Every year on May 9, 150 national Bible Societies around the world gather for a special day of prayer. They remember their rich legacy that began on this date in 1946, thank God for his faithfulness, and pray for his continued blessings on their work.

This year, as our world faces the COVID-19 crisis, this fellowship of Bible Societies, also known as the United Bible Societies, know their mission to make the Bible available to everyone is more critical than ever. As people search for answers to the unknowns of this pandemic, now is the time to point them to the hope and comfort found in Scripture.

Sharing God’s Word in Unprecedented Times

Despite the challenges presented by the coronavirus, Bible Societies are still working to bring the healing power of Scripture to their nations through new creative means. From virtual Bible-based trauma healing groups, to live Scripture reading and worship on Facebook, and delivering God’s Word door to door, Bible Societies want all to know that God is our refuge and strength.

As they do this work, let’s join them in praying that God will give every Bible Society strength, compassion, wisdom, and hope as we face this global crisis.

Pray with Us

This is a portion of the official United Bible Societies prayer that will be prayed on May 9.

Our loving Father, at the start of this new decade, we come to you full of thanks for your many blessings on Bible Society work over more than two centuries.



We pray for inspiration as, together, we explore new, creative ways to engage people with the Bible. May these efforts bring reassurance and comfort to those who are unwell, heartbroken, afraid, lonely, and in despair.



Faithful God, thank you that we can turn to your Word for strength in difficult times. Please uphold and prosper the ongoing work of Bible translation, publishing, distribution, engagement, and ministry so that everyone can access the timeless riches of Scripture.



Inspired by the words of Psalm 23, we pray: Lord, our Shepherd, in these challenging times, help us find rest in the green fields of your love. Refresh us with the living waters of your Word. Stay close as you guide us, Lord, so that even when we go through deepest darkness, we will not be afraid, because you are with us.



Amen.