This week in Christian history: American Bible Society, Famous hymn-writer, Pope apology

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Twitter

American Bible Society founded – May 11, 1816

Elias Boudinot (1740-1821), former president of the Continental Congress and first president of the American Bible Society.
Elias Boudinot (1740-1821), former president of the Continental Congress and first president of the American Bible Society. | Public Domain

This week marks the anniversary of when the American Bible Society, which boasts of having distributed over 6 billion Bibles worldwide, was founded in New York City.

Elias Boudinot, former head of the Continental Congress, served as its first president. Other notable founders included Francis Scott Key, James Fenimore Cooper, and Supreme Court Justice John Jay.

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“Six months after its founding, American Bible Society released its first Scripture, an English Bible in the King James (Authorized) Version,” noted the Society in a 2016 press release celebrating its 200th anniversary.

“From the beginning, the generosity of caring financial partners and friends has made it possible to share Scriptures with those in need.”

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