibility to Indigenous language translations through audio recordings. Audio Scriptures will be distributed, with a new supply of audio players for Australian communities ready to use.

The Plain English Version (PEV) Multi-voice audio recording project is anticipating the launch of the PEV Audio Mini Bible in 2024.

Work will continue on the recording of the Old Testament in Kriol and finalising the Noongar Book of Ruth release. Further recordings in KukatJa, Alyawarr, Burarra and Eastern Arrernte are anticipated.

BSA will continue partnering with YWAM Perth on Oral Bible Translation Projects, with plans to recommence translation workshops for the Kimberley Kriol language project this year, along with discussions with three other Kimberley language groups who are interested in Bible Translation assistance.

Impact

In 2023, BSA coordinated the recording of significant portions of the PEV (Plain English Version) audio Bible, encompassing the Gospels, Acts, 1 & 2 Samuel and chapters of Genesis.

As of mid-2023, 69% of the Kriol Old Testament was recorded. The Kriol Audio Recording will impact approximately 30,000 people across Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland.

Portions of Mark’s Gospel were recorded in Kukatja, Colossians in Alyawarr, Old Testament recordings in Burarra, and the Eastern Arrernte New Testament, all now accessible through the Australian Bibles App.

The Oral Bible Translation (OBT) Project for Kimberley Kriol faced a temporary halt in 2023 due the passing of a key translator and other factors. Despite this, a ‘Relationship Building’ Trip in April revealed a positive shift in attitudes, fostering collaboration across denominations for Bible Translation. One impact of the Kimberley Kriol OBT Project is that three other language groups and (with four additional interested groups) have approached YWAM for Bible translation assistance.

Testimonies

“I gave away to an Indigenous patient from Titjikala the last of our BSA audio Bibles in Pitjantjatjara. She was so thankful. When she was discharged, I went to see her one last time and noticed it was on top of her personal belongings where she could access it quickly — such was the value she placed on it. So, I am politely seeking some more such audio Bibles, please, for use and giving away.” — Chaplain at the Royal Adelaide Hospital

Prayer Needs

• Pray that these audio recordings of Scripture will bless many generations across Australia.

• Thank God that many people who are unable to read can embrace the gospel and know God’s love through the spoken word.

• Pray for more opportunities to record Scripture in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.

• Pray for capable readers to offer their time and abilities to serve God and his people.

Australia

Indigenous Publishing for Bible Engagement

Overview

As the main publisher of Indigenous language Bibles, Bible Society Australia (BSA) prints, reprints and distributes Scriptures across Australia, ensuring communities’ access to the Bible. BSA also develops culturally relevant Scripture resources to enable the non-literate, children, youth, prisoners and those in hospital engage with God’s word. In doing so, BSA’s goal is to convey the hope and love found in Jesus, helping Christians mature in their faith and understanding of God.

The Need

All Australian Indigenous languages are considered to be at risk (vulnerable or endangered), meaning that safeguarding these languages is crucial for the preservation of cultural heritage, human rights protection, and safeguarding the future.

Although Australia boasts a 99% literacy rate, an estimated 40% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults exhibit minimal English literacy, with numbers rising to 70% in remote areas. Although over half identify as Christians, lack of Bibles in native languages and low literacy rates make understanding translations difficult. Culturally appropriate Scripture resources and Bible study materials are necessary to protect language diversity, strengthen Christian foundations, and aid with literacy development amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations.

54%

45-65%

of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders identify as Christians of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults are functionally non-literate Bible Society published the Ngarrindjeri Scriptures

1864 2007

the first full Indigenous Bible was published in Kriol

“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

Isaiah 55:10-11, NIV

Goals

BSA aims to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders by publishing Indigenous language Bibles as soon as translations are complete.

In 2024, BSA will publish Judges and Esther in Pitjantjatjara as standalone volumes, which will be the Anangu community’s first opportunity to read these narratives in their language.

Moreover, work will continue on the Pitjantjatjara Children’s Art Bible, an initiative inspired by the late translator, Nami Kulyuru. This illustrated Bible currently has 53 finalised paintings ready for design layout in 2024, with plans for a release later in the year.

Another 2024 goal involves creating English and local Literacy Programs to enhance literacy rates in Indigenous communities, facilitating more engagement with Scriptures.

To this end, work continues on the development of two Bible Engagement series: God’s Words for Life and God’s Words from the Bible, available in various languages (including Plain English, Kriol, Pitjantjatjara, Yumplatok). They include stories from the Scriptures, along with a set of Scripture Picture cards that can be utilised to foster literacy development.

In 2024, updates will also be made to our aboriginalbibles.com website and the Australian Bibles App, aiming to expand access to these resources.

Impact

The 2023, dedication of the Murrinhpatha Mini Bible in Australia demonstrates the significant impact translating and publishing Indigenous language Bibles for local communities can have, as God’s word acts as a powerful tool for growth and healing.

The Murrinhpatha language is spoken by over 2,500 people in Wadeye, and is one of Australia’s fastest-growing Indigenous languages. The development and dedication of the Murrinhpatha Mini Bible by Bishop Charles Gauci in Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in 2023 was a significant event, drawing hundreds from the community and serving as a symbol of unity and healing amidst longstanding tension and recent violence.

The Bible was presented to families of translators who had worked tirelessly on the translation project, exemplifying the commitment and labour being fuelled by love for their community and God’s word.

Testimonies

“It was [Nami’s] dream to produce a children’s Bible that told the same Bible stories she had heard from her parents around the campfire as a child — only, these stories would be told through Anangu-style paintings, paintings that illustrate the entirely of the story. The desire to see Nami’s legacy honoured, and her grandchildren receive God’s word through the Children’s Art Bible, spurred on the translators and artists.”

— Dave Barnett, Translation Facilitator for the Pitjantjatjara Old Testament

Prayer Needs

• Pray for God’s healing and restoration for Australia’s first nations people, that as communities Open The Bible in their heart language they will be transformed and will know God’s love for them.

• Pray that communities will have the strength and conviction to share God’s love with others.

Scriptures for the ADF

Overview

Bible Society Australia (BSA) seeks to serve and equip chaplains and Christian ministries who are working with the Australian Defence Forces (ADF), ministering to Australians serving with the armed forces, by providing Bibles and Scripture Resources through a Scripture Grant.

The Need

There is sustained demand for specialty Scriptures in the ADF, as men and women take up the opportunity to search the truths of the Bible, encouraged by their ‘padres’. Bible Society has provided specialised ADF badged Bibles for members of the armed forces for over 100 years.

100+ 170

years Bible Society has provided special ADF Bibles

full time and part time Army chaplains spread across Australia, and 95% are Christian chaplains people have served in the ADF

581,100 2.8%

of the Australian population aged 15 years and over (as per 2021 census)

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”

2 Timothy 2:15, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to Open The Bible to people serving in the ADF. By resourcing ADF chaplains and other Christian ministries with Scriptures and Gospel materials, they can engage people with God’s word. This grant shares the transformative hope of the gospel, equipping gospel workers with both God’s word and the ability to encourage and disciple those they work with.

In 2024, the goal of this project is to continue responding to the needs of the ADF chaplains and approved ministry support partners as they work with the personnel in the Australian armed forces.

Impact

The impact of this Scripture grant is ultimately seen in the changed lives of recipients. BSA has supported and partnered with Military Christian Fellowship-Australia (MCF-A), Focus Military Ministry, Solid Rock ministries and AMCF (the international arm of MCF-A) as well as the chaplains who work within the ADF, and ADFA. In addition to this, BSA reprinted the Waterproof New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs for the Navy, Army and RAAF, as well as the CEV full Bible.

BSA continued to provide its current range of camouflage scriptures, ADF specialty books and other supportive gospel materials to the ADF. BSA partnered with ADF support ministries to produce new materials that help ADFA graduates dig into the Bible and think through the issues of service in light of Christ. In the 2022-2023 financial year, ADF chaplains received various specialty Scriptures and Scripture portions, including:

• 1,053 ADF CEV Tri-Service Compact Bibles

• 1,039 ADF Tri-service Devotionals

• 1,628 ADF Army Daily Devotionals

• 2,720 ADF NLT Army New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs Waterproof

• 1,298 “My Story, My God” Scriptures

• 2,425 copies of the tract “40 Scriptures for Life”

Testimonies

“You reach a huge number of people, often at their most vulnerable or when they are confused about the situation they find themselves in. Having ADF specific material enables easier conversations or distribution and interest along with helping those in the ADF answer the big hard questions, especially about war, disaster, suffering, death and the like. It is great the Christian Military Ministries across the ADF can use the same material for continuity for those we minister to.” — Military Christian Fellowship

Prayer Needs

• Pray for continued opportunities to Open The Bible with Australians in the Defence Forces, for chaplains to be encouraged and strengthened in their work, and for open hearts to hear God’s word.

Australia

Supporting Indigenous Translation

Overview

Bible Society Australia (BSA) is committed to helping Indigenous Australian’s Open The Bible in their heart languages. Collaborating with local translators, churches, and partner organisations, BSA coordinates and funds workshops and provides expertise through translation consultants. To further the work of Bible translation, BSA supports the training of local Bible translators through the Nungalinya Theological College in Darwin.

The Need

At the time of European settlement, around 250-300 languages were spoken across Australia. Today, BSA’s Translation Roadmap lists over 400, including new creoles, ‘Aboriginal’ English, clan languages and dialects. Though there is some dispute over the precise number of languages and dialects (due to varied definitions of language and dialect), the need for more Bible translation work in Australian Indigenous languages is undeniable.

From 415 languages and dialects, only one complete Bible is available. Significantly, many Indigenous groups continue to voice the need for Bible translations in their languages, requesting support in translating the Bible into their own languages.

1,209

3,000+

language varieties are recognised by AIATSIS speak Pitjantjatjara as their first language, with another 5,000 speaking it as their second or third language. speak Noongar (notable rise from 443 in 2016 as per the 2021 census)

1,500+ 400+

languages are listed on BSA’s Translation Roadmap, with 27 active and possibly 100+ potential language translation projects in the future

“After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands.”

Revelation 7:9, NLT

Goals

BSA’s goal is to enable Bible Translation in every key Indigenous language requesting it, through traditional methods or Oral Bible Translation, promoting individual and community transformation.

In 2024, the Pitjantjatjara Old Testament Project will continue translating the books of Ezekiel, Isaiah, 2 Samuel, and Proverbs, with plans underway to print Esther and Judges as single-volume editions.

Two teams of Noongar translators will continue working on the Gospel of Matthew and Psalm 23, with plans to begin translating the Gospel of John.

BSA (along with several key mission partners) will also continue to partner with Nungalinya College in Darwin to provide formal training for Indigenous translators. This year, two language groups (Yolngu Matha and Murrinhpatha) will complete the second year of the three-year Translation Certificate course. A new language group (Bininj Kunwok) will commence the first year of the course.

Impact

Having the Bible in your heart language reinforces culture and group identity, particularly for translators working hard to restore and revive their languages. It speaks to the very core of your being and your understanding of yourself and of God.

The impact of Bible translation is demonstrated by translator Djawut Gondarra from Arnhem Land, who chose Scripture portions in all 13 clan languages over a full Bible in one common Yolngu Matha language, emphasising language’s role in identity.

In 2023, significant strides were made in translation projects. The Pitjantjatjara team completed the book of Esther and several Psalms and demonstrated their commitment by submitting a hand-written draft of the entire Book of Ezra. Ultimately, this Bible translation work will influence over 10,000 people. Concurrently, the Bunbury-based Noongar team finished translating the Genesis Creation Story, marking another milestone in preserving Indigenous languages and cultures.

Testimonies

“The [Pitjantjatjara] ladies I asked were unsure about [the word ‘tjinytjira’, used in Isaiah 14:23 to describe the land of Babylon after God had ‘swept it’ with the broom of destruction] ... [they] thought in the old days this word was used to describe ground once a heavy rain had washed away trees and shrubs, leaving only debris.” — Dave Barnett, Pitjantjatjara Translation Project Advisor. This anecdote demonstrates how the Pitjantjatjara translation of the Old Testament continues to preserve this significant language for future generations.

Prayer Needs

• Thank God that BSA can continue to support the translation of Scripture into the Indigenous languages of Australia, that we can journey together with our Indigenous brothers and sisters, acknowledging them as the custodians of their beautiful and unique languages.

• Pray for good health and peace for the translators across Australia working in Bible Translation. Pray that the Holy Spirit would be close to them, guiding them as they translate, revealing the message of God’s love in a clear and profound way.

• Pray for Australia’s First Nations people, for God’s healing and restoration, that as communities across Australia Open The Bible in their own heart languages, they will be transformed and know God’s unfailing love for them.

Oceania

The Bible Societies Oceania Alliance, consisting of Bible Society Australia (BSA), Bible Society Papua New Guinea (BSPNG) and Bible Society of the South Pacific (BSSP), supports Bible work in the Oceania region. The alliance enables:

• a sharing of resources, with weekly meetings to progress projects.

• support for the development of BSPNG and BSSP’s infrastructure.

• Bible Society PNG to begin generating income to support their mission work through property renovation.

• improved efficiency in HR, IT, Fundraising, and Bible publishing and distribution for BSPNG and BSSP.

New Caledonia

Bible Translation

Overview

Bible Society in the South Pacific is coordinating this project to see the translation of the Old Testament in Ajië, the New Testament in Nelemwa and the digitisation of existing Bible translations among three other languages spoken in New Caledonia, to reach more speakers of each language with God’s word.

The Need

There is a great need for Bible translation among the people and languages of New Caledonia. With a predominately Christian population, there is much support of the Christian message, and a great demand for Scriptures to benefit those living in rural areas and the outskirts of the main towns.

The population of New Caledonia is young, with 48% of the population being 24 years old and younger. These young people speak both their common national languages and their indigenous languages, and there is a great need to produce the Bible as an electronic text.

The work of digitising and reviewing the Bibles that were first translated by the early missionaries and translating or adapting the Scriptures into contemporary languages is ongoing, and crucial to meet the needs of the younger population.

285,498

people live in New Caledonia (2020, UN data)

48%

of the population are 24 years old and younger

96.94%

of adult population (aged 15 years and above) in New Caledonia are literate

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

John 10:10, ESV

Goals

The goals of this project cover five languages spoken in New Caledonia. This project aims to proofread the scanned text of previous Bible translations, correct old typo and spelling errors caused by old translation inconsistencies, and scan errors due to old ink stains and faulty fonts.

The goals of this project are:

• To publish the revised Drehu Bible by 2024

• To publish a complete Ajië Bible by 2025

• To publish the revised Nengone Bible by 2025

• To publish the Nelemwa NT in 2026

• To publish the revised Iaai Bible by 2026

In 2024, the project will undertake the following activities towards these goals:

• For the Ajië Old Testament, a community review of Genesis to Malachi will be conducted.

• For the Nelemwa New Testament, an internal review of Matthew to Revelation will be conducted.

• The Drehu Bible will be proofread, with the scanned text under final review, preparing for typesetting.

• The Nengone Bible will also be proofread, and the wordlist to be checked and corrected, completing the project.

• The Iaai Bible will also be proofread, the wordlist will be checked and corrected, completing this project also.

Impact

The total number of people this project aims to impact with Bible translation is 285,000. This is based on the population of New Caledonia.

The audience will be engaged by the Bible translation during the lifetime of the project, with language speakers involved at the translation stage as well as the review and checking of the translation process.

The people of New Caledonia who speak these five languages will understand the Scriptures better and be more able to apply them to their lives.

Prayer Needs

• Pray for New Caledonia and its people, pray for church leaders and the Bible Translation work and its successful completion.

• Pray for the team as they search for a new Translation Coordinator who can better coordinate the work.

• Pray for meaningful engagement with the Scriptures in New Caledonia.

Papua New Guinea

Bible Translation for People Without Bibles

Overview

Bible Society Papua New Guinea (BSPNG) is supporting seven Bible translation projects in seven different languages, working with partner agencies who will publish the completed works.

The Need

Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) 840 tribal groups are crying out for the Scriptures in their own languages. While Tok Pisin and English Bibles are available, many — especially in rural villages — do not speak English and are not fluent readers of languages other than their own first language.

In the past, Bible translation work was often coordinated by foreign missionaries who lived among the people, often for years. Today, community church groups are themselves taking up the task, frequently with no outside support. Several local language groups have approached the Bible Society for assistance and guidance to carry out translations of the Bible, or portions of the Bible, into their own language.

Technical translation support is needed, as well as help with the simple costs of writing paper and pens, computers and internet connectivity, which are often beyond the means of the local groups.

85%

of the population in PNG live in rural communities, which have few or no facilities such as electricity, running water, telecommunications

840

distinct languages have been identified in PNG

“God is not unfair. He will not forget the work you did or the love you showed for him in the help you gave and are still giving to other Christians.”

Hebrew 6:10, GNT

Goals

The project aims to support Bible Translation work in Papua New Guinea, specifically for seven language groups: Magi, Vula’a, Motu, Pa, Aekyom, Gogodala, and Yuna. The Bible Society of Papua New Guinea will provide financial, material, and direct support, supervised by the National Translation Manager. Translation Consultants conduct training workshops and offer equipped Translation Centre workplaces.

BSPNG will collaborate with partners such as the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL), Bible Translation Association (BTA), and Pioneer Bible Translators (PBT) for efficient resource utilization.

In 2024, the project will aim to complete consultant checking and proofreading for Vulaa and Magi translations, printing and dedicating a Yuna Old Testament portion, consultant checking of Genesis in Gogodala translation, and providing solar energy and computer equipment to rural projects. Training workshops, reviews, and consultant activities are also planned.

Impact

It is hoped that over 200,000 will be reached and impacted by these seven Bible translations, though the actual number cannot be assessed until after the translation projects are complete.

To have the word of God in mother tongues will provide a solid base upon which to build community and family life in a rapidly changing world. Translation work will also lead into other related activities such as Bible-based literacy courses.

The enduring impact of this program will be seen and felt when thousands of Bibles in first languages are distributed among the people groups.

Testimonies

“On the job training for national translators working under the supervision of Bible Society of PNG. Seven translators from the Central province have attended a two-day Paratext training to learn and be shown how to do resolve issues that teams are grappling with. It was a time well spent with the teams.” — Joel Peter, BSPNG General Secretary

Prayer Needs

• Please pray for the dedicated souls and local communities carrying out this translation work.

• Pray for availability of resources to support the translators’ needs, which are in fact minimal.

• Pray for additional consultants and training of the national Translation Officers.

Papua New Guinea

Bibles and Maternal Health Care

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with MegaVoice in supplying audio Scriptures and health messages for maternal and newborn baby care, through the work of Living Child Inc. in Papua New Guinea, in the most remote areas of East Sepik Province.

The Need

The villages in the Keram River system are some of the most remote in PNG. The local people — the ‘River People’ — are strong and resourceful, surviving on local produce. Churches are strong in this area. Yet these areas are not reached by government services; there are no telecommunications or government health services, and most people are non-literate. For years there have been cries for help and stories of suffering from people in these remote villages, especially in relation to youth and children.

40,000

population in the Keram area across 50 villages, with 150 households in each village.

3-5hr

drive between the villages and Wewak, the provincial capital (preceded by a boat trip from their villages)

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,”

Goals

Bible Society is supporting MegaVoice, a prominent provider of solar-powered audio Bibles. MegaVoice is partnering with the charity, Living Child, which collaborates with the Melanesian Evangelical Churches of Christ (MECOC). This project distributes culturally relevant health information, aimed at enhancing outcomes for mothers and babies, with the content broadcasted through the local Christian Radio Station. Local Sepik-based women help develop this material, with essential supplies like clean birth kits, menstruation kits, and PPE for mothers supplied alongside assistance to frontline maternity health workers.

The MegaVoice devices distributed in villages are preloaded with the Tok Pisin Bible, and the translation and recording of Tok Pisin voice-overs for maternal and newborn health training videos, along with colourful flipcharts, are underway. Five villages are currently being reached, with plans to extend to two or three more.

In 2024, the ultimate goal is to ensure every household in participating villages has access to the Tok Pisin audio Bible and health training material, with plans to distribute 1,000 MegaVoice audio Bibles and 20 MegaVoice Envision video players.

Impact

This project has the potential to impact the mind, the body and the soul, as it includes both health training messages and the audio Bible on the MegaVoice players.

Since the introduction of the program groups in villages, church leaders say their churches are growing. They report that women are going to church as a result of listening to the audio Bibles, and many of their husbands are following them. There is the potential for a huge revival and church growth. Even children want to listen to the Tok Pisin audio Bibles.

Testimonies

“In March 2023 the women shared many stories of problems with drunkenness, gambling and violence in their menfolk. Kata, a village birth attendant from Korokopa village, said that she felt the church in her village was not strong. She described that families were not attending church and that if they did, and they started to read their Bible and put into practice the teachings of Jesus, this would make a difference. She carries with her a very old and worn-out Bible with tattered edges and dirt from fingering the pages. She said that the audio Bibles will help the people get back to the word of God especially because so many people could not read or write in her community.” — Sara from Living Child Inc.

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the team working within the project.

• Pray that the villages would receive Christ.

• Pray for safe travel in this very remote area.

• Pray for the expansion of this project into more villages.

Papua New Guinea

Rebuilding Bible Society

Overview

Bible Society Papua New Guinea (BSPNG) urgently requires capacity building to reach future generations with God’s word. The focal of this project is establishing sustainable and impactful Bible-based mission work.

The Need

There are more than 880 languages in PNG with more than 300 languages yet to receive any Bible translation. Almost 89% of the approximately 8.9 million people are in the (largely remote) rural areas.

Much of the population is uneducated and live in poverty. Literacy is a major challenge; many would not be able to read the Bible. There is a vast need for Bible translation, Bible distribution, literacy and church partnerships, especially in the rural areas.

The word of God already has a place in the rural communities of PNG. The people living in these remote communities consider the distribution of Bibles of paramount importance.

To meet these needs, it is essential that the Bible Society is present and sustainable.

880

300

languages in PNG languages yet to receive any Bible translation

60,000+

Tok Pisin, Huli and GNB Bibles, New Testaments and Psalms were shipped in 2023

“and I answered the king, ‘If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favour in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.’”

Nehemiah 2:5, NIV

Goals

Rebuilding a functioning Bible Society in PNG began in 2019, and the goal of this project remains the same: to strengthen BSPNG so it can ensure that all people have access to the Scriptures, which means that all people can Open The Bible.

Despite all the challenges in 2020-2021, Bible Society PNG was able to successfully complete the majority of renovations on properties they own in Paga and Lae. Their five-year strategic plan was finalised for implementation in 2022 onwards.

In 2024, the plans and proposed activities for the project, such as the renovation and maintenance of building properties, installation of a standby generator set (a combination of an engine and an electric generator) and reserve water tanks for Paga and Lae, free distribution of remaining stock in the old and unsafe Lae warehouse (which will be demolished), and IT infrastructure development will continue to be implemented.

Impact

In 2023, 26,000 Tok Pisin Bibles, 24,480 Tok Pisin New Testament & Psalms, 6,850 Huli Bibles and 5,100 GNB Bibles were shipped, made possible due to BSPNG’s improved sustainability and partner support.

The renovated BSPNG properties will impact local income, supporting ministry work in PNG. Two leased properties already generate a monthly income for mission sustainability, with one more Bible House in Kobi awaiting renovation.

Staff recruitment and Bible distribution growth are progressing slowly but steadily, and will have an impact on evangelism and Christian growth. There will be freedom for new church planting and to continue education in schools and colleges with God’s word, reducing illiteracy.

As BSPNG rebuilds, more Scripture engagement projects will ensure access to Scripture, leading to transformed lives and communities.

Testimonies

“My vision for Bible Society Papua New Guinea is to see that the nation is filled with the knowledge of the Word of God, as the waters cover the sea. This is a biblical vision and I want to have it for Bible Society Papua New Guinea, as I work to resurrect Bible Society PNG. I want to set a Scriptural, a biblical vision … to see a full resurrection, and the infiltration and penetration of the word of God, the growth and development of the word of God, in the nation of Papua New Guinea. That this vision would drive me and staff that will come on, and every brother and sister Bible Society who are supporting us, that this will be a driving motivational vision for us going forward from 2022.” — Joel Peter, General Secretary of BSPNG

Prayer Needs

• Pray for God to open doors and hearts to come forward to fund the rebuilding of the Bible Society.

• Pray for foreign currency situation in PNG and the government policies that are having a negative impact on NGO’s.

• Pray for God to bring the right prospect for distribution manager position.

Papua New Guinea

Tok Pisin Revision Translation

Overview

The Bible Society of Papua New Guinea (BSPNG) is revising the widely popular Tok Pisin Bible, taking into account the changes in the Tok Pisin language over the last 30+ years.

The Need

Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) population of 8.9 million predominantly live in remote rural areas. PNG has over 840 known languages.

English, Tok Pisin and Hiri Motu (the lingua franca of the Papuan region) are the official languages. Most of the population now speak Tok Pisin and many children learn it as a first language.

Since the Tok Pisin Bible was published in 1989 (the original translation work began in the 1960s), there have been significant changes in the language, and Christians and church leaders began requesting a revision of the Bible. The BSPNG and the local church believes that an updated and improved modern language version will encourage people to use it more. The churches are keenly awaiting a revision.

Project

8.9m

PNG Population

known languages in PNG

840+ 49%

Overall Project Goals completed

“There are many different languages in the world, and every language has meaning.”

Goals

The goals of the project are to 1) make available a fully revised Tok Pisin Bible, in electronic, print and audio form for people to use at home and in church; 2) to produce a modern contemporary Bible version suitable for all age groups; and 3) to ensure that the Bible translation keeps in line with the national standard of the Tok Pisin language.

The revision process began several years ago and, in 2024, the focus will be to make available the fully revised Tok Pisin Bible in electronic, print and audio formats. The Tok Pisin Revised Bible is currently 41% translated and is estimated to be completed by December 2025

Impact

The total number of people this project aims to impact is 7 million. In a population of over eight million, almost the entire population speak Tok Pisin (as a first or additional language).

By 2023, more than 15% of the Old Testament books had been revised, and the book of Romans was 100% reviewed by the full committee. Three members were resourced with solar equipment, and two with new computers.

Once the revision is complete, Christians across PNG will be impacted by their access to a Tok Pisin Bible in contemporary language, which will breathe life, faith, hope and Christian values into their lives.

Having the Tok Pisin Bible in modern day language will help people in their homes, their social values, their education and their witness beyond their own people group.

Testimonies

“It is our belief and hope that by serving others together as a team will ensure greater impact from increased capabilities and multiplied power for the Kingdom business. In this training we covered Biblical terms rendering, progress and assignment, roles and responsibilities, Scripture reference settings, punctuation and character inventories, and different features of Publishing Assistant and InDesign program as well for Translation Officers.”

— Joel Peter, BSPNG General Secretary

Prayer Needs

• Pray that the huge and growing spiritual hunger for the Bible in PNG will be quickly met by the completion of this Tok Pisin revised Bible.

• Pray for volunteers trained in translation work, that they will have more time for translation checking, an essential part of the translation process.

• Pray that funds will be made available to provide power where there is no electricity, enabling translators and revisers to complete their work.

• Pray for ongoing support from churches, and communities.

Samoa

Samoan Contemporary Old Testament

Overview

This project seeks to complete the translation of the Samoan Old Testament in contemporary language, to join with the contemporary New Testament which was completed in 2009. With the completion of the Old Testament translation, it will be possible to publish the whole Bible in the contemporary language.

The Need

The Samoan communities have requested the translation of the Old Testament into the contemporary language after the completion of the New Testament in 2009. Samoa is politically stable, and the culture is very supportive of the Christian message. This religious freedom helps in gaining support and acceptance for Bible translation work.

The estimated population of Samoa is 205,557 (Census 2021), and 27% of Samoans are under 15 years old. Whilst the Bible Society has maintained the old versions to meet the older generation, it is also working at meeting the growing needs of younger and future generations. Nearly all Samoans are literate. Education is compulsory between the ages of 5 and 14; however, only a small fraction of the population has completed secondary school. Moreover, there is still a great demand for printed Scriptures to benefit those living in rural areas.

“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

John 10:10b, ESV

people may be impacted by this Bible translation project.

of Samoans are under 15 years old

Old Testament books have been completed already and awaiting review.

100k 27% 9 9/12

books of the Minor Prophets have had a complete review.

Goals

The goal of this project is to publish in print and electronic formats a complete Contemporary Samoan Bible, thereby ensuring that younger generations of Samoan speakers will better understand the Scriptures.

In 2024, the project will continue drafting Genesis, Exodus, Joshua, 1 King, Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Isaiah. Drafts of Daniel, Ezekiel, Lamentation, Jeremiah, Song of Songs, Psalms, Esther, Ezra and Ruth are completed and awaiting review. The original drafters of the books are to make the necessary editorial work and improve their translation drafts. Next, they can print the books and give it out for community checking or community review. Further editorial work based on feedback received are to be done as translation drafts are improved further.

A written back-translation of the books must be produced by an uninitiated native speaker (UNS) or a selected translator who has no connection with that book. This is produced for the translation officer to do their consultant checking. Any comments on the book from the Consultant (after working on the back translation) are to be reviewed again by the original translator before it is ready for draft typesetting. A final proofreading is to be done before printing the book.

Impact

The total number of people who may be impacted by this Bible translation project is 100,000.

It is hoped that this meaning-based translation will bring transformation in the lives of all Samoans (believers and non-believers). The completed Bible will also assist in equipping the Church for a new Samoan generation.

Testimonies

“They’ll end up with something far more like the Good News Version than the King James Version. Their hope is that it will become widely accepted in Samoa, not only amongst the younger and next generations (for whom it is aimed) but also amongst older people who may use it alongside their beloved older Samoan version as an aid for understanding and reading God’s word.” — Sam Freney, Translation Consultant, Bible Society Australia

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the Samoa translation team, pray for committed individuals to join the team.

• Pray for Church leaders in Samoa, the Samoan church community, and for more to support this Bible mission work.

• Pray for the completion of the 12 Minor prophets’ books in 2024.

Solomon Islands

Opening Eyes Through Literacy

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with the Bible Society of the South Pacific and the Literacy Association, Solomon Islands, to implement the literacy project, ‘Open My Eyes’. This project is aimed at increasing literacy, and equipping people to read and engage with the Scriptures, which have now been translated into many local languages.

The Need

While 90% of Solomon Islanders surveyed had some formal schooling, functional literacy rates in major provinces can be as low as 7 to 17%. Young people lack the education and experience they need to find paid work, which is a major problem in the Solomon Islands.

There is good availability of Scriptures in local languages, with the New Testament translated into 19 languages so far, and the full Bible into three, including the Pijin language, which is widely spoken.

However, with literacy rates so low, reading the Scriptures — let alone understanding them — is a struggle for many people. Many youths and adults also struggle to participate in church activities because of illiteracy, and are deprived of the confidence they need to participate in their communities. The lack of functional literacy constrains the life and livelihood of many Solomon Islanders.

“Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.”

680,000

people live in the Solomon Islands

75 7–17%

97.4%

languages have been recorded in the Solomon Islands (4 of which are now extinct) rate of functional literacy in major provinces of the population are affiliated with Christianity

Goals

This project’s goal is to collaborate with local literacy agencies and churches to promote reading and writing, specifically with a focus on languages in Malaita Province, known for its linguistic diversity, including Baeggu, Kwaio, and Fataleka.

By 2026, the project aims to empower 1,500 individuals to attain literacy in their native languages. Through 10 annual literacy training events, literacy teachers will be equipped with skills to teach literacy to others, and to pass on the training they receive.

Through developing literacy, this project aims to enable involvement in community activities, address youth unemployment and other social issues such as domestic violence and sexual exploitation of women (linked with illiteracy). An additional aim of the project is to deepen the connection between participants and the Scriptures, encouraging daily Bible reading and study. This will enable them to actively engage in church.

In 2024, the plan is to enrol 480 students with 10 teachers, aiming for 300 graduates. 1,500 literacy primers, supplementary reading materials, and 500 copies of Scripture will be distributed.

Impact

Around 1,000 people will be impacted directly by this project, learning literacy skills, and being equipped to read and engage with the Bible, actively participate in church and community life, and better their lives and livelihoods.

In addition to this, school children will also benefit as the community are able to supply trained literacy teachers from the course, to conduct after school literacy classes. Children will also benefit as their parents learn to read, as will church communities by the increased participation of their newly literate members.

Prayer Needs

• Pray for agencies and churches working together on improving literacy in the Solomon Islands.

• Pray for funding for effective implementation of these plans, to help increase functional literacy amongst youths and children. Pray for young people who lack the education and experience to find paid work, a major problem in the Solomon Islands.

• Pray for women for whose lack of literacy increases their vulnerability to gender-based violence and sexual exploitation.

South Pacific

Enabling Growth

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting Bible Society of the South Pacific (BSSP) to boost the effectiveness and sustainability of BSSP.

The Need

BSSP serves 16 independent island nations, totalling 2.8 million people, with 60% (1.7 million) falling between minimum wage and the poverty threshold. To effectively reach this population, BSSP requires improved connectivity and accessibility. It is essential to address challenges in transitioning mission and outreach information to digital platforms, including addressing the lack of skills and proper IT equipment.

Additionally, supporting full-time staff and Regional Coordinators is crucial for accelerating the implementation and impact of BSSP projects across missions and translation efforts.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

16 60%

independent islands which the Bible Society serves, covering 15% of the world’s surface.

of the population live between minimum wage and poverty threshold

Goals

In 2024, this project aims to bolster capacity and the financial sustainability of BSSP.

The project will seek to develop staff capacity, expedite project implementation within the region, and support the newly recruited full-time Mission and Translation Coordinators specifically for Vanuatu, Fiji, and New Caledonia. Additionally, a Translation Trainee will be brought on board as part of the broader BSSP succession planning initiative, ensuring a pipeline of qualified individuals for future roles.

Recognising the need for additional support in key areas, the project also aims to recruit new staff members with expertise in Human Resource Management and Project Management.

While this project enabled essential warehouse upgrades in 2023, the process will be completed in 2024.

Impact

In 2023, BSSP’s Fiji Mission team received a dedicated vehicle for efficient outreach to rural communities and timely distribution of trade stock to bookshops nationwide. Progress was made in meeting the rising demand for Bibles, with BSSP’s warehouse upgraded to increase stock holding capacity, to facilitate printing bulk orders and achieving economies of scale.

The impact of this project will be seen in the improved technical capacity of BSSP staff, especially in the areas of inventory and marketing skills, and in their use of key fundraising, translation and publishing software, as well as increased competency in BSSP staff performance and organisation development.

Testimonies

“[A] major challenge is how we have been set up and the infrastructures we have. Most of the communication and infrastructure that helps us do the work has aged over the years and we are currently implementing some changes, but it takes time when we are dealing with the vast body that we serve here in the South Pacific.” — Geoffry Miller, BSSP General Secretary.

“Bible Society South Pacific definitely needs an upgraded version of its IT equipment that will allow for better work execution, remote access and better connectivity.” — Ernest and Young, auditors

“The Bible Society of the South Pacific is the Hub for Bible Trade and has the greatest opportunity to develop into a major wholesaler for the Pacific Region because it is trading one of the world’s best sellers — the Bible.” — Mr. Noel Tofinga

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the safety and wellbeing of all BSSP Staff, translators, volunteers and mission partners across the South Pacific and the Oceania Alliance.

• Pray for BSSP and the Christian churches to discover new approaches, ideas, and strategies for mission during these challenging and rapidly changing times, and for greater collaboration within the Oceania Alliance.

• Pray for Bible work in the Pacific and for effective user systems for Scriptural resources.

• Pray that the Lord will lead the right staff to Bible Society, to take up the positions under recruitment.

South Pacific

Jesus. All About Life & Bible Mission

Overview

This project is aimed at expanding Bible mission in the South Pacific, starting with the Jesus. All About Life (JAAL) campaign in Easter 2024. By supporting the church with Bible resources and campaigns to promote Scripture awareness, advocacy and engagement, Bible Society hopes to contribute to spiritual growth and renewal in the South Pacific. The project also supports the Bible month celebrations, wherein Bible Society prepares study booklets for churches and other groups. The Bible Society team also conducts Trauma Healing workshops for individuals and families.

The Need

Most of the South Pacific’s youth, severely impacted by the global pandemic, have faced job loss, school closures, and increased substance abuse. Communities often grapple with financial and emotional challenges, compounded by existing issues like violence, abuse, and addiction. Natural disasters also worsen fears and trauma.

Church leaders in this region have met with Bible Society, stressing the urgent need for Trauma Healing and Youth Camps amid rising secularism in the Pacific islands. Restoring relationships, fostering peace within families and promoting personal healing are vital in addressing these multifaceted challenges, alongside building resilience in communities affected by disasters and political or ethnic conflicts.

“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

John 10:10, ESV

2.8m

population in the South Pacific

2,080

Easter booklets were distributed to 24 villages over Easter 2023

3,360

Easter books were distributed to 7 orphanages (as well as a church) in 2023

3,500

people attended the Easter Production over 3 nights in the greater Suva area as part of the Jesus. All About Life campaign, with 3,431 Easter booklets distributed at the production

Goals

This project aims to expand the mission of the Bible Society in the South Pacific through working in partnership with churches to advocate and re-tell the story of Jesus to people nationwide.

Through the Jesus. All About Life Easter campaign, Bible Society of the South Pacific (BSSP) aims to serve the church in Fiji and Samoa, offering digital resources and Scriptural material for their Easter programs. An Easter Production (drama) will also take place, designed to engage the youth in the word of God during Easter. The campaign also seeks to connect churches to the Bible Society of the South Pacific and grow awareness about Bible work in the South Pacific.

In 2024, BSSP will continue to hold Bible Month Celebrations, a month-long celebration of honouring the Holy Bible in church communities as part of the mission to expand awareness about their mission. Activities include a distribution of study booklets for churches, broadcasting services, and outreach activities in Fiji, Samoa and Vanuatu. The study materials will address issues such as suicide, addiction and depression, aiming to reach the nation’s young people.

A Masterclass event is also planned for 2024 in partnership with Scripture Union, aimed at inspiring the youth of Fiji to engage deeply with the Christian faith in today’s world.

Impact

Thousands of free Bible-based resources were distributed over the Easter period of 2023, including the Who? What? Why? How? Easter storybook, The Really Surprising Story, the New Beginnings Bibles and digital resources from Bible Society Australia.

During Easter 2023, the people of the South Pacific were encouraged by engagement with Scripture and exposure to godly wisdom. The three-night Easter production — depicting the Easter story, the story of Mary Jones, and the story of the Bible in Fiji — engaged approximately 3,500 people with the gospel message, an increase of 900 on 2022’s attendance.

The impact will be ultimately seen in the extent to which there is a renewed commitment to Christ and active church participation. Whether it is through direct or indirect exposure to Scripture engagement and the message of the JAAL campaign, the project aims to impact around 100,000 people.

Testimonies

“We praise God for the opening march and church service held on Sunday 24th June in Suva, Fiji, for the official opening of the Bible Month ... We were pleased with the turnout of approximately 500 people from around the Suva area and 12,000 people joining on livestream for the church service held at the Centenary church … The study booklets (with 7 daily devotionals) have been shared online for churches to access and to use during the month as the Fiji Mission team continues with visiting communities holding Trauma Healing, Sunday school teacher training and Hermeneutics training.” — Bible Society of the South Pacific team

Prayer Needs

• Please pray the Jesus. All About Life Easter Campaign would have an ongoing impact.

• Pray that churches in Fiji will be engaged in this campaign and the Bible Month program.

• Pray that God would guide and protect South Pacific youth through the issues they are facing.

• Pray for the Bible Society team, that they would have strength, wisdom and faithfulness to advocate effectively.

Tonga

Tongan Bible New Translation and Revision

Overview

Bible Society in the South Pacific is working on two new Bible translations and two Bible revisions in the Tongan language. The priority is the completion of the Tongan Contemporary Bible, which will meet the needs of the younger generations, as the translation uses today’s Tongan language.

The Need

There is a need in Tonga, reported by church leaders, to make the Bible available in contemporary language, as well as to digitise the Bible, so that as many people as possible can have access to God’s word and be changed by God’s truth.

There are social issues of major concern in Tonga including domestic violence, disintegration of family and kinship, youth unemployment, alcohol and substance abuse. Numbers of secondary school dropouts have increased, especially males, adding to youth unemployment.

In addition to this, the country endured a huge crisis in 2022 with the eruption of the Hunga, a Tongan volcano, 65 km (40 mi) north of the main island of Tongatapu. People are still recovering from the trauma and displacement of the eruption and tsunami, and there is more need than ever for God’s word.

“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

John 10:10b, ESV

105,695

is the population of Tonga

80k

99.4%

is the number of people this Bible translation project is aiming to impact literacy rate in Tonga

Goals

The goal of this project is to make a contemporary translation of the Bible in Tongan available by 2025 (published in electronic and print formats). Secondly, this project aims to make available a revised edition of the Tongan Bible (West translation) for easy access, publishing it in electronic form in 2025. The revised work will include the insertion of book introductions and section headings, which will benefit the members of the churches that use it. They are currently in the stages of consultant checking and typesetting, both the Contemporary and the Revised West Bible before printing.

Another goal of the project (once the Tongan Contemporary Bible has been completed) is to insert the deuterocanonical books into the Contemporary Bible for the benefit of Catholic congregations in Tonga.

Impact

This project aims to impact a total of 80,000 people with Bible translation and revision, based on the current population of Tonga. By the completion of a contemporary translation, and the digitisation of Scripture, this project will encourage access to the Bible and Bible engagement for the people of Tonga.

Testimonies

“The Tongan Contemporary translation project is the one project that has the support and has unified the church leaders in Tonga to work together on the translations of the Bible.” — Mr. Viliami Falekaono, Coordinator of the project

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the people in Tonga and the work of the Bible Society and the churches in spreading God’s word.

• Continue to pray for unity and relationship building among churches and church representatives in Tonga and the Bible Society of the South Pacific as they support and work on this translation project.

• Please pray for the team members of this project, especially for Dr Maafu as he is battling illness.

Vanuatu

Bringing Hope and Healing to Women

Overview

The Bible Society of the South Pacific, in partnership with World Day of Prayer, is taking a holistic approach to advocating and empowering women who are victims of domestic violence in Vanuatu. This project continues the work begun in 2021 with the World Day of Prayer celebrations on the theme: “Building on a Strong Foundation.”

The Need

Approximately 42% of women in Vanuatu have experienced some form of violence. Domestic violence and child abuse are embedded in gender and power relations, underpinned by the low status of women and children in Vanuatu.

What happens within the family is seen as a ‘private family matter’. This means that community members will not intervene to protect a woman from an abusive husband. Community Chiefs counsel women to preserve the sanctity of the family unit, to maintain family and village harmony. Most churches don’t proactively denounce violence against women.

It is often very difficult for women to leave a violent relationship. Married women cannot accumulate personal wealth and men have stronger rights than women to their shared children.

145,000

women call Vanuatu home

42%

of women in Vanuatu have experienced some form of gender-based violence

60,000

people could be impacted by this project

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

Matthew 7:24, NIV

Goals

To reach women in Vanuatu who have experienced some form of gender-based violence, this project focuses on three main activities: 1) trauma healing programs to meet the needs of women who suffer from gender-based violence; 2) violence prevention activities including human rights and legal workshops; and 3) helping women acquire reading and writing skills through literacy programs.

In 2024, workshops are planned in the following provinces: Shefa (including its outer islands), Torba, Sanma, Tafea, South Ambae, Penama, Pentecost Island, Uripiv Island and Malampa.

The ultimate goal of this project is to bring healing, understanding, hope and care to the women of Vanuatu who have experienced gender-based violence, through Bible Society’s Trauma Healing program. This initiative further seeks to enhance advocacy efforts with churches and other agencies to bring an end to violence against women.

Impact

Over the course of three years, this project aims to impact a total of 60,000 people.

As a result of this project, other programs conducted by faith-based organisations in Vanuatu which are raising awareness of gender-based violence will be supported. Additionally, enhancing legal literacy will empower and educate women, particularly young women, about their rights within society.

Testimonies

“One part of their culture is that men don’t wash, and men don’t cook,” explains Geoffry, BSSP General Secretary. “Yet after being confronted with the stories of Jesus, the husband knelt before his wife and held up both his hands, asking his wife to buy him two washing brushes, one for each hand. He said, ‘from today on, I have learnt that men can also wash.’” — testimony of a man impacted by the trauma healing training in Vanuatu around the issue of domestic violence

“The workshop has helped me. I am ready to help our women in the community who are facing domestic abuse. I am thankful...for this workshop.” — male workshop attendee, 2022

Prayer Needs

• Give thanks for the progress of the Domestic Violence workshops carried out in Vanuatu and its impact on the communities.

• Pray for support from faith-based organisations and agencies who are familiar with the work in this area.

• Pray that the women of Vanuatu will embrace and benefit from the program.

Vanuatu

Vanuatu Bible Translation

Overview

This project seeks to reach all the peoples of Vanuatu with God’s word, through the translation and provision of the Bible. The project is undertaking four new translations of the New Testament, a revision of two Scriptures and the digitisation of three Bible translations.

The Need

In Vanuatu, 80-90% of the 234,000 Christian residents face a language barrier, as many do not have Scriptures in their own language and find it hard to read other languages. Despite 138 indigenous languages in a population of over 300,000, each language averages only 1,760 speakers. While English, French, and local trade languages are generally understood, they are not enough for many people’s spiritual and worship experiences. Research affirms that reading Scriptures in one’s dialect in church contributes immensely to people’s understanding of the Scriptures.

The need to translate God’s word into these languages is urgent, despite the smaller number of speakers in each language.

Project

303,009

people in Vanuatu

80-90%

(approx. 234,000 people) belong to the Christian faith

138

indigenous Oceanic languages

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

John 10:10, ESV

Goals

This project aims to produce four new translations of the New Testament and the revision and digitisation of existing Scripture translations in other languages. The goal of this project is to see the speakers of these languages understand the Scriptures better and be more able to apply God’s word to their lives.

In 2024, the specific goals of the project are:

• Mele New Testament: reviewing Acts and Romans, then typesetting the book of Acts.

• Ahamb (Axamb) New Testament: reviewing the translation of the Gospel of Luke

• Erromango New Testament: reviewing the Gospels, the Digital Bible launch of the Gospel of Matthew, and translation training for new translators.

• Futuna New Testament: reviewing the Gospels of Luke and John

• Lelepa New Testament: entering drafts of Matthew, Luke, John, and Ephesians into the Paratext software, and reviewing the Gospel of Matthew.

• Ngunese translation: comprehensive reviews of various books introductions and formats throughout the year.

Impact

The total number of people this project aims to impact with these Bible translations is 300,000 — the population of Vanuatu.

As a result of this Bible translation project, the people of Vanuatu who speak these languages will understand the Scriptures better and be more able to apply God’s word to their lives.

Prayer Needs

• Praise God for Dr Sam Freney, Bible Society Australia’s Translation Consultant, as he joins with Rev. Apenisa to work with Vanuatu translations on progressing the translation works in Vanuatu.

• Pray for the translators’ training and for the successful continuity of their work. Pray that God blesses them with wisdom, strength and commitment.

International

Language:

we translate the Bible into the world’s languages

We make the Bible available in people’s heart languages by supporting Bible translation work across the world.

Engagement: we help people Open The Bible

We encourage the faith journeys of people around the world through Bible engagement campaigns, Bible-based literacy programs and trauma healing programs.

Advocacy: we promote the beauty and power of God’s word

We strengthen the capacity of Bible Societies around the world as they work to recommend, defend and champion the truth and goodness of the Bible in their cultures.

Distribution: we provide Bibles to those who want one

We support various Bible-distribution projects around the world, which are specialised to reach people in need with the Bible in the best format for their situation.

Mongolia

Bible Translation

Overview

This project aims to meet the demand for a new Mongolian translation that is easier to understand for both readers and listeners. The project seeks to produce an exemplary translation in Mongolian and to have a strong impact among Mongol-speakers around the world. Started in 2015, the translation is projected for completion in 2027.

The Need

The population of Mongolia is over three million, which includes approximately 65,000 Christians.

Mongolia uses the Khalkh dialect in all its official documents and all Mongolians understand this main dialect. With literacy rates of over 95 per cent, most Mongolian people can read and write the Khalkh dialect.

A translation that is more understandable and naturally flowing in this dialect has been greatly needed for many years now, as expressed by church leaders and believers.

This translation has the potential of being widely used in all Protestant as well as Catholic and Russian Orthodox churches in Mongolia.

3.3m

is the population in Mongolia

Christians in Mongolia

65,000 95%

of Mongolian people can read and write in the Khalkh dialect.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

2 Timothy 3:16-17, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to translate the Bible from the original languages; to be accurate; to be natural with Mongolian sentence structures and phrases; to be easy to understand for both readers and listeners.

So far, over 80% of the translation project has been completed. In 2023, the Old Testament translation was prepared for print in trial version. Work translating the New Testament progressed throughout 2023, and will continue in 2024 with external reviews, including reviewing the translation of footnotes and Book introductions. Translation consultant checks will also be carried out, as well as the digital publication of 16 New Testament books, including all four Gospels. These will be accessible to readers through the project website, which helps in receiving immediate feedback and in encouraging the Scripture engagement aspect of the project.

Impact

This project will ultimately impact 80,000 people. This takes into account the approximate number of Christians in Mongolia (65,000) and abroad (1,000), plus those who would be interested in reading the Bible.

Mongolian Christians (and non-Christians) will be able to read the Bible with greater ease and comprehension. The newly translated version will benefit not only 3.3 million in Mongolia, but has the potential to be used by 5 million Mongolic speakers around the world, some of whom are also in China and Russia.

Testimonies

“I was inspired many times while translating God’s word. I am moved [by] how biblical authors offer us [a] deeply profound diagnosis of human nature, especially our sinful nature. We try to find out the whole array of meanings of a word considering its different usages in different contexts. Having a whole picture of the words is very important in solving translation issues. Thank you for your prayer and support for our work in Mongolia.” — B Orgi, Project Translator.

“We expect this project to have a lasting impact and contribution to the growth of the Mongolian Church.” — Purevdorj J., Principal of Union Bible Theological College

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the effective training of translators in biblical languages, linguistics and Bible translation.

• Pray for cooperation and unity among translators, Mongolian churches, committee members and the Mongolian Bible Society.

• Pray for the team as they work to review the draft translations of the New Testament, as well as footnotes and introductions. Pray too for the consultant translation checks and the digital publication of 16 New Testament books.

Sri Lanka

Sign Language Gospel

Overview

The Ceylon Bible Society (CBS) is translating the Gospel Parables of Jesus into Sign Language for the Christian deaf community in Sri Lanka, partnering with Christian Churches and other organisations in the country.

The Need

There are more than 300,000 deaf and hearing-impaired people in Sri Lanka. Approximately 9% of Sri Lanka’s population suffer from some form of hearing disorder (World Health Organization, 2019). Moreover, Sri Lanka’s deaf community is marginalised socio-politically, and deaf people are unable to get required services efficiently from schools, hospitals, banks, courts and more, due to the lack of Sinhala to Sign Language interpretation support.

There are currently only five Christian schools for the deaf in Sri Lanka, and only five church denominations translate their church services into Sign Language. A visit to the School for the Deaf in Ratmalana convinced the Ceylon Bible Society of the importance of providing the children and young people with the Scriptures in their own language — sign language

deaf or hearing-impaired people in Sri Lanka (Sri Lanka Federation of the Deaf data)

of Sri Lankans are Christians

300,000+ <8% 26

schools for the deaf in Sri Lanka, 5 of them are Christian schools

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Proverbs 31: 8-9, NIV

Goals

This project aims to make key biblical narratives accessible to the deaf community in Sri Lanka by creating gospel selections in Sri Lankan Sign Language in video format.

The team has successfully recorded the ‘Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ’ narratives in 2023 which included the integration of the recorded content into the Sri Lankan Sign Language Translation (SLTT) software, along with a glossary into Sinhala, Tamil and English. The team has hired artists to include illustrations to the narratives and received help from Bible scholars to ensure that members understand deep Biblical meanings.

Training and regular committee meetings to plan and coordinate the project’s key components are also part of the process, to ensure an accurate representation and clear communication using Sri Lankan Sign Language. In 2024, this project will launch the ‘Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ’ video at Easter time, as well as commence work on the ‘Baptism of Jesus’ narrative in Matthew 2:13-15.

Impact

This project aims to impact at least 1,000 people, with a greater potential impact, as the estimated number of Christians who are deaf is around 20,000. The project will also strengthen churches to work more closely with the deaf community. The resources will improve the quality of churches for the deaf, and result in more deaf people being able to be involved in Bible ministry.

The Gospel Parables in Sign Language will be a resource for deaf people and may motivate them to study the Bible. Despite the challenges they face, they can experience more of the love and faithfulness of God. It is hoped that it will make them feel that they are a valuable in God’s eyes.

Testimonies

“The life story of Jesus portrayed in Sri Lankan Sign Language has received positive feedback from the audience ... Many deaf individuals from the deaf community expressed their gratitude for having the opportunity to watch the life story of Jesus in Sri Lankan Sign Language. They appreciated the efforts put into creating sign language content that is specifically catering to their needs, allowing them to connect with the story on a deeper level.

“Individuals who watched the Sri Lankan Sign Language rendition of the life story of Jesus shared that it enhanced their spiritual experience. They mentioned feeling inspired, uplifted, and motivated to deepen their faith and relationship with God.”

— Ceylon Bible Society Team

Prayer Needs

• Please pray for the people who are signing this resource, that they would be able to learn the correct signs, and that God grant them wisdom in translating Bible texts into signs.

• Pray for the editing and recording of the ‘Life story of Jesus’ series. Thank God for the wonderful work that is currently in progress and pray that it would be a blessing to the deaf community in Sri Lanka.

• Pray for good collaboration among the team and continued funding for the project into the future as the economic crisis in the country has affected everyone.

Vietnam

First Old Testament Overview

This project will translate the Old Testament for a Vietnamese ethnic minority* to join the recently translated New Testament and complete the first full Bible for this marginalised community.

The Need

These people are one of the most influential ethnic groups in the mountainous areas of North Vietnam. The growth of Christianity among the people is slow, perhaps because the current New Testament in use by the churches was translated by a diaspora group of the same ethnicity. While similar to their language, it cannot express and communicate God’s word naturally for the people living in Vietnam.

Many of this ethnic minority, especially the young, cannot read the ancient text of their language and there is currently no Scripture in their contemporary language for them to read. There is a great need for Bibles to be translated into today’s language.

The local people requested a New Testament in their language from Bible Society Vietnam, which was completed at the end of 2023 after four years work. To complete the full Bible, the ethnic group need the Old Testament in their language so they can use it to preach, study, and share their faith.

848,000

people belonging to this ethnic minority live in Vietnam

0.17%

are Christians, approximately 1,400

Jesus answered, ‘It is written: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’

Matthew 4:4, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to complete the Old Testament translation by 2030 and print it the same year. In addition to this, Bible Society Vietnam will give permission for Faith Comes By Hearing to record an audio version, and by uploading it to the Digitial Bible Library, the Scriptures in this minority language will also be accessible online through YouVersion.

In 2024, the goal is to complete the translation of Genesis 1-50, Exodus 1-40, Leviticus 1-27, Numbers 1-36, and Deuteronomy 1-29. Additionally, there will be internal reviews, Translation Officer checks, community reviews, and consultant checking at various stages for these translated sections.

In addition to this, the goal is take the completed book of Genesis, do an audio recording for YouTube, and print and distribute 1,000 copies in 2024 – 2025.

Impact

The total number of people this project aims to impact is all those who speak this ethnic minority language in Vietnam.

A short-term impact of the project will be that on listening to and reading the completed book of Genesis, the people will feel connected to the new translation and begin using it.

In addition to this, the translation team members will be impacted by their training and work on Bible translation, and will be equipped to lead Bible study groups, Sunday schools, and inspire their communities to love the word of God as well as to follow it.

The ultimate impact of this project is that Christians in this ethnic minority will be strengthened by reading and understanding the Bible in their own language, and will love God more, love one another, and love their neighbours.

Testimony

“We seize the opportunity to study God’s word more, to have a solid foundation for our faith and to be able to answer those who ask about our hope ... but the Bible we have is written in the Vietnamese language. I would love to have a Bible in [my language]. Reading something in [my language] is easier to understand. Romans 10:17 is my favourite and I live by it ... ‘Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ’. Though I remember the verse in Vietnamese, I still prefer it in [my language]. Should I have a Bible in [my language], I would share it with my family ... At least they would not perceive Christianity as some foreign religion but feel for themselves that God does speak to them, in their own language.” — Linh Tran*, 22-year-old wife and mother

Prayer Needs

• Please pray for the setting up of the translation team for the Old Testament work, and for the project to go smoothly.

• Please pray for successful outcomes in the translation workshops, leading to the adoption of best practices and the enhancement of the team’s translation skills.

• Please ask for God’s protection and wisdom for the Bible Society Vietnam and the translation team throughout the project.

• Pray too for God to strengthen, encourage and protect Christians and the churches of this ethnic minority.

• Pray that the Holy Spirit would soften the hearts of the people in this ethnic minority towards Christians so they will be receptive to God’s word.

*Names omitted or replaced for security reasons.

Vietnamese Study Bible

Overview

Bible Society Vietnam is translating the Old Testament and related content to complete a Vietnamese Study Bible, an easy-to-use resource for Vietnamese Christians to deepen their engagement with the Bible and grow in their faith.

The Need

The increase in church planting has led to a strong need for accessible resources to improve biblical knowledge among lay preachers, Sunday school teachers, and enthusiastic attendees. Vietnamese evangelical Christians received a revision of their Vietnamese Bible in 2010. They now need a one-volume, easy-to-use Study Bible to help them engage more meaningfully with the Bible.

Vietnam 1m+ <6%

While Bible Society Vietnam also understands that there is a need for a scholarly edition of the Bible, for the time being, the needs of the average churchgoer are the most urgent — for an accessible Study Bible that aims to serve the majority of Vietnamese evangelicals.

Vietnamese evangelical Christians (according to the 2009 Census) of Vietnamese are non-literate

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”

Goals

The goal of this project is to develop an easy-to-use, accessible source of reference with helpful charts, tables, diagrams, and information. The goal is to finish the content related to the Old Testament in 2024 and publish the Study Bible in mid-2025.

In 2023, better content was developed by adding notes and adding/revising articles, especially those addressing: social aspects, the leadership of women, inclusive love for the wider society, social justice including poverty, immigration, hospitality, etc. By the end of the year, 1,000 copies of the book of Romans were printed and distributed, in order get feedback from readers.

In 2024, the goal is to take time to revise and add notes, especially for the poetic and prophetic books, and have them reviewed and checked by the translation consultant. Furthermore, feedback from the readers of the book of Romans will be implemented.

Impact

This Study Bible will help Vietnamese Christians and pastors understand the Bible better, come to know God more, love him more, and spread his love to their neighbours within and without church.

The Study Bible is aimed at the average Sunday School attendees and their teachers, plus the lay preachers and evangelists in remote areas who have little access to formal biblical studies. It will help preachers to become more effective (and accurate) in their preaching and help believers to have better access to the Bible.

Testimony

“My generation often contemplates the word of God within the modern context and brings God’s word to today’s social setting ... we are more drawn toward the application of biblical knowledge to solve today’ problems of young people ... I saw that many of them have the urge to study the Bible more deeply ... I was driven to help them come closer to the Bible.

“When I was given a copy of the Gospel of Luke in Study Bible format, I was impressed by the design and layout of the book; it’s very catchy and helpful. Those who study the word of God will benefit from the Study Bible because there are many features ... The footnotes and illustrations help the readers easily imagine or visualize the background in which the biblical story happened.” — Sky, 26-year-old Bible college student

Prayer Needs

• Pray that the project produces a Study Bible that meets the needs of Vietnamese Christians.

• Pray for the translation team, the translation consultant, and that the team will be blessed with wisdom and skills as they adapt the contents and designs from the CEV Learning Bible to the Vietnamese Study Bible.

• Pray for the completion of all the contents in 2024 and the publication in 2025.

Asia Pacific

Literacy Capacity in the Asia Pacific Region

Overview

This capacity building project for Bible Society literacy workers will impact about 30 literacy staff of Bible Societies in the Asia Pacific, thereby benefiting their literacy projects and thousands of learners in the coming years.

The Need

Many Bible Societies in the Asia Pacific region are running literacy projects in their respective countries, seeking to meet the need for literacy in their countries and empower people with reading and writing skills.

In the competency survey conducted in 2023, a need was highlighted: training staff in how to develop literacy material, which is a component of the literacy lifecycle.

58.8m

non-literate adults in Pakistan

non-literates in Bangladesh

41.25m 18

Bible Societies work in 52 countries in the Asia Pacific region

“... so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

2 Timothy 3:17, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to conduct two training events for the literacy staff of Bible Societies in the Asia Pacific Region in 2024. In 2023, a competency survey was conducted among all the literacy staff of the Asia Pacific, and based on such a survey, the Asia Pacific Literacy Training on the general overview and principles of literacy was organised, building the capacity of the literacy staff in the region.

In 2024, one training will be virtual and the other will be an in-person training. This in-person training session will be on literacy material development, to meet the needs identified in the 2023 Literacy Training. The over-arching aim of these two training events will be to strengthen the capacity-building efforts of the Bible Society literacy staff in the Asia Pacific region.

A total of about 25-30 literacy staff of the Asia Pacific will receive training in 2024.

Impact

The Bible Society Literacy Staff who attended the literacy materials development and software training in previous years have been equipped in developing age-appropriate materials for their participants.

This project will primarily impact 25-30 Bible Society literacy staff, especially those involved in the delivery of literacy programs. When trained in different aspects of the literacy programs (planning, implementation, evaluation) they will be able to use it in the context of their literacy projects. It is hoped that these staff will be able to strengthen their program implementation and develop several Bible engagement products for nonliterate audiences. In turn, this will impact thousands of beneficiaries in the coming years.

Testimonies

“Please pray for the literacy projects, that we will have adequate specialists. There was a time we did not have specialists in literacy, but now there are literacy specialists. They’re able to make an impact. We need to not simply do the work of literacy education, but do the work in the right way. And that is where the specialists come in.” — Julian Sundersingh, the head of UBS Global Literacy Coordination.

Prayer Needs

• Pray that all the Bible Societies who participated in the 2023 Asia Pacific Literacy Training will be able to put into use what they learnt: the principles behind literacy practices, program planning, research, and implementation as they develop their literacy projects in the years to come.

• Pray that an appropriate, needs-based training will be identified and conducted for the benefit of the literacy staff in 2024.

• Pray that available trainers will be identified to help in the capacity-building efforts and training events to be lined up for 2024.

Bangladesh

Literacy Skills for Underprivileged Women

Overview

The Bangladesh Bible Society (BBS) are reaching non-literate women with the word of God through a literacy course in the rural areas of Bangladesh, giving them the opportunity to read and write, as well as listen and interact with the Bible. In turn, the skills they learn enable the women to teach their children, impacting their families and their church communities.

The Need

There are around 172 million people in Bangladesh, and only around 74% are functionally literate. Most people in rural areas cannot read the Bible, or any book. Women living in remote areas of Bangladesh are poor and have had very little opportunity to access an education.

Many of these non-literate adults have a desire to learn and study. Some have the Scripture available to them, and are hungry for the word of God, even though they are not able to read it. They are eager for an education, so they can read God’s word.

Although the Christian population of Bangladesh is at 0.3%, in the target communities of this literacy course, the majority have Christian faith; the Garo community are all Christians, the Santalis are 95% Christian, and the rest are Bengali Christians.

“I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.”

Psalm 119:10, NIV

172m

people in Bangladesh

74%

of the population are functionally literate

61%

of the population live in rural areas

Goals

The ultimate goal of the project is to teach literacy skills to 1,500 women each year.

Each year, 500 women begin the literacy classes in 75 rural classes, with the program lasting for three years. They meet five days a week for 1.5hour lessons, in which they listen to lessons and learn to read with the help of a facilitator. The goal is that they will be able to read the newspapers, books, and the Bengali Common Language Bible.

BBS plan to distribute 500 Bibles each year to those who join the literacy classes, along with literacy books, audio Scripture for the classes, and 50 sewing machines for the third-year groups to share. The goal is to see 500 students graduate each year.

Impact

Each student will be impacted as, by gaining literacy skills, they are encouraged towards independence in supporting their families. In the final year of studies, BBS provide sewing machines, cattle and small aids for farming also. In addition to this, graduates gain the necessary literacy skills to deal with government communications, legal matters and health related issues.

The women will come to understand the word of God through the curriculum and share their experience among their children and their neighbours. The indirect impact of this project each year is 6,000, as each student influences at least 4 people, passing on their new skills to their families.

The impact of the project increases again as each woman is able to participate and preach in their church communities and local gatherings.

Testimonies

“Before attending this class I could not read any book ... I desired to read and write but I did not have any opportunity to do so. Even I did not know Bible stories. I was so curious to know about Jesus Christ, and my desire has been fulfilled after attending this literacy class. I personally came to know Jesus from stories which are given in the literacy books and CDs. I decided to lead my life according to the teaching of Jesus because I received him in my life.’’ — Mina, 45-year-old wife and mother and a new believer.

“The teaching from the Bible stories in literacy class helped in my life and changed me. I realised that I got peace from Jesus that brings a joy in my life. I got the opportunity to know Jesus deeply during these classes. I learned how to love my neighbors, even love my enemies.” — Protima, 40-year-old mother of four children. She came from a Hindu family, but was interested to know Jesus, and joined in the literacy class in her village church.

Prayer Needs

• Pray that God would give the students wisdom to learn, and perseverance to continue through the three years of study.

• Please pray for the first-year students who struggle to read and write. Pray that God gives them wisdom to learn.

• Pray for protection and provision for the participants, as they also strive for stable food, shelter and good health.

• Pray that the yearly monsoon season and the heavy rain it brings would not affect the lessons.

Bangladesh

Pre-Primary Literacy for Rural Children

Overview

The Bangladesh Bible Society (BBS) is seeking to reach preschool-aged children with the word of God through a literacy course in the rural and remote areas of Bangladesh.

The Need

There are more than 172 million people in Bangladesh, and approximately 26% of the population are children. A large percentage of people live in rural areas and children are prevented by distance from attending pre-schools. In later schooling, their lack of familiarity with the national Bengali language means attaining literacy is challenging.

In Bangladesh, tribal children all start school in the Bengali language even though they speak in their mother tongue. Some of these tribes do not even have their language in written form, so learning literacy in Bengali is the only option.

These children need to be taught at a younger age, so that they can gain a basis in education which will help them when they begin their primary school education, or catch up on the studies they have missed due to language difficulties at national schools.

“My son, give me your heart and let your eyes delight in my ways ...”

Proverbs 23:26, NIV

172m

people in Bangladesh

74%

26%

of the population are functionally literate of the population are children

Goals

The goal of the literacy program is to educate pre-school aged children in remote areas who cannot access distant schools due to their youth and poverty. Bible Society’s literacy class will help them learn basic literacy skills, beginning at four years old, in their villages. Students will learn to read, recite and write in Bengali, preparing them for formal schooling. Children will also learn to connect with the word of God through the classes and have their relationship with God strengthened.

Classes which began in 2023 will continue in 2024, with the first group finishing at the end of the year. In 2024, 30 new classes, with 600 students, will be started in different areas, and an evaluation will be conducted to help with planning in upcoming years.

Impact

The total number of people this project aims to impact is 1,500.

In 2023, BBS started 15 pre-primary literacy schools in three locations, with a total of 300 students studying from July. Books were distributed in each school, with the local church leaders, pastors and community leaders all working together for the schools.

This project will bring children together in groups to learn to read, equipping them for their formal schooling ahead. It will also allow them to learn to read the word of God.

Testimonies

“This program is excellent for the children, which I could not have in my [childhood]. Everyone should support to this program.’’ — Bishop Philip, Chairman, Talitha Koumi Evangelical Church, Dhaka

Prayer Needs

• Please pray for the children that they will be encouraged to come to class regularly.

• Please continue to pray for the teachers, that they will be successful in teaching the students.

• Pray for the church leaders, pastors, and community leaders, for their full support of this program.

• Please continue to pray for the betterment of the political situation in the country.

Burkina Faso

Empowering Women Through Literacy

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with Bible Society Burkina Faso to launch a women’s literacy program, incorporating income-generating activities in local languages. The initiative empowers women with reading, writing, and socio-economic skills, fostering spiritual growth through Bible engagement.

The Need

Burkina Faso faces a dire literacy challenge, with one of the world’s lowest rates. In 2019, only 29.7% of individuals aged 15 and above were literate. This issue predominantly affects women, who comprise over half of the population. Millions of women, including countless adolescent girls, lack access to fundamental literacy. They seek knowledge for spiritual growth, socio-economic integration, and selfsufficiency. This literacy need is emphasised by the local churches partnering with the Bible Society of Burkina Faso (BSBF). This challenge is compounded by the region’s instability due to terrorism since 2015. Illiteracy perpetuates high female unemployment, low income, financial instability, poor health, and adverse family impacts.

“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”

Project No:

103116

75%

of women over 15 are non-literate (2019, National Institue of Statistics)

3,880

women will graduate over the 4 years of this literacy project

19,400

Goals

The goal of the project is to enhance reading and writing fluency in native languages, promoting Scriptural engagement and spiritual growth while also bolstering living conditions. BSBF will partner with churches, who will host classes as hubs for students and teachers, with an evangelistic purpose. Ultimately, BSBF aims to transition program ownership to the church.

Beginning in 2024, Level 1 focuses on students across four languages. In 2025, Level 2 expands to five languages while maintaining the student count. From 2026 to 2029, six languages will be taught, alternating between Levels 1 and 2.

The anticipated outcomes include 2,400 annual students, 80 educators, and 1,940 graduates every two years, coupled with literacy and Scripture materials creation and distribution. These efforts impart essential skills in reading, writing, numeracy, and entrepreneurship, leading to a more fulfilling life.

Impact

Over four years, this project will directly impact 3,880 students, equipping them with literacy and income-generating skills. Indirectly, at least 19,400 individuals, including immediate and extended family members, will benefit from the women’s newfound expertise.

The initiative aims to transform lives by providing vital skills in reading, writing, and basic arithmetic. These competencies enhance their understanding of God’s word and empower them to navigate both Christian and daily life effectively. The project also broadens horizons through knowledge and entrepreneurship skills, emphasising income-generating activities. Vocational training equips participants to establish sustainable income sources, leading to a more fulfilling life.

As part of the program, students will receive Bibles or New Testaments in their learning languages as post-literacy resources. Additionally, Bible reading clubs will be established for graduates to maintain their reading skills.

Testimonies

“I didn’t have the chance to go to formal school because my parents decided to send my brothers instead of me, the only girl ... One day I fell ill ... I took the medicine, but more than I should have (overdose) because I couldn’t read or write ... by the grace of God, the doctor saved my life. Later, I gave my life to Christ and started going to church. Every time the pastor preached, I enjoyed the message and could remember it for a few days. One day I sat down and made the decision to learn to read and write. When the Bible Society decided to open a literacy class in our church, I was the first to register. Now I’ve joined our church choir and write my songs; I take notes when my pastor preaches. I can read a medication prescription, even if I don’t understand it all. At least I know how many pills to take.” — Solange

Prayer Needs

• Please pray for a good partnership with the churches and other organisations in running this project.

• Pray that students would attend classes regularly.

• Pray for a great impact in the lives of the beneficiaries (women and their immediate relatives).

Cambodia

Learning Through Listening

Overview

Bible Society Cambodia (BSC) launched The Learning Through Listening literacy project in 2003 to teach people how to read, by reading the Bible. Each year the program empowers non-literate people so they can develop their literacy skills and contribute more effectively to their communities. It also means they can read the Scriptures for their own personal growth.

The Need

Illiteracy can expose Cambodian people to shame, fraud and exploitation and often keeps people in poverty. Many of the youth and adult populations of rural Cambodia have not had the opportunity to receive a quality education due to the nation’s history of devastating war and genocide.

The most non-literate people in Cambodia are those who are hard to reach (remote populations, ethnic minorities, migrants, and people with disabilities), and this accounts for the slow improvement rate in literacy. Teachers, particularly in rural areas, are also paid low salaries, with many teaching their students for only two hours a day so they can earn additional income elsewhere.

84%

of adults are literate in Cambodia (2022, World Bank data).

61.3%

of students complete primary school (UN data) despite a 98.2% net enrolment ratio.

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”

Romans 15:4, NIV

Goals

BSC is partnering with Cambodian churches to offer literacy training to disadvantaged communities. Each year the program aims to provide literacy skills to a total of 5,000 – 6,000 students.

The Literacy program is a three-month audio and Bible-based program, running for one-hour, five days a week. A class is made up of 10-15 students who listen to a pre-recorded lesson and work from a provided textbook. The classes do not require teachers. Instead, Bible Society trains volunteers to facilitate the group. Many volunteers have been through the classes themselves.

Each year the program aims to provide literacy skills to both disadvantaged Christians and non-Christians who have not learned to read or write Khmer.

BSC aims to conduct 350 classes in 24 provinces of Cambodia. As well as the classes, training workshops for new facilitators and graduation ceremonies are planned. Graduates from the literacy course receive a certificate and a New Testament Bible.

Impact

Bible Society of Cambodia has reported several positive outcomes of this literacy program. By learning literacy skills, participants are equipped with tools for acquiring knowledge and effective communication. Students’ motivation to join the classes range from aiding their children’s education to starting small businesses.

Local authorities in certain areas have supported the program by awarding certificates to graduates, and parents appreciate the positive impact on their children’s knowledge, attitudes, and affection. This transformational experience is leading families to view these classes as a valuable means of education.

Many join the classes in order to deepen their faith, as they are equipped to read and understand the Scriptures independently. The impact on individual students — as they’re able to read simple texts, as well as the word of God — has inspired others, including Christian leaders and community members, to join the classes. Leaders and pastors are supportive of the program which has empowered their church members to grow in confidence and resilience. Many people have encountered Jesus in these classes, prompting a demand to expand the classes into neighbouring villages.

Testimonies

“The textbooks contain the words of God, so besides becoming literate, the students also learn about the true God, his word and his love ... This literacy program makes it easy to share the gospel. I am keen to see the Bible Society continue helping illiterate people in the rural areas. I believe God will bless our nation and all the volunteers who serve him from their hearts with cheerfulness.” — Pastor Keo

Prayer Needs

• Pray that God will use the program to bring salvation to students and spiritual growth to believers.

• Pray that churches will be diligent in recruiting and training new volunteers so that more classes can be offered.

• Pray that God will continue to transform rural communities through the literacy projects.

• Pray for more communities and authorities to open up their doors to the program.

China

Scripture and Literacy

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting the United Bible Societies China Partnership (UBSCP) in providing literacy classes for rural Chinese Christians, a high percentage of whom are non-literate or semi-literate. As Christians acquire literacy skills, they can read and understand God’s word.

The Need

According to the Census in 2020, there are over 37.75 million nonliterate people above 15-years-old in China. Of this number, about 75% are women, due to cultural and traditional practices that deprioritise female education.

Most Chinese Christians are non-literate and are too poor to receive any form of education. In particular, many elderly Christians living in poor rural areas are non-literate or semi-literate and are too poor to have received any form of education, though they deeply desire to read God’s word in their final years. The need for literacy classes is significant, especially among these elderly Christians. Improved literacy also helps to address the church’s concern over the widespread infiltration of cults, found mainly in rural areas. Biblical literacy will help Christians discern between true and false teachings and prevent believers from being swayed by heresies.

“In

Acts 19:20, NIV

37.75m

non-literate adults in China

literacy rate (as of 2020 census)

97.44% 90% 80%

of Mandarin speakers who are non-literate or semi-literate are elderly.

of Mandarin speakers who are non-literate or semi-literate are women.

this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power.”

Goals

In 2024, UBSCP will collaborate with Provincial Christian Councils (PCCs) to develop and support literacy programs tailored to the needs of Christians in provinces where doors are opened. The goal is to reach 6,100 non-literate Mandarin-speaking Christians and 450 mother-tongue speaking Christians from 9 ethnic minority groups who have the Bible or New Testament in their mother tongue: West Lisu, East Lisu, Bai Yi, Miao (Big Flowery Miao), Wa, Gan Yi, Black Yi, Zaiwa and Lahu.

The specific goals of the project are to raise the literacy level of these rural Christians and to continue to develop a new literacy primer (for print and online) to use in the ‘Improving Literacy phase’ of the course. The draft primer for the Chinese language was produced in 2023 and tested from October-December. Another goal for 2024 is to improve the literacy assessment system, introduce it to church partners, and get their support to implement the system as 2024 begins.

Impact

Improved literacy improves quality of life. When they can read and write, people are better informed of developments in their communities, especially matters of benefit to them, and can respond with understanding.

The Scripture literacy program motivates these Christians to learn basic literacy skills, enabling them to better understand the Bible. Ultimately, they come to a deeper understanding of God’s love. With improved literacy, spiritual growth can be expected for all believers as they are also better able to understand sermons and Bible teaching.

Testimonies

“Scripture literacy classes not only teach us how to read and write, but more importantly, they also teach us about God’s truth. And God’s truth protects us from the lies of the evil one.” — Yingli, literacy student

“My Grandma is 64 years old. When she was young, her family was very poor and she didn’t have a chance to read or write, so when she knew that the church is starting a literacy class, she signed up immediately! I have been attending the scripture literacy lessons with my grandmother since the first lesson and I have never missed a single lesson. The instructor would teach the class how to read and write new words and sentences from the Bible.” — Zhao, granddaughter of literacy student

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the Provincial Christian Council as they work with the local churches to run the Scripture literacy classes.

• Pray for the favour and approval from the authorities.

• Pray for the teachers to be motivated and persevering.

• Pray for the participants - that they may be able to learn quickly and well.

• Pray for God’s guidance in rolling out the new primer for the Chinese Language, from testing it at selected literacy classes, setting up assessment system and making the finalised version available in China.

Egypt

Children and Adults Post Literacy

Overview

The Bible Society of Egypt (BSE)’s Children and Adult Post Literacy project aims to build on basic literacy skills in students of all ages and prevent a relapse into illiteracy. This project facilitates personal and spiritual development as individuals accept responsibility and take initiative for their ongoing learning.

The Need

The quality of education in Egypt is low on the world scale. Teaching styles can sometimes be rigid; pupil participation is not encouraged enough. Many schools have poor infrastructure. Children often fail to properly learn literacy skills and a lack of practice can cause them to fall back into illiteracy. Those who are non-literate, often have poor communication skills and difficulties in focusing, listening, and understanding. Without this life skill, opportunities are limited, and personal confidence is also reduced.

In the Egyptian church, when children drop out of school, they often drop out of the church as well. Illiteracy means that many young people find it hard to focus, listen and understand at church, leading to disengagement from church life.

“I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.”

Psalm 119:10, NIV

of people in Egypt are non-literate (16 million people)

of the population are Christians

25% 10-15% 80%

of children leave Sunday school when they reach secondary school

Goals

The goal of this project is to help students develop their reading and writing skills and encourage them to develop personal responsibility for their learning as they think for themselves, discuss, and participate in classes. Operating throughout Egypt, this project is intended predominantly for school children but also for recently literate adults.

BSE is hoping to have 4,000 to 5,000 students involved in 5 levels over 18-24 months, in 200 to 300 classes. Around 250 to 350 volunteer facilitators will be supported by 21 supervisors in 89 training events across the year, including 10 preparation meetings, 20 one-day sessions for new facilitators, 40 for current facilitators, and 15 follow-up meetings with classes.

Each student receives a resource package containing Scripture portions, exercise books, audio material, games, exercises and activities. In 2024, 3,300 Scripture materials (portions, New Testaments, and Bibles) will be provided, along with 26,400 printed primers and 21,400 supplementary reading material.

Impact

Over 24 years, the literacy program has significantly impacted people in the lower socio-economic segment of Egyptian society, and is consistently expanding its reach to new students, teachers, churches, and areas. The impact is evident as students develop reading skills and literacy competence, fostering a continuous learning lifestyle. The program’s influence extends to personal and spiritual development, reflected in improved behaviour at home, school, and church. Students embody biblical principles learned in class, demonstrating increased self-development and motivation for positive change. Program participants often become actively involved in the church, with enhanced literacy skills making their engagement more meaningful. This comprehensive approach underscores the program’s profound and holistic impact on individuals and communities.

Testimonies

“I really benefited from the [literacy program] and I want to thank everyone who helped to make this program possible. I came away with many things from the class. I made decisions about my life. I learned more about my character from the program. I learned to feel my value in life, and I have a mission … I feel like I must use it and share it with those around me. This program has given me the feeling that I can do whatever I want to do in the future. I would really like to become a doctor one day.” — Mariam, from St Mark’s Church

“I learnt from the literacy course how to read the Bible, how to be committed. I hope in the future to be a servant of God to help people, to be a doctor to help people in need. You can have a better tomorrow when people cooperate and help each other. When I grow up, I hope to be a children’s doctor.” — Ireny

Prayer Needs

• Pray for a better understanding of Scriptures for all students who take part in this project.

• Pray for security and a continued increase and growth in the program, despite the political uncertainty and upheaval of the country.

Kenya

Arise – Healing Teens’ Wounds of Trauma

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting the Bible Society of Kenya (BSK) in launching a teen Trauma Healing program. BSK will train teachers and peer counsellors, enabling them to support adolescents who may be facing trauma-related issues. BSK will also conduct awareness sessions for parents on teen trauma.

The Need

Recent research by the Kenyan Ministry of Health and stakeholders reveals a distressing upsurge in youth mental health issues, worsened by COVID-19 and family challenges. In schools, BSK has noted increased truancy, depression, and even suicides among students, causing distress among educators and parents.

These teenagers face imminent threats to their well-being due to traumatic experiences. There is an urgent need for the Church to become a refuge for healing, extending its support into schools. World Health Organization statistics underscore the importance of addressing these issues, as emotional disorders affect school performance and attendance, while social withdrawal deepens isolation and depression, sometimes leading to suicide.

10-20%

of the world’s children and adolescents have a mental health condition.

100

trauma healing facilitators will be trained to conduct teen healing sessions.

5,000

students will be reached with trauma healing support in 2024.

5,000

teens will receive a Bible to refer to during trauma healing sessions.

“Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good.”

Titus 2:6-7a, NIV

Goals

BSK will collaborate with school administrators to create safe places for teenagers, rebuilding trust, and invite teens into a loving and judgementfree relationship. This project will actively listen to teens’ stories and will give them a voice in their families and communities, as well as introduce them to the loving, comforting and faithful presence of Jesus. The project will also coach and mentor teens to support their peers.

In 2024, 1,000 copies each of “Healing Teens Wounds of Trauma” Facilitators manual and “Teens Journal - Life Hurts. Love Heals” will be printed. Around 100 project facilitators will be trained to conduct healing sessions in schools and churches, as well as establish a system for counselling referrals for teens in need. Each group of teens will receive Bibles (GNBs for junior secondary students and RSVs for high school students) to equip them with Scripture references in the sessions.

Impact

The total number of people this project aims to impact is 5,000. In one year, the project will reach 10 schools, each with 500 students.

The impact of this project will be seen in the restoration of healing for over 5,000 students. Safe places will be created in schools where students who are struggling can find a place to confide in. The impact will further be seen in improved relationships between teens, parents and teachers, and in improved academic performance amongst the students.

Testimonies

“This project seeks to call back to life the resilience of teenagers, enabling them to overcome the pain of traumatic experiences and move on to achieve their set goals and dreams. These teens will in turn encourage their peers through peer counselling activities.” — Anne, Bible Society of Kenya.

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the willingness of the Church to arise and go out to schools.

• Pray for resources to train and equip the volunteers and facilitators.

• Pray for teens in Kenya, that they will find healing and hope in the word of God.

Laos

Literacy by Listening

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting the Laos Bible Society in providing literacy skills to ethnic minority groups and underprivileged people, fostering individual and community development, including spiritual growth through reading the Scriptures.

The Need

Approximately 87% of the 7.5 million people in Laos are considered literate, yet while the Lao people group (55% of the population) have good access to education, the other 45% is composed of ethnic minorities who often live in remote mountain areas, which hinders access to education, resulting in a very low literacy rate for minorities. As well as poor access to schools, children in remote areas are needed to help families with subsistence farming, and don’t learn to read and write in Lao. Schools in remote areas are typically underresourced. There is a need for accessible, well-resourced literacy education for adults and children.

While officially 1.5% of the population are Christian, Christian growth in Laos since 1990 has been phenomenal, growing from near zero to about 300,000 all up, 4% of the population.

“Your

Psalm 119:105, NIV

7.5m

people in Laos

47%

of the Laos population are ethnic minorities

300,000

(unofficially) Christians in Laos

word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

Goals

The goal of this project is to provide a simple literacy program for rural Lao and minority groups to become proficient in reading and writing Lao. This will allow them to contribute to the development of their communities, as well as grow personally and spiritually as they have the opportunity to read the Scriptures.

The program uses the Bible and a textbook to teach literacy skills, while local church volunteers conduct the classes, with the help of an audio device that dictates the lessons.

Each year the goal is to start 150-200 classes with 1,500-2,500 students, in the national language, Lao. There is a currently a long waiting list in local churches for members who want to be part of the program, so the need for more classes is clear.

In 2024, the goal is to open 20 classes with 200 students, 10 teachers. Of these, it is expected that 160 will graduate. All graduates will receive an illustrated ‘Stories of Jesus’ book, along with other books of Bible stories.

Impact

In recent years, Bible Society has achieved an annual distribution of over 1,500 New Testaments, 6,000 new reader Bible portions and 6,000 children’s Bible portions to those who participate in the classes, and other members of the community who may be impacted by this project in their area.

Significant impact is seen as people from ethnic minorities gain literacy skills. Literate adults are able to read the Bible and become better equipped to contribute to their communities and to church life.

Testimonies

“I have taken the literacy books to show the younger ladies that I can read the Bible now even though I am 50 years old and asked them to study. Knowing God’s word is the most important thing in life. Many just want to go to church when they are sick and have no life in God, but I want them to thrive.” — Vila*, Graduate

Prayer Needs

• Pray that churches will be motivated to run the literacy program as part of their outreach to both believers and unbelievers.

• Pray that more people from the churches will commit to being program teachers and facilitators.

• Pray that local authorities will allow classes to take place in rural areas in which there can be restrictions on Christian activity.

*Name changed for security reasons.

Laos

Literacy for the Hmong

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with the Laos Bible Society (LBS) to develop and run a literacy project among the Hmong people, in response to the needs of churches, who wish to teach their nonliterate members to read God’s word.

The Need

In Laos, 20% of males and 40% of females over 15 can’t read, with the most affected in remote rural areas and ethnic minority groups constituting 47% of the population. They lack education access due to geographical and subsistence farming needs. Non-literate believers in churches need to read God’s word. The Hmong, Laos’ second-largest ethnic minority, have a Hmong Bible published in 2022, but many can’t read it. Even Hmong children who manage to attend school are taught in Lao, not their native language. A literacy program is vital for Hmong people to read their mother tongue Bible and grow spiritually, but church leaders lack suitable teaching materials. Local churches need systematic tools for clear Bible comprehension.

47%

of the population are remote ethnic minorities who don’t have easy access to education

639,900

Hmong people group in Laos (2023, Joshua Project)

75,000

Hmong (almost 12%) from unofficial sources, are Christians

50%

of Hmong believers cannot read and write Hmong

“Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding ... She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed.”

Proverbs 3:13,18 ESV

Goals

This project aims to impart reading skills in the Hmong language to non-literate individuals in Laos. By doing so, it empowers them to read Scriptures in their mother tongue, fostering personal spiritual growth and contributing to community development.

In 2024, in collaboration with the Laos Evangelical Churches, LBS, guided by the UBS Literacy Advisor for the Asia Pacific, will develop literacy materials tailored for the Hmong ethnic group in Laos. These materials will be implemented between 2025 and 2027, in partnership with other churches who will organise the literacy classes.

The literacy program will roll out in phases:

• Emerging level in 2024

• Improving level in 2025

• Fluent level in 2026

Starting from 2025, the literacy program will consist of 20 classes for 200 learners at each level, significantly expanding access to literacy education in the Hmong language.

Impact

Being illiterate in their mother tongue poses challenges for Hmong believers, hindering their integration into the community and church life. This program offers reading skills and biblical engagement through LBS’ materials. Local churches will conduct courses, inviting non-Christians to participate, and LBS will provide Bible storybooks to graduates for practice.

In 2024, research will take place from Jan-Mar, followed by the drafting of an Emerging level primer from Apr-Jun. In Jul-Sep, teaching materials, including Bible-based material will be drafted and local church teachers will be identified. In Oct-Dec, teachers will receive training on the Emerging level primer and teaching materials for Hmong Mother Tongue Literacy classes beginning in 2025. This period will also see the development of literacy monitoring and evaluation tools and assessments.

Testimonies

“As a church leader, I can see that Hmong believers who cannot read do not engage in Sunday services. They can only sit and listen to the leader and other members, but are hardly able to understand. It would be a blessing if those non-literate brothers and sisters in Christ were able to read the Bible, because then they could study the Bible by themselves and get to know God, and also get involved in the church’s activities.”

— Pastor Chapor, Hmong church

Prayer Needs

• Pray that churches will be motivated to partner with the Laos Bible Society (LBS) for the Hmong literacy programs, as part of their outreach to both believers and unbelievers.

• Pray for the preparation of the material package for the Hmong language in 2024, as well as the recruitment of the Literacy Working Group that will work with the Literacy Specialist and LBS Literacy Team.

• There can be restrictions on Christian activity in some areas of Laos where the Hmong take place, so pray for the wisdom of LBS and our Literacy Working Group to get cooperation from the local authorities.

Lebanon

Literacy for Refugees and Underprivileged

Overview

This project aims to provide children in refugee communities in Lebanon — and in the underprivileged communities who host them — with a Bible-based literacy course designed to help them back into the formal education system.

The Need

The number of Syrian and Iraqi refugees in Lebanon is now well above two million people. More than 50 per cent of these refugees are aged 17 or younger. Integrating these children into Lebanon’s school system is a challenge, as they face social, economic and bureaucratic obstacles, as well as language difficulties, particularly in science and math. Many don’t go back to formal education, because of these difficulties.

Education exclusion has negative implications for social wellbeing and exposes already vulnerable children to greater risks. This lack of education can reverberate for generations; these children will have more difficulty in meeting the physical, economic, social and political demands for reconstructing their countries. According to a study by Human Rights Watch in 2016, more than half of the nearly 500,000 school-aged Syrian children registered in Lebanon are not enrolled in formal education. Some of these children have never stepped inside a classroom.

50%

of Syrian and Iraqi refugees in Lebanon are aged 17 years old or younger

500,000

school-aged Syrian children registered in Lebanon are not enrolled in formal education

45%

of project participants can read or write in Arabic

2%

of project participants can read or write in a language other than Arabic

“Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.”

Timothy 4:13, NASB

Goals

Bible Society Lebanon is seeking to provide these children a safe and loving environment where they can take a literacy course based on Bible stories, to help them get back to the formal education system.

The project involves a three-month program of two classes per week, in Arabic (level 1 to 3) and English (level 1 and 2) curriculums. Each new student receives a free Arabic Scripture containing 365 stories and an English Scripture, along with an accompanying audio CD. Necessary learning materials like clay, pencil, notebooks are also provided.

In the last three months of 2023, and continuing in 2024, an English Level 1 curriculum was introduced, in response to high demand from partners, parents of the children, and teachers’ recommendations. An English Level 2 course is planned for the second half of 2024.

The goal is to benefit 4,000 Syrian and Iraqi refugees in 2024 (2,000 in the Arabic course and 2,000 in the English course).

Impact

In the first nine months of 2023, 1,745 children benefitted from this project. The impact is seen in the improvement in literacy of the children, and in their incentive to read more. It is also seen by the fact that the major Bible stories are common knowledge amongst the students.

A number of participating churches have requested that the program be increased in their local community, demonstrating a strong appetite for these materials and training which enable disadvantaged children to learn more about God’s message.

Testimonies

“... students are benefiting a lot from the lessons, but I want to emphasise also on the spiritual benefit that they are grasping. Mariam, 8-year-old girl. She recently lost her dad. When in class, I can clearly notice her sadness and disappointment in life ... She showed me her drawing: a small silhouette crying (representing herself) and a giant silhouette telling her ‘Don’t be afraid, I am with you’ (representing God obviously). It was her first time to ask to share her story in front of her classmates. She told them about her sadness, her daily cries, and how she now knows that Jesus is with her, he will comfort her, and make her stronger at the right time. Her words were full of wisdom ... She touched my heart and even made me question my own attitude towards my problems.’ — Nivine, literacy facilitator

Prayer Needs

• Pray that Bible Society will be able to show God’s love to children who have come from desperate situations.

• Pray that more children will be encouraged and enabled to integrate into the formal education system.

• Pray for those refugees and underprivileged children whose suffering and lack of resources have been dramatically increased by the economic and financial crisis in Lebanon since 2020.

Lebanon

Reconcile for Refugee Children

Overview

Working with humanitarian aid agencies, Bible Society Lebanon is offering hope to refugee children through an interactive drama presentation about reconciliation and forgiveness, based on Bible stories. The presentation — called “Reconcile!” — is accompanied by the distribution of literature which paraphrases Bible stories about reconciliation.

The Need

Lebanon hosts over 1.5 million registered refugees, and humanitarian agencies are struggling to keep up with their basic needs. Entire generations are being born and brought up in confined camp facilities with very low hygiene and an absence of social and educational platforms. Children are being brought up amid hate, despair and vengeance. Mitigating this negative atmosphere, along with helping children to overcome their trauma, is a huge need.

Bible Society has been approached by several humanitarian agencies to assist by entertaining children in the camps, using hopeful and positive strategies as well as appropriate trauma healing techniques. The Bible, the book of hope, will be the source of these presentations in the camps.

1.5m

Syrian refugees along with 210,000 Palestinian refugees are taking refuge in Lebanon

49%

of Syrian refugee families suffer from food insecurity.

60%

of Syrian refugee families live in overcrowded, endangered, or substandard housing

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Ephesians 4:32, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to create a positive atmosphere of reconciliation among refugee children based on the creative presentation of Bible Stories. In addition to this, Bible literature on reconciliation and forgiveness will be distributed in parallel with the performances. The program also distributes the Arabic Peace and Justice Bible to refugee camp leaders and family heads. The objective is to help children overcome their trauma through a healing process inspired by the Bible.

At the start of 2024, the team will spend January preparing the presentation and printing portions of Scripture to share. Throughout the remainder of 2024, they will visit camps and present their programs, sharing portions of the Bible with 100 children at each visit.

Impact

This project aims to impact 16,000 people, including 15,000 children who will be reached by creative programs focused on reconciliation and forgiveness, along with resources with Bible stories on the same topics. Around 1,000 camp leaders and heads of families will be offered copies of the Arabic Peace & Justice Bible.

From January to September 2023, 4,317 children were reached with the creative programs on reconciliation, healing, and forgiveness. They received 4,254 portions from the Bible about reconciliation, healing, and forgiveness; 283 leaders and heads of families received copies of the Arabic Bibles.

The impact of this project will be seen in the changed behaviour of underprivileged children, in a positive atmosphere in refugee campsites, and in further opportunities to run the creative program. Another area of impact will be seen among the camp leaders and heads of families, who come to understand the Christian and biblical values of peace and social justice.

Testimonies

“God is always with us to strengthen us in difficult times and never abandons us.” — Elias, 10 years old, about the play “Elias the Prophet”

“Jesus is the one who can fill my heart with constant joy and love.” — Shahd, 8 years old, about the play “Empty Hero”

“When unpleasant things happen in our lives, they restrict us like this handcuff, but when we ask God to help us, we will get rid of these problems.” — Mustafa, 9 years old, about the trick “The Handcuff Escape”

“Hurtful words destroy people and hurt us. But beautiful words build and sow love in our hearts and those around us.” — Aliya, 11 years old, about the trick “The Rose Bouquet”

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the children growing up in the unacceptable conditions of these camps.

• Pray for the leaders, that they would facilitate this program and willingly receive the Arabic Peace & Justice Bible.

• Pray that Bible Society’s program will help heal the children’s wounds of trauma.

Mongolia

Braille Literacy

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with the Mongolian Union Bible Society (MUBS) to bring light to the lives of people with visual disabilities, by teaching them how to read Braille.

The Need

There are about 11,000 visually disabled people in Mongolia, with almost half having more than 50% sight loss. Although there is no official data on the literacy percentage of people with visual disabilities, the officials who are working with the group say only 10% percent are literate in Braille.

Many of those with visual disabilities live in remote areas, which further isolates them from social life. Some families hide their blind members, not allowing them out of their homes (ger/yurts).

There are very few people and organisations who advocate for the visually impaired in Mongolia; they are an unseen people.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.”

John 1:9, NIV

11,000

90%

visually disabled people in Mongolia, with almost half having more than 50% sight loss of the 11,000 are not literate in Braille

Goals

The goal of this project is to equip visually disabled people with literacy skills in Braille, so they may gain a higher level of education, better social engagement, and employment. This project aims to give hope to the families of people with visual disabilities, by showing them their loved ones can develop and actively engage in life, moving forward towards independence. The hope is that this project will raise awareness of the needs of people with visual disabilities in society.

In gaining literacy in Braille, people with visual disabilities will also be able to access and engage with God’s word, the ultimate source of abundant life.

The goal is to have approximately 405 students and 6 teachers, with 300 graduating. Each course will last just over 2 years (27 months). There will be 10 printed literacy primers and 405 Scripture resources distributed. Sixty training events will be run in 21 provinces and 6 districts of Mongolia, with some of the training combining two or three provinces.

Impact

The impact of the project will be seen ultimately in participants being able to read and write in Braille. As a result, beneficiaries will be able to use their skills for daily living, to read the Bible, and if desired, connect with the local church. Another impact of the project is that communities and society at large will have a greater awareness of people with visual disabilities and their needs.

Testimonies

“Before I did not know what Braille is, but now I know all the alphabet and numbers. I can write my name in Braille and can write down the phone numbers of others in Braille. I am very grateful for those who organised the training.” — Former participant of the Braille Literacy training

Prayer Needs

• Pray that people with visual disabilities see the light of the God and hope through the training and the word of God.

• Pray that their life circumstances and living conditions are improved as a result of the project.

• Pray that local churches would be involved, partnering in the project and reaching out to people with visual disabilities.

Mozambique

Literacy for Life (Mission Educate)

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting Mission Educate in running a Bible-based literacy project designed to provide basic literacy, numeracy and life skills. It targets those living in impoverished city areas and rural communities who have little access to education and works with churches who have very few literate people among their communities.

The Need

Mozambique, one of the world’s poorest nations, grapples with over 50% of its population living below the poverty line. A legacy of oppressive colonial rule has left the country with a national sense of inferiority.

The religious landscape is diverse, predominantly Christian, yet literacy challenges hinder easy understanding of the Bible. The lack of solid biblical teaching fosters unbiblical beliefs and practices.

The intertwining issues of illiteracy and poverty form a vicious cycle: poverty compels children to forgo education, perpetuating low incomes and trapping many in persistent poverty. This cycle fosters a deep sense of shame and worthlessness. Addressing these challenges requires urgent efforts to provide accessible literacy education for both adults and children.

32m

people live in Mozambique

50%+ 67%

live below the poverty line live as subsistence farmers

42%

are non-literate

“In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ,”

Ephesians 3:4, NIV

Goals

This project targets non-literate adults and vulnerable youth, aiming to empower them to read basic signs, documents, and the Bible. Launched in Beira, it aspires to cover all ten Mozambican provinces, with current expansion in Sofala, Inhambane, and Nampula.

Conducted in community settings, the classes focus on reading, numeracy, and essential life skills like nutrition, cooking and horticulture. The project, with four full-time staff and 19 facilitators, will run 19 groups in three provinces in 2024, benefiting 546 participants. This positively influences families and communities, with an estimated 2,750 indirect beneficiaries.

Objectives include achieving a Grade 6 literacy standard, evidenced by exams and enhanced confidence. Graduates are expected to deepen their understanding of the Bible and their role in the Kingdom of God, demonstrated by regular Bible reading and church involvement. The ultimate aim is an improved overall quality of life, observable through the practical application of life skills in their daily routines.

Impact

In 2023, this project had a direct impact on 546 participants. Each year, the impact is felt by Mozambicans who are given the opportunity to learn to read and write, which promotes a sense of self-worth and personal value. The ability to read the Bible and learn of God’s love and grace and his redemptive plan for each individual is transformative.

The classes are run in local churches, whose pastors partner with Mission Educate, which promotes community transformation, as well as developing unity amongst pastors and local congregations.

The Literacy for Life Project will transform individuals, families and communities. Church congregations are expected to be transformed with an increase in literate members who can read the Bible and engage in meaningful Bible discussions, encouraging the formation of personal faith.

Testimonies

“Before joining the Literacy for Life Project, I was unable to read or write. I dreamed of being an agrarian technician because I like working with land and plantations ... Today, I feel that this dream is coming true with the help of the Literacy for Life Project. With this initiative, I have implemented a small vegetable garden ... I want to thank Bible Society Australia for helping me to achieve my dream. Not only has the Literacy for Life Project given me the ability to read and write, but it has helped me to achieve my life’s dream.” — Maria, 3rd year participant, from Sofala province

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the students and their families that they will learn to read and love God’s word, especially for the new groups which will begin in 2024.

• Pray especially for women and girls whose male authority figure may discourage or even prevent their attendance.

• Pray for safety and health of the Literacy Facilitators, many of whom walk long distances to lead their groups.

• Pray for Pastor Jose who is the Literacy for Life Project Coordinator, that he will be strengthened and encouraged as he leads this Project.

Myanmar

Literacy by Listening

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting the Bible Society of Myanmar in running a mother tongue literacy program for the Sgaw Karen ethnic group.

The Need

The population of Myanmar is about 54 million, with between 80% –89% practicing Buddhism. Christians constitute around 6.2% of the population. The government recognises 135 different ethnic groups and estimates that there are about 200 spoken languages in Myanmar.

While literacy rates across the country have improved dramatically in recent decades, there are still many people who need access to an education in literacy. To date, the government has not encouraged literacy development for ethnic minority groups in their respective mother languages. The Sgaw Karen ethnic group have the largest Christian population among the ethnic minorities, and the biggest population. Surprisingly, there are many non-literate Karen communities, particularly in remote areas.

54m

population in Myanmar

6.2%

of the population are Christian

53%

45%

of the Sgaw Karen are Christian of the Sgaw Karen are non-literate

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

James 1:5, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to help 2,250 Sgaw Karen people in remote areas learn to read, write and count. Eradicating illiteracy will help the people to be able to claim their basic human rights, access Scripture for themselves and gain the knowledge of the Gospel.

In 2024, the goal is to reach 2,250 adults among the Sgaw Karen people in rural areas, through 150 classes.

January – March will see the education of 150 facilitators, printing textbooks and storybooks, and for the first time, two workshops on developing a Sgaw Karen fluency level with a literacy specialist. April – June will build awareness of the course in the target areas, as well as book distribution; July – September will be the learning period, and October – December will be the presentation of certificates of completion. The last three months will also see work done on the new Sgaw Karen fluency level, with typing, editing and field testing.

Impact

The literacy program, utilising Bible-based books, not only builds students’ literacy skills but also fosters spiritual growth in the knowledge of God. The Karen people are anticipated to genuinely experience God’s love through these materials.

This literacy program is enriching Karen literature with biblical teachings and also helps the Karen people understand the value of their language, growing the community’s appreciation for it, and giving perspective on how precious it is.

The wider community has expressed gratitude for the literacy program, recognising its benefits. Given that Christians are a minority, this program stands as a highly effective method for evangelism, having a significant impact in the community.

Testimonies

“Because of civil war, I have no chance to study about my own language. Because of this program, I can read, write and speak my language with confidence. I feel so glad and blessed that I can read and write my own language and I also taught my parents how to read, write and sing. I thank God for giving me this opportunity to learn.” — Kyaw*, 16 years old

“Although I am Karen, I cannot speak and read Karen well. Whenever I think about that I feel so shy ... God knows my feeling and HE open the door for me to learn Karen language ... Because of this class, I can read and write our mother language. Now I can know the meaning and pronunciation exactly and deeply. Whatever I learn from this class I will share to our next generation. I am deeply thankful to God for giving me this opportunity ...” — Wah*, from a Karen village

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the country’s leaders and authorities as they navigate worsening political instability.

• Please pray for the safety and well-being of both students and teachers in the literacy program in the midst of civil unrest.

• Please pray that this project will play a vital role in bringing the Gospel to those searching for truth.

• Please pray for many of the Christian Karen people, who lack the opportunity to worship and study freely due to the ongoing war.

*Name changed for security reasons.

Pakistan

Beacon in the Darkness

Overview

Pakistan Bible Society (PBS) established this literacy program in 2014 and have been providing Biblebased literacy classes for non-literate Pakistani women since then. Bible Society believes that if a woman is taught to read and write, she becomes a ‘beacon of light’ to her community, with the word of God.

The Need

The current literacy rate for women in Pakistan is one of the lowest in the world, largely due to the social structure that suppresses women’s rights. Without the basic skill of reading and writing, social and economic opportunities are limited for women.

Women’s literacy rates vary throughout the country — from over 60 per cent in the capital city of Islamabad, to less than 20 per cent in some rural areas. Overall, millions are lacking this life skill. Christian women, who mostly live in these rural areas and slums, most likely lack basic literacy skills.

Being a non-literate typically leads to further marginalisation in households, workplaces, and communities. Non-literate women in Pakistan are often restricted to inferior positions at work and an inferior social standing.

58.8m

non-literate adults in Pakistan

52%

of the population are women

64% 34%

of women in Pakistan are literate

of Pakistani Christian women are literate

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

Goals

This project aims to empower women by providing literacy skills, fostering personal development, and influencing their families and communities positively. Women will also gain spiritual growth through a deeper understanding of the Bible.

Throughout 2024, the goal is to reach 3,500 women across 350 literacy groups. PBS staff will assess illiteracy rates from January to March, determining class numbers and conducting teacher training and baseline assessments. Materials will be distributed. Classes will run from April to June, with PBS staff visits and eyesight checks, with glasses provided if needed. July to September will focus on writing, mathematics, and health lessons from a medical guide in the syllabus on how to stay healthy and active. The guide also provides information for pregnant women on safe delivery of healthy babies. October to December will see progression towards tests, graduation, and Bible presentations for each graduating student.

Impact

In 2022, 5,655 students graduated and were impacted by this project. In 2023, a further 2,800 students maintained their studies. In 2024, this project aims to impact 3,500 women. Since the average family consists of 5 people, the project will indirectly impact 17,500 people.

This project primarily impacts Christian Pakistani women whose Christian faith are not always welcomed. Equipping this target group will strengthen Christian families and will empower women to develop spiritually and take on the mandate to reach others, beginning with their families.

The Pakistani Church is very active in this project. Fellowship among churches and as well as the capacity of women are developing through this project.

Testimonies

“One day, our pastor announced that literacy classes for women are starting in the Church compound. My daughters and I joined the classes and now we are able to read the Bible,” says Razia, a 65-year-old mother of 8 children from Peshawar. Since Raiza and her daughters’ literacy journey, they have been reading the Bible at home and have even taken the opportunity to read the Bible in their church pulpit.

Prayer Needs

• Pray that program participants will quickly embrace the new teaching available to them and be impacted by God’s word.

• Please pray that partner churches will continue to respond positively to the program and have an impact in their community.

• Pray for wisdom and for the safety of Bible Society staff working on this project.

Rwanda

Literacy Building Futures

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with African Enterprise Rwanda in implementing a literacy project seeking to improve literacy among students and ensure a brighter future for all Rwandans.

The Need

Rwanda’s education system, hosting 3.6 million students, boasts a 98.8% primary school enrolment. Yet despite government commitments, challenges persist, especially in early literacy.

The 2018, Early Grade Reading Assessment revealed 70% of Primary 3 students struggle with reading, hindering progress and contributing to high dropout rates. Gender disparities and insufficient support for children with disabilities worsen the issue.

The 2022 census indicates a 22.3% illiteracy rate, with a notable gender gap. Rural districts, like Gatsibo, face a higher illiteracy burden, including spillover effects such as teenage pregnancies. Essential improvements involve improving the curriculum, providing teacher training, upgrading school infrastructure, and increasing community engagement in education.

3.6m+

students in Rwanda’s education system

70% 22.3%

of students haven’t learned to read by the third grade of primary school illiteracy rate

“For we write nothing else to you than what you read and understand, and I hope you will understand until the end;”

Goals

This project aims to enhance literacy and numeracy, reduce school dropouts, and to instil optimism and dedication in both students and parents by building their future with a good education. Focused on improving early childhood education in Gatsibo District, the project aims to cultivate welleducated individuals valuable to Rwanda’s education system.

Emphasising teamwork, the project aims to build inclusive classrooms which teach practical literacy skills. The project aims to help Rwanda keep up with global education standards, and strives for outcomes like improved Kinyarwanda literacy, enhanced pre-primary learning, strengthened education management, and coordinated literacy activities.

In 2024, the project will identify partners, hold initial meetings with leaders, head teachers, and Heads of Schools, conduct needs assessments, and develop materials for improved teaching practices.

Impact

This project will be implemented in 45 schools located in 14 sectors of Gatsibo District, impacting 36,090 students and 785 teachers over three years.

The impact of this project will be threefold: making learning easier for students by using a simple curriculum that matches their abilities; helping teachers by enhancing their skills and confidence; and getting the community involved to encourage school attendance.

The impact of this project will be seen in students in grades one to three showing better reading skills in their mother tongue, Kinyarwanda. Also, in pre-primary, young children will improve their learning using an assessment tool.

Finally, the management of Rwanda’s education system will get stronger. This includes making early-grade reading assessments sustainable and inclusive, relying on data for decisions, and building resilience to challenges. The coordination of literacy activities at local levels will also improve for better literacy outcomes.

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the hearts of teachers, parents, and administrators, that they may be open to embracing new approaches to the existing education system.

• Pray that God would grant wisdom and resilience to the teachers as they adapt to new methodologies and technologies, that they may navigate these changes with confidence and effectiveness.

• Pray God would soften the hearts of the students, that they may be receptive to new learning methods and remain engaged in their education.

South Sudan

Literacy for Shilluks

Overview

This literacy project aims to bring growth and reconciliation to people in South Sudan. This project works with churches in South Sudan in offering literacy classes, to contribute to the community’s social progress, promote wellbeing, help break the cycles of poverty as well as empower communities to read and learn the word of God.

The Need

Since South Sudan’s independence in mid-2011, social unrest, armed conflicts, tribal disputes and other challenges continue to impact the daily lives of the South Sudanese.

Only 34.5% of South Sudanese are literate (according to a 2018 Global Report on Literacy). With 70 major ethnic groups (each with its own language) only 1 out of 10 women and 3 out of 10 men can read in any language. The Shilluk people in particular (of whom about 45% are Christians) were badly affected by the conflict of the civil war. Illiteracy concerns mostly women above the age of 15.

It is in this context that the Bible Society considers this literacy project a priority. A focus on adult literacy is crucial for many areas of life: learning basic rules of sanitation for their homes, selling or buying in a marketplace, helping children with schooling at home, and reading the Bible.

65.5m

of South Sudanese people are non-literate (2018, World Bank data)

45%

of Shilluk people are Christian

574,000

Collo speakers in South Sudan

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Psalms 34:18, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to enable Shilluk churches to help their non-literate communities develop in their literacy skills for everyday living and learn about reconciliation in their troubled context. As well as this, the goal is that participants learn to read and understand the Bible in their language, empowering them to receive God’s message of love, hope and reconciliation.

Overall, the project aims to reach 5,000 learners, with each graduate reaching 10 non-literate fellow family members, friends and neighbours.

In 2024, the goal is to teach 1,000 students (500 women, 200 men and 300 children) in Juba and Malakal including its surrounding towns. It is hoped that in imparting literacy skills, learners will be able to improve their family health and participate in community activities. They will be able to read the Bible for themselves and be an active part of their church communities.

Impact

It is hoped across the life of this project the whole Shilluk people group, 1.5 million people, will be impacted.

It is anticipated that literacy will have a great impact on the Shilluk people, including helping people to learn how to build better relationships and minimise conflicts between communities.

Being able to access the Bible themselves will help Christians to become an example to others when it comes to reconciliation and living in harmony, for the rebuilding of their nation. The word of God has power to bring healing for the many who have lost loved ones in the conflict, who may be living with bitterness and hatred.

Testimonies

“Before I was not confident enough to participate in singing and reading of the Bibles, because I could not read and write. But now after joining literacy class, I have gained confidence in serving my Lord by joining the choir and reading of the Bible to the congregation. I can read the Bible to my family and pray to God with full understanding of his word.” — Monique*, one of the many who has benefited from the literacy class by the Bible Society in South Sudan

Prayer Needs

• Pray for those who will take the step to begin literacy classes.

• Pray for the volunteers — that volunteer numbers would increase and that these people would be equipped to teach effectively.

• Pray for peace and reconciliation in South Sudan.

• Pray for Bible Society to carry forth the program effectively and in the years to come.

*Name has been changed to protect identity.

Sri Lanka

Literacy for the Young Overview

Each year, the Ceylon Bible Society aims to run literacy classes through the network of churches and Christian organisations in Sri Lanka, especially in rural, slum and undeveloped areas. These classes offer reading, listening and writing skills to nonliterate youth and children in Sri Lanka so they can contribute to the development of their communities as well as increase their ability to learn and understand Scriptures.

The Need

Despite the official literacy rate for Sri Lanka — 92.3% in 2019, in a population of 21.4 million people — there are still a significant number of people in rural and undeveloped areas and among ethnic minority groups who do not have proper access to education. These include underprivileged children and youth. The financial crises of 2022 have increased their needs, with 28% of the population facing food insecurity and the poverty rate doubling in the last year.

Churches have been trying to assist children lacking in basic literacy skills with various literacy programs. Yet these churches have lacked a systematic approach and have asked for Bible Society’s assistance.

21.4m

people living in Sri Lanka

1.25m

adult non-literates in Sri Lanka

7.67%

of people in Sri Lanka are Christians

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Matthew 28: 18-20, NIV

Goals

The goal of this project is to provide reading, listening and writing skills to non-literate youth and children. These include children from underprivileged backgrounds and ethnic minorities ranging from those who are yet to learn to read and write and those struggling to do so.

The classes will be run in the Sinhala and Tamil languages and include reading Scripture through simple Bible stories (both printed and digital), explaining stories from the Bible and Christian books, and covering simple teachings of Jesus, Gospel parables, songs and other audio material.

Plans to implement a syllabus in Sinhala and Tamil are currently in their final stages and being reviewed as the project’s main learning materials. There will also be teacher guidebooks and training workshops for the teachers each year.

Impact

The Ceylon Bible Society is grateful for the addition of 12 more classes with 229 students and 30 teachers, bringing the total to 20 classes, 350 students, and 50 teachers in 2023. Classes are now held for two days, and educational materials are in the final stages, ready for review. Aside from learning literacy skills, the students have learned good manners, cleanliness and come to an understanding of God’s love, while some are introduced to Christianity.

At the end of this project, the Ceylon Bible Society expects to have impacted 1,200 beneficiaries.

Testimonies

“This literacy class that the Ceylon Bible Society is conducting is a great blessing to our Church. Most of the children in our church are unable to read and write. From this literacy class, we can find such children in our church. God has given us a blessing to find such students and make their future brighter. “ Jagath, Pastor of the Gospel Tabernacle Church

“For one year I did not go to school. Because of some sickness I was in hospital for 6 months ... Since I didn’t go to school for one year I have forgot all letters. After this class now, I can remember the letters again ... Actually, my education was in a very sad level but now I am very interested in learning and know the importance of education. I thank God and Ceylon Bible Society for giving this opportunity.” — Sadunika, Grade 7 student

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the ongoing financial support for this project so that it may continue in the future.

• Pray for enough trained people to facilitate the literacy classes.

• Pray for the Bible Society Literacy team as they travel through the country, training and implementing the program.

• Pray for the protection of participants and their families, as the area is often at risk of natural disasters.

• Pray that the literacy students would be empowered as they learn to read the word of God.

Trauma Healing

Overview

Bible Society in Syria is running a project to bring a message of hope and life to those experiencing long-lasting trauma caused by war and violence. This project addresses trauma and family conflict through specialised training seminars for churches as well as workshops, and distributes the healing word of God to all participants.

The Need

Thirteen years of war have inflicted profound suffering on Syrians, particularly Christians, with their population decreasing from 2 million to less than one million due to violence and Islamic fundamentalism.

This project aims to address trauma, impacting both Christian and non-Christian communities, amidst a heightened demand for healing programs. The economic downturn, exacerbated by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, adds to the humanitarian crisis. An earthquake on February 6, 2023, further devastated northwest Syria, compounding challenges for an already vulnerable population of over 4 million reliant on humanitarian aid. The trauma-healing training program seeks to restore individuals and families in this dire context.

The aim of this project is to act as a catalyst and an encouragement to all groups, regardless of religious background or political affinity.

90% 12m 15.3m 8.8m

of families in the country live in poverty, while more than 50% are food insecure people are displaced within the region people inside Syria needed humanitarian assistance (prior to the earthquake) in 2023 were affected by the 2023 earthquake

“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Romans 8:18, NIV

Goals

The Bible Society in Syria, since 2015, has aimed to spread a message of hope and life with this project, which aims to establish a network of trained trauma healing personnel, impacting people throughout Syria.

Trauma Healing Training Seminars, conducted with specialists, equip personnel in diverse trauma therapies, and collaborate with organisations across Syria. The overarching goal of the project is Syria’s rehabilitation, fostering mental health, and transforming churches into healing spaces. The highest goal is to reconnect people with God through his healing power and his healing word.

In 2024, the Trauma Healing Program seeks to train specialists, develop manuals, publish materials, and address the elderly affected by warinduced immigration. Twenty single-day workshops will focus on family therapy, stress relief, and activities for the elderly, complemented by clinical training abroad. Bible Society will regularly visit church leaders and individuals interested in Trauma Healing to sustain awareness and expand connections. Bibles and Scriptures will be distributed during workshops and training sessions.

Impact

The impact of this project will be seen in how it equips leaders in the trauma healing field, brings about changed behaviour in traumatised families, and changes the atmosphere of communities, encouraging hope for the future.

The impact of this project is seen in the leaders who have been equipped in trauma healing, care for the elderly, and family therapy. Those participating in the Trauma Healing seminars have demonstrated a change in behaviour, and there has been an increase in a positive outlook and more hope for the future, shown through less immigration and the increase in self-value and trust in others. Churches have begun to collaborate more as they all take part in the training and witness the impact on participants.

For each person who receives trauma healing, it is estimated that another 50 will be impacted. For every person who participates in a trauma healing workshop, it is expected that at least four more (family members most likely) will be impacted.

Testimonies

“As we started up our Trauma Healing Ministry, we didn’t know where it would take us. It’s been a tearful experience going through the deepest of valleys together with the most precious people who have suffered so much ... we want to thank Jesus with all our hearts for having been with us and the many who have been with us in ‘the darkness of the valley’ ... We couldn’t have continued for (seven) intensive years without Jesus being there in all our seminars giving strength to us all and giving healing to us all.” — Nabil, a former Bible Society Syria staff member

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the trainers, trainees, participating families as well as the leaders who facilitate this program and set up the training.

• Pray for some political stability to enable the team to complete the program successfully.

• Pray for those working to produce the Trauma Healing (and family therapy) Manuals, which are so important; pray that they will fit all levels of participants.

• Pray that the coordinators and overseers will have the strength to continue year after year, and praise God for their incredible work.

Tanzania

Bible Knowledge in High Schools

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting three Anglican Dioceses in Tanzania who are running a program to promote and support the teaching of the Bible Knowledge subject in secondary schools, as well as providing all the teaching materials (free of charge) to schools that are willing to teach the subject.

The Need

Tanzania has an international poverty rate of 44.9% within its 65.6 million population (2022 World Bank data). Government secondary schools (attended by 90% of students) are typically poorly equipped and some lack teachers for all the core subjects. While the majority of Tanzanians identify as Christians (63%), their knowledge of the Bible is shallow because most households do not have a Bible.

Bible Knowledge is an optional subject in the government curriculum for all secondary schools in Tanzania, but unfortunately, very few schools offer this subject often because of the lack of expertise and teaching materials. Most schools and parents cannot afford all textbooks for core subjects let alone for optional subjects. With proper funding and support, this program aims to reach as many students in secondary schools across Tanzania as possible.

63%

of Tanzanians identify as Christians

2.3m 100k

secondary school students in Tanzania

Bible Knowledge students as of 2023 across the 3 dioceses

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,”

2 Timothy 3:16, NIV

Goals

The program will promote the Bible Knowledge subject among local schools. It will enable interested schools to set up the Bible Knowledge course by giving them textbooks, reference Bibles, a teaching guide, sample class tests and answers, and general advice on getting started. The program will also support teachers new to the Bible Knowledge subject with regular visits, advice and further resources if needed. A professional development seminar will be provided mid-year to help improve outcomes and encourage isolated teachers to persevere.

The program already has 130 secondary schools (an increase from 115 in January 2023) teaching the Bible Knowledge subject via three neighbouring Anglican dioceses: 31 in Kagera, 51 in Lweru (46 in January 2023) and 48 in Biharamulo.

By January 2024, the three dioceses aim to increase the number of participating schools by 5 each (15 new schools), meaning that 145 out of the 292 secondary schools within the three diocesan boundaries will be participating. However, there are many more secondary schools to reach, and more work needed to retain the schools already teaching on Bible Knowledge.

Impact

This program has great potential for reaching thousands of youths within the dioceses. It can give students a deep understanding of the Bible, and students tend to grow in faith in God when they grow in their knowledge of the Bible. This program will help to grow the Kingdom of God and promote Christian unity. It will also help ensure that more leaders in Tanzania will have a stronger Christian grounding, having potentially huge long-term benefits for Tanzanian society.

The recent success in the 2022 national exams further highlights the program’s positive trajectory with 1,371 students achieving a 68% pass rate in the Bible Knowledge Form 2 exam and 728 students attaining an impressive 95% pass rate in the Bible Knowledge Form 4 exam. These achievements signify significant improvements compared to the previous year and notably surpass those of certain core subjects.

Testimonies

“In studying Bible Knowledge ... I know that the Bible will help me in my life because the Bible tells me how to live in a society different from my friends ... I hope to serve God in my life because since I was young, I really liked to serve God, so I really believe that I will become a pastor because I like to preach the good news to people so that they repent their sins.” — Shalom, Form 2 student at Kaigara Secondary Class

Prayer Needs

• Please pray that more schools and teachers would be interested in teaching the Bible Knowledge subject, with the support of the program.

• Pray that students would be eager to learn more about the Bible, to deepen their understanding of God and his love for them, which would in turn impact their lives.

The Gulf

Literacy for Women

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with Bible Society in the Gulf (BSG) to empower marginalised Sri Lankan domestic workers living in Bahrain with essential literacy skills.

The Need

Illiteracy is a significant problem among the Sri Lankan domestic workers in Bahrain, whose exact numbers are not publicly available. Although most Sri Lankans are Buddhist, after they live in Bahrain for some time, many become Christians. Though it is hard to determine the number of Sri Lankan Christians, Sinhala churches want to empower their non literate members to read God’s word.

Migrant domestic workers, often unrecognised formally in Arab countries, face discrimination based on various factors like gender, race, origin, social status, religion, and migration status. They confront numerous challenges, including low wages, delayed payment, long hours, inadequate time-off, lack of social protection, poor living conditions, and various forms of abuse, highlighting the need for justice.

“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.”

1.48m

people live in Bahrain

50%

of Bahrain’s population are thought to be migrant workers (the non-Bahraini population is 52.2%)

12%

of the population are Christians [2022]

Goals

The goal of this project is to empower illiterate or semi-literate Sri Lankan domestic workers to read, to help them reach their potential as individuals and valuable community members, and to connect with God’s word effectively.

BSG is dedicated to serving Sinhala churches, whose congregations are primarily composed of domestic workers. The goal of this project is foster emerging, improving, and fluent literacy skills within this community. BSG aims to promote literacy and empower women with the knowledge needed to read the Bible.

2024 will be a planning year, where the literacy program is prepared. BSG will engage with the community, develop partnerships, consult with a literacy specialist, and plan curriculum, materials, and training for facilitators. Training for literacy staff will take place from July – September, and teacher training from October – December.

Impact

Beneficiaries of this project will improve their literacy skills, which will impact their daily lives as they are able to read their employment contracts, do basic calculations for money management, and avoid being exploited.

In addition to this, for migrant workers in the Gulf seeking hope and forgiveness through the gospel, learning to read means they can engage with the Bible and its message of God’s love. Their lives will be transformed as a result of this interaction with the word of God.

Prayer Needs

• Please pray for BSG as they gain an understanding of the principles behind literacy practices, program planning, research, and implementation.

Please pray for appropriate trainers to be identified to help in the capacity-building efforts and training.

Uganda

Holistic Literacy Skills

Overview

This project aims at developing literacy skills among non-literate Kupsapiiny, Ma’di and Ng’akarajong speakers, empowering them with literacy skills so they can develop holistically and engage with the Bible.

The Need

The literacy levels in Uganda are about 70%, especially in urban centres. In sub-regions like Karamoja, Sebie and Ma’di, literacy levels have remained low despite the reported economic growth of the country.

Literacy skills are crucial to help these communities liberate themselves from poverty, as well as holistic training sessions, which are equally vital for their self-improvement.

The higher rate of illiteracy has also meant that some newly translated Bible portions in the Sabiiny, Ma’di and Karamoja sub-regions were not received as warmly as hoped, as the non-literate communities could not access God’s word. If the Bible is to be read and engaged with meaningfully, then the people need to be literate. Translated Scriptures and Bible resources will be left futile if the community can’t read.

70.2%

adult literacy rate in Uganda

70%

of Kupsapiiny speakers are Christian

92%

of the Ma’di people are Christians

“Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ Philip asked. ‘How can I,’ he said, ‘unless someone explains it to me?’ So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.”

Acts 8:30-31, NIV

Goals

The Bible Society of Uganda (BSU) is working with churches and Christian organisations to help people improve their literacy levels by running ‘train the trainers’ workshops to equip instructors in teaching adults Functional Adult Literacy, as well as training teachers in Primary Teacher’s Colleges to reach school children in their mother tongue.

This project will provide literacy materials for teaching and reading on their own. This project also aims at improving literacy levels among the people in Sebei, Ma’di and Karamoja sub regions.

In 2024, the goal is to help 3,000 children and adults in the Moyo and Ma’di sub regions gain literacy for the improvement of their lives, and so they can engage with God’s word easily. In addition to this, the goal is to create awareness of the project in the community, to encourage more students to enrol. Materials will be further developed, and training for classroom teachers and adult facilitators will continue, in order to help communities learn to read and write and use God’s word in their mother tongue.

Impact

In 2023, a Bible based Literacy Curriculum and materials were developed, and Bible Based Literacy programs in the Kupsapiiny and Madi subregions begun. Classroom facilitators were trained, as well as adult facilitators.

It is expected that 1,000 will graduate with numeracy and literacy skills from each sub region running the course. These will include primary school students as well as adult students. It can be expected that each graduate will influence or benefit 20 more people.

This literacy program will improve the self-esteem of the students in their communities and enable them to participate in leadership roles. The students will be literate in their mother tongues, as well as gain numeracy skills, which will improve their economic status.

As the people are equipped with basic skills, they will also be able to read the Bible, take part in church activities, and share their experiences with others. If the people learn how to read and write, they will be able to meaningfully engage with the word of God translated for them in their mother tongue.

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the participants, that this project might impact their lives as they get to know the word of God.

• Pray that God may appoint his servants to generously support this project for the people in Karamoja, Sebei and Ma’di Regions.

Vietnam

Engaging Ethnic Minorities

Overview

Bible Society Australia is partnering with Bible Society Vietnam (BSV) to engage ethnic minority groups in Vietnam with the Bible, newly translated into their languages.

The Need

Christians from ethnic minorities are often subjected to intense pressure. These marginalised Christians need encouragement, as they face daily challenges imposed by their circumstances.

There is an urgent need for ethnic minorities to preserve their own languages and be able to read the Bible in their mother tongue language. The people speak their indigenous languages but are not familiar with reading the Bible printed in their own language, as the education system only teaches Vietnamese, and there are no books in the minority languages. Now that Scripture translation is underway in these ethnic minority languages, there is an importance to meet the peoples’ need: to help them engage with God’s word in their own language.

98.8m

people live in Vietnam

14.7% 9.2%

of the country’s population are from 53 ethnic minority groups, each with its own distinct language, culture and traditions

of the population are Christians

“... I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”

Goals

This project aims to give ethnic minorities immediate access to God’s word in their languages, providing an opportunity for non-believers to get to know Jesus through printed books, and enabling Bible engagement through Bible Study groups.

In 2024, BSV will develop, print and distribute 6,000 sets of books in ethnic minority languages. Each set including a comic book of Jesus’ stories, a book of Luke (with an audio file), a Bible Study guide, and four bookmarks. The project will expand to include four new groups, reaching six tribes in total.

In January-March, the BSV team will develop the book of Luke, Bible Study Guides and bookmarks, with design and printing in April-June. The audio book of Luke will be created and uploaded, and the book sets distributed in July-September, plus training for small group Bible Study leaders, which will continue until December.

Impact

In 2024, the goal is to impact 6,000 people directly with the book sets received, and many more indirectly. These resources will impact both long term believers from ethnic minorities whose levels of Bible engagement have been very low, as well as new believers and those who have not yet come to faith. People will be able to read God’s word and apply it in their daily lives, which will in turn impact their communities.

Testimonies

“The stories are more interested in [my language]!” — Susan, who lives in a remote area and has never had access to Scripture in the ethnic minority language of her family. Susan (along with 650 other families in her province) received translations of Mark’s Gospel and the stories of Jesus in their own language, allowing them to experience God’s word in their heart language and preserve the use of it in their community.

Prayer Needs

• Thank God for the distribution of Bible stories and the Gospel of Mark in 2023 to people from the different tribes; pray they would get to know about Jesus in their own languages and put their faith in him.

• Pray that the book sets, including the book of Luke, will have a great impact on the tribes, with new believers grounded in God’s word, and many unbelievers saved.

• Pray that Christians would be empowered as they learn to read God’s word. Pray that non-believers would come to know the Lord through this program.

Arab Israel

Support for Christians

Overview

Bible Society Australia is working with the Arab Israeli Bible Society (AIBS) to strengthen their presence and enable their work in Galilee. This project serves the Arab Israeli community with Scripture resources and interactive community conferences and events, serving both the local church and the broader community.

The Need

Despite the devastating circumstances and the profound impact of the war which began in 2023, AIBS is working steadfastly to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected. Through their ministries, AIBS continues to bring unity where there is division, hope where there is despair and love where there is suffering.

The Arab Israeli community (made up of 1.7 million) face significant tension due to their unique status. The Arab Israeli people (Arabs who became citizens of the State of Israel after its establishment in 1948) are a group lost between Jewish Israelis and Arab Palestinians. Since war broke out, they have been carrying the pain and suffering of both the Israelis and the Palestinians. Therefore, they are doubly traumatised. Arab Israeli Christians are a minority twice over: only 20% of Israelis are Arabs (1.2 million), and only 2% of Israelis are Christian. With such a small population of Arab-Israeli Christians, the AIBS is struggling to maintain a core presence or operations from domestic Bible sales and fundraising income. By November 2023, about 48 cities in north Israel, Upper Galilee had been displaced by the conflict. Therefore, there is a great need to build a culture of peacemakers and a community of forgivers.

Project

1.7m

Arab citizens of Israel

185,000

Christians in Israel (at the end of 2022)

75.8%

49,431

of public primary schools do not have Bibles of Christians in Israel are Arab

“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.”

Proverbs 29:18, KJV

Goals

The goal of this project is to provide leadership for the AIBS, to ensure their presence in and service of their community, and to enable the AIBS to produce and distribute Bibles and other tools. Each year, the AIBS aims to serve the local church and become an instrument of peace, security and hope for a region plagued by war and division. In 2024, this will be more important than ever, with AIBS preparing to serve their community to encourage peace through media, through Bible distribution, and through interaction and Bible engagement.

Each year, the goal of this project is to focus on women and families, hosting events and producing resources centred on God’s word. AIBS maintains a physical presence in Galilee, with a centre open to the public for the community to visit, ask questions, engage with biblical resources and attend events. However, there is a risk that these goals may be impacted in 2024 by the instability caused by war, resulting in projects being delayed.

Impact

The impact of the AIBS’ presence will be seen as people engage with online Scripture resources, receive and engage with printed Scripture resources, use AIBS Scripture resources in their ministry, and attend their workshops, conferences, and events.

These include workshops and conferences for families, and in 2024 on trauma healing. AIBS also use workshops and conferences to support churches and schools, impacting thousands of people per year.

AIBS’ growing partnerships with the various local church denominations also has an impact on the Christian community. The impact of these relationships will be seen in increased participation by local Christians at events as well as their take-up of AIBS developed resources, and the quantity of Bibles and materials distributed.

Testimonies

“At this time of our lives, there is a lot of despair, pain, and sadness. We live in an unsafe place, the future is unknown, and things might escalate suddenly. The relationship between Arab Israelis and Jews inside the country is very tense and hard. The land of Christ is screaming from pain. Therefore, there is a great need to build a culture of peacemakers and a community of forgivers.

“The Arab Israeli Bible Society, as an organisation...pondered how God would respond if He were present, seeking to combat darkness through the principles of the Kingdom of God. As Christians, we abstain from taking sides; our allegiance is to Christ. We strive to be pro-Christ in every possible way. To share spiritual tools for healing, reconciliation, love and hope, the AIBS team has devised three strategic directions for their ministry in the community in the coming period: Peace through media, Peace through Bible distribution, and Peace through Bible Engagement.”

— Dina, Director of The Arab Israeli Bible Society, November 2023

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the cessation of war, that God would intervene to stop bloodshed.

• Pray for healing for both people, especially those who were impacted by war.

• Pray for the AIBS team for perseverance and strength to continue to do their mission with grace.

• Pray that God will continue to lead AIBS and fulfill his will through them.

• Pray that God will provide leadership for AIBS and empower it with his presence.

• Pray that God will meet all AIBS’ needs.

Asia Pacific

Literacy Advice in Asia Pacific

Overview

This project aims to strengthen Bible Societies in the Asia Pacific for literacy work by funding United Bible Societies (UBS) Literacy Advisors. Advisors collaborate globally to establish a literacy framework, guide project prioritisation, ensure quality, and assist Bible Societies in planning and implementing literacy programs in their countries.

The Need

Without help from literacy experts, Bible Society literacy projects would lack quality in design and implementation. Literacy experts are required to ensure that projects are the very best in both of these areas.

Literacy work is central to Bible Society’s mission around the world, educating the non-literate, and breaking down the barriers imposed by illiteracy. Equipping people with literacy enriches their lives in many ways, including enabling them to read God’s word for themselves.

The United Bible Societies are committed to giving the 750 million non-literate adults around the world access to God’s word.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

Proverbs 29:18a, KJV

750m 18

non-literate adults around the world

Bible Societies in 52 countries are supported by UBS

26

Bible Society staff from 13 Bible Societies attended the Literacy training workshop in June 2023.

Project

Goals

This project aims to fund literacy specialists for the Asia Pacific region, benefiting Bible Societies by enhancing literacy project standards and providing direct support. Literacy Advisors work on a global strategy, strengthen links between Bible translation and literacy, guide program initiation, assess literacy needs, foster partnerships with other agencies, and assist in planning, implementing, and evaluating UBS literacy projects.

In 2024, the project aims to continue the services of the literacy specialist for Asia and appoint an additional specialist for the Pacific region (a goal previously delayed by the global pandemic), aiming to elevate literacy projects by Bible Societies in both regions.

Impact

It is expected that there will ultimately be 100,000 beneficiaries of this project over the 3 ½ years of the project.

The direct beneficiaries are the Bible Society staff involved in literacy work; all the staff involved in literacy projects in the Asia Pacific will receive quality support and hands-on assistance from a literacy expert. The indirect beneficiaries will be the literacy graduates and their families and communities.

Testimonies

“Pray for the literacy projects, that we will have adequate specialists. There was a time we did not have specialists and literacy, but now there are literacy specialists. They’re able to make an impact. And so we need [them] ... to not simply do the work but do the work in the right way.” — Julian Sundersingh, UBS Global Literacy Coordinator

“Establishing a global framework for literacy is like a guide for the Bible Society staff doing literacy projects and programs around the world... So, it’s like a step-by-step guide for them how to do a project. So, [it gives] the principles behind why they do what they do. The principles behind literacy, reading and writing and of course, project management materials development training at the church.” — Mansueto (Cito) Casquite, UBS Literacy Advisor (Asia-Pacific)

Prayer Needs

• Praise God that BSA is able to commit to and support this project.

• Praise God for Cito, the Literacy Advisor for Asia Pacific, and for the quality assistance he has been providing to Bible Societies.

• Pray for increased literacy class opportunities for non-literate individuals, particularly in the Asia Pacific, through this project.

• Ask for God’s guidance for UBS and BSA in appointing the right candidate as UBS Literacy Advisor for the Pacific.

China

Equipping Christian Preachers

Overview

This project is providing study Bibles and Scripture resources to preachers, Bible school students, and Bible teachers in China who experience poverty and financial hardship. This project equips ministers and church leaders in China with reference books or Bible study tools that significantly assist them in their studies and preparation for preaching.

The Need

China’s churches face significant challenges, including a shortage of leaders, poverty, and the spread of heretical teachings. The growing number of believers contrasts sharply with the insufficient training for leaders.

On average, one ordained pastor in China oversees 6,700 believers. Rural areas are home to at least 60% of China’s Christian churches, with Bible college students often coming from impoverished farming families. Graduates often return to serve in their communities without a salary as their farming communities lack resources to fund them. Many students in Bible Training School also struggle to cover course fees and lack access to study tools. The need for trained preachers and leaders is urgent.

“So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily.”

Acts 19:20, ESV

1:6700

60%

ratio of ordained pastors to believers of churches are in rural regions

Goals

The goal of this project is to provide Study Bibles and Bible resources to students, Bible School teachers and preachers. In doing so, this project will assist them in their study, equipping them to correctly handle the word of God and shepherd the growing number of Chinese believers.

In 2024, the goal is to provide 8,000 sets of Bibles and Bible study resources to students, Bible school teachers and preachers who find it difficult to afford Bible literature and resources. In rural areas, there have been more reports of heresy and false teaching, and sharing biblically sound study resources will help in the faithful teaching of the truths of God’s word.

Other plans for 2024 include a comprehensive review of the Bible study resources book list and visiting previously unsupported provinces to assess their level of need for Bible study tools.

Impact

The project aims to impact around 1,328,000 people.

This is based on the hope that each of the 8,000 Bibles and Bible study resources shared with direct beneficiaries (preachers, Bible school students or teachers) will have an indirect impact an average of 166 lives.

Testimonies

“We often feel inadequate when we minister to believers, lest we lead the congregation astray ... [because] people like me (from the countryside) do not have much formal education and enough theological training ... It’s difficult for us to access these books. We do not have the money to buy them. These books are indeed valuable and helpful … There are limited channels for us to acquire reliable Biblical resources. Now I have trustworthy reference books and resources to minister to believers.” — Jishun, who graduated from a training centre and began serving in a rural church in central Yunnan, 2022

Prayer Needs

• Pray that more preachers and pastors in China will be raised up and be trained to shepherd the millions.

• Pray for preachers and pastors to grow in their knowledge of the Lord through diligent study of God’s word and responsible use of the resources provided.

• Pray that they will persevere to preach and teach God’s word responsibly, even in challenging circumstances.

Global

Literacy Support

Overview

This project includes funding for two part-time Literacy Officers to assist the United Bible Societies Global Literacy Coordinator based in Bangalore, India. Through this project, the United Bible Societies (UBS) will continue to provide support to Bible Societies worldwide in their literacy work, as well as expanding that support for French and Spanishspeaking Bible Societies.

The Need

With 39 Bible Society literacy projects in progress around the world, and 20 proposed literacy projects for 2024, there is an urgent need to extend dedicated services to support literacy work within the UBS Fellowship.

Moreover, different working groups will be formed in 2024 as advisory groups to help plan literacy activities in the Asia Pacific, Anglophone Africa, Francophone Africa and Latin America which will need the dedicated assistance of the Literacy Officers, especially in the action plans for 2024-2026.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

Proverbs 29:18a, KJV

39 20

Bible Society literacy projects are in progress around the world, seeking to improve literacy outcomes for local people with support from UBS.

proposed Bible Society literacy projects for 2024 in local areas where literacy is low

Goals

The goals of this project are to provide continued assistance to the global literacy work of Bible Society, strengthening the various activities of the Global Literacy Office.

This project coordinates and supplies all the required data and statistics to the literacy working group, helping the Global Literacy Office staff keep track of all the literacy projects in a comprehensive and systematic manner.

The focus in 2024 will be to develop regional strategies based on the UBS Position Paper on Literacy and provide effective assistance to literacy work carried out in the French and Spanish speaking Bible Societies.

Impact

Since January 2010, the United Bible Society (UBS) Global Literacy Coordination team have been working to help Bible Societies around the world meet the literacy needs of their people.

The entire UBS Fellowship benefits from this project, which has the potential to impact up to 750 million adult non-literates globally. The activities undertaken by the two part-time Literacy Officers will take the global literacy coordination work of Bible Societies to new heights in the coming year.

Testimonies

“At United Bible Societies we believe that literacy is about dignity, independence and wholeness. Being able to read and write gives people access to essential information, empowering them to make well-informed decisions about their lives. It opens up opportunities for employment, further education and helps people get themselves out of poverty ... Pray for the literacy projects that we will have adequate specialists. There was a time we did not have specialists and literacy, but now there are literacy specialists. They have time with the literacy teams. They’re able to make an impact. And so we need that also, not simply doing the work, but doing the work in the right way.” — Julian Sundersingh, Global Literacy Coordinator, UBS

Prayer Needs

• Thank God for the literacy coordination work and pray that it will take the literacy work of Bible Societies around the world to new heights this year.

• Pray for wisdom and knowledge for the entire team during discussions and strategy planning.

• Please pray for the strategy focus that is emerging in literacy work now and for an effective functioning of the literacy affinity group.

• Pray for new donors to catch the vision of the importance of literacy work.

Malawi

Jesus. All About Life

Overview

African Enterprise Malawi (AEM) is partnering with Bible Society Australia to engage the church with the Jesus. All About Life (JAAL) campaign, enhancing their efforts to share the word of God with their communities.

The Need

Many in Malawi need hope and guidance following the global pandemic and Cyclone Freddy’s impact in early 2023. In addition, there are many needs among those in Lilongwe City, known for conflict, domestic violence, and substance abuse.

While Malawi is considered a Christian nation, many Christians are nominal. There’s a significant need for robust biblical teaching to deepen their faith and equip them for effective ministry. Sound doctrine has taken a back seat in many churches, with deviation towards teachings like the prosperity gospel.

Malawi-based organisations working in evangelism, including Bible Society of Malawi (BSM) and African Enterprise Malawi, as well as members of the Evangelical Association of Malawi, are concerned about knowledge gaps within churches in what the Bible teaches regarding outreach and evangelism.

This lack of knowledge about the Bible’s teaching is compounded by the nation’s youthful population, with 70% under 30 years old, meaning many are unreached by the gospel. Additionally, most church leaders are young, contributing to the challenge.

20m

population in Malawi

70%+

of citizens are under the age of 30

85%

of citizens in Malawi ascribe to Christianity

“The thief comes only to steal andkill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

John 10:10, ESV

Goals

The main goal of this project is to share the love of Christ through the Easter season and to promote Christ-centered gospel sharing among Biblebelieving Christians. This is with the aim of involving the whole church in reaching out to the needs of their communities.

The major project objectives are:

1. To train 1,000 church leaders and evangelists in evangelism (including marketplace evangelism skills and tools), and to adhere to sound biblical teaching.

2. To preach the gospel to 50,000 people in communities around Lilongwe city.

3. To reach an additional: 10,000 youth through sport, poetry and dance competitions; 30,000 through radio and TV broadcasts; 9,000 through established ministries.

4. To strengthen and equip community leaders, pastors, children and youth ministry in discipleship, so they can effectively pastor new believers during and after the JAAL campaign.

5. To provide young believers with biblical discipleship materials through the local church leaders and JAAL campaign groups.

6. To distribute 2,000 Bibles to new believers through local churches.

Impact

This project will reach a total of 100,000 people, directly and indirectly, in Lilongwe city. In addition, the project will also reach out to survivors of natural disasters in many communities across the country.

The impact of this project will be that:

• local churches will be equipped for on-going evangelism and discipleship.

• people will come to faith in Christ this Easter and be enrolled in effective discipleship groups.

• accepting the gospel and the teaching of the Bible would result in spiritual transformation, which will in turn lead to a change in behaviour (such as reduced child abuse, domestic violence and substance abuse, reduced crime) and peace in the communities.

• there would be a growth in Christian unity and love among churches and pastors, which will lead to the on-going collaboration and partnership.

Testimonies

“The Jesus. All About Life campaign ... is strategically aligned to African Enterprise Malawi’s mission of evangelising the Cities of Africa in Word & Deed in partnership with the church. Malawi ... celebrates Easter season with great passion. The reminder of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ brings renewal of commitment to the faith and also resurrects the soul-winning consciousness in the church.” — Cornelius, African Enterprise Malawi

Prayer Needs

• Pray for everyone who will be involved in the entire project.

• Pray that the local churches will respond positively and participate in this campaign.

• Pray for the target groups to receive the gospel wholeheartedly.

• Pray for more opportunities to support such programs, and open doors to enhance the ministry of spreading God’s word.

Mongolia

Jesus. All About Life

Overview

In Mongolia, Bible Society Australia is partnering with Agricultural Innovations and Development (AID) to support the Jesus. All About Life program. This project, in collaboration with the Mongolian Evangelical Association and Ulaanbaatar city pastors, will unite churches to spread the gospel and bring people to faith in Jesus. AID, a Christian organisation started by Samaritan’s Purse, seeks to improve the livelihood of Mongolian agricultural producers and herders, and see their lives and communities changed for the glory of God.

The Need

The Gospel transformed many lives in Mongolia over past 30-plus years following the fall of communism, especially among young people. This first generation of Mongolia Christians have a desire to solidly establish themselves in their faith and raise up the second generation of Christians in Mongolia. Unlike Christians in Western countries that have a long history, in Mongolia the Church is more like the early churches we read about in Acts: young, exciting, and vibrant, but still needing to mature and be established in accurate doctrine and Christian teaching.

Today, Mongolia has more than 60,000 Christians, but many still need to hear the Good News. According to Mongolian Evangelical Alliance only 2 percent of the country’s 3.4 million citizens are believers.

Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, has about 250-300 small Christian churches and about 21,600 believers, who attend church weekly, which is 1.3% of the total population of Ulaanbaatar. The churches want to increase this number to 2%.

3.4m

million citizens in Mongolia

1.5m 2%

live in Ulaanbaatar city

of the country’s 3.4 million citizens are Christians

“The thief comes only to steal andkill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

John 10:10, ESV

Goals

The goal of the Jesus. All About Life (JAAL) project is to bring the gospel to 10,000 people in Ulaanbaatar, so they may become disciples of Christ. From January to August 2024, the JAAL project will be presented to the churches, and training and planning will commence. From September to December, the JAAL project will run in Ulaanbaatar; the evangelism outreach would be over a three-week period from 15 Nov to 8 Dec 2024 and there will be radio, Christian TV channel and various Social Media advertising at the same time as churches are using outdoor banners, posters, JAAL web resources at local small church events to which they invite non-Christian friends. During the month of December, the drama ‘Heaven’s Gate and Hell’s Flame’ will be performed in churches.

The objectives of the project are that:

• 250 churches will be united in evangelism

• 10,000 people directly and a further 1.5 million indirectly will be reached with the gospel

• 9,000 people will be reached with the drama presentation

Impact

Through this project, the number of Christians will increase to more than 2 percent of the total population of Ulaanbaatar city, and the number of Christian churches in Ulaanbaatar will also be increased by 10%. Furthermore, this project will have an impact on the unity and cooperation between the Churches of Ulaanbaatar city, as they share one vision. Churches will learn to evangelise, and in practicing evangelism, they will be revived. Through this project, Mongolians’ understanding of Christianity will improve, which will have a corresponding positive impact on the community and society.

Prayer Needs

• Pray that the gospel of Christ will reach all Mongolians and every ethnic group, especially for nomadic herders.

• Pray that Christian leaders and churches would be strengthened.

• Pray for the Mongolian churches’ vision to see Mongolians building and restoring families, churches, and communities.

• Pray for the younger generations of Mongolia to be saved as disciples of Christ, and for the believers of the first generation to pass on their faith to the younger generation.

• Pray for unity and diversity in the churches.

Jesus. All About Life

Overview

In partnership with Bible Society, African Evangelistic Enterprise (AEE) Rwanda is planning to empower local churches in running the Jesus. All About Life (JAAL) campaign for Easter 2024. This project aims to mobilise churches to reach out to their communities with the Easter message. The JAAL campaign is also intended to serve as a healing tool for Rwandans who continue to suffer from the traumatic effects of the genocide in 1994, as its Easter message will focus on forgiveness, hope, faith and a better future.

The Need

Despite Christianity being the dominant religion in Rwanda, more than half of the Christian population are nominal Christians. Many lack a proper understanding of Christian principles and lack the necessary maturity to share their Christian faith. Over the last 10 years, the Christian population in Rwanda has decreased by 2.4%.

In Rwanda, about 11,000 people from three people groups are unreached (according to The Joshua Project, 2023). Most of these people are said to live in remote areas with limited access to the rest of the world, or in places with high levels of Christian persecution, thereby limiting the spread of the gospel (according to East-West Ministries International, 2023). These unreached groups have too few followers of Christ and resources to evangelise their own people.

11,000

people from 3 people groups are unreached in Rwanda

2.4%

>92% 13.2m+

decrease of the Christian population in Rwanda over the last 10 years of Rwandans identify as Christians people live in Rwanda in 2022

“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”

John 17:3, ESV

Goals

The Jesus. All About Life project in 2024 aims to foster reconciliation between people and God, as believers are inspired and equipped to effectively share the central message of Easter, the reconciliation of man to God through Jesus’ death and resurrection.

The goal of this Jesus. All About Life (JAAL) project is to raise awareness of Jesus Christ and the relevance of his teaching in today’s modern world, by mobilising Christian churches to re-engage with their local community through cultural, community and arts events. These evangelistic events include sports evangelism, open air campaigns, holding activity stations during Easter, and more.

For the effective implementation of the JAAL campaign activities, AEE Rwanda will work with churches and evangelistic organisations, organising seminars and workshops involving 225 Christian leaders to create awareness on the role of the church and believers in evangelism.

Part of the plan for 2024 is to reach communities in Kigali cities, including five secondary cities (Huye, Musanze, Nyagatare, Rubavu and Rusizi) and three satellite cities (Muhanga, Nyamata and Rwamagana), with target beneficiary groups including Secondary and University students, out-ofschool youth, professionals and government officials as well as people of other faiths.

Impact

The Jesus. All About Life (JAAL) campaign will give quiet Christians the motivation to share their faith.

A total of 76,600 beneficiaries will be reached directly and it is expected that at least 8,000 people among the beneficiaries will receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour of their lives through the various evangelistic outreach initiatives.

Furthermore, the trained pastors, young evangelists and facilitators will use the skills they acquire during the campaign to disciple young believers, and continually reach out to other community members with evangelistic messages.

In addition, it is hoped that tens of thousands of Christians will change their practice and perception of evangelism as an event-based activity to a lifestyle practiced by every Christian.

Testimonies

“AE Rwanda is so thankful to God and to all the people that have supported the JAAL Campaign. We rejoice because of the good harvest that we received for the Lord Jesus! Glory to his name!

“There is yet a lot to be done, but we believe that the seed has been planted and will continue to grow. With various groups trained in discipleship, they will continue to follow up on the new Christians so that they can grow in their faith.

“AE will continue to encourage all partner churches and institutions to keep working together for greater achievements along the remaining activities of the JAAL Campaign.” — John, the Director of AEE Rwanda, 2023.

Prayer Needs

• Pray that the many Rwandans who are nominal Christians would be moved to delve deeper in their relationship with God.

• Pray that the many Rwandans who suffer from the scars of the genocide and other challenges of life — like the impact of COVID — would know that God does love them and cares for them.

China

Bibles for Millions

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting the United Bible Society’s China Partnership (CP) in this project, which distributes subsidised and free Bibles, ensuring that as many Chinese Christians as possible can have their own Bible.

The Need

There is a great demand for Bibles in China every year. Though there are officially 46 million Christians, unofficial estimates indicate there are 100 million Christians in the country.

An estimated 93% of China’s 1.4 billion (or 1.3 billion) population still does not know Christ and has no access to Bibles.

In China today, there are more than 5 million farmers who live on less than US$45 a month. Poverty refers mainly to the rural poor, and most of the Christian population live in rural areas.

Chinese Christians need to hear and know the word of God, yet do not have the means to own a Bible. In the face of false teaching and heresies, the need is pressing for their faith to be firmly grounded in and strengthened by the Bible.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

Psalm 119:105, NIV

46m

Christians (unofficially 100 million) in China

93%

60%

of China’s 1.4 billion population has yet to come to faith of Christians in China live in rural areas

Goals

The goal of this project is two-fold. Firstly, to provide Bible paper to support the Church in China in printing and distributing more Bibles to the growing number of Chinese coming to know Jesus, and to support the outreach efforts of the church by sharing the word of God. These Bibles will be more affordable and will help millions of Christians to be able to purchase their own copy. Secondly, this project aims to provide free Bibles to those who do not have the financial means to buy their own Bibles.

In 2024, the project plans to distribute 70,000 free Bibles (including large print editions) and provide Bible paper to print 1,250,000 copies of affordable Bibles through their partnership with the National CCC/TSPM and Chinese Catholic Church.

Impact

From the establishment of Amity Printing Company in 1987, 91 million Bibles have been printed and distributed in China (according to the latest data from December 2022).

Through this project, Christians in China will be encouraged and have the opportunity to grow in their faith, as well as give Bibles to nonChristian friends or relatives as a form of outreach.

In 2024, 1,320,000 Chinese will be able to own a copy of the Bible, and their faith will be strengthened to resist false teaching and heresy.

Testimonies

“This is my first Bible. I was a little overwhelmed when I held it in my hands, thinking to myself that this is no ordinary book, it is the word of God!” — Yuan, from Hebei Province

“The Bible points to me my life’s direction and goals, I started to read the Bible daily. Through reading the Bible, I learn how to pray and live my life,” says a farmer from Shanxi Province.

Prayer Needs

• Thank God for the relatively good relationships between the authorities, the Churches and UBS. Please continue to pray for God’s favour and blessings in this area.

• Pray for ongoing support for this project, to ensure uninterrupted supply of the Bible to the vast number of seekers and Christians in China.

• Pray for annual approval from the authorities to issue Bible print permits.

• Pray for each Christian who receives a copy of the Bible that they may read and understand the word of God and be nurtured and transformed, and that each non-believer or seeker will have their heart opened to God’s word.

Global

Christian Surfers Bible Distribution

Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting Christian Surfers (CS) International to design, print and distribute a new edition of the ‘Surfers Bible’, with digital content links, in both English and French. This specialised New Testament in the New Living Translation will be available to surfers around the world through Christian Surfers projects and networks.

The Need

The surfing community worldwide has an estimated 23 million, with 720,000 professional and amateur athletes who compete. Many surfers have not yet read the Bible or responded to the gospel.

There is a global opportunity presented by the next surfing event for the Olympics, which in 2024 will be held in Tahiti. Christian Surfers contacts there have requested Bibles in English and French to distribute.

With the growth of digital technology and online media, there is a need to ensure the word of God is accessible and relevant, especially to young surfers.

23m

people surf worldwide, on estimate

professional and amateur athletes compete in surfing globally, including in the Olympic games

720,000 100k+

Surfers Bibles and Gospels [now out of print] have been distributed in past years

“O Lord God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O Lord, and your faithfulness surrounds you. You rule over the surging sea; when its waves mount up, you still them.”

Psalm 89:8-9, NIV

Goals

The Surfers Bible project has four main goals:

• Collaboration: enlisting CS affiliate nations to coordinate fundraising and Bible distribution.

• Co-mission: to inspire Christian surfers to actively share their faith, collaborating with others and using marketing strategies for maximum impact.

• Co-produce: managing the production of 25,000 Surfers Bibles, creating content, and building the necessary infrastructure, while

• Connect: providing free access to the Bible and resources through an online order process.

This latest edition of the Surfers Bible will include (via a QR code link) media content designed specifically to encourage surfers to connect with God and other Christian Surfers. The reader can access:

• up to date videos

• testimonies and stories of faith in Jesus from some of the world’s leading surfers

• translated videos

• Bible study guides

Impact

The ‘Surfers Bible’ will be culturally relevant and relatable to those in surfing communities. Around 25,000 surfers will be impacted by receiving a copy of The Surfers Bible. Christian Surfers aim to provide their team in Tahiti with 2,000 Surfer Bibles to give out at the Olympic Games surfing events in 2024, through official sport chaplains, local surfers and events planned during this time.

The project will also have an impact on the global Christian Surfers tribe, serving to unite them in their mission to see every surfer and every surfing community have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus.

The Surfers Bible website is expected to generate 30,000 unique users; indirectly, tens of thousands of people will be reached through the digital media produced along with the printed Surfers Bible.

Prayer Needs

• Please pray that testimonies from high level surfers can be confirmed and captured for the Surfers Bible. Pray for the global community to coalesce behind a shared vision for Surfers Bible.

Jordan

Bibles and Bread for Refugees

Overview

Bible Society Jordan is reaching out to refugee families and underprivileged Jordanian families with practical support, basic needs, and the word of God in partnership with local churches.

The Need

Over the years, Jordan has been known to be a land of refuge for many Arab and Non-Arab populations. Since 2011, millions of Syrian refugees have fled to safety in Jordan, residing inside camps and the outside. As wars continue, many refugees have had to prolong their stay in Jordan with minimal living situations, and furthermore, were followed by hundreds of thousands of persecuted Iraqis. These Iraqi refugees in Jordan have fled persecution in defence of their Christian faith and have sacrificed everything they own for their faith.

Yet Jordan continues to be an economically challenged country, with limited resources and high unemployment rates. Many families live in extreme poverty and lack basic living necessities. The post-COVID-19 financial situation means that there is a heightened demand for assistance and an increased burden on both local communities and refugee families.

The needs of these families have urged Bible Society Jordan to take a step forward and extend help to those in need.

“The

Luke 4:18a, NIV

760,000

refugees hosted by Jordan (mainly Syrians, Iraqis, Yemenis and other nationalities)

80%+

refugees live among Jordanians in the community

Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free...”

Goals

The goal of this project is to ease both the emotional and physical suffering of families by providing their basic needs, food and any urgent special items. This project aims to put the word of God into action, to reflect the love of Jesus by loving refugees.

In addition, this project is empowering the local churches with resources to care for those in need in their communities.

This project serves three groups: Jordanian, Syrian and Iraqi families. Distribution of emergency supplies for these families (food packages, supplies for babies, etc.) and Bibles for those who long to read it are done in cooperation with volunteer partners in local churches in different locations, and through home distributions and church visits. University and school tuition support are also being given for students.

The specific goals are that:

• 750 refugee families are provided with basic living necessities each month

• 1,300 Jordanian families are provided with basic needs each year

• 1000 Bibles, 2,000 New Testaments, and 5,000 Scripture portions are made available for churches serving in the field.

Impact

The number of people this project aims to impact is 50,000. This will include 10,000 refugee families and underprivileged Jordanian families each year (with each family consisting of 4-5 members).

This project has a crucial impact on refugee families. Many families have gone from being without very basic needs for their families, to seeking the word of God and finding their hope again.

Through partnering with Bible Society in this project, the Jordanian church has become more empowered and active in serving families in need in their communities.

People will experience God’s provision in their time of need, receive his gift of love and share the love and fellowship of other Christians.

Testimonies

“The need for food is endless, and when you feed the hungry, you give them the chance to look for something more ...”

— Project Coordinator, Bible Society of Jordan.

Prayer Needs

• Pray for the stability and safety of Jordan despite the continuously rising conflicts surrounding it.

• Pray that each and every refugee will find and get to know Jesus, their ‘Rock of Salvation’ and source of real strength amidst the hardship they are undergoing.

• Pray for the volunteers who are direct contact with suffering families, for their emotional and physical protection, and for strength as they offer helping hands and listening ears.

• Pray that the Lord will console the hurt and wounded.

Kenya

Bibles for the Young Overview

The Bible Society of Kenya is committed to placing a Bible in the hands of marginalised young people, one student at a time, as a part of the Christian Religious Education in schools. The motivating hope of this project is that even when they are old, they will then turn to God’s word and not away.

The Need

According to a 2022 UNESCO data, there are 8 million primary and 7.8 million secondary Kenyan students, all of whom can participate in Christian Religious Education at school. Kenya is a Christian country and as a result, both Christian Religious Education (in primary and secondary school) and the Program for Pastoral Instruction (PPI in primary school) are approved by the Kenya School system.

However, according to earlier research by a child outreach network, 98% of public primary schools do not have Bibles available in the classroom to assist in these lessons. Kenya is described as a lowermiddle income economy. Due to poverty, many families do not own a Bible.

8m

Kenyan primary students

7.8m

Kenyan secondary students

98%

49,431

of public primary schools do not have Bibles copies of Scriptures have been distributed to students by Bible Society since 2017.

“Teach children how they should live, and they will remember it all their life.”

Proverbs 22:6, GNB

Goals

Each year, this project seeks to place a Bible in the hands of 5,500 children in urban poor and rural Kenya, through children’s homes, slum schools, and other schools, with the aim of transforming lives through engagement with God’s word.

In 2024, the Bible Society of Kenya aims to distribute 7,745 copies of Bibles to Kenyan school students in urban poor and rural areas.

This project’s activities for 2024 include mapping out the distribution areas, contacting schools and developing a distribution calendar from January to March. This is followed by the distribution process scheduled for March to July.

The Bible Society of Kenya also aims to create awareness of Scripture engagement strategies like the Program for Pastoral Instruction (PPI) and Open the Book. Each quarter, this project will monitor, evaluate and report on the progress.

Impact

While the ultimate goal of this project is audacious and eternal — that when they are grown, students will continue to turn to God’s word and not away from it — the initial impact will be seen in improved performance in the Christian Religious Education subject. It is hoped that with the availability of Bibles, the PPI classes will be brought to life for primary students.

Since 2017, the Bible Society has distributed over 49,431 copies of appropriate Scriptures to children in 24 children’s homes, 317 schools in over 40 counties in Kenya. Impact reports received indicate that Bible knowledge among young people has increased, leading to noticeable behavioural change, especially in children’s homes and slum schools.

Continued distribution of Bibles among children from low-income backgrounds increases regular Bible reading across the whole family. Through this project, families with no Scriptures are now exposed to God’s word, and Bible engagement is increasing among the children who receive Bibles for themselves.

Testimonies

“The English version of GNB is ... very easy to search Bible verses since there are reference section which can easily look into. I also enjoy carrying my Bible and notebook to church when I go to church, a new behaviour which I had not embraced before I got this Bible. My favourite scripture is Psalm 91: 11 and it reminds me always that God is my protector.” — Victor, who received his Good News Bible in grade 6.

Prayer Needs

• Pray that more Bibles will be available so the children and youth across Kenya will be reached with the Scriptures. Pray for positive transformation for students and their families, that God’s word will touch their hearts and minds and leave an eternal mark in their lives.

• Pray that the children will become great ambassadors of God’s love.

Nicaragua

God’s Word for Kids with Cancer

Overview

Since 2009, the Bible Society of Nicaragua (BSN) has run the Hope and Smile for Children with Cancer project in the Manuel de Jesus Rivera Children’s Hospital, or “La Mascota”, the only hospital in the country to offer specialised care for children with cancer. Through trained pastors and volunteers, BSN provides regular and ongoing spiritual support to families through Bible distribution and devotional classes, plus practical assistance to cover costs associated with transport, medicine, nutrition and coffins when needed.

The Need

In Nicaragua, families often struggle to bridge the care gaps caused by inadequate resources in the country’s hospital system. This impacts the children’s recovery chances, especially those from remote areas lacking basic services, and facing issues like poverty and malnutrition, compounded by transport challenges leading to incomplete treatments. This project offers the children of the La Mascota hospital and their families spiritual assistance four times a week to strengthen them and point them to the faith and comfort found in God’s word.

+/-25%

of families in Nicaragua live in poverty and over 8% struggle in extreme poverty (World Food Programme)

11.6%

of all deaths among children and adolescents in Nicaragua (1-19 years) are due to Cancer with 284 new cases per year (2021 PAHO Childhood Cancer Profile)

“God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”

Psalms 46:1, GNB

Goals

Bible Society Nicaragua works to offer a comprehensive support service to many disadvantaged families who struggle financially to help their child fully recover, working to address existing inequalities that are further exacerbated by ill health. Spiritual and emotional support is needed to give strength to the children undergoing treatment, as well as to their parents. Doctors at the hospital particularly depend on the project to offer pastoral support to families when their child enters palliative care, and especially as family members come to terms with the tragic early death of a child.

In 2024, the goals of the project are to:

• Train 110 pastors and volunteers in pastoral care for children, child psychology and hand hygiene. They will also receive a free Bible, to help provide spiritual support.

• Support 2,368 children and along with their parents, giving them free Bibles, and teaching them about God’s love, comfort and hope through his word.

• Distribute 80,000 Bible portions to children and families.

Impact

By engaging children and parents in prayer, reading, and studying the Bible, children and their families can build up spiritual resilience. The project’s effectiveness is annually assessed through consultations with hospital staff and parents. The director of the La Mascota hospital commended the positive impact of the project, noting improvements in patients who engage with prayer and Scripture, as well as recognising the positive influence on medical staff and their patient care approach.

The volunteers are highly regarded by parents and children for the invaluable daily spiritual support they offer during challenging times. Monthly food aid plays a vital role in bolstering the children’s health, aiding their resistance to treatment side effects. Additionally, it eases concerns for parents who live far from the hospital, ensuring their children’s essential nutritional needs are met.

Testimonies

“Having my own Bible makes me feel happy. The Bible gives me hope because I am going to be healthy. In the future, I hope to be with my friends.”

— Cristoffer, 9-year-old

“I like to have my Bible to learn more of the Bible verses and to know Jesus more. The Bible gives me hope to learn something new and hope that Jesus will heal me completely. In my future, I hope to be going home and going back to school. In my future I hope to be a doctor.”

— Grace, 7-year-old

“I feel glad to have my own Bible. It gives me hope because I know that God heals me. I hope to get out of the hospital and go home soon. In the future I want to be a doctor and read the Bible to children.” — Michel, 14-year-old

Prayer Needs

• Pray for God’s provision of health and protection to the hospital patients and their families.

• Pray that the families reached through this project will continue seeking God in prayer and grow in confidence in their faith.

• Pray for God’s blessing on the pastors and volunteers who serve patients and their families in this project.would be addressed by the project.

South Africa

Hope for Prisoners

Overview

Bible Society Australia is working with World Hope Ministries to offer hope with God’s powerful word in South African prisons. The objective of this project is for prisoners to engage with the Scriptures, as Bible Society provides Bibles to graduates of the Bible Discipleship course.

The Need

South Africa has the world’s twelfth highest number of prisoners, outranking countries with nearly five times its population. There are a total of 235 operationally active prisons in South Africa, with over 164,000 prisoners. The prison population remains overwhelmingly overcrowded, with more than 45,000 inmates without proper accommodation.

Most of the prisoners have never owned a Bible and have a great need to hear the transformative message of God’s love.

In addition to this, there’s an opportunity to reach out to Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Officials, who experience many challenges and among whom there is a high suicide rate.

Project

No:

235

operationally active prisons in South Africa, with over 164,000 prisoners

45,000+

prison inmates without proper accommodation in South Africa

“When the oppressed see this, they will be glad; those who worship God will be encouraged. The LORD listens to those in need and does not forget his people in prison.“

Goals

The goal of this project is to impart the word of God in these prisoners’ lives, contributing to their rehabilitation process, and encouraging them to live crime-free lives after serving their sentences. For this project, World Hope Ministries partners with the Directorate of Spiritual Care from the Department of Correctional Services and other organisations. Bible Society supplies Bibles free of charge to distribute to prisoners, as World Hope Ministries carry out programs contributing to the rehabilitative care of the prisoners.

The goal is to distribute a minimum of 12,500 Bibles into correctional facilities in South Africa reaching men, women and juveniles.

Impact

Lives are changed through this program, as prisoners receive the opportunity to understand the forgiveness and mercy of Christ. For many, their hope has been restored in God, in man, and in themselves. Many also begin to seek restoration with their families and ask forgiveness from those they have affected by their actions.

Testimonies

“My comfort was only like King David’s, when he says, ‘I become comforted only through the word of God.’ If I can see only one soul change and be like what I am today, then I can praise God for that.” — Charlie, who received a Bible while he was in prison. Now a free man, Charlie willingly goes back to prison to give hundreds of other inmates what he freely received. He has become a facilitator for the Bible Discipleship Course, and visits some of South Africa’s most notorious prisons several times a week.

Prayer Needs

• Praise God for the opportunity to enter South African prisons and preach God’s word. Thank him that prisons are open to their inmates receiving the Bible and learning from it.

• Pray for course facilitators, that they may be wise in leading prisoners to the Lord.

• Pray that lives will be changed in South Africa’s prisons, that eyes and ears will be opened to the word of God.

• Please pray that the ministries involved will succeed in their work with those who have fallen along the way.

Here are ways you can be part of Bible Society Australia’s global mission:

Pray with us

Stay connected with Bible Society’s global mission by praying for the projects in this Prospectus.

Subscribe to our monthly prayer letter at biblesociety.org.au/pray — where the power of your prayers meets the impact of God's word worldwide.

Open The Bible with us

Subscribe to our Daily Bible devotions or explore our library of Bible reading plans at bible.com.au

Become a Lightkeeper

Leave a legacy through God’s word

Index

1. Australia – Auslan Bible Translation, 7–8

2. Australia – Bibles for Bubs, 9–10

3. Australia – Bibles in Schools, 11–12

4. Australia – Disaster Recovery Grant, 13–14

5. Australia – Distributing God’s Word, 15–16

6. Australia – Equipping Chaplains, 17–18

7. Australia – Indigenous Audio Bibles, 19–20

8. Australia – Indigenous Publishing for Bible Engagement, 21–22

9. Australia – Scriptures for the ADF, 23–24

10. Australia – Supporting Indigenous Translation, 25–26

11. Asia Pacific – Literacy Advice in Asia Pacific, 113–114

12. Asia Pacific – Literacy Capacity in the Asia Pacific Region, 63–64

13. Arab Israel – Support for Christians, 111–112

14. Bangladesh – Literacy Skills for Underprivileged Women, 65–66

15. Bangladesh – Pre-Primary Literacy for Rural Children, 67–68

16. Burkina Faso – Empowering Women Through Literacy, 69–70

17. Cambodia – Learning Through Listening, 71–72

18. China – Bibles for Millions, 125–126

19. China – Equipping Christian Preachers, 115–116

20. China – Scripture and Literacy, 73–74

21. Egypt – Children and Adults Post Literacy, 75–76

22. Global – Christian Surfers Bible Distribution, 127–128

23. Global – Literacy Support, 117–118

24. Jordan – Bibles and Bread for Refugees, 129–130

25. Kenya – Arise – Healing Teens’ Wounds of Trauma, 77–78

26. Kenya – Bibles for the Young, 131–132

27. Laos – Literacy by Listening, 79–80

28. Laos – Literacy for the Hmong, 81–82

29. Lebanon – Literacy for Refugees and Underprivileged, 83–84

30. Lebanon – Reconcile for Refugee Children, 85–86

31. Malawi – Jesus. All About Life, 119–120

32. Mongolia – Bible Translation, 55–56

33. Mongolia – Braille Literacy, 87–88

34. Mongolia – Jesus. All About Life, 121–122

35. Mozambique – Literacy for Life (Mission Educate), 89–90

36. Myanmar – Literacy by Listening, 91–92

37. New Caledonia – Bible Translation, 29–30

38. Nicaragua – God’s Word for Kids with Cancer, 133–134

39. Pakistan – Beacon in the Darkness, 93–94

40. Papua New Guinea – Bible Translation for People Without Bibles, 31–32

41. Papua New Guinea – Bibles and Maternal Health Care, 33–34

42. Papua New Guinea – Rebuilding the Bible Society, 35–36

43. Papua New Guinea – Tok Pisin Revision Translation, 37–38

44. Rwanda – Jesus. All About Life, 123-124

45. Rwanda – Literacy Building Futures, 95–96

46. Samoa – Samoan Contemporary Old Testament, 39–40

47. Solomon Islands – Opening Eyes Through Literacy, 41–42

48. South Africa – Hope for Prisoners, 135–136

49. South Pacific – Enabling Growth, 43–44

50. South Pacific – Jesus. All About Life & Bible Mission, 45–46

51. South Sudan – Literacy for Shilluks, 97-98

52. Sri Lanka – Literacy for the Young, 99-100

53. Sri Lanka – Sign Language Gospel, 57–58

54. Syria – Trauma Healing, 101–102

55. Tanzania – Bible Knowledge in High Schools, 103–104

56. The Gulf – Literacy for Women, 105–106

57. Tonga – Tongan Bible New Translation and Revision, 47–48

58. Uganda – Holistic Literacy Skills, 107–108

59. Vanuatu – Bringing Hope and Healing to Women, 49–50

60. Vanuatu – Vanuatu Bible Translation, 51–52

61. Vietnam – Engaging Ethnic Minorities, 109-110

62. Vietnam – First Old Testament, 59–60

63. Vietnam – Vietnamese Study Bible, 61–62