A statue of Jeremiah Lanphier, the originator of the idea behind Bible Talk Tuesday, sits outside of Bible House at 1865 Broadway New York, New York.

In the city that never sleeps, stress comes with the territory. But now, residents of the place known for its daily grind have a chance to recharge their batteries with Bible Talk Tuesdays.

This event, hosted by American Bible Society every week at lunchtime in Manhattan, has its roots in a movement that began 150 years ago with Jeremiah Lanphier — a man who started prayer meetings for fellow business professionals in New York City. Launched during another difficult economic period in American history, the meetings quickly became popular in New York and beyond. Philadelphia, Washington and Chicago began hosting these prayer meetings as Lanphier ushered in a revival.

Recommitting themselves to Lanphier's mission, the Bible Society began Bible Talk Tuesdays “to encourage New Yorkers during rough times and help them make sense of their lives,” says Drew Segawa, an ABS employee who directs the talks.

Today, an “open arms” statue of Lanphier sits at ABS' entrance. It's a favorite spot to take pictures and videos for the thousands of people who pass by each day. The statue, like Lanphier himself, engages the city around it, which is the main goal of Bible Talk Tuesdays. “We want to share the Bible's message of hope and encouragement with lunchtime crowds from Lincoln Square to the Lower East Side,” says Segawa.

Alessandra Bianco, a New Jersey resident and ABS employee, has engaged with the Word at Bible Talk Tuesdays and seen immense results in her own life. She feels energized by God's Word and enjoys the fellowship with others who attend the meetings. “There is something extremely moving about the way the words of the Bible come to life when discussed among believers,” says Bianco.

Bianco has taken the mission of Lanphier and made it her own. She reads her Bible more, often on the bus on her way to work. The practice has drawn attention. “I have actually had people approach me, simply to say that they thought it was cool that I was reading the Bible,” Bianco says. Hearts are being engaged by God's Word and, in turn, are engaging those around them.

Bible Talk Tuesdays encourage people from all walks of life to seek knowledge of God through Scripture. Although it's easy to forget the promises of God's Word when stressed and busy, Bible Talk Tuesdays offer a reminder for people each week at lunch.