The Gideons International: Bible in Every Hotel Drawer
Have you ever opened a hotel drawer and found a Bible? Many people pass it by, but for those who wish to read it, the Bible is there, waiting. This practice of placing Bibles in hotel drawers is the result of the work of The Gideons International, a Christian organization that has distributed Bibles in hotels since 1899.
A Contained Story: A Biblically Informed Volunteer
While I have not personally witnessed a hotel Bible placement, a similar scene played out in a hospital. Some volunteers arrived with a trolley, carefully checking the condition of a Bible in a waiting room. Upon confirming that it was in good shape, they placed the Bible back and left. The trolley likely contained new Bibles in case of damage, enabling them to swap them out.
The Gideons International: Foundation and Impact
The Gideons International is a Christian organization dedicated to making Bibles accessible to everyone, specifically those who stay in hotels. The group began this practice in 1899 to ensure that anyone—a visitor or a guest—could have access to a Bible if they desired. For those uninterested in reading it, the Bible serves as a quiet presence and a symbol of hope.
The Process: How They Got Bibles into Hotels
The Gideons approach is simple but effective. They walk into a hotel and ask for permission to place Bibles in the drawers. Most hotel managers, even those who are not religious, find no issue with this, as it is free for them. When a manager approves, the Gideons arrange for the delivery of a pallet of Bibles, which are then distributed by housekeeping staff during their regular cleaning rounds.
This method of distribution is not limited to Bibles. Other hotels may offer books related to the property or its founder. For example, any hotel in the Hilton family has Conrad Hilton’s book, Be My Guest, in every room. This practice not only enriches the guest experience but also respects their choices and preferences.
A Rare Photo: A Gideons Volunteer in Action
A rare photo captures a Gideons volunteer carefully placing a Bible in a hotel room. This image serves as a visual reminder of the organization's dedication to spreading the word of God and providing spiritual comfort to those on the move.
The Gideons International's mission is a testament to the power of compassion and the desire to share faith with others. By ensuring that Bibles are available in hotel rooms across the country, they provide a beacon of hope for those who seek it.
Keywords: Gideons International, Bible in hotels, Hospitality Bible Distribution