10 Best Catholic Bibles 2025 in the United States

The NABRE, New American Bible, Revised Edition is a solid choice for anyone seeking a Catholic Bible that offers clarity and accessibility. One of its main strengths is the Comfort Print feature, designed to enhance readability, especially for those who may struggle with smaller text. The large print format is beneficial for older readers or anyone who prefers a clearer view of the text. The leathersoft binding adds a touch of elegance and durability, ensuring that the Bible can withstand daily use while also looking attractive on a shelf.

In terms of translation, the NABRE is a modern translation that maintains the accuracy of the original texts, making it suitable for personal study and reflection. The translation is widely accepted among Catholic communities, which is a significant advantage for those looking for a Bible aligned with their faith.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The size of the Bible, measuring 7.15 x 10.25 inches and weighing about 3.02 pounds, might be cumbersome for some users, particularly if you intend to carry it around frequently. It’s more suitable for study at home or in a church setting rather than for easy transport. Additionally, while the large print is an excellent feature, the number of pages (1968) means the Bible is quite thick, which could be unwieldy for some.

The Catholic Notetaking Bible: Blessed Is She Edition (Nabre) is designed for those who appreciate the beauty and depth of the NABRE translation and desire a more interactive reading experience. One of its main strengths is its focus on notetaking, making it perfect for individuals who enjoy journaling or reflecting on their scripture readings. This edition encourages personal engagement with the text, which can be quite beneficial for study groups or individual reflection. The hardcover binding adds durability, which is great for frequent use, and the size (6.6 x 2.1 x 9.3 inches) allows for easy handling, fitting well in a bag or on a desk without feeling cumbersome. Its weight of 3.7 pounds, while slightly heavy, is manageable for a hardcover Bible of this nature.

This edition is well-suited for Catholic individuals who want to deepen their understanding of scripture through written reflection. While it's a solid choice for its intended purpose, potential buyers should consider their needs and how often they would use the notetaking features versus a more standard Bible layout.

The Ignatius Bible: Revised Standard Version - Second Catholic Edition is a well-regarded choice for those seeking a reliable and traditional Catholic Bible. One of its main strengths is the Revised Standard Version (RSV) translation, which is known for its accuracy and readability, making it suitable for both personal study and liturgical use. The hardcover binding provides durability, ensuring that the Bible can withstand regular use without falling apart easily.

Its dimensions of 6 x 1.38 x 9.25 inches and weight of 2.25 pounds make it a substantial but manageable size for reading and carrying. With 1096 pages, it offers a comprehensive and complete text for readers. However, the Bible does not seem to offer additional features such as study guides, maps, or commentary, which might be a drawback for those looking for more in-depth study aids.

This version is published by Ignatius Press, a respected name known for quality religious publications. For those who prioritize a trustworthy translation and durable binding over extra features, this is a solid choice. It may not be ideal for readers who prefer more interactive or annotated versions.