Catholic Church Bible Versions in Mass and Readings: An Overview

The use of specific Bible versions in Catholic Mass and readings can vary significantly by country and even among different regions within a single nation. This article provides an overview of the different versions used in various regions, with a focus on some of the most commonly referenced translations.

Overview of Bible Versions Used in Mass

One of the most prominent and widely used Bible versions in Catholic Mass is the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) in Canada, with some Vatican-approved alterations for inclusive language. Since 2011, this version has been used in the NRSV-CEn (Canadian Edition) for Mass readings.

Other Common Bible Versions

In the United Kingdom, the New Jerusalem Bible (NJ) is commonly used. However, there is an upcoming change. Starting next year, the New Revised Standard Version Second Edition (NRSV2CE) will replace the NJ in the UK. This change means that the same biblical readings will be used across the country on any given day, contributing to a common experience for worshippers.

For the United States, the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE) is the primary version used in Mass. However, it is important to note that for lectionary use, the NABRE is further revised and is only available in the form of a missal or lectionary, not as a standalone personal Bible.

Regional Differences and Variability

The use of Bible versions for Mass is not uniformly consistent across different countries or regions. Each nation or archbishopric can choose a different version, leading to variations in the text used during Mass. For example:

Canada: NRSV-CEn (New Revised Standard Version - Canadian Edition) United States: NABRE (New American Bible Revised Edition) revised for lectionary use England and Wales: NJ (New Jerusalem Bible)

This variability means that even within the same country, different regions may use different versions of the Bible for their Mass readings. For instance, the Bible text used in Mass in Argentina might differ from that used in the United States, Canada, or England.

Key Considerations

The choices of Bible versions for Mass are influenced by several factors, including local cultural and linguistic considerations, as well as the approval of the Vatican for use in lectionaries. The texts selected for the readings are compiled into a book called a missal, which provides the essential readings for each day of the Mass. The missal typically includes readings from both the Old and New Testaments and the Ordinary of the Mass, spanning a cycle over a period of five to seven years.

Conclusion

The choice of Bible versions for use in Catholic Mass and readings is a complex issue influenced by regional variations, local conferences of bishops, and the approval of the Vatican. While the use of specific versions can vary widely, the Missal serves as a centralized guide to ensure consistent Bible readings across different regions and countries.

Related Articles

The Historical Development of the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible Translations and Their Impact on Catholic Liturgy How Bible Versions Affect Christian Worship