"Australians are more likely to surf regularly than attend church regularly," says Brett Davis, the International Director of an organisation known as Christian Surfers International (CSI).

"Throughout the world," says Brett, "there is the equivalent to the population of Australia committed to surfing and a whole world youth culture that identifies surfing as one of its icons."

In the coastal communities of every continent, more and more young people are enjoying the excitement and exhilaration of what, for many, is not just a sport but a lifestyle.

Christians around the world now have the opportunity to have a major impact on the lives of young surfers through an innovative new project from CSI called the 'Surfer's Bible.' Which is a joint project with the Bible Society Australia.

Yes, it is a Bible, but it is actually much more than that. According to Brett, "The Surfer's Bible's surfer-friendly format includes a modern translation of the New Testament, a full color surfing cover and a culture-relevant introduction and conclusion."

But here's the best part . and, says Brett, a great opportunity for all Christians to be involved! "The Surfer's Bible will also include exciting stories, testimonies and photographs from surfing identities, all presented in full color." And you can help make this possible by sponsoring one of these identities.

Naturally, Christian Surfers International desires to make these Bibles available to the surfing community and churches at the lowest cost possible. "The involvement of Christians everywhere by way of sponsorship," says Brett, "will help ensure the Surfer's Bible has the widest possible impact."

To be launched in May, this project brings together a partnership involving the Australian and international bodies of Christian Surfers and the Bible Society in Australia. "We're excited to be working with the Bible Society, as their credentials in such Bible-related work are impeccable," says Brett.

Christian Surfers Australia has previously worked with the Bible Society in the publishing of the 'Grommet's Guide to God,' which is the gospel of Mark in a surfer-friendly format. So far, over 100,000 copies of 'GGG,' as it is affectionately known, have been distributed to a broad base of youth.

Christian Surfers International is an umbrella body uniting local surfing ministries in many countries, including the USA, UK, Portugal, Japan , Tahiti, South Africa and New Zealand.

To find out how you can sponsor a surfer into the Surfer's Bible or to order a copy, contact:

In Australia: email csaqld@powerup.com.au ; Write to Christian Surfers Australia, PO Box 402, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573; or phone (07) 5446 5525.