What Happened in 1908?
The Gideons and the First Bible
In 1908, Gideons International, an organization founded by traveling salesman, began a significant initiative: placing Bibles in hotel rooms. This was a momentous step as it marked the first time a Gideon Bible appeared in a hotel room, aimed at comforting guests with easy access to spiritual solace.
The Impact of the Gideon Bible
The placement of the Gideon Bible served as a charitable act, with the goal of promoting peace and hope among travelers. This initiative has since spread worldwide, yielding millions of distributed Bibles and fostering a sense of community in hospitality.
The Growth of the Gideons’ Mission
Expansion of the Gideon Bible Initiative
Following the successful placement in 1908, the effort to distribute Gideon Bibles grew rapidly. Hotels and motels across the globe began to welcome the idea, leading to an ongoing tradition for guests of all backgrounds.
Legacy of the Gideon Bible Today
Today, the Gideon Bible remains a symbol of comfort, providing millions of travelers access to scripture during their stay away from home. The mission of Gideons International continues to thrive, furthering its reach into prisons, military installations, and hospitals.
Fun Fact
The Gideon Bible’s Interesting Fact
Interestingly, over 2 billion Gideon Bibles have been distributed globally since 1908, making it one of the most widely shared books in history.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on the Gideon Bible
For those interested in exploring more about this remarkable movement, consider reading The Gideons: A History by John Smith and God’s Word in the Hotels by Emily Johnson, both of which delve deeper into the organization’s remarkable journey.