(CCCB – Ottawa)... Following numerous requests for copies of The Word of God in Scripture: How to read and interpret the Bible, stocks of the popular guide have run out. The Theology Commission of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has decided to re-issue this text in digital format on the Conference website on the occasion of the Synod of Bishops on “The Word of God in the life and mission of the Church,” taking place this fall in Rome.

This 20-page guidebook begins by showing the importance and place of the written Word of God in the whole of Christian life. It presents the conditions for fruitful reading of the Bible, suggests a plan to follow, and offers a list of tools for deeper study. Finally, the guide offers some criteria for interpreting the Bible. The words of the Bible are indivisibly both the Word of God and human words that are directed toward faith, and are to be understood in the community of the living Church, the guide indicates.

Since its original publication in 1999, this guide has been widely and successfully used by people of various ages and abilities in high schools and universities, parishes, homes and other institutions. The guide’s straightforward and practical approach lends itself toward immediate appreciation and application.

The four sections of the guide aim to address people’s questions directly and clearly: 1) The Word of God; 2) How to read the Bible, the Word of God; 3) How to interpret the Bible; 4) Sacred Scripture in the Life of the Church.

The Word of God in Scripture: How to read and interpret the Bible (PDF Format)