Selecting a Bible
Reading and studying the bible is essential not only for knowing the Christian story, but, more importantly, for making it one's own. We say that scripture is a "living text." This means that we come to it from wherever we are, and, even if we have heard it before, we can hear it anew each time.
Many translations and paraphrases of the bible exist in many languages. In the Episcopal Church, the translation used in worship is the New Revised Standard Version.
Other popular and scholarly translations include the New Jerusalem Version, the New American Bible, and the Revised English Bible.
A translation may be presented in a particular format, such as in a "study bible" or feature other particular resources. The Access Bible, available primarily with the NRSV translation, embeds notes within the text. Others, such as the Harper or Oxford Study Bibles have notes below the text. They may also feature glossaries, concordances, maps, or other historical notes.
When selecting a bible, look at several different versions and think about how you like to read. Does the format fit your reading style? Do you want notes, or do you find them distracting?
If you have questions, please contact the clergy.
