Welcome to the Fourth Annual Youth Read Sacred Texts Worldwide!

What began as a simple idea has grown into one of the largest youth sacred-text reading initiatives in the world.

In 2026, 15,175 youth and adults participated, representing 47 states, 28 countries and 51 faith traditions. 

Youth from six continents read their sacred texts with their families, congregations, schools, and youth organizations. Participants included Scouting America, Girl Scouts USA, American Heritage Girls, Trail Life USA, Camp Fire, 4-H, Knights of Columbus, and many other faith-based youth organizations.

The 2027 event runs October 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027, in conjunction with the National Day of Prayer on May 6, 2027. Participants may read at any time during the event period.

Youth are encouraged to read the sacred texts of their own faith tradition. Families and faith leaders should determine the passages to be read and the amount of time spent reading.

How You Can Help

• Promote the event within your group, congregation, school, or community.
• Add the event to your faith or council calendar.
• Invite other families, and youth organizations to participate.
• Share the event through social media and newsletters.

Commemorative patches and stickers are available for participants.  Please see our website.

Together, we can encourage young people around the world to strengthen their faith, build character, deepen their relationship with God, and develop a lifelong habit of reading and reflecting on their sacred texts.

May God bless our efforts.

Jim Marchbank
Chair
Youth Read Sacred Texts Worldwide

Our website is:   Https://YouthReadSacredTextsWorldwide.org