The National Bible Week, observed annually in the United States during the week of Thanksgiving — from the Sunday before Thanksgiving through the following Sunday — in 2025 falls from November 23 to November 30.

History of National Bible Week

The observance dates back to 1941 when the National Bible Association launched the idea, with support from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, to encourage Americans to engage with the Bible during a period of global uncertainty.
Over time, the week has become a national observance supported by various Christian denominations, churches, schools and Bible-societies, each promoting reading, study and appreciation of the Scriptures.

Why is National Bible Week important?

National Bible Week is important because it highlights the role the Bible plays in faith, culture and individual life—it invites people to pause, reflect, read and share the text that has shaped religious belief and moral discussion for centuries.
It also fosters community and inter-generational engagement: families, congregations and schools are encouraged to come together, explore Scripture, and deepen their understanding or appreciation of the Bible’s messages.

Here are five simple things this week supports:

  • Encouraging individuals to open the Bible and engage with its text.
  • Supporting group or family Bible reading, study sessions or discussion.
  • Promoting the Bible’s role in ethical, spiritual and communal life.
  • Providing a shared time-frame for churches and institutions to highlight Scripture.
  • Inspiring people to reflect on how the Bible’s teachings may apply to their lives.

How to Celebrate National Bible Week

During National Bible Week, families, faith communities or individuals might set aside dedicated time each day to read a chapter or passage of the Bible, reflect on its meaning and discuss how it applies in a modern context. You could also attend a church service focused on Scripture, host a Bible-study event or organise a community reading project. Emotionally, this observance invites a sense of grounding, connection and shared heritage—recognising the Bible’s influence while exploring its relevance today.

Here are five practical ideas to observe the week:

  • Choose a daily reading plan for the week and share insights each evening.
  • Host or join a Bible-study group either in person or online.
  • Invite children or younger family members to pick a favourite verse and explain why it matters to them.
  • Visit or partner with a local church or library to display favourite Bible passages or host a reading hour.
  • Share on social media a meaningful verse and why you’re reflecting on it during the week.

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November 23

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