On the occasion of its 80th anniversary, United Bible Societies (UBS) launched "The Bible for Tomorrow: A Global Commitment to the Next Generation of Christians," a landmark declaration that reaffirms its mission to bring the Bible to all people and foster faith among a new generation.
The Bible for Tomorrow.
On behalf of a global fellowship of 156 Bible Societies, UBS issues this declaration as a renewal of its historic vision —Bible for all people — as well as a forward-looking commitment to serve a rapidly changing world, characterised by uncertainty, spiritual searching, and a new openness to faith.
This anniversary celebration was marked by a face-to-face event in Jakarta on 6 & 11 May 2026, which was complemented by a global online meeting with Bible Institute representatives from around the world.
Although the United Bible Movement was officially established in May 1946, after the end of World War II, it rests on more than two centuries of Bible ministry in various parts of the world.
Dirk Gevers, General Secretary of United Bible Societies, said, "As we commemorate 80 years of ministry together, we give thanks for God's faithfulness and for so many people who, since the early 19th century when the global Bible movement began, have taken part in bringing the Bible across languages, cultures and generations. This declaration is not just a reflection on the past, but also an affirmation of vision for the future. We believe the Bible continues to bring hope, truth and direction to young people and to all who seek meaning in a complex world. Together with churches and partners around the world, we reaffirm our commitment to the vision entrusted to us: The Bible for all people."
Responding to a Changing World
This declaration comes at a time when the world is being shaped by conflict, instability and moral complexity that is deeply affecting young people. Many young people admit to feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. Yet, amidst these challenges, UBS notes a growing sense of spiritual curiosity among young people. Bible institutes in various countries are also seeing increased engagement through various youth-focused projects, finding that the Bible provides a "lasting anchor of values" related to truth, justice and peace.
"The Bible offers an anchor of enduring values and hope," reads the declaration, "that answers humanity's deepest questions of truth, belonging, justice, and peace."
Six Commitments for the Future
In response to these challenges, UBS formulated six key commitments to support the growth of the next generation of Christians:
· Spiritual Dependence:seek God's guidance through Scripture, prayer, and the Holy Spirit.
Seek God's guidance through Scripture, prayer, and the Holy Spirit.
· Universal Access:expanding the availability of the Bible across languages, formats, and socio-economic contexts.
· Deep Engagement:encourages lifelong reflection, discipleship, and interaction with Scripture.
· Cultural Relevance:supports various forms of Scripture presentation, including digital, audio, and sign language formats.
· Church Partnership:equipping churches around the world for effective interconfessional ministry..
· Holistic Mission:integrates engagement with the Bible through compassion, justice, and service.
Call to Partner Globally
UBS invites churches, ministries, and all people of goodwill around the world to take part in this shared mission: ensuring future generations are rooted in Scripture and prepared to face a complex world with faith, resilience, and purpose.
Vision that Brings Hope
Looking ahead, UBS expressed its hope for the future when a new generation:
· Interact deeply with Scripture as a source of wisdom and hope
.· Inheriting a vibrant, diverse, and loving church
· Actively participate in God's mission with courage and compassion
."With humility and confidence in God's faithfulness," the declaration concludes, "we reaffirm our commitment to the vision entrusted to us: The Bible for all people, now and for generations to come."
We reaffirm our commitment to the vision entrusted to us.
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About United Bible Societies
Founded in 1946, United Bible Societies (UBS) is a global fellowship of 156 Bible Societies serving in more than 240 countries and territories. In partnership with churches from all major Christian traditions, UBS helps bring the Bible to people in languages and formats they can understand and use, including print, digital, audio, braille, and sign language formats.
As one of the leaders in Bible translation, UBS has contributed to more than 70% of the world's complete Bible translations, allowing more than 6.2 billion people to access Scripture in their primary language. In addition to translation, the fellowship also supports global ministry through Bible printing and distribution, as well as various forms of engagement with Scripture, such as literacy, trauma healing, creation care, and ministry to diaspora communities.
Declaration for the Next Generation of ChristiansThe text of the declaration is accessiblehere.
Media Contact:
United Bible Societies Communications Office
Email: comms@unitedbiblesocieties.org
Website: www.unitedbiblesocieties.org
