The National Bible Association was created in 1940 by a group of business and professional people in New York City. Their purpose was to find hope for America while war raged in Europe.

By 1941 these leaders agreed that the Bible, a proven source of hope and encouragement throughout history, should be the focus of their efforts.

December 8 through 14, 1941 was set as the very first National Bible Week. President Roosevelt agreed to host celebratory events at the White House. A media campaign was planned. Civic and fraternal organizations pledged their support, along with many members of the faith community. To launch the week, a national radio broadcast on the NBC radio network was scheduled for December 7th. That first Bible reading broadcast was interrupted with news of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Soon every radio in the nation was tuned to NBC for news on the attack. In between reports network executives asked National Bible leaders to continue to read the Bible throughout the day.

National Bible Week has been celebrated each year since that auspicious beginning. National Bible Week remains the signature event of the National Bible Association. The President of the United States is the Honorary Chairman of National Bible Week and he issues a White House message. Members of Congress enter statements about the importance of the Bible into the Congressional Record. Governors and mayors proclaim National Bible Week in their states and towns. Public libraries, civic clubs, bookstores, congregations and individuals schedule community events.

Other National Bible Association programs include media and public relations campaigns, public service announcements and recognition awards round out the work of the National Bible Association.