Next week, leaders from some 140 Bible societies working in more than 200 countries and territories will converge on Philadelphia. Some 500 Christian leaders will attend the United Bible Societies’ World Assembly, a conference that occurs just once every six years. This year’s event is being hosted by American Bible Society.

The World Assembly is strategically timed to coincide with American Bible Society’s bicentennial celebrations. The week’s events will launch with a gala that celebrates the last 200 years of American Bible Society’s ministry and looks ahead to the future of the organization. Global Bible ministry leaders will attend dressed in traditional attire from their home countries, making the event a true visual representation of the diversity of the attendees as well as the cultures and people they serve.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to kick off the celebration of our 200th year alongside these inspiring Bible ministry leaders from around the world,” said Roy Peterson, president and CEO of American Bible Society. “It is an exciting time for American Bible Society but, more importantly, it is an exciting time for the Bible cause. New technology provides unparalleled opportunities for translation and distribution of God’s Word; and we are looking forward to hosting leaders who are paving the way for people on every continent to experience the life-changing message of the Bible.”

The weeklong World Assembly will feature internationally recognized speakers, such as His Grace Bishop Angaelos, general bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the U.K. and Kirk J. Franklin, executive director of Wycliffe Global Alliance. On Sunday, May 15, World Assembly delegates from every corner of the earth will attend churches and share their stories with the people of Philadelphia across the denominational spectrum.

Interview Opportunities:

• Geoffrey Morin, American Bible Society senior vice president, ministry mobilization
• Michael Perreau, United Bible Societies director general
• Dr. Rudi Zimmer, United Bible Societies chairman

About United Bible Societies
United Bible Societies is a global network of Bible societies working in more than 200 countries and territories across the world. Together, they are the world’s biggest translator, publisher and distributor of the Bible. Bible Societies are also active in areas such as HIV/AIDS prevention, trauma healing and literacy. Bible Societies work with all Christian Churches and many international non-governmental organizations. For more information, visit UnitedBibleSocieties.org.