The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) recently released a guide encouraging Catholics to read the Bible daily. Although scripture is read in mass daily, there is a perception that Catholics don't read the Bible. I believe that it is more than just a perception however. Many Catholics don't read the Bible outside of the mass, and this is a sad reality. The Bible is Catholic so why do so few Catholics read the Bible? Part of the reason many Catholics don't read the Bible often is because they don't know how to properly read the Bible. The USCCB has noted ten points for fruitful scripture reading. The essential message is that reading the Bible should be a prayerful action, not simply an action in search of entertainment. Nor should it be considered simply a historical text or scientific textbook. The Bible must be read in proper context, using Catholic editions that include the complete list of sacred books and accurate translations, and this reading should be done in prayerful contemplation. We should pray before, during and after our scripture reading. If we engage in Bible study and any or all of these dimensions are missing, we are opening ourselves up for manipulation of the text and misrepresentations. Our scripture reading will not be as fruitful as it could be and could even become counterproductive. In order for our Bible reading and study to be fruitful, we should follow these guidelines laid out for us by the USCCB. Below is the link to the USCCB website discussion this topic. It will be helpful for me as I continue my quest to read the Bible in it's entirety.
Ten Points for Fruitful Scripture Reading
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