Since its inception in 1816, the American Bible Society has strived to provide the Scriptures to every man, woman, and youth in a language and format each can readily understand. Nazarene churches are invited to receive an annual offering for this organization on the second Sunday of December. This year's offering will go toward the “Million Bible Mission” in Cuba.

Christianity in Cuba is growing, but there are few Bibles. Many people in Cuba cannot afford one even if they can find one. Decreased tension between the U.S. and Cuba after 50 years offers an unprecedented opportunity for the Church; the ABS and their partners are poised to help.

ABS already has strong relationships with Cuban churches — Catholic and Protestant. Last year, they began the “Million Bible Mission” to bring a million Bibles to this island nation over three years. In 2014, the government allowed ABS church partners to import and distribute the first 60,000 Bibles.

ABS offerings have averaged more than US$40,000 annually during the past few years. It costs $5.40 to print, ship, and distribute a Bible anywhere in Cuba — from Havana to the most remote village. 

Previous offerings benefited

• Thousands in U.S. prisons
• The poor in Yugoslavia, Central America, Cuba, Africa, India, Cambodia, Kuwait, China, and America’s inner cities
• Children in Haiti, Bolivia, and Lebanon
• Flood victims in Mozambique and cyclone victims in Madagascar

Checks should be sent to: General Treasurer at 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, KS 66220, marked “American Bible Society Offering.” Churches in Canada should send their checks to Canadian Bible Society, 10 Carnforth Road, Toronto, ON  M4A2S4.

--Sunday School and Discipleship Ministries International