SHANGHAI, China – Many Christians in China are familiar with the classic black cover, red edge Bibles available in church bookstores across the country. Now, they can look forward to having more options as the Protestant Churches in China recently launched three new cover designs priced at 24 yuan (USD 3.77), a slight increase of 2 yuan (USD 0.30) against the classic black cover.
Termed the Seeker’s Edition (慕道版), these Chinese Union Version (CUV) Bibles are printed at the Amity Printing
Company with the support of the United Bible Societies (UBS) and launched in Oct 2021.
Designed to appeal to the urban and younger readers, the new covers were carefully conceptualised to capture a contemporary feel. Featuring themes of Fishers of Men, Bible Scrolls and Ink-Wash Painting, these covers use youthful colours and incorporate Christian elements and Chinese culture to appeal to a modern audience.
In today’s ever-changing trends, the Protestant Church in China recognised the need to keep up with the times. With rapid urbanisation and rural-urban migration in China, the Seeker’s Bible is also part of the Church’s effort to meet the needs of urban Christians while keeping prices affordable.
‘We are very glad to be able to support the Church’s effort to give the classic black cover CUV Bible a refreshed new look. About 60% of China’s population are living in urban areas today; it is important that we consider their needs. I believe these new covers will attract younger city folks to own a copy for themselves,’ said Daniel Loh, Interim Director of UBS China Partnership.
Since 1985, UBS has been committed to serve the Churches in China to meet the needs of the believers by making the Bible and Scripture resources available. As of the end of 2021, the Protestant Churches in China has published and distributed about 90 million copies of Bibles in China with the support of UBS and APC.
Let us join the Churches in China to pray that the Lord will use the Seeker’s Bible to draw many to Himself. Pray also that the urban churches in China will continue shining brightly for Jesus like a city set upon a hill that cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14).
Story: Cynthia Oh
2022 © UBS China Partnership
