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TikTok offer leads to thousands of Bible requests
The Reverend David Sims, a vicar at St Thomas Church in Aldridge, Walsall, unexpectedly sparked a global response after posting a lighthearted video on TikTok last May. In the clip, he offered free Bibles to anyone who messaged him, setting the request process in motion with a short, improvised song.
Overnight surge overwhelms inbox
Sims woke the following morning to approximately 500 messages, with the video amassing tens of thousands of views. The influx continued for weeks, prompting the church to organize weekly packing sessions every Monday to fulfill the growing number of requests.
Volunteers assemble each Bible with a handwritten note and a booklet directing recipients to nearby Alpha courses or introductory Christianity programs. As the books are packed, Sims blesses them.
Crowdfunding covers costs as demand spreads globally
While the church initially covered some expenses, the scale of demand led Sims to launch a crowdfunding campaign, which has raised over £10,500 in less than a year. Each Bible costs between £3 and £4, and Sims emphasizes the importance of providing high-quality copies.
"If this is the first Bible someone receives, we want them to feel valued and to have a good gift from us," he said.
Requests have arrived from as far as Africa and Asia, though financial constraints prevent Sims from shipping internationally. Instead, he directs overseas inquirers to local churches.
Messages of gratitude highlight personal impact
Sims has received numerous thank-you notes, with one particularly moving message standing out. A recipient shared that their Bible arrived on the day of their mother's funeral, providing comfort during a period of grief.
He believes the response reflects a growing curiosity about faith and spirituality, challenging assumptions about Christianity's relevance.
"I think the assumption is that the Bible is outdated and Christianity is dusty and church is boring. But that's just not what I'm seeing," Sims said.
TikTok ministry evolves without a grand plan
Sims began using TikTok during lockdown, initially without a clear strategy. Encouraged by a friend who thought his playful personality would suit the platform, he started posting content that included Sunday services, "ask me anything" sessions, and debates with other users.
His account has since gained recognition, even drawing praise from MPs. However, Sims clarifies that his primary goal is not to promote St Thomas Church but to share his faith.
"I go on there shamelessly to plug Jesus," he said.
