Commemorative Edition of John’s Gospel To Mark 80 Years Since the End of WWII

Available To Purchase From March 2025

During World War Two, millions of special wartime editions of the Bible and John’s Gospel were distributed to British troops. Many featured a special message by King George VI encouraging soldiers to turn to God in times of hardship. They offered comfort and hope for soldiers, many of whom carried them into battle.

Hope Together, in partnership with Biblica, has produced this commemorative edition of John’s Gospel, to remember those who sacrificed their lives in the war, to celebrate and be thankful for the end of WWII, and to pray for peace for all those around the world whose lives are destroyed by conflict today.

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What’s Inside

• The full Gospel of John
• Four real-life stories of faith and courage in World War II. 
• Inspired by an original 1939 Bible design, distributed to soldiers during the war.

"From that moment forward, everything in our lives was changed. We did not know what was ahead of us, but I was certain of one thing – that Jesus would never leave us nor forsake us and that, for a child of God, no pit could be so deep that Jesus was not deeper still."

–Corrie Ten Boom Prison letters (p.13)

Honouring the legacy of the World War Two Generation

As we commemorate 80 years since the Second World War and the landmark occasion of VE Day in May 2025, this special edition of John’s Gospel is a powerful reminder of faith, hope, and courage during one of modern history’s most challenging years.

Designed for churches, schools and communities, this beautifully produced edition includes not only the timeless word of John’s Gospel, but also shares four stories of faith and courage from the Second World War.

How You Can Get Involved

2025 marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War, with Victory in Europe (VE) Day of 8 May 1945 and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15 August 1945. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Purchase Copies of John’s Gospel for Your Church. Purchase copies for members of your congregation and for visitors to your church during WWII 80 Anniversary celebrations and services.
2. Plan VE Day Events. Churches have a unique opportunity to host celebratory events that honour the legacy of the Second World War and share the hope of Christ. Think street party or tea party!
3. Distribute in Your Community. Share the Gospel in your local area and create opportunities for meaningful conversations.
4. Contact you local school and use our school resources to give an inspired assembly and hand out the commemorative gospels to reach a new generation. Read and download our WWII Schools Assembly Plan to use in your area.

Why This Edition of John’s Gospel Matters

• Honour Their Sacrifice. Reflect on the courage of those who lived and died during the war.
• Celebrate Faith in Action. Read the stories of individuals who relied on their faith during unimaginable challenges.
• Pray for Peace. For those who are living through war and conflict in the world today.
• Help a new generation to engage with the Life of Jesus as they take away, treasure and read their copy of the commemorative John’s Gospel.
• Share the Gospel. Offer visitors, your congregation and your community a meaningful keepsake that speaks of God’s faithfulness.

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