In 2017 Scripture Union is celebrating 150 years of ministry across the world.  Scripture Union began on 2 June 1867 in the home of Thomas Hughes in the London suburb of Islington. Some 15 young children were there to attend a children’s meeting led by Josiah Spiers. One year later, on the 26th August 1868, in the beach-side town of Llandudno, Wales, Josiah Spiers was concerned that children should hear the message about Jesus and how much God loved them. He began by writing ‘God is love’ in the sand. As children gathered around, he encouraged them to decorate the letters with shells and seaweed and told them stories about Jesus.

Scripture Union now work in over 130 countries around the world and is still introducing children and young people to Jesus. Although the gospel never changes, each culture expresses it in a particular way and so the work is carried out through local people in ways which are appropriate to the country, culture and situation in which a movement is based. This includes running camps, school seminars and student groups or producing resources for Bible reading, family counselling, AIDS education, urban children and youth ministry and ministry to those with disability.

To celebrate its 150th year, SU is gathering stories of thankfulness to encourage each other and inspire them for the next 150 years. You can share your memories here stories.suscotland.org.uk and find out how SU is celebrating this 150th year.