On April 7, 1840, a group of Christian laymen concerned about the social and religious problems of the city and realizing that the Bible is the foundation of moral and spiritual growth met to discuss ways of reaching the city with the Word Of God.  This small group was the beginning of The Chicago Bible Society.

 

The work was largely carried out by volunteers called colporteurs who spoke the different languages of Chicago’s early immigrant community.

 

The Bible Society grew with the city and continued its regular, systematic home visits.  In addition, it supplied the Scriptures to Public Schools, Mission Sunday Schools, hotels, jails, sailing vessels and the poor.

 

The Chicago Fire of 1871 devastated the city and its inhabitants. The Bible Society lost its inventory of 7,000 Bibles but it was soon replenished and the work continued as the city rebuilt.

 

The 20th century saw a multitude of newcomers to our nation, many being poor and needy, which was both a challenge and an opportunity for the Society.  The 20th century also saw two World Wars, economic and social unrest along with ethnic and racial integration in each succeeding decade.

 

The Chicago Bible Society continued to meet the changing needs of the city.

 

Over the years, the Society has distributed millions of Bibles and Scripture portions  in numerous  languages.

 

While the original purpose remains the same, today’s Chicago Bible Society sees itself as a partner with those who believe that our nation needs a renewal of spiritual values aided by regular reading and understanding The Word Of God.

History

Chicago Bible Society