Our mission is the distribution of sacred scriptures without note or comment in the City of Philadelphia and adjacent districts. The scriptures are given free of charge. We have done this since 1838.

The primary method of distribution has been in hospitals, nursing homes and other institutions. A group of approximately 25 volunteer missionaries faithfully visit, going from room to room offering a book of the Bible or Bible verses to the patients or residents. The visitors are recognized and approved by the institution.

We also give out scriptures in community programs, church outreaches, conferences and similar activities where we are invited to participate. Bibles and New Testaments are also given in other places, such as schools, Bible studies and where we find there is a need.

The Philadelphia Bible Society also has a grant program in which we give grants of scriptures to other ministries such as prison ministries, addiction rehabilitation, after-school programs, homeless shelters, community evangelism, funeral homes, support groups and food kitchens. Some of our distribution is in partnership with churches in the Philadelphia area.

In addition to Bibles and New Testaments, in various versions, we also give complete books of Psalms, Proverbs, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts and Romans. Other books of Bible verses for specific needs are also used. Scriptures in large print are used, primarily in hospitals and nursing homes. Many scriptures are available in Spanish and other languages. In 2001 over 240,000 items were distributed.

The society is always in need of volunteers to do the work. There are many places which could be served. The needs in the Philadelphia area continue to grow; prisons opening to the need for Bibles, half-way houses and new care facilities for medical and senior care. More missionaries will be the answer to our prayer for God to open these areas of need so we can supply Bible books to them. We can also help at the office for stamping, labeling and stocking shelves.

Depending on the size of the facility, it takes about two to five hours for each visit. The missionaries make their own schedule, serving on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays or Sundays.

This work has been supported by gifts from God's people and from churches who desire to see the Word of God put into the hands of people on a regular basis.