In a world grappling with uncertainty, one thing remains constant: the transformative power of God’s word. In 2024, the United Bible Societies (UBS) Fellowship — including Bible Society Australia — distributed more than 150 million printed Scriptures and facilitated 25.9 million digital Bible downloads across 240 countries and territories. 

That’s more than numbers. That’s millions of lives touched by the hope, comfort, and truth found in the Bible. 

A Decade of Impact 

Over the past ten years, the UBS Fellowship has distributed 2.6 billion printed Scriptures—a staggering figure that represents more than a quarter of the world’s population. This includes: 

• 276.9 million full Bibles 

• 102.3 million New Testaments 

• 2.2 billion Scripture Portions and Selections 

These figures reflect the heartbeat of our global mission: to make the Bible accessible to everyone, everywhere. 

 Digital Reach, Local Impact 

As digital engagement continues to grow, so does the reach of Scripture. In 2024 alone: 

• 28.3 billion chapters were viewed online 

• 1.3 billion audio plays helped people hear the Word in their own language 

• Spanish, Portuguese, and English were the most accessed languages, with Arabic joining the top ten for the first time 

Brazil led the way in both printed and digital distribution, followed by India, China, Nigeria, and the Philippines. These efforts show the resilience and creativity of Bible Societies responding to local needs with global support. 

Why Distribution Matters 

Bible distribution is more than logistics — it’s ministry. It’s the vital link between translation and engagement. A Bible translation can only change lives if it reaches the hands and hearts of people. 

 As UBS Secretary General Rev. Dirk Gevers puts it: 

“Every Bible distributed, no matter the format, makes possible a vital connection between God’s living Word and a person longing for truth, comfort, or transformation.” 

Stories Behind the Stats 

Behind every number is a story. Like Felicia in Kenya, who received her very first Bible at school and called it “a big blessing.” Or the children in Vietnam and Nicaragua, who found comfort and spiritual guidance through Scripture in the midst of hardship. 

Read about the difference the Bible made for mothers Carla and Lourdes, as they supported their children through cancer treatment in Nicaragua. 

Read about the difference the Bible made for John in Kenya, who says, “That Bible was like honey in my mouth. Interesting, right? God caused me to seriously read the Bible, and, in the process, I got born again.”   

These stories remind us why we do what we do. They inspire us to keep going—to keep giving, translating, and distributing—so that everyone can encounter the Bible in a language and format they understand. 

Looking Ahead 

As part of the UBS Fellowship, Bible Society Australia is committed to this global movement. Whether through printed Bibles, digital downloads, or Scripture portions, we’re working to ensure that all people, everywhere, have access to the Bible. 

Thank you for being part of this mission. Your prayers, support, and generosity make it possible for people around the world to experience the life-changing message of God’s word.  

Every Bible distributed is a chance for someone to encounter God’s word, maybe for the very first time. Your support helps us reach people in remote communities, respond to urgent needs, and continue sharing the hope of Scripture across the globe. 

Give to our Where Needed Most fund and help bring the Bible within reach for someone who needs it most.

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