Opening the Bible for the first time — or the first time in a long while — can feel daunting. With over 70 books, various literary styles, and a rich theological tradition, it’s no wonder many Catholics don’t know where to begin.
But the good news is this: you don’t need to be a scholar to begin reading Scripture. You only need a willing heart, a simple plan, and the guidance of the Church.
This guide will walk you through how to start reading the Bible as a Catholic — without feeling overwhelmed — and how to make it a source of daily grace and transformation.
Table of Contents
🕊️ 1. Begin With Prayer
Reading Scripture isn’t like reading any other book — it’s a personal encounter with God. Before opening the Bible, begin with a short prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you.
Try this prayer:
“Come, Holy Spirit. Enlighten my heart and mind so I may hear Your voice in the Scriptures. Help me to receive Your Word with faith, humility, and love. Amen.”
📖 2. Use a Catholic Bible
It’s essential to use a Bible that includes all 73 books recognised by the Catholic Church. Protestant Bibles omit several Old Testament books (the Deuterocanonical books), which are part of Catholic tradition and liturgy.
Trusted Catholic translations include:
- Revised Standard Version – Catholic Edition (RSV-CE)
- New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)
- The Jerusalem Bible
- Douay-Rheims Bible (for traditional language)
Look for a Bible with Imprimatur or Nihil Obstat, which indicates it’s approved for Catholic use.
🪔 3. Let the Church Be Your Guide
As Catholics, we don’t interpret the Bible on our own. Scripture must always be read within the heart of the Church, in the light of Sacred Tradition and under the guidance of the Magisterium (the teaching authority of the Church).
“The Church has always venerated the Scriptures as she venerates the Lord’s Body.” — Catechism of the Catholic Church, 103
This protects us from misinterpretation or falling into a fundamentalist or overly literal approach. Always seek to understand Scripture in harmony with the Church’s teachings.
📅 4. Read With the Church: Follow the Daily Mass Readings
One of the best ways to stay rooted in the Church’s rhythm is by following the Daily Mass Readings. These readings guide Catholics around the world through much of the Bible every year — and they’re beautifully connected to the liturgical seasons.
Find them via:
- Universalis
- iBreviary
- Catholic apps like Laudate, Amen, or Hallow
You’ll experience Scripture in context, surrounded by prayers, saints’ feast days, and the Sacraments.
📍 5. Start With the Gospels — Not Genesis
While the book of Genesis is important, it’s not always the best place for beginners. Begin with Jesus, the heart of Scripture and salvation history.
Suggested starting points:
- Gospel of Luke – orderly and rich in stories
- Gospel of Mark – short and fast-paced
- Acts of the Apostles – the story of the early Church
- Psalms – great for prayer and emotional connection
This gives you a solid foundation in the life, teachings, and mission of Christ.
🧭 6. Choose a Simple Catholic Reading Plan
Without a plan, it’s easy to lose momentum. Try one of these beginner-friendly approaches:
- The Bible in a Year Podcast (Fr. Mike Schmitz) – incredibly popular and easy to follow
- The Gospel in 30 Days – read one chapter a day
- Daily Mass Readings – a powerful connection to the Church’s prayer life
- The Great Adventure Bible Timeline – helps you understand the big picture of salvation history
🙏 7. Try Lectio Divina: A Prayerful Way to Read
More than just reading, Scripture invites prayerful conversation with God. Lectio Divina (“Divine Reading”) is an ancient Catholic practice that helps you meditate deeply on God’s Word.
The 5 Steps of Lectio Divina:
- Lectio (Read) – Slowly read the passage.
- Meditatio (Meditate) – Reflect on what stands out. What is God saying?
- Oratio (Pray) – Speak to God about it. What do you need? What do you feel?
- Contemplatio (Contemplate) – Rest in God’s presence and receive His love.
- Actio (Act) – Decide how you’ll live this out today.
Start with a short passage — even a single verse — and give yourself 10–15 minutes.
📚 8. Use Trusted Catholic Study Tools (Optional)
You don’t need them to begin, but study resources can help if you’re curious or confused. They provide Church context, historical background, and cross-references to doctrine.
Recommended resources:
- Ignatius Catholic Study Bible (RSV-CE)
- The Great Adventure Catholic Bible (with colour-coded timeline)
- Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture
🧠 9. Understand Context — Not Just Content
The Bible is full of ancient literary forms — poetry, law, parable, and prophecy. To truly understand it, consider the historical and cultural background of each book. Study Bibles and Catholic commentaries can help with this.
Remember: not every passage is meant to be read literally. The Church teaches us to read Scripture in light of the whole — always seeking the spiritual, moral, and allegorical meanings as well.
✝️ 10. Connect Scripture and the Sacraments
Scripture is not just for private reading — it’s proclaimed in every Mass and lived through the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist.
“Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” — St. Jerome
Let your reading lead you deeper into the liturgy, confession, and Holy Communion — where the Word becomes Flesh.
🪞 11. Reflect and Journal
Writing down what stands out, what confuses you, and how a passage spoke to you is a powerful way to grow. Over time, you’ll begin to see patterns, themes, and spiritual growth.
Ask yourself:
- What is God trying to teach me?
- What change is He calling me to?
- How can I respond in faith?
⛪ 12. Don’t Go It Alone
Join a parish Bible study, follow Catholic creators online, or find a friend to read with. Many Catholics find great support in Bible study groups, spiritual direction, or online communities.
🕊️ Final Encouragement
You don’t need to master Scripture overnight. The Bible is a lifelong journey — a love letter from God written for you. Begin simply, stay faithful, and trust that even a few minutes a day can bear eternal fruit.
The Lord is waiting to speak to your heart.
READ MORE: FAITH SECTION
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