Sharing god’s word with the world

Winter 2010

Living the Gospel in the Middle East

World’s Greatest Gift Catalog 13

America’s Earliest Bibles 18

Hope for Widows in India 22 ABSRecord.com President’S MESSAGE The Greatest Gift “This very day in King David’s hometown a Savior was born for you. He is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2.11 (CEV) Record Chairman of the board specially with Christmas Dennis C. Dickerson Sharing god’s word with the world just around the corner, it’s Executive Staff Record winter 2010, VOLUME 154, NUMBER 3 good to be reminded of the E PRESIDENT AND CEO precious gift we have in the Word R. Lamar Vest of God. Honestly, it’s hard for me Features Bible Exhibition Executive Vice Presidents to imagine not getting the chance Simon Barnes Living the Gospel in India to discover the amazing love of Robert L. Briggs 8 in the Middle East “Be ready at all times to answer anyone who Jesus waiting in God’s Word. Stephen King Joining Hands in the Holy Land asks you to explain the hope you have Sadly, this is the unseen reality record Staff in you.” 1 Peter 3.15b (GNT) for so many around the world 13 World’s Greatest Gift today. For each life unreached by the Bible, living with disease, Executive editor Catalog Postage stamps on display at the in harm’s way, neglected, without food or shelter — the Gail A. Martin Ministry Gifts to Share Bible Society of India’s museum wonder and glory of a God who deeply loves them remains managing editor visually convey the expedition the Bible hidden this Christmas. Liz Smith America’s Earliest Bibles has made around the world. “Bible 18 Exploring the Treasures of ABS But let me encourage you that God’s Word is alive and design Exhibition” reads the sign that invites active this holiday season. Whether it is in the global Rob Giorgio Hope for Widows in India 8 the curious off the street for a look inside expansion of Scripture across India (p. 22), the powerful production 22 Empowering Women and Girls to see them and much more. Upon renewal right in Bethlehem, the birthplace of our Lord (p. 8) or TJ Hock entering, visitors are greeted by larger than life faces from history – including thousands of people discovering Scripture in our nation’s first Contact Us DEPARTMENTS capital (p. 5) — lives are being actively changed. Abraham Lincoln, Billy Graham, Mother American Bible Society Record I hope these stories encourage and inspire you, too. Teresa – and quotes about what the 212-408-8754 Behind every one of them is the life-changing message of the President’s Message Bible means or meant to them. [email protected] 2 The Greatest Gift The Rev. Sahu Surendra, curator Scriptures. www.AmericanBible.org Thank you for all you do to help bring the world’s greatest The William Carey Museum and senior manager, says, “The word Donor services 3 ‘exhibition’ seems more intriguing to gift of God’s Word to so many this Christmas and into the 866-895-4448 in India young people than some old, dusty new year. [email protected] museum.” Day to day, an average of bibles.com/Scripture Inquiries Bible Society Update 25 people come through, including (for catalog or Bible requests) 4 National and International News schoolchildren, students and adults 800-32-BIBLE [email protected] Bible Q&A from Christian, Hindu and Muslim backgrounds. Rev. Sahu is always on R. Lamar Vest Bible-a-month Club 17 Your Bible Questions Answered 18 888-227-8262 hand for questions. [email protected] Please Pray Passersby often stop to ask about 24 China • Egypt • Gulf States the Bible and God, which Rev. Sahu Planned Gift Programs India • Pakistan • Sudan (for Stock or Real Estate Gifts, Gift Annuities, Charitable graciously answers no matter where it Trusts, Bequests, Wills and free Estate Planning Services) Quiet Time leads. Some young people are in difficult 800-820-6227 25 January • February • March situations as newly-marrieds, or starting [email protected] out in their careers, and they want to In Memoriam The mission of the American Bible Society is to make the Bible available to every person in a 26 talk to someone. Rev. Sahu feels it’s his language and format each can understand and afford, so all people may experience its life-changing message. The Society is a member of the United Bible Societies, a partnership of the Bible Societies privilege, and God-given opportunity, throughout the world cooperating to make Scriptures available to people everywhere in their own language. to listen and share his life experience Published since 1818, the American Bible Society Record is the official periodical of the American Bible Society and the second-oldest continuously published publication in the United States. It is published and the hope of Jesus with each one. three times a year and is sent to as many of our supporters as budget allows. Postage is paid at New York, N.Y. and additional mailing offices. Other publications are encouraged to reprint the text of any Record The William Carey Museum (named for article, but prior written permission must be obtained from the American Bible Society Record to reproduce the “Father of Modern Missions”) is located any images. Publications reprinting the text of a Record article must include a credit line. Please send a copy of the issue to the Record at 1865 Broadway, New York, NY 10023. 22 at the Bible Society of India in Bangalore. cover Photo by malorie tull

2 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 3 BIBLE SOCIETY NEWS

Update From around the globe

NATIONAL Launching Orthodox Patriarch ABS and Bowery provided daily Scriptures through text with those in need. The Hope Award God’s Word Visits Bible House Mission Reach out to messaging. Center City Philadelphia was Grand Prize went to Forgiven Ministry saturated with volunteers handing out the of Taylorsville, N. C. Also recognized Christmas Angels for Justice Homeless Philadelphia Faith and Freedom Guide, a as Hope Awards finalists were Snappin’ Working alongside In partnership with the Bowery Nine-year-old Elijah misses his daddy booklet that included “76” biblical texts Ministries of Oconomowic, Wis., and the Christian relief Mission, the American Bible Society desperately. His mom took him to visit to read along a walking tour of the many CrossOver Ministry of Richmond, Va. and development is reaching out to more than 15,000 his dad in prison, but it overwhelmed historic sites in Philadelphia. The event took place in Arlington, organization, World homeless adults in New York City Elijah and he never went back. Some 100,000 copies of “The Story Texas, on October 16. Vision, ABS launched a with programs that will empower their The American Bible Society is joining of Never Giving Up,” a Bible reading The Poverty & Justice Bible lives with the Word of God. During forces with Angel Tree®, a program guide designed for young adults, were to help bring focus to the Thanksgiving, and in January, when of Prison Fellowship, at Christmas to distributed throughout the Philadelphia Scripture’s deeply-rooted record numbers of homeless people supply Scriptures to 40,000 children, The American Bible Society welcomed Catholic School System, city churches and message of compassion and care for are often feeling their lowest, ABS is like Elijah, and the little girl pictured His Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew of the community outreach service programs. the world’s poor. By highlighting over Orthodox Church to Bible House on October providing “God is Always With You” below, and their parents and caregivers. 30 with an exhibition at MOBIA. On display at the historic Westminster 2,000 key verses and providing an in- Scripture Portions, alongside a hot meal, This partnership reaches children of the Seminary in Glenside, Pa., was the first depth study tool, The Poverty and Justice “The Green Patriarch,” more officially to some 4,000 people. The Rev, Emilio incarcerated who live in remote places English Bible printed in America by Bible provides practical advice on how to known as His All Holiness Ecumenical A. Reyes, head of the outreach around the U.S. where churches may Robert Aitken*, in Philadelphia, 1782, Pictured left to right: Joey Pierce, ABS; Hope Patriarch Bartholomew, was welcomed Award Winners Scottie and Jack Barnes, ® challenge poverty and injustice both at department at ABS, said, “This is an or may not participate in Angel Tree . on loan from the American Bible Society. founders of Forgiven Ministry; Marvin Olasky, home and around the world. to Bible House in October. He is the awesome opportunity to impact the lives Each child receives a box with presents *See Treasures story on page 18. WORLD Magazine, and Simon Barnes, ABS As World Vision president, Richard spiritual leader of the Orthodox church of hurting people in our community and an American Bible Society Scripture (no relation to Scottie and Jack). Stearns, notes, “The Poverty and Justice and is also known for his concern for the by giving them the chance to exchange TEXAS resource. Forgiven Ministry, Inc. is a North Bible demonstrates that when it comes environment. For more than seven years, homelessness and spiritual brokenness for Hope Awards ABS has worked alongside the Orthodox Carolina ministry to inmates and their to today’s most pressing social issues, sound Christian living.” The American Bible Society and families that was founded by Scottie God got there first.” Learn more at Church to publish Bible literature for WORLD Magazine co-sponsored children and adults consistent with Pennsylvania Barnes, herself the child of a prisoner. JusticeBible.org. the “Hope Awards for Effective She hopes to narrow that gap for other the Church’s faith and doctrine. Just Philadelphia = BIBLE Compassion,” an event that recognized new york introduced is the first ever Military New CITY 2009 children through a program, “One Day and celebrated small Christian not- With God,” for inmates and family Thanksgiving Baskets Testament for the more than 25,000 The American Bible for-profit organizations that work in members, and other programs to train active Orthodox personnel serving in the Society was a key big ways to tangibly share the gospel volunteer mentors. U.S. armed forces around the world. partner with the Recipient of Angel Tree® gift Honoring the Patriarch’s visit, an Philadelphia National Incarcerated parents and day-to-day exhibition was organized by the Museum museum of biblical art Bible City campaign The art of Jews and Christians caregivers receive Scripture resources of Biblical Art (MOBIA) and features for 2009, helping to in the Altarpieces of Medieval Spain with coupons that they can send back icons, Sacred Scripture, a liturgical organize events and to request a free Bible from ABS. Psalter, maps and rare architectural providing free Bibles and devotional The production of religious art in late-medieval Spain ® Angel Tree goes beyond Christmas by ABS staff members Tom Trageser and Frank portraits of Constantinople. Also on tools for youth to engage with the was a complex, cooperative relationship between encouraging the year-round spiritual Gomez, and others, packed Thanksgiving display is a photo and video display of the Christian and Jewish artists. Jewish and Christian baskets for inner-city families in New York City. Scriptures. well-being of these children by helping Patriarch’s environmental work. These Each year, one city is named The artists worked side by side in studios producing both This Thanksgiving, ABS staff assembled to place them in Christian summer camps items will remain on view at MOBIA National Bible City as a program of retablos (large multi-paneled altarpieces), as well as 34 baskets of food to give to Metro and mentoring programs. through January 24. The National Bible Association. On Latin and Hebrew manuscripts. The exhibition tells the Ministries, a Christian non-profit al s h, j r.; story of this fascinating collaboration and provides ard s by MAR K RO G ER S. November 22, a week of free events organization dedicated to serving inner- w kicked off with a concert including The a glimpse into these artistic communities. city children and their families in New See the video at Philadelphia Boys Choir, at Mt. Airy The exhibition is on view through May 30, 2010, York City. Each basket included non- Church of God in Christ, at which ABS at MOBIA, 1865 Broadway, New York, NY. perishable Thanksgiving food items for ABSRecord.com/patriarch w by T hro i ng li g ht.com. bartholome atriarch p hoto s by timothy w p p hoto o f ho e a a family of four. 4 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 5 BIBLE SOCIETY NEWS

INTERNATIONAL bolivia cameroon india Palestine The Palestine Bible Society is in Strengthening Scripture for Orphans Braille Scriptures 5,000 Radio Listeners the midst of a “Proclaim It” Scripture encounter media blitz that will Africa Marriages in Bolivia Supplied to Thousands Hear Scriptures expose as many as 10,000 Palestinians Divorce rates country-wide have reached Equipping Churches to the Word of God when complete. an all-time high in Bolivia; it’s nearly for West Africa with Palestinians are seeing and reading doubled since 2002. The Bolivian Bible Scripture at book fairs and in local Don Moen Society (SBB) is equipping Catholic newspapers as well as hearing the Bible and Protestant churches with biblical read over radio broadcast. This program materials to strengthen pastoral and aims to give hope and encouragement counseling services for married and in the midst of a faltering peace process, engaged couples for 24 months. The political instability and a depressed SBB is also equipping priests and economy. pastors at 400 churches with biblical resources to strengthen their counseling Eleven-year-old Idriss Segney reading an illustrated Bible donated by the Bible Society and discipleship programs for marrieds of Cameroon to an orphanage in Yaoundé, Don Moen and their families. The causes for Cameroon, October 2009. A blind man reads Scripture from a Bible Bookstore sign at the Bible Society of In October and November, the Bible divorce are physical or psychological Orphanages in Cameroon are home Portion in Braille. The Bible Society of India Palestine. Society partnered with Don Moen’s mistreatment, adultery, abandonment, to tens of thousands of children as a provided Braille Portions in at least six Indian languages to help meet the needs of the national “I Believe There is More” tour insult and separation for over two years. result of AIDS-related deaths and a visually-challenged population. to help bring God’s Word and new generally high mortality rate. During Religious extremism and traditional churches to West Africa. Don Moen spain 2009 and for the next two years, the beliefs can make life hard for millions describes himself as a song writer and Nida School 2010 in Murcia, Spain Bible Society of Cameroon is making of blind Indians, who are, at times, worship leader who “helps people colorfully-illustrated Children’s Bibles ostracized by even their own families. The Eugene A. experience God's presence in a new available to orphans in orphanages run While the Church is growing rapidly Nida Institute and fresh way.” Hundreds signed on by Christian organizations. In 2009, in India, the visually impaired remain for Biblical to help provide Scripture outreach tools, children ages 2 to 5 participated in early one of its most under served members. Scholarship Bible listening groups and the vital childhood education including learning The Bible Society of India ministered will hold its distribution of God’s Word. Bible stories. Children 5 and older to them by supplying Scripture fourth annual As Don noted, “I can’t think of a more participated in 45-minute Bible studies Sugar cane cutters receiving Scriptures from materials in Braille, Talking Bibles Nida School for precious gift to bring to those who are three days a week, as well as 20 minutes the Bolivian Bible Society. (audio recordings) and white canes Translation Studies deeply hurting and separated from of prayer every day before school. On to organizations working with the (NSTS) in June the gospel.” More information at Saturdays, facilitators lead two-hour blind. The Scripture is available in 2010, in Murcia, Moen.AmericanBible.org. Bible studies that focus on God’s love English and local languages such as Spain. Applicants and salvation through Jesus Christ. Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, Kannada are being and Telugu. To date, an estimated reviewed now croatia snapshot The Nida School engenders dynamic interactions 9,500 people have received Braille for this two-week “I was in Sarajevo for the first three months of the siege [in 1992], when the city between participants, as evident in this picture from Scripture and have become engaged in the 2009 Nida School program held in Misano, Italy. was surrounded by the Serb army,” recalled Valeria Pandzic, 40, distribution officer program, reading it and using it through partner at the Croatian Bible Society, recently. “At one point we had grenades and rockets which immerses innovative translation and Bible scholars in an churches, house prayer groups or Bible blasting around us all day long. It was terrifying, especially as I had a two-year-old intense classroom and social exchange on the latest findings in the study camps organized for the visually daughter and a one-year-old son. We would hide in the basement for hours. [During] theory and practice of Bible translation. Applicants are required to impaired in various Indian states. those times I really used to find comfort from reading my Bible. It would make me feel have — or be a candidate for — a Ph.D. and be a thought leader calmer. I used to read Psalm 23 a lot because it gave me strength and knowledge in the field. For application procedures, please consult the NSTS that I can rely on God to help me through everything – even the shadow of death.” web site at ABSRecord.com/nida. Valeria Pandzic, Croatian Bible Society, 2009. j až cr n ivec, B ible Society o f Slove ia; s y o f do n moe ; p hoto by M at p hoto o f do n moe courte Ja n Pedder s e ; Joaquim D a ss o ville. p hoto s by malorie tull.

6 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 7 cover story living the gospel

“I pray that they may all be one. Father! Israel, (the Arab-Israeli Bible Society), There are Sudanese, Ethiopian, Chinese, May they be in us, just as you are in me and works. Her vision is for the women of Filipino, Vietnamese and others I am in you. May they be one, so that the Nazareth, and other towns populated taking their place in the hustle-bustle Living world will believe that you sent me.” with Arab Israelis. “We have plans to of the market. A mass of migrant John 17.21b (GNT) produce a book that focuses on peace workers flows into Israel from all abil*, on staff with one of the and reconciliation, with beautifully over the world. They live in crowded NBible Societies in the Holy illustrated Scripture quotes and and basic conditions, finding work the Gospel Land, describes the work there as testimonials. It will draw the attention as caregivers for the elderly and the “sowing seed on rocky ground.” of young and old. Through distribution sick, in factories or in the hotel tourist “But the Seed is being sown,” Nabil in schools and women’s co-operatives, industry. Reaching out to them are Joining Hands in the Holy Land declared, “because we are bringing we seek to create a desire and a mindset representatives of the Bible Society for peace, bringing change to the area.” of Israel, making the Word of God story by richard nash them the living Gospel.” He went on to explain, “We provide the Scripture, available to these who are uprooted. and as we do, we demonstrate who Answered Prayer They encourage those who are followers of Christ by giving Scripture tools Jesus is with our words and actions. In the East is the road to Jericho, to support their own ministry. Other We are the living Gospel, introducing where another treasure of Bible Society passers-by, including many Israelis and Christ through our lives to a watching ministry can be found. Jesus told a story Arabs, appear glad to receive Portions of population.” We work the land and of a man attacked on the road between Scripture, engage in a conversation and prepare it to receive and accept the Jerusalem and Jericho, reminding his receive comfort and hope as they start to Word of God – the good seed. hearers that it was a treacherous road. read of God’s love for them in their own language. “We are the living Gospel, introducing Christ through our lives to a watching population.”

The Bible Societies in Israel and Today, it still has an air of danger. Yet the Palestinian territories comprise in the city of Jericho, an Arab town in three autonomous groups seeking to the Palestinian territories, is an amazing bring the Good News to people from discovery: The Jesus House of Prayer Jewish, Muslim and Orthodox Christian (JHOP). The JHOP is a project backgrounds. They are partnering recently taken on by the Palestinian in the midst of national complexity Bible Society. and tension. The three Bible Societies Here women gather for instruction collaborate and live out their one in the Word of God, for counsel, prayer identity in Christ, choosing to set and practical aid. Several women have aside political and cultural preferences already given their lives to Christ for Kingdom ones. Each of the three through this ministry. One woman A Sudanese woman, like Mira*, and her child. Societies has envisioned bold initiatives recounts with tears of gratitude how her In the South is the city of Arad, and for putting Scripture into people’s once disruptive son now sits quietly in there you will meet Mira*. She vividly hands and facilitating its life-changing class and excels as a student, following tells the story of how she and her family message. a number of prayer initiatives on his packed their few belongings and fled behalf. This is the power of the Word of Sudan, because of severe persecution, God in action. The Peaceful Kingdom and crossed into Egypt. After many The ancient walls of Jerusalem days of arduous travel, they arrived in provide a reflective vantage point for Mercy for the Uprooted Cairo and took refuge with a church looking toward the cities of this country, A street market in Tel Aviv, to the community. Life seemed good again, places where Jesus, God’s love incarnate, west, hums with the noises and cries but that release was short-lived as racial dwelled and ministered. Looking to of traders drawing the attention of taunts began in the community. Finally, the North is Nazareth, where Dalia*, potential buyers. Remarkably, most Mira’s husband agreed that they must director of the newest Bible Society in p hoto s by malorie tull; da g memo of the crowd are not citizens of Israel. move on – further north into Israel. At left, a game of backgammon in a Jerusalem marketplace. *Names changed. 8 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 9 living the gospel living the gospel

the only ones who have encountered “So do not start worrying: ‘Where will my food persecution. Mohamed*, who continues to follow another religion has been come from? or my drink? or my clothes?’ (These attacked to the point of hearing loss for Travelog are the things the pagans are always concerned attending the center. Still, the love and Observations and photos from visits to the Bible about.) Your father in heaven knows that you need acceptance he discovers inside has been Society in the Arab Gulf, by ABS staff member Matthew 6.31, 32 ( ) so important to him that he is willing all these things.” GNT to pay the price to keep going. Malorie Tull. The living gospel that Nabil of yards from the skyscrapers and five star describes speaks through lives that day 1 hotels. It was a very small home housing demonstrate God’s living Word. at least 15 people from Sri Lanka. Each Collaborating together, the many Prayers at the Dunes room was packed tightly, with up to seeds planted by the Bible Societies in It is dark, but I can still clearly four or five people often sharing a Israel and the Palestinian territories make out the shadows and very small space. The kitchen was a are beginning to fall on good ground footprints in the sand dunes. Two Ancient walls in Jerusalem. small corner of the hallway, and as and bear fruit. The panoramic view lanterns precariously perched on Crossing the border illegally they threw backgrounds to meet and nurture we passed through, 4 women were of ministry in this country forms a homemade tables cast light on a themselves at the mercy of the Israeli attitudes of reconciliation. Surely such cooking. Immediately they poured beautiful mosaic, as believers here group of about 50 men gathered authorities. Soon they were housed a place promises a better future than some coke and piled chips on a with others from the Sudan in one of the bitter past and uncertain present. respond to the call to be Christ- here to worship God, clutching plate and served them to us with the poorest parts of town. Her husband Staff from Christian backgrounds work followers together in this place. The their Bibles, lifting their hands a warm welcome. We spent some was given a rare opportunity to study alongside some from other backgrounds powerful witness of teams working in to their Savior, distracted only time talking and listening to Truck drivers in Dubai at a theological training institute in the who have found Christ through the concert for the sake of the Kingdom for a brief moment as my group their stories. We learned of a girl North. Mira and their children, with a Scriptures. Yet, some have paid a huge include the partners and supporters of nears, carrying video and who dreams to have a family, a woman with a new one on the way, stayed behind until price not only in discovering Christ but ABS, working hand-in-hand so that camera equipment at our sides. bachelor's degree struggling to make money in a new country his return. in serving Him, too. Converts are not many may taste and see the goodness Prayer meeting on the dunes. The landscape behind them and a pastor dedicated to ministering not only to the Mira had to give up her work as a of God. is teeming with cranes and trucks, lights and construction hotel cleaner while she gave birth to her people that he lives with, but other scaffolding. These men have traveled to Dubai and have found migrant communities. They all had youngest. The Bible Society of Israel “This part of the has a mercy ministry to refugees and work helping to build what will eventually be the world’s different stories but their lives centered soon connected with her. Mira’s face world is in the news, largest airport. This place where they are gathered is right around their faith in Jesus Christ. outside of the labor camp where they live. Their prayers are lights up with gratitude when Bible unfortunately, all the While we were talking, I asked one focused, the meeting purposeful. It is obvious to see that this is Society workers arrive with food and woman if she had a Bible, and if she time. But, we [Israeli the most precious time of their week. And as they finish, every clothing for the baby. God has provided wouldn't mind bringing it out to the for her again. Words of thankfulness hand lifted to the heavens, I cannot help but feel privileged to and Palestinian Bible sitting room where we had gathered. tumble out as she talks about her life, have witnessed a group of Christians who are not only strong Before I knew what was happening, a Smiles during my visit “The Word of God is a mother for the Societies] are making in their faith, but who also do not take for granted and truly group of about 8 women had laid out people. It is all we need!” understand this beautiful thing we call grace. different news . . . several floor mats, had covered their heads with colorful prayer the news that Jesus wants to create – news of shawls, their Bibles in hand. They began reading Scripture Student Center day 2 aloud and singing. The faith in that home is strong. The salvation, news of mercy, news of hope. The trend Delivers Love Beyond the Skyscraper people living there have learned what is truly important in life In Bir Zeit, on the West Bank, the is war, separation and distrust. But in Jesus, the and are unwavering in their beliefs, no matter what the cost. Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the desert stretches far. I Palestinian Bible Society runs a student Bible Societies decided to be what he wants us to center. In the cool, and tastefully am quickly reminded that these places are not just glitz and day 3 comfortable interior are rooms for social be to our people - that source of hope. Thank you glamour. While here, I have learned that the majority of Old and new interaction – coffee and conversation, for your prayers and support. We know you are the population in Dubai is expatriate. They are laborers and table games, computer workstations migrant workers from around the world. They work as drivers, I've enjoyed visiting Qatar. The country is divided into two and garden available for students from standing with us in bringing hope to this precious cleaners, painters. You name it, they do it. sections, Old Qatar and New Qatar. There have been lots of the university. changes over the past few years, and more and more expatriates part of the world.” I was taken aback today by the extreme disparity between This is a well-regarded venue for settle here in hopes of making money to send home. It is these wealth and extreme poverty. We went to a house just hundreds very people who are building up the church in Qatar. We young adults from Christian and other Labib Madanat, Regional Secretary to the Middle East s tei n ruc k . p hoto s by malorie tull; matt

10 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 11 living the gospel

visited several church leaders from different countries who are committed day 5 to their community here as well as Centered in to their communities and families World’s Greatest Gift back home. I was overwhelmed the compound as I listened to the many faith In Kuwait City, there is a church Catalog experiences that they shared compound that includes the oldest with me. church in Kuwait. Dozens of congregations of Christians from The Catholic Church just recently all over the world meet in the completed the building of its compound weekly and during the 1st established church compound in the land that church in Kuwait day it houses a Christian school. In the government has granted. The the compound center is the Bible New Qatar through the community affectionately calls Society of Kuwait's resource center. eyes of old Qatar the compound “church city,” Give God’s Word The congregations here rely on this as four other congregations resource center to provide them will have buildings there too. I have with biblical materials. David*, the this Christmas! become increasingly aware how different communities of faith program coordinator of the Bible experience worship across the globe. Society, together with his staff, work hard to do just that. day 4 *Names changed Philip See Order Philip* is a man with quiet confidence. He has a seriousness that tells of his focus and determination. He is our host in Bible Society of Kuwait Form for Qatar and the sole representative of the Resource Center Bible Society here. I am amazed at the Details amount of patience that it must have taken him to accomplish all that he has in his short time here. Every book that Philip brings into Qatar must have special approval from customs. So, the Scriptures are all imported legally into Receive a FREE gift the country. Philip dreams of setting when you make a minimum up a resource center in the church donation. compound so that Christians will have easy access to the Bible. In a Philip sitting in the church place like Qatar, where the church Send a FREE is the only avenue for purchasing personalized card a Bible or other Christian resource, it is with every gift you order! a big dream. I hope that one day I can return to Qatar and see the fruit of the Bible Society’s labor.

Visit ABSRecord.com/mideast GreatestGift.AmericanBible.org for more information. Call 866-453-5651 to receive a full catalog.

12 | Record WINTER 2010 Give today! Gift.AmericanBible.orgGreatestGift.AmericanBible.org toll-free 866-453-5651

Give Hope to America’s Children Keep the Bible Presses Rolling Thirty-seven million Americans are living in poverty today. Many poor From Asia to Africa, the worldwide need for Scripture children are fearful that they may starve. But through our ministry is overwhelming. There are simply not enough Bibles partnerships, we can provide them with the Bread of Life found in Bible to reach everyone who yearns for God’s Word. You can storybooks — along with much-needed nutritious emergency food. help – right now – by helping supply God’s Word for 15 Each gift of $23 delivers three Bibles and 75 pounds of groceries. believers where the need is most desperate. $ $ 23 #5002 60 #6005

Comfort for Persecuted Christians God’s Word for Forgotten Children Sadly, there are countless Christians around the world who are Will you send a gift of love to a forgotten child? The number struggling under persecution. Living as minorities in their countries and of poor, orphaned and abandoned children throughout the world is communities, they are sustained by the light of their faith. Yet despite the growing at an alarming rate. Working with our fellowship of 145 loss of homes — and sometimes the lives of loved ones — many of these Bible Societies around the world, you can send comfort where it is brave Christians must persevere without Bibles of their own. Your gift needed most by providing New Testaments for 100 precious provides God’s Word to 20 persecuted believers. children who await hope. $ $ 80 #7001 100 #5003

God’s Word for Our Troops Help U.S. Inmates Find Peace As military personnel serve the cause of freedom this holiday season, Men and women in prison live lonely lives, struggling with guilt and anger they face dangers and challenges daily. They need God’s Word to give them over their misdeeds. Many are desperately searching for answers to a life direction, hope, courage, peace and comfort. Your gift will help provide a filled with pain and frustration. Your gift will help 30 lonely hearts special camouflage-covered New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs to find the true comfort found in God’s Word. 10 of our brave men and women serving in uniform. $ 60 #6007 $ 40 #3001

Bibles for Believers in China Fill a Yearning Heart As the Church grows in China, so does the hunger for God’s Word. Today, many still do not have the Bible in the language of their hearts. Your gift provides paper for printing 75 Bibles. Thankfully, the important work of translation continues. The Lakota $ team is working to bring God’s Word to Native Americans who are ready 75 #4001 to embrace it. Your gift will translate 2 Scripture verses needed to help complete this project. $ 50 #6006

14 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 15 Giveliving today! the go GreatestGift.AmericanBible.orgspel toll-free 866-453-5651 BIBLE Q & A

God’s Word for Kenya’s Schools Bible Q&A In many regions of Kenya, very few children own a Bible or can afford to buy one. Through our ministry partners, we are reaching out How many different English to 600 schools across Kenya with God’s Word. Your gift of translations of the Bible $42 will help reach 12 students in Kenya with Audio are there? Bibles and Scripture materials. I am afraid no one can give you an exact number for the English $ 42 #6003 translations and paraphrases of the Bible printed since Tyndale’s New Testament of 1526. In part this is due to the difficulty of determining what Comfort for Wounded Warriors should be defined as a new translation as opposed to a correction or a revision Your gift provides military chaplains with of an existing translation. There is the much-needed Scriptures for ministering to 3 additional question of how we should wounded American heroes. count translations that include not $ a complete Bible or Testament, but 12 #3002 just a group of books or even a single book. And then, of course, there is the difficulty of sheer numbers. With all these caveats in mind, the number of printed English translations and a good thing to make it useful, and one the surface of the sheet. Likewise, a paraphrases of the Bible, whether way to do that is to recycle it. Recycling sheet folded twice results in four leaves complete or not, is about 900. Hope for Street Children in Azerbaijan is an honorable act and that is fitting for and a sheet folded three times results in The most comprehensive English a book such as a Bible. eight leaves. A folio (from Latin folium, Nearly half of the people of Azerbaijan live on less than $1a day, and bibliography of the subject is the one First, check your Bible for family or which means ‘leaf’) is a book made of children as young as 5 are sent into the streets to earn money. These compiled by William J. Chamberlin, historical information such as births, sheets folded one single time. A book children need to hear God’s Word and experience his love. They need and published in 1991, as “Catalogue of deaths and marriages, as local historical consisting of sheets folded twice is hope. Your gift will help provide Scriptures to 8 children in Azerbaijan. English Bible Translations.” The section societies are often interested in the called a quarto (from Latin quartus ‘a covering the canonical books (including $ information. If you are not comfortable fourth’), because its leaves measure a 16 #1002 the Deuterocanon) has 806 pages. The with these suggestions, consult your quarter of a sheet. Similarly an octavo book does include some ghost entries pastor, minister or priest and ask what is a book consisting of leaves that and a few repetitions, but gives you a he would do with the pulpit Bible. measure one eighth of a sheet. fair idea of the number and variety of The actual measurements of a folio, English translations. What is the meaning of terms quarto, etc. depend, of course, on the Bibles for Kids in Ukrainian Schools such as folio, quarto and How do I dispose of my old, size of its original sheets. octavo used in describing worn Bible? After decades of communist rule and religious suppression, the Bible is old Bibles? There is no Christian ceremony or being welcomed back into Ukrainian public schools. But teachers lack These terms are used to describe procedure for the disposal of old, worn Scripture resources tailored to the needs of children and teens in their books produced by traditional methods Bibles. Although everyone agrees that classes. Your gift will help place God’s Word into the hands and hearts of paper making and printing, before Puzzled by a Scripture if a book is worn and no longer usable, of 12 young students in Ukraine. the beginning of the 20th century, and passage? Submit your it should be discarded, but discarding a Bible-related questions to they refer to the way a sheet of paper is Dr. Liana Lupas at $ Bible is a difficult act for many people. 36 #1005 folded (also known as the format) and [email protected] It should be remembered that a Bible or via U.S. mail. cut to become part of a printed book. is a book. It may be helpful to think of A sheet folded once gives two leaves, the ways we discard books. It would be that is four pages, each measuring half ABSRecord.com/bibleqa p hoto by An dre Sch n eider

16 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 17 treasures treasures

Indians in Massachusetts.* headquarters, Bible Eliot, a Cambridge-educated House, in New York clergyman, who was known as the City. The Bible in the America’s “Apostle to the Indians,” settled, in Algonquin language 1631, near what would become Boston. is housed along He immediately saw the need for a with other “biblical Bible in the Algonquin language. But treasures,” securely without a written language, this was behind glass doors, Earliest Bibles no simple task. With the help of an where the temperature Algonquin companion, Eliot mastered stays a steady 66 Exploring the Treasures of the American Bible Society Collection the local dialect and created a written degrees and the language for the tribe. Within 30 humidity a comfortable by barbara delp years of his arrival, the New Testament 31 percent. And, “The sky and the earth won’t last forever, but my words will.” Matthew 24.35 (CEV) was published in Algonquin and two keeping a watchful years later, in 1663, the full Bible was eye over the Collection Dr. Liana Lupus in the stacks of the ABS Collection. hen America’s earliest settlers But what of the Native Americans more than 30 years to bring the Bible published. It was America’s first Bible. is Dr. Liana Lupas, a Western Hemisphere. As part of her Warrived in the New World, who were already here and who had to his Native American neighbors. Today, that Bible is part of the veteran ABS employee who was trained responsibilities, she arranges special they brought their Bibles with them – no written language? What Scriptures As a result of his work, the first Bible American Bible Society’s 45,000 volume as a classicist in her native Romania. exhibits so the general public can have Bibles written in their heart languages would they use? published in America – and in the New holdings. More specifically, it is one of Over the last two decades, Dr. Lupas access to the works. A recent exhibit – languages such as English, Dutch It took the dedicated work of an World – was not written in English, 3,000 treasures of the Rare Scriptures has cared for the ABS Collection – at the Snite Museum of Art at the and German. English clergyman named John Eliot but in the language of the Algonquin Collection, which resides at the Society’s the largest collection of Bibles in the University of Notre Dame in Indiana

Bibles in the New World 1743 1792 First European-language Bible published Earliest edition of the Bible printed in New York Initially, America’s earliest settlers did not need to print Bibles in their native languages The Hodge and Campbell Bible was the first American printing of since they could order them from their home countries. As a result, it was not until 1743 John Brown’s “Self-Interpreting Bible.” The book was published by that the first European-language Bible, in German, was published in Germantown, Pa. subscription, with George Washington as the first subscriber. The One of the 1,200 Bibles printed by German immigrant Christopher Saur is part of the ABS Collection. Bible’s frontispiece features an allegorical representation of America as a woman wearing a Back then, Saur’s 1,267-page Bible, based on Martin Luther’s text, drew a great deal of criticism – Native American headdress, holding the Constitution in one hand while receiving the Bible. primarily from German religious factions.

1663 1782 1791 *First full Bible First English-language Bible published America’s first illustrated Bible published in Until America’s independence from England, publishers Isaiah Thomas, a printer who published more works than even Benjamin Franklin, was America adhered to the British Crown’s almost exclusive right responsible for this Bible. The folio Bible, interspersed with 50 copperplate engravings, Eliot’s Algonquin Bible, to publish the King James Version of the Bible. The was considered the most beautiful book printed in America. The artwork illustrates such see top of page. Revolutionary War changed that and Americans – unable scenes as Creation, Adam and Eve in a State of Innocence, Noah and His Family, Abraham to import Scriptures from England – began printing their own. Robert Offering up His Son, the Ascension of Jesus and Michael the Archangel Binding Satan and Casting Him into the Bottomless Pit. Aitken printed the first English Bible in America in 1782. Pocket- Although the book is known for its engraved illustrations, not all surviving copies contain the artwork. Even the sized, at just 6” by 4”, it was called The Bible of the Revolution. The work, copy at Bible House lacks a complete set of illustrations. authorized by Congress, won the praise of George Washington. p hoto s by An dre Sch n eider.

18 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 19 treasures

was open to the public; and in New in 1571 – less than 100 years after York, both private and public tours are Christopher Columbus discovered the often given at Bible House. Citing the New World. Knowing when the map Di s c o v e r t h e public’s interest in the ABS Collection, was created helps explain some of the Dr. Lupas enthusiastically confides, places highlighted on the Map. For “I never say ‘no’ to anyone.” example, although Australia was still Dr. Lupas’ enthusiasm can be unknown to Europeans at the time, the attributed to her passion for God’s Word cartographer shows it using lightly- Unseeno f Work and her long-standing commitment to defined land lines. Seems the country, the ABS mission. “I love all the books,” which was officially discovered by the

said Dr. Lupas of the Collection. “They Dutch in 1606, was “just a rumor in Detail of an engraving of a 1571 world are all important, whether they have those days,” said Dr. Lupas. map that shows the New World was monetary value or not.” But she readily The map also highlights a region in barely undefined. admits, some of the books in her care Peru called Ophir. Dr. Lupas explains the room and smiles, clearly pleased with the vast array of books. “The God have significant historical value – such that the area is most likely named for as the collection she calls “America’s its similarity to the biblical Ophir, an perfect library is up there,” she says Earliest Bibles.” ancient land known for its gold, which pointing toward heaven. We have an Take a closer look at Pages within some of these rare books is mentioned in 1 Kings 9.28 and 2 extraordinary collection here. Of those the miraculous work and we lack, there are a few I know I won’t are treasures in and of themselves. Dr. Chronicles 8.18. declarations of God as revealed get. For example, I won’t get a [full] Lupas points to an engraving of a world Asked if there are further acquisitions in the Bible — living promises map that is part of a book printed on her mind, Dr. Lupas looks around Gutenberg, so I try to make peace with that.” first revealed in Scripture and brought to life even now, in ways beyond our imagination. 1804 1858 Gospel of John Recovered manuscript of first translated for the Mohawk Indians Scripture in America published The British and Foreign The first Scripture translated in America was the Nahuatl (Aztec) ORDER Bible Society published Lectionary, which was prepared by Spanish missionary Bernardino this translation. de Sahagún in 1532. It was translated just a few years after explorer ONLINE Hernán Cortes arrived in Mexico. The manuscript of his work at Bibles.com, disappeared after Sahagún’s death, but was later recovered and or call 800-32-Bible. published in 1858. Sourcecode: 1818 09RECWI 1-3 John published for the Delaware Indians Two years after its 1816 founding, ABS published a translation of John’s Epistles for the Delaware Indians.

The Rare Scriptures Collection at Bible House Hardcover. 128 pages. 8x10. in New York City is available for viewing. Full color. $25.95 Visit ABSRecord.com/collection Tours are by appointment only. Please call the to watch a video interview with Dr. Liana Lupus.

American Bible Society at 212.408.1204. n me t. s y o f T ime In c. H ome En tertai p hoto courte 800-32-Bible

20 | Record WINTER 2010 Hope for widows Hope for widows

Many of these ritualistic practices are to share what God and his alive and well today. Although they may Word have done for her take other forms and have shed their and her family. She credits Hope for Widows old names, they ultimately reflect the the changes in her life to brutality inflicted on so many women accepting Christ as the Lord and girls around the globe through sex of her life. She is thrilled trafficking, acid attacks, bride burnings to report that her oldest and mass rape. In India, women are easy son is currently attending in India targets for violence — particularly the university, and her second uneducated — too often at the hands of son is finishing high school. Empowering Women and Girls Through God’s Word their own family members. Less than 7 percent of Although women, particularly the 1.2 billion Indian story and photos By Pascal Folly widows, have to contend with huge population is Christian, and injustices, they are prone to suffer even with the increasing threat “. . . and treat older women as you would your own mother. worse injustices if they are among of persecution in different Show the same respect to younger women that you would to your sister.” 1 Timothy 5.2 (CEV) the poor majority of Indian society. parts of the country, it Many organizations around the world, is rare that one meets y husband was an alcoholic,” including the World Bank, other larger someone like Mrs. Ruth says Jayabhai, a recently widowed M non-government organizations and who is not afraid to express Marathi woman in India. “My parents faith-based organizations, are aware of and share her faith openly got me married when I turned 17. I the plight of these women. And, they in public. India is marked could not complete my secondary school believe that focusing on empowering by a high degree of cultural certificate, as they were in a hurry to women and girls is the most effective pluralism. It has managed marry me to my uncle’s son. They knew way to fight poverty, religious to preserve established he was addicted to alcohol and yet got extremism and inequalities in society. traditions while absorbing me married to him. Thus, my married One example of such empowerment new customs, traditions Children from the Saint Philomena Catholic Church in Mysore, life began with suffering that continued is Mrs. Ruth, a Christian, who lives in and ideas from other parts India, during one celebration of the first communion. for five and a half years. Now as a Bangalore. Widowed with two boys, of the world. In turn, it has to the Lord and encouraged me to attend widow with two daughters, ages 5 and the seminar on ‘Hope for Widows.’ As 3, to care for, I find myself even in more I was going through the seminar, I was despair and hopelessness.” “I was challenged by God to surrender the bitterness that challenged by God to surrender the According to ancient Hindu custom, I had. Fortunately I was given a Bible in my language bitterness that I had against my parents, when a man dies, his wife has three my husband and my sister-in-law to choices. She can throw herself on his – Marathi. As I read through the crucifixion, death and him. I struggled with this issue for more funeral pyre in the sacrificial act of sati; resurrection of Christ, I was able to forgive my people.” than a week. I also fortunately was given she can marry her husband's younger a Bible in my language – Marathi. As brother (if his family is willing); or, she was summarily abandoned by spread its cultural influence, primarily I read through the crucifixion, death she can spend her remaining days in her Hindu family. Life was difficult in South Asia, East Asia and the West. and resurrection of Christ, I was able to isolation in an ashram designed for and she eventually fell seriously ill. Jayabhai, the widow mentioned forgive my people. widows, where she shaves her head, It seemed she had no hope of survival earlier, recently attended a seminar for Luke 9.23 (GNT) says, ‘And he said wears mourning clothes and seeks to until she received a visit from a group widows, organized by the Bible Society to them all, ‘If you want to come with “atone” for her husband's death. of Christians who asked if she would of India in cooperation with several me, you must forget yourself, take up There are approximately 359,802,209 allow them to pray for her in the name local churches. While the conference your cross everyday, and follow me.’ women in India, more than the entire of Jesus Christ. She consented and was organized primarily for Christians, Now for me in my situation, this population of the United States. Many they introduced her to the Scriptures. widows from other faiths were present was taking up the cross and following of them are widowed each year, and the Ultimately, she was healed and joined as well. The age of the participants the Lord.” conditions in which they exist leave their house church. In addition to ranged from 23 to 78 years. During much to be desired. While the society regaining her health, Mrs. Ruth now the seminar, the women were invited has evolved over the years, Indian exudes hope and self-confidence. While to reflect on the Scriptures. Jayabhai culture still retains many beliefs and Visit ABSRecord.com/india Priya and Neelam are two young Hindus. Some 47 percent of India's population of 1 billion-plus selling multicolored Pashmina shawls recounts her experience in her own for more information. practices of the past, particularly in the is under the age of 20. in a tourist shop, Mrs. Ruth was eager words. “Recently an evangelist led me rural areas. 22 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 23 PLEASE PRAY day-by-day bible readings Please Pray Quiet Time We invite you to focus your prayers on countries around the world where there is unrest, physical hardship and persecution. “You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need. You let me rest in fields of green grass. You lead me to streams of peaceful water, “Be persistent in prayer, and keep alert as you pray, giving thanks to God.” And you refresh my life.” Psalm 23.1-3 (CEV) Colossians 4.2 (GNT)

population and this and for our work among widows, january 2010 Embodying Hope and Celebrating Our Unity in Christ Jesus future generations which is changing lives. Ask for God’s sunday Monday tuesday wednesday thursday Friday Saturday in Egypt and the blessing as we celebrate the bicentenary Co l o s s i a n s region. Pray that of our work this year. Please also pray 1 Co l o s s i a n s 1.1-23 2 1.24—2.5 many students will for our work in Bhutan. Co l o s s i a n s be strengthened in 3 2.6-23 4 Co l o s s i a n s 3.1-17 5 Co l o s s i a n s 4.2-18 6 Ma t t h e w 2.1-12 7 Ma t t h e w 2.13-23 8 Lu k e 3.1-22 9 Lu k e 4.16-30 epiphany their faith as Christian Pakistan 10 Lu k e 4.31-44 11 Lu k e 5.1-16 12 Lu k e 5.17-39 13 Lu k e 7.1-17 14 Lu k e 7.18-35 15 Lu k e 7.36-50 16 Lu k e 9.1-17 religion teachers In light of recent violence in Gojra, are empowered and please pray, as Christians seem to be 17 Jo h n 17.1-26 18 Lu k e 9.18-36* 19 Lu k e 9.37-62 20 Lu k e 10.1-24 21 Lu k e 8.19-39 22 Lu k e 8.40-56 23 Lu k e 18.15-30 enabled to help them * The Octave for Christian Unity a target of attacks. Please pray for engage with the Bible. Pakistan, where ongoing terrorist 24 Lu k e 19.1-10 25 Ac t s 9.1-25 26 Ac t s 9.26-43 27 Ac t s 10.1-33 28 Ac t s 10.34-48 29 Ac t s 11.1-18 30 Ac t s 11.19-30 Ecumenical sunday activities have thrown the country into Ac t s 12.1-19 Gulf States economic, social, political and religious 31 Pray for migrant turmoil. People are frightened; ask God February 2010 Embodying Hope and Sharing God’s Love workers living to protect them, to bring an end to the and working in attacks and to restore peace. Please pray sunday Monday tuesday wednesday thursday Friday Saturday Ma t t h e w De u t e r o n o m y Ga l a t i a n s China the Gulf, many of that the newly-launched Urdu Study 1 22.15-46 2 Ma r k 12.28-44 3 Lu k e 10.25-42 4 Le v i t i c u s 19.1-18 5 6.1-9 6 1.1-24 The typhoon Morakot swept into whom are illiterate and need audio/ Bible will be well received and bring Ga l a t i a n s Ga l a t i a n s Ga l a t i a n s Ga l a t i a n s Ga l a t i a n s 1 Co r i n t h i a n s 7 8 Ga l a t i a n s 3.1-20 9 10 11 12 13 Mainland China this past August. visual Scriptures as comfort, living in a blessings to many people. 2.1-21 3.21—4.7 4.8-31 5.1-26 6.1-18 12.1-26 foreign land. Praise God for the Faith Deaths were reported and millions of 1 Co r i n t h i a n s 14 15 Ps a lm 51* 16 Is a i a h 58.1-14 17 Jo e l 2.1-17 18 Ho s e a 11.1-11 19 Ho s e a 14.1-9 20 1 Jo h n 1.1-10 Comes By Hearing® program; Audio 12.27—13.13 * Orthodox Lent begins on Monday, people were forced to flee their homes Sudan February 15, 2010. Ash Wednesday (Western Churches) for safety. Pray for God’s mercy to Scriptures are very effective among Pray for the new General Secretary, 21 1 Jo h n 2.1-17 22 1 Jo h n 2.18-29 23 1 Jo h n 3.1-10 24 1 Jo h n 3.11-24 25 1 Jo h n 4.1-21 26 1 Jo h n 5.1-21 27 2 Jo h n migrant workers. Training workshops First Sunday in Lent keep people safe. Pray for the necessary asking the Lord to give him wisdom. on storytelling are equipping churches resources to reach those who are The Zande translation project is to 28 3 Jo h n to tell Bible stories to different language second Sunday in Lent grieving, hurting and suffering. Pray for relocate to Yambio; ask God to protect groups, and the Arabic Scripture the salvation of many during this period the translators and their families. In March 2010 Embodying Hope and Turning to God in Prayer program is fast developing. Pray for the of recovery. Thank God for all the funds 2011, South Sudan will vote on whether sunday Monday tuesday wednesday thursday Friday Saturday new Bible center within the premises of that have been provided to help meet to be an independent state or remain the Catholic Church in Doha, Qatar. 1 Ma t t h e w 6.1-18 2 Lu k e 11.1-13 3 Lu k e 18.1-14 4 Ps a lm 32 5 Ps a lm 33 6 Ps a lm 34 Scripture needs in China over the years. in a united Sudan. Pray that this event World Day of Prayer Pray for this to continue as the demand will pass peacefully and that the choice 2 Sa m u e l 1 Ki n g s 7 Nu m b e r s 14.1-25 8 1 Sa m u e l 2.1-11 9 2 Sa m u e l 22.1-25 10 22.26-51 11 1 Ki n g s 3.1-15 12 1 Ki n g s 8.1-21 13 8.22-53 for Scriptures is increasing. India of the people will be honored. Pray as Third Sunday in Lent 1 Ki n g s Ne h e m i a h Ne h e m i a h Ne h e m i a h Ne h e m i a h We are grateful for answered prayers we minister to the people of Darfur who 14 8.54-66 15 Ez r a 9.1-15 16 1.1-11 17 8.1-18 18 9.1-14 19 9.15-37 20 Es t h e r 4.1-17 Egypt and for the encouraging response to our have suffered years of conflict. Fourth Sunday in Lent Ha b a k k u k Ha b a k k u k Ha b a k k u k distribution and fundraising efforts. 21 Jo b 42.1-17 22 Da n i e l 9.1-19 23 Jo n a h 2.1-10 24 1.1-17 25 2.1-20 26 3.1-19 27 Ps a lm 86 Thank God for the wonderful fifth Sunday in Lent response to Bible World, the Bible We have published several new Scripture resources in different 28 Lu k e 19.28-48 29 Lu k e 20.1-18 30 Lu k e 20.19-47 31 Lu k e 22.1-38 Society of Egypt’s exhibition for Palm/Passion Sunday children. Please pray for an efficient languages, and are continuing to develop Scriptures in different formats To receive these Scripture readings together with additional devotions daily, central warehouse for providing sign up at DailyBible.AmericanBible.org for special audiences. Give thanks for

Scriptures to the growing Christian p hoto by malorie tull.

24 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 25 loved ones remembered An Enduring Legacy

Because Edna donated a Charitable Gift Annuity, she receives: In Memoriam (√) Secure income for life; “Good people will be remembered as a blessing . . .” Proverbs 10.7a (GNT) (√) The satisfaction of knowing she supports the mission of the My m o t h e r , Ge o r g e I. Pa u l s o n American Bible Society. Ethel Atkins Gi v e n b y Ne d G. a n d Lo u i s G. Pa u l s o n Gi v e n b y Pe gg y Ni c o d e m u s Poet and songwriter Edna Massimilla (pictured), in her Li s a Ph a m early 90s, first learned about the American Bible Society My h u s b a n d , Gi v e n b y An Nh a n Do a n through her father’s contributions. She says, “it seems to Ja c k Br e m e r Gi v e n b y Ba o Qu o c Le a n d Nh a n Ai Ru t h Le Gi v e n b y Mr s . Pa t r i c i a R. Br e m e r be a family theme,” and is still connecting the gospel to Fr a n c i s a n d Ro b e r t a Ri e r people across the world. Her poem, “Heaven’s Very Special Mi c h a e l Br o w n l e e Gi v e n b y Do n n a M. a n d Th u r s t o n Ma n c h e s t e r Child,” is widely known; her new book of the same title Gi v e n b y Am e r i c a n Bi b l e So c i e t y St a f f has now also been released. My h u s b a n d , An n a Di o n Iv a n E. Ru n y a n Gi v e n b y Te r e s a Sc h o f i e l d a n d f a m i l y Gi v e n b y Mr s . Es t h e r F. Ru n y a n , f r o m h e r h u s b a n d ’s m e m o r i a l f u n d Vi r g i n i a M. Ka n a r r -St r o n g The American Bible Society Gift Annuity Program Gi v e n b y Fr e d e r i c k E. Ta y l o r My m o t h e r , “Secure Income for Life” In e z Ru s s e l l My s o n , Gi v e n b y Br e n d a J. Kn o w l e s We pioneered the country’s first gift annuity. Find out more today about creating an Ga r y Ka s p a r e k For more than 165 years, ABS has provided thousands American Bible Society Gift Annuity Gi v e n b y Mr s . Me r i n d a A. Pi e r c e My h u s b a n d , of people a lifetime of secure payments through for yourself (one life) or for you Ha n s Sc h a f f t gift annuities. and another beneficiary (two lives). Ou r p a r e n t s , Gi v e n b y Mr s . Li l l i a n Sc h a f f t Jo h n a n d He l e n McCl a i n Through two depressions, four economic panics, Gi v e n b y Ju d y McCl a i n a n d Ba r b a r a McCl a i n Mr s . Cl i f f o r d Sh a w (Ru b y ) six recessions, eleven wars and multiple world crises – 800-549-3328 Gi v e n b y Br u c e G. Sh a w Iv a n Mo r g a n ABS has not missed a single payment. Annuity.AmericanBible.org Gi v e n b y App l i n e Co o p e r My m o t h e r , Ma r g u e r i t e B. Ti l g h m a n Gi v e n b y Ge n e a n d Pa t Ip o c k

Honor the memory of a loved one by helping to provide Bibles to people who don’t yet have them. Memorials of $500 or more for one individual or family unit will be published in the An American Bible Society Gift Annuity is a financial agreement American Bible Society Record. For further details about the memorial process, please write to: between one or two individuals and our ministry, exchanging a Donor Relations, American Bible Society, 1865 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 gift of cash, stock or bonds for fixed payments that last a lifetime. The minimum age required to create a Gift Annuity is 50; the

p hoto by be nj ami n leama . minimum gift amount is $1,000.

26 | Record WINTER 2010 absrecord.com Record | 27 Nonprofit U.S. Postage 1865 Broadway PAID New York, NY 10023 Random Lake WI www.AmericanBible.org Permit #129

sharing god’s word with the world

Help Keep the Bible Presses Rolling This Christmas

Spiritual hunger is increasing worldwide at an unprecedented rate. And the current supply of Bibles falls alarmingly short of meeting this growing demand — especially at Christmas, when hearts are open to the gospel like never before! We must keep the Bible presses rolling this Christmas. From China, to Africa, to Eastern Europe, the cry for God’s Word is staggering. So many have yet to hear the greatest message in history: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2.11 (KJV) Please rush your generous gift today to help provide men, women and children around the world with the hope and comfort of God’s Word. g . Photo by T er j e H artber detach Yes! I want to help keep the Bible presses rolling to share the Good News with spiritually starved people Choose one of three ways to make around the world, at Christmas and all year long. your tax-deductible donation: h c 1. Make a simple, safe and quick gift online ta e Enclosed is my gift of $ d ABSRecord.com/christmas AP M101101990013 A Name 2. Call our toll-free number now 1-866-895-4448 Address 3. Return the coupon with your check payable to: City State Zip American Bible Society E-Mail Address Keep the Presses Rolling P.O. Box 96812 Please return this coupon with your check made payable to American Bible Society. Washington DC 20090-6812 If funds are raised beyond this need, they will be used to help continue the American Bible Society’s mission of delivering God’s Word throughout the world. Contributions to the American Bible Society are greatly appreciated and are tax deductible as allowed by law.