Wilson’s Reflections from The United Bible Societies Fellowship Event in Toronto
In October 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the United Bible Societies (UBS) Fellowship event in Toronto. As the new CEO of the Bible Society in Northern Ireland, this trip allowed me to connect, learn, and engage with representatives from Bible Societies worldwide. It was an invaluable experience to move beyond reading about projects on paper, to hearing firsthand from colleagues in Costa Rica, Poland, Uganda, and more. Their passion for the work and the impact they are making in challenging circumstances was both inspiring and humbling.
The UBS Fellowship event was structured to provide both updates and deep-dives into the global work of the UBS with workshops exploring Trauma Healing and Digital Transformation being personal highlights. As I listened to Societies present their initiatives in various formats and settings, I gained a much richer understanding of the depth and breadth of the Bible Society movement. Below are some highlights from my journey.
Meeting the Global Family of Bible Societies
Meeting with Bible Societies from Lebanon, Palestine, Costa Rica, Israel, Poland, Finland, and Uganda was undoubtedly one of the most rewarding aspects of this trip. Each representative brought with them not only reports and stories of their projects but also an authenticity and passion that reaffirmed the power of Bible Society work worldwide.
From Lebanon, I heard stories of resilience and hope as they shared about their efforts in a region that has experienced profound hardship. They spoke about distributing Scriptures during economic and political instability, that brought light to communities longing for hope. The Bible Society in Palestine similarly shared their work in challenging contexts, addressing the spiritual needs of people under extreme stress. They have developed creative ways to reach people in regions where religious tension can make outreach difficult. The dedication and commitment of these societies to deliver God’s Word in their unique settings was inspiring.
I was also deeply moved by the work of the Bible Society of Uganda. They described their project focusing on the Lhukonzo translation serving the Bakonzo people with the first ever scriptures in their heart language. Peter also shared about providing Scriptures to youth and children, who represent the hope and future of Uganda. The organisation’s commitment to youth focused projects resonated with me, as we too are dedicated to helping the younger generation encounter God’s Word in life-changing ways.
Learning about New Projects in Poland and Finland
The Bible Societies in Poland and Finland showcased a range of projects that reflect both countries’ changing spiritual landscapes. Poland shared updates on their Bible engagement projects, which are bringing people together to explore the Bible as a source of unity in a time of cultural shifts. Finland’s Bible Society, meanwhile, spoke about their translation projects and digital outreach efforts, which are tailored to a society increasingly connected through technology. It was encouraging to see how these societies are innovating to meet the needs of modern audiences, bringing the Bible to people in new and relevant ways.
Discovering New Perspectives and Shared Challenges
Meeting these diverse Bible Societies highlighted how much we share in common, even as we work in vastly different contexts. Many of us are grappling with challenges related to funding, secularism, and adapting our outreach to a rapidly changing world. The event allowed us to openly discuss these challenges and exchange ideas.
Understanding the United Bible Societies’ Strategic Direction
One of the most insightful aspects of the trip was learning more about the United Bible Societies’ strategic objectives going forward. UBS leaders presented a roadmap that focuses on strengthening partnerships, advancing Bible translation projects, and increasing digital engagement. These goals are intended to make Scripture accessible in more languages and formats and to reach audiences where they are—whether that be in print, on their phones, or online.
The strategy also emphasised sustainability and resilience, with UBS placing great importance on supporting societies in need and fostering collaborations that maximise impact. Hearing this strategic direction firsthand was helpful for understanding how Bible Society NI can align with UBS goals and contribute to the global mission.
Reflections on a Worthwhile Journey
Returning from Toronto, I felt energised and equipped with a broader vision for the Bible Society in Northern Ireland’s place in the world. Meeting people who are tirelessly dedicated to bringing God’s Word to others was an enriching experience, one that allowed me to see the Bible Society movement from a global perspective. The stories I heard and the relationships I formed will undoubtedly shape my leadership and deepen my commitment to our mission.
The trip was a reminder that we are not alone in this work. We are part of a larger network of societies who, each day, are working to bring hope, healing, and transformation to individuals and communities around the world. Bible Society NI is privileged to be part of this global fellowship, and I am excited about the ways we can continue to work together in the years to come.
As we look ahead, we can do so with confidence, knowing that we are contributing to a mission much larger than ourselves, one that spans continents, cultures, and languages.