The Story

The Pocket Testament League began in 1893, led by a determined 12-year-old girl. One night, at a meeting, she committed her life to Jesus. The next day, brimming with conviction, she told her best friend that she had become a Christian.

Her friend replied, “I’m a Christian; I go to church.” Helen responded with quiet assurance, “I don’t think going to church makes you a Christian.” The following day, Helen brought her Bible to school, and together they began reading it. Inspired by what she read, her friend continued at home and prayed to receive Jesus into her heart.

The two of them then invited their classmates to explore the Bible with them. By the end, 80 students had accepted Christ.

Deeply convinced of the power of Scripture, she organized a group of girls who sewed pockets into their dresses to carry the small New Testaments her father provided. They called themselves The Pocket Testament League. 

In 1969, Helen Cadbury Alexander went to be with the Lord, yet The League and its members continue to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with unwavering enthusiasm. From its founding through 2018, millions of League members have used a Gospel of John to invite 130 million people to meet Jesus Christ. All of this stems from the vision of one courageous young woman, who sought to bring God’s Word to those who had not yet encountered it.