In a significant shift, Bible sales in the United Kingdom have experienced an impressive surge, with experts attributing the rise to younger generations’ increasing interest in faith and spirituality. Between 2019 and 2024, sales of Bibles in the U.K. skyrocketed by 87%, from €2.69 million in 2019 to €5.02 million in 2024, according to the Christian publisher Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (SPCK). Additionally, sales in the “Bibles and liturgy” category also grew, reaching €8.1 million in 2024 from €7 million in 2019.
A key factor driving this growth is Generation Z, which is significantly less atheistic than previous generations. A recent survey conducted by OnePoll revealed that 20% of millennials and 25% of Generation X identify as atheists, whereas only 13% of Generation Z members describe themselves as atheists. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift, as younger individuals show more openness toward faith and religion.
Sam Richardson, chief executive of SPCK, believes this surge signals a significant change in the U.K.’s religious landscape. “Atheism, once considered by modern society to be the view of most rational adults, no longer seems to carry the same weight or appeal. Young people—Gen Z in particular—are statistically far less likely to identify as atheists than their parents,” Richardson explained, emphasizing that faith is regaining traction among younger generations.
The rise in Bible sales can be attributed to various factors. Mark Woods, head of communications at the Bible Society, noted that many young people are purchasing Bibles for themselves or receiving them as gifts from their parents. Churches are also buying more Bibles for youth groups and local schools. “There’s a very clear increase in demand,” Woods stated. “This seems to arise from a perception that the Bible has something important to say to young people, and from a desire to make it accessible to them.”
Experts also suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic played a role in driving people to seek comfort and hope through Scripture. The rise in mental health issues during the pandemic likely prompted many to look to faith for solace. Similarly, after Bible sales surged in the U.S. in 2023, industry professionals speculated that a search for hope was behind the increased interest in reading the Bible.
In 2024, Bible sales continued to grow, with a 22% increase in the first ten months of the year compared to the same period in 2023, according to Circana BookScan. Additionally, the American Bible Society’s “State of the Bible USA 2024” report revealed that 21% of Gen Z respondents reported reading the Bible more often. This growing trend of younger generations turning to the Bible signals a shift away from secularism, as more young people are turning to Scripture for guidance and hope.
The rise in Bible sales in the U.K. indicates a significant cultural and spiritual transformation, with younger generations embracing faith and religion in new and meaningful ways. As they search for answers and connection, many are finding solace in the pages of the Bible, making it more relevant than ever in today’s world.
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