UBS to fund Scripture distribution program in Argentina as crisis deepens

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — As Argentina’s economic crisis deepens, with indications that the economy will continue to contract significantly this year, the Argentine Bible Society (SBA) is preparing to distribute hundreds of thousands of Scriptures to bring hope to those most affected by the country’s financial collapse.

The distribution program, which will cost US$86,550, is to be funded by UBS through its Rapid Response Reserve. This is in addition to the loan of US$85,000 granted by UBS earlier this month to help the SBA maintain its essential services in the face of the rapidly deteriorating economic situation (see Latest News #178).

In both cases, UBS is appealing to the Fellowship for donations to help meet the needs of the struggling Bible Society.

Through the distribution program the SBA will provide 30,000 Bibles, 30,000 New Testaments and 100,000 Portions free of charge to churches which, according to Juan Terranova, SBA Deputy General Secretary, lack the Scriptures they need to minister to the many people who have lost hope.

“This distribution program is designed to help bridge the gap between people's need for God’s Word and the [churches’] lack of resources in providing it,” he explained. “The churches are waking up to a hard reality - many of their members are jobless and their offerings have decreased significantly. As a result, the churches do not have any money to buy Scripture materials and yet it is only the Word of God that can bring hope to those who have lost it. So many church leaders and pastors associations have approached us for help.”

Describing the situation in Argentina as just short of a “complete catastrophe”, Mr Terranova added that many people are suffering from depression, some becoming so desperate that they see suicide as the only way out.

“The main objective of this program is to bring hope that can only come from God and his Word, and take it to every corner of our country, particularly the poorest among the poor, who are increasing in number every day,” he said.