19th July, 2012

Free sports-themed Bibles and Scriptures will be available to athletes in London's Olympic Village under an initiative being spearheaded by the Bible Society.

Around 3,000 copies of commemorative Scriptures will be available at the Olympic Village Religious Centre along with nearly 1000 copies and the Bible and New Testaments in a variety of languages.

The English-language versions will be The Sports Good News Bible (pictured) and the Sports Good News Gospel of Luke.

David Wilson, CEO of Olympic outreach umbrella organisation More Than Gold, says  that the free gift of a Bible has been gratefully received by athletes at past Olympics. "Bible Society are to be highly commended for their support in making such gifts possible."

Matthew van Duyvenbode, head of advocacy at Bible Society, adds that the "words of deep consolation, inspiration and challenge" resonate with athletes.

"Having the opportunity to offer the scriptures in a format accessible for sports people is a strong statement that the Bible belongs at the heart of every aspect of life."

The Bible Society has launched a special appeal as part of its ‘Bible: Body & Soul’ initiative for 2012. To give, head to www.biblesociety.org.uk/2012.

- DAVID ADAMS