To commemorate the 30th anniversary of the New International Version (NIV), Zondervan this week launched the "Bible Across America" nationwide tour that invites 31,173 people to hand write one verse of the world's most widely read contemporary English translation of the Bible.

The handwritten verses will be compiled into a new Bible to be called America's NIV, Zondervan officials said. The tour, which began Tuesday from Zondervan's headquarters in Grand Rapids, Mich., will travel to 90 cities in 44 states, covering more than 15,000 miles.

A team of four will drive a 42-foot recreational vehicle—donated by RV supplier Spartan Motors—making stops at U.S. landmarks, churches, universities, retail stores and events such as a NASCAR race in Charlotte, N.C., and the National Pastors Convention in San Diego.

"We believe that a completely handwritten version of the NIV Bible by people from all across our country will help America rediscover the Bible in a fresh, new way," said Moe Girkins, president and CEO of Zondervan. "The (tour) is a symbol of Zondervan's commitment to make the Word of God more accessible and more relevant to more people.

We couldn't think of a better way to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the NIV Bible than by inviting Americans to join us on this monumental tour and open more hearts to the Word of God."

For more information on tour stops and blog updates, click here.

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