A week has passed, as we recall the United Bible Societies (UBS) Fellowship Event (FE 26) in Indonesia. For five days, May 7-11, 2026, more than 300 delegates from Bible societies from around the world gathered at the Mercure Hotel, Ancol, Jakarta. Another 89 also joined the gathering online.

First, these delegates from Bible societies were there to celebrate 80 years of UBS ministry. We all remember that, between May 7-9, 1946, amidst the devastation and pain of World War II, delegates from Bible societies from various countries gathered in Sussex, England, to build partnerships and unite in a shared vision to make the Bible more accessible to everyone around the world. The final day of the meeting, May 9, 1946, was designated as the founding day of UBS, a memory that continues to this day.

Eighty years later, the spirit of the participants remains the same. Delegates from hundreds of countries enthusiastically gathered in Jakarta and used the time productively to reflect, build collaborations, discuss strategic programs, and renew their commitment to their shared mission: making the Bible available and accessible to everyone, everywhere.

In addition to formal meetings, each committee provided numerous opportunities for participants to meet with their ministry partners and specifically discuss various partnership opportunities, discuss ministry challenges, and learn about innovations developed by other Bible societies. Several representatives from various Bible societies shared inspiring presentations on the innovations and innovations they have developed in the context of the challenges faced in their respective areas.

Each morning of FE26 began with prayer, reflection, and thanksgiving. Delegates from around the world celebrated God's faithfulness over eight decades. In line with the psalmist's words, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman watches in vain" (Psalm 127:1), all are aware that progress, the ability to survive challenges is a gift and the presence of the Lord alone. Through worship and prayer together, the participants strengthen their unity and are reminded that their services, large and small, are part of a global movement that serves the Lord the Church, in an effort to help everyone who longs for and seeks the word of God.

The participants shared the same belief: if God founded and upheld UBS's ministry for 80 years, then God will surely guide and sustain it through the generations. The theme—A Legacy of Purpose, A Future of Possibility—reverberated throughout the event as representatives from various regions shared and explored how the presence of the Bible changes lives and transforms communities for the better.

FE26 also marked several important milestones, including the launch of The Bible for Tomorrow: A Global Commitment to Future Christian Generations, a declaration reaffirming the collective commitment of every UBS member to adapt, innovate, and make their ministry relevant so that new generations can easily encounter the Bible as a source of faith, wisdom, and hope.

For the smooth running of the entire event, UBS would like to thank the entire team for their hard work in ensuring the smooth and successful running of FE26. A special thanks goes to the Indonesian Bible Society (LAI), whose generous hospitality made FE26 a wonderful experience for all participants and a tremendous support for the organizers.

UBS also extends its gratitude once again to every delegate, speaker, volunteer, translator, musician, and organizer who helped make the 2026 UBS Fellowship Event in Indonesia a meaningful and unforgettable event. May God continue to guide and strengthen the UBS fellowship and its members in serving His Church and all who seek His Word.