American Bible Society today announced a new 40-day campaign to support Military Service members and their families with Bible and Scripture resources as the military faces increased mental health challenges and heightened uncertainty amid COVID-19. The God Understands campaign, featuring a suite of free Bible-based trauma healing resources, aims to reach 35,000 Service members between Memorial Day on May 25 and Independence Day on July 4, 2020.

“On Memorial Day we honor the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and the freedoms we enjoy,” said Gordon Groseclose, Retired U.S. Army Chaplain (Colonel) and program representative of American Bible Society’s Armed Services Ministry. “This year, American Bible Society will remember those who died in combat, as well as those who continue to struggle through the negative impact of military service. Research has shown that Bible engagement can mitigate these inner challenges and injuries faced by military community members and their families.”

Current statistics show that suicide rates among Service members have increased at a steady rate over the past decade. There are nearly 20 million Veterans in America today, and between 11% and 30% of those involved in military conflict have struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of their military experiences.

“Especially during this time of increased uncertainty and isolation due to the global COVID-19 crisis, we believe the hope and comfort found in Scripture is what our Service members need as they continue their frontline service to our country,” continued Groseclose. “Through the nationwide network of chaplains, American Bible Society is working to support our Service members in the midst of deep emotional challenges.”

The God Understands program is supported by American Bible Society’s Armed Services Ministry, which exists to help meet the critical spiritual needs of our nation’s Service members, Veterans, and their families. This program is one of the many resources designed to speak to unique challenges Service members and Veterans face, including combat trauma, isolation, health issues, and civilian transition. Since 1817, American Bible Society has delivered nearly 60 million free Bibles and resources to America’s armed forces.

To access and share the God Understands resources, go to: www.GodUnderstandsMilitary.com. To help provide resources to America’s Service members visit: http://abs.bible/givemilitarybibles.