The American Bible Society moving to Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- One of the country's oldest non-profits is coming to Philadelphia. The American Bible Society is moving its global headquarters to the city!

American Bible Study President Roy Peterson says the decision wasn't an easy one, but it is the right move for his non-profit and staff.

Peterson explains, "There's a renaissance happening here and there's a partnership between the civic, land, the business, and the religious community that we look forward to being a part of."

The society will become the launching pad for bible ministry in the U.S. and around the world.

Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter reacted to the move, saying, "Their presence in Philadelphia speaks to what we've been able to do as a city over the past few years. That someone wants to be here and bring 200 new jobs."

Deputy Mayor Alan Greenberger says, "All employees, whether they're working for for-profit or non-profit, collect wages and pay wage tax. So they are part of our economic future as well."

The Bible Society's current headquarters is on Broadway in Manhattan.

The Bible Society has had its headquarters in New York for nearly two centuries. They will relocate to a building located at 5th and Market streets, leasing office space on the eighth and ninth floors of the building, which is now mostly occupied by Wells Fargo.

The ministry has partnerships with Bible Societies around the world, and will team up locally with America's very first society, the Pennsylvania Bible Society, founded in 1808 and located at 7th and Walnut for more than 160 years.

"This should be a marvelous time for everyone. I hope we can work in coordination with everyone," said Kathleen McAvoy from the Pennsylvania Bible Society. "Or the betterment of everyone in this wonderful city of Philadelphia."

The society expects to be fully moved in by this summer - just in time for Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia during the World Meeting of Families in September.

Source: 6 ABC