If the Lord does not build the house, the work of the builders is useless;
if the Lord does not protect the city, it does no good for the sentries to stand guard. – Psalm 127:1 (GNTD)

Today, American Bible Society expresses gratitude for 199 years of God’s guidance and provision. In 1816, the organization began with a vision of helping all people engage with the life-changing message of the Bible, referencing Habakkuk 2:14 as a guiding verse: “Just as water fills the sea, the land will be filled with people who know and honor the Lord” (GNTD).

Over the past 199 years, God has used American Bible Society to bless people from all corners of the earth. Thanks to the faithful support of financial and ministry partners, the organization has helped make hundreds of Bible translations accessible to people in their heart languages, reached hundreds of thousands of people in need through Trauma Healing programs and made Bible resources available to millions of people across the globe.

As staff members, supporters and friends give thanks for God’s long-term provision, American Bible Society continues looking toward future service. Over the next 10 years, the organization is working to see the Bible translated into 100 percent of languages needed to reach all people and to see 100 million people in the United States actively engaged with Scripture.

This summer, American Bible Society will celebrate another milestone, as the organization moves its headquarters from New York City to Philadelphia. The new facility—located just one block from the Liberty Bell—will enable the organization to expand its historic legacy and dedication to God’s Word as residents of Philadelphia’s historic district.

As American Bible Society prepares for its third century of work, and continues to find groundbreaking ways to share God’s Word with all people, the organization pauses to praise God for his many blessings—from the organization’s founding in 1816 to its future in the City of Brotherly Love.