So, you want to read the Bible in a year? First off—high five. 🙌 That’s a big goal, but before you panic, let’s make it doable. Yes, even if you’re juggling work, family, social media, and the occasional nap.
This guide is for Catholics who want a realistic, spiritually enriching plan, without feeling like you’re cramming theology homework. I’ll walk you through the why, the how, and some practical tips to make Scripture your new best friend.
Why Read the Bible in a Year?
You might be thinking: “Do I really need to read the whole Bible?”
Here’s the thing: reading Scripture isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about encounter. It’s about hearing God’s voice in your daily life.
Some benefits:
- Strengthens your prayer life
- Helps you know Jesus personally
- Gives perspective when life feels chaotic
- Builds spiritual confidence
Reading in a year gives structure without rushing. You don’t just skim—you experience the flow of God’s story from Genesis to Revelation.
Step 1: Pick a Catholic-Friendly Bible
Not all Bibles are created equal. For Catholics, you’ll want one with the Deuterocanonical books (Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, 1 & 2 Maccabees). You may also opt for a Catholic Bibles for Beginners.
Some popular options:
- New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE) – official for U.S. Catholics, great footnotes
- Catholic Study Bible (NABRE) – extra commentary, maps, and study tips
- Ignatius Catholic Study Bible (RSV-CE) – elegant, classic text, easier to follow
Tip: choose a physical copy you like to hold or a digital version for convenience. If it looks and feels appealing, you’re more likely to stick with it.
Step 2: Break It Down Into Manageable Daily Reads
The Bible has 73 books, so yes—it can feel intimidating. But reading a few chapters a day keeps it manageable.
- Genesis through Deuteronomy → Old Testament beginnings
- Historical books & wisdom literature → Judges, Kings, Psalms, Proverbs
- Prophets & Major Prophetic Books → Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel
- Gospels & Acts → Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts
- Epistles & Revelation → Letters to the early Church and the dramatic finale
On average, that’s 3–4 chapters per day to finish in a year. Set a realistic daily time—morning coffee, lunch break, or evening prayer.
Step 3: Pray Before You Read
Before opening your Bible, pause. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Even a short prayer works:
“Come, Holy Spirit. Help me understand and live Your Word today.”
Reading Scripture isn’t just about information—it’s about transformation. Let God speak to you personally.
Step 4: Choose a Reading Method
Pick a style that works for your personality:
- Straight-through method: Genesis → Revelation, day by day
- Chronological reading: reads Bible events in historical order
- Blended approach: alternate Old Testament and New Testament chapters
- Thematic reading: focus on certain topics (faith, hope, mercy) while maintaining yearly goal
Pro tip: I like blending Old & New Testament chapters. Keeps it fresh and prevents that mid-year “ugh, Leviticus” burnout.
Step 5: Use Tools to Stay on Track
You’re human. We all get busy. Use helpful tools:
- Bible reading plans (apps, websites, or printed guides)
- Sticky notes for reflections or favorite verses
- Journaling to track insights or prayers
- Accountability buddy (friend or parish group)
Even 10 minutes a day counts if you’re consistent.
Step 6: Reflect, Don’t Just Read
A common mistake is racing through chapters. Slow down. Ask:
- What is God saying to me today?
- How does this verse apply to my life?
- Does this challenge me or comfort me?
Jot a few notes. Pray your reactions. These small reflections transform Scripture from text to living Word.
Step 7: Celebrate Milestones
Don’t wait until December 31st to feel accomplished. Celebrate small victories:
- One month completed → treat yourself to a Catholic devotional or coffee
- Halfway mark → journal your favorite passages so far
- End of the year → share your journey with a friend or parish group
It’s motivating, and it keeps the habit alive.
Step 8: Don’t Get Discouraged
Some days, life happens. You miss a day. Or a week. Or maybe 10 chapters in a row. That’s okay.
Catholic reading isn’t about perfection; it’s about perseverance and grace. Pick up where you left off. God isn’t timing your reading—He’s walking with you.
Step 9: Combine With Prayer and Sacraments
Reading the Bible in a year is great—but it’s even better when paired with prayer and Church life:
- Attend Mass weekly (or daily if possible)
- Participate in Confession
- Meditate on Scripture during Eucharistic adoration
These practices deepen your understanding and help you live Scripture in daily life.
Step 10: Make It Enjoyable
Yes, Scripture is sacred—but it can also be joyful. Use creative ways to engage:
- Highlight favorite verses in colors
- Listen to audio versions while commuting
- Discuss passages with friends or parish groups
- Memorize a verse each week
Fun = sustainable.
Step 11: Recommended Catholic Resources
- Catholic Bible Apps: Laudate, iBreviary, Verbum
- Daily Reflections: Magnificat, Word Among Us
- Bible Study Guides: Ignatius Press, Ascension Press
- Podcasts & YouTube Channels: Bishop Barron, Catholic Bible Study with Dr. Ben Akers
These tools make a daily habit feel exciting, not like homework.
Step 12: Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Goal
The ultimate goal isn’t to finish the Bible by December 31st (though that’s great). It’s to:
- Encounter God
- Grow spiritually
- Deepen prayer
- Learn lessons that stick for life
Even a few chapters a week can be life-changing.
Remember: the Bible is living and active. Each read-through opens new doors—sometimes months or years later.
Final Tips for Success
- Consistency > Quantity: Even small daily readings matter.
- Keep it practical: 10–20 minutes per day is enough.
- Journal thoughts: Track insights, prayers, and favorite verses.
- Celebrate progress: Every chapter is a small victory.
- Pray before, during, and after reading: Ask the Holy Spirit to guide understanding.
Closing Thoughts
Reading the Bible in a year as a Catholic isn’t about speed. It’s about forming a deeper friendship with God through His Word.
It’s a journey. Some days you’ll feel like a Bible scholar. Other days, you’ll struggle to focus. God meets you in both.
So grab your Bible, make a cup of coffee (or tea), pray, and start reading. One chapter today. One step closer tomorrow. And trust me—by this time next year, you’ll see how much God has spoken to your heart.