July 13, 2025
This article was adapted from the German Bible Society’s original media release, available here.
On July 9, the German Bible Society (GBS) welcomed Winfried Kretschmann, Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg, to its headquarters in Stuttgart. This visit highlighted the public value of Bible translation, distribution, and engagement—an effort that Kretschmann praised as “…a great benefit not only for Christianity but for all of humanity.”
GBS General Secretary Dr Christoph Rösel and the GBS team showcased their work, with particular attention given to the Society’s scholarly editions in biblical Hebrew and Greek, which form the foundation for Bible translation. The meeting also featured a presentation of Einfach Bibel—an accessible edition designed for readers who face barriers to understanding traditional Bible texts, including young people and those new to Scripture.
Minister-President Kretschmann expressed deep appreciation for the Bible Societies’ contribution to spiritual and cultural life, and thanked GBS staff for their ongoing efforts:
“The Bible is the most translated, most printed, most published and hopefully most read book in history. The Bible Societies have played a significant role in this. They make the Bible accessible to new generations time and time again, opening up access to God’s Word for countless readers and listeners…
“Many thanks to all employees of the German Bible Society for the great efforts you make in connection with the Bible, which benefit not only Christianity, but all of humanity. I am enthusiastic and impressed by your work, keep up the good work!”
Dr Rösel reflected on the visit, stating:
“Minister President Kretschmann’s visit is a great honour for us. His great interest in the Bible and our work was palpable at all times. We are delighted that the importance of Stuttgart as a ‘city of the Bible’ has also been recognised by him in this way.”
GBS publishes major German Bible translations—including the Luther Bible, the Good News Bible, and the Basis Bible—and produces widely-used editions from the biblical source languages. GBS partners with Katholisches Bibelwerk e.V. and local Bible Societies across Germany, and contributes internationally to translation and Bible access through its World Bible Aid programme.
This visit underscores the importance of continued collaboration, innovation, and public engagement in Bible Societies’ work. Recognition from national leaders serves as a powerful reminder of the shared impact we make together for the good of all people.
Media
The Minister-President’s visit to GBS was covered by the following media outlets:
