This project seeks to give prisoners access to God’s Word and help them engage deeply with the Bible, supporting their rehabilitation and encouraging hope‑filled, crime‑free living after their release. Bible Society Australia provides free Bibles to strengthen the work of World Hope Ministries as they carry out programs contributing to the rehabilitative care of the prisoners. This prison ministry by WHM is also done in partnership with the Directorate of Spiritual Care from South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services. 

In 2026, World Hope Ministries aims to distribute 12,500 Bibles across South African correctional facilities, including 4,000–5,000 in Gauteng for inmates completing the Bible Discipleship course. Bibles will be available in key South African languages so prisoners can read Scripture in their language. Working closely with chaplains and program facilitators in all eight Gauteng regions ensures Bibles are shared consistently and with genuine care, supporting lasting transformation. 

This project continues to impact prisoners’ lives as they receive a Bible to guide and shape their journey of faith. Throughout 2025, a number of inmates have engaged deeply with Scripture through WHM’s discipleship program, often expressing renewed hope, a restored sense of identity, and a desire to reconcile with family members. With the support of WHM’s consistent presence, teaching, and pastoral care, many have begun to confront past harm and make different choices for their future. 

In 2025, WHM also reported a growing openness among correctional officials, who welcomed opportunities for prayer, spiritual support, and participation in Bible study. Across both inmate and staff communities, access to Scripture in local languages remained vital, ensuring the message of the Bible was understood with clarity and personal relevance. Bible Society Australia’s ongoing provision of Bibles has been central to sustaining this spiritual impact. 

Impact in Numbers

• 2,707 Bibles distributed in 2025
• Bibles issued in 7 South African languages
• 6,393 inmates enrolled in the Bible Discipleship course
• 223 Directorate of Spiritual Care officials engaged in discipleship/chaplaincy activities  

Pray that every inmate who receives a Bible will encounter God’s hope and begin a journey of healing, restoration and renewed purpose — seeing their lives and relationships transformed as they engage with Scripture.

Pray for WHM facilitators, spiritual workers and prison chaplains, asking God to strengthen and protect them as they walk alongside inmates and correctional officials with patience, wisdom and compassion.

Pray for correctional officials who are seeking spiritual support, that God will meet them in their pressures and challenges, and that Scripture will bring peace, clarity and encouragement into their daily work.