Gideons International, a non-denominational Christian association, were on campus this week passing out Bibles to students who would accept them.

The men say they pass out Bibles to help “spread the word of God.” Their goal is to bring more men and women into the Christian church.

“I think it’s really cool how they have dedicated their lives to spreading the word of God in places where it may not be talked about or mentioned much,” said Taylor McDaniel, a freshman criminal justice major from West Monroe.

The Gideons who passed out Bibles all over campus were locals from this area. They speak in local churches and share their testimonies, which are stories about their personal journeys in joining the church.

The Gideons’ goal was to pass out a million Bibles in six days.

Local Gideons International member Michael Tryon said, “Once Christian influence is gone, this is what will be left. A verse that means a lot to me is Isaiah 55:11: “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

Gideons International headquarters is located in Nashville, Tenn. Local individual camps are located throughout the country and are responsible for reaching out to their local areas.

Members of Gideons have traveled in 193 countries and go to places such as prisons, motels, police departments, fire departments, airports and schools beginning in the fifth grade.

Contrary to what some may believe, women are allowed to join the Gideons.

To be a part of this organization, you are required to have a college education or be ranked in the military.