In anticipation of the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, the French Bible Society has unveiled plans to distribute a total of 200,000 specially crafted editions of the New Testament. This initiative aims to leave a profound and lasting impact beyond the realm of sports arenas.
The distribution effort will encompass 140,000 copies of the New Testament in French, along with an additional 60,000 copies in English. Titled “More Precious than Gold,” this unique edition includes personal testimonies from Christian athletes such as French handball champion Joël Abati and Australian high jumper Nicola Olyslagers.
Collaborating closely with various Christian sporting ministries, the French Bible Society views this endeavor as a beacon of unity, highlighting shared values that transcend both the domains of sport and spirituality.
“We are excited to bring together these New Testaments as a testament to the power of collaboration and shared values,” remarked a spokesperson from the French Bible Society. “These efforts aim to ensure accessibility and relevance of the Bible in today’s world, touching the lives of athletes and visitors alike.”
Citing overwhelming demand, the organization expanded its initial distribution plans from 100,000 French and 30,000 English copies to the current 200,000 copies. The distribution will span the duration of both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, concluding on September 8.
“As over 11 million visitors prepare to converge on Paris, we believe this initiative will resonate far beyond the games themselves,” added Jonathan Boulet, General Secretary of the French Bible Society. “The inclusion of athlete testimonies underscores the enduring influence of the Bible in our contemporary society.”
The initiative draws inspiration from 1 Peter 1:7, emphasizing the enduring nature of faith: “Their purpose is to prove that your faith is genuine. Even gold, which can be destroyed, is tested by fire; and so your faith, which is much more precious than gold, must also be tested, so that it may endure.”
With the countdown to the Paris Olympics underway, the French Bible Society remains steadfast in its mission to spread a message of faith and unity through the distribution of these special editions of the New Testament.