National Bible Sunday

National Bible Sunday is a religious observance celebrated on the last Sunday of January. In 2026, it falls on January 25. This day serves as the culmination of National Bible Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the Holy Scriptures as a guide for moral and spiritual development. While primarily celebrated in the Philippines, the tradition has roots in international efforts to promote biblical literacy and interfaith cooperation.

History of National Bible Sunday

The roots of this observance trace back to the early 20th century with the work of the British and Foreign Bible Society, but its specific placement in the calendar evolved through various presidential decrees. In 1982, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. initially declared the last Sunday of November as Bible Sunday. However, in 1986, President Corazon Aquino moved the celebration to January, reasoning that the nation should begin each new year by consulting the Word of God for guidance.

The legal standing of the holiday was further solidified in 2017 when President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation No. 124, declaring the entire month of January as National Bible Month. This was followed by Republic Act No. 11163, which established the last Monday of January as National Bible Day, a special working holiday. National Bible Sunday remains the key religious focus of this period, often marking the end of a week of nationwide distribution and public readings of the scriptures.

Why is National Bible Sunday important?

This day highlights the Bible as the best-selling and most influential book in history, serving as a foundation for many legal and ethical systems. It encourages individuals to move beyond viewing the text as a historical relic and instead use it as a living document for personal growth. The holiday emphasizes the importance of translating the scriptures into various local languages, ensuring that everyone has access to the text in their own mother tongue.

The celebration is also significant for its ecumenical nature, bringing together various Christian denominations to focus on their shared scriptural heritage. It promotes “Biblical Animation,” a process of integrating the Word of God into all aspects of life, from family discussions to public service. By dedicating a specific Sunday to the Bible, communities reaffirm their commitment to values such as justice, compassion, and personal responsibility.

• It marks the peak of a month-long focus on scriptural study and reflection
• It recognizes the Bible’s historical role in shaping national values and culture
• It supports the ongoing efforts of Bible societies to translate and distribute texts
• It encourages a “Quiet Revival” of interest in faith among younger generations
• It serves as a spiritual “reset button” for the start of the calendar year

How to Celebrate National Bible Sunday

Many churches celebrate by holding a “Bible Enthronement” ceremony, where the Holy Scriptures are processed into the sanctuary and placed in a prominent, decorated position. Congregations often organize Bible quizzes, poster-making contests, and dramatic presentations of famous parables to engage children and teenagers. In some regions, “Bible Fests” are held, featuring public marathons where the entire New Testament is read aloud in a public square or town center.

On a personal level, families are encouraged to create a “sacred space” or home altar where the Bible is kept open to a favorite passage. Many people take this day to start a new reading plan or commit to a weekly Bible study group with friends and neighbors. It is also common to gift Bibles to those who may not own one or to donate to organizations that provide scriptures to hospitals and correctional facilities. The focus is on making the Word of God accessible and relevant to modern daily challenges.

• Participate in a Bible Enthronement ceremony at your local church
• Join a public scripture reading marathon in your community
• Create a dedicated space in your home for daily Bible reflection
• Start a year-long Bible reading plan using a mobile app or journal
• Gift a leather-bound or illustrated Bible to a friend or family member

National Bible Sunday Dates Table