Why Should Catholics Read Scripture?

Why should Catholics read Scripture? Know Christ through God's Word, pray with a Gospel, prepare for Mass, and begin a simple, sustainable Bible-reading habit.

Related: Why Should Catholics Read Scripture? · why must we read Scripture · importance Scripture Catholic · need to read Bible · Bible reading beginner

Illuminated scenes on a page of the medieval Maciejowski Bible
Anonymous, Morgan Picture Bible (Morgan Library & Museum) · Public domain (historic manuscript)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should a Catholic begin reading the Bible?

Begin with a Gospel, such as Mark or Luke. Read a short passage regularly, notice its context, pray in response, and use a reliable Catholic study aid for difficult questions.

Is personal reading only for priests?

No. Catechism 133 and Dei Verbum 22 and 25 encourage the faithful to read Scripture. Church teaching helps readers; it does not reserve the Bible for clergy.

Does Mass include the whole Bible?

No. The lectionary offers a rich selection, not every biblical verse. Personal reading helps you encounter whole books and the contexts of the passages proclaimed at Mass.

Is there a required daily chapter count?

The Church strongly encourages Scripture reading but does not impose a universal daily chapter quota. Begin with a sustainable practice rather than treating reading as a scorecard.