Enthroning the Bible: What Does It Mean?

The enthronement of the Bible during National Bible Month symbolizes the central place of the Word of God in the life of individuals, communities, and the nation. It signifies the following:

Centrality of the Word of God

The act of enthronement underscores the Bible as the foundational authority and guide for faith, worship, moral conduct, and daily living. It serves as a powerful reminder to center God's Word in liturgical celebrations, decision-making processes, and spiritual growth. The Bible is rightly described as norma normans (Latin for "the rule that rules"), emphasizing its foundational role alongside Tradition in forming the single deposit of faith. As Dei Verbum 21 (Vatican II) declares, "The Church has always venerated the divine Scriptures just as she venerates the body of the Lord..." This highlights the profound reverence and centrality of Scripture in the life of the Church [see additional notes below].*

The Bible "enthroned" on the altar of the Sacred Heart Parish -Shrine, Diocese of Cubao

Reverence and Honor

Enthroning the Bible emphasizes respect for the Scriptures as the living Word of God. According to Dei Verbum, Sacred Scripture has dual authorship: God is the primary author, guiding the human writers through the Holy Spirit to ensure the message is His. The human authors, as true authors, used their own faculties and historical contexts, yet were divinely inspired to write exactly what God intended. This understanding affirms the Bible as both a human and divine work, deserving of reverence and honor as God’s Word.

Call to Read the Bible, Source of Hope

The enthronement of the Bible invites believers to read, reflect on, and live according to its teachings. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of Scripture in shaping individual lives and communities. The same Holy Spirit that inspired the Bible continues to empower believers, offering hope and strength to live out the Word, even amidst life’s challenges. Embracing the Bible brings not only guidance but also the hope of God’s promises, which renews and sustains us as "pilgrims of hope."

Unity Among Believers

National Bible Month celebrations, including Bible enthronements, promote unity among Christian communities in the Philippines. These events underscore an ecumenical commitment to God’s Word, fostering a shared dedication to Scripture across denominations. Through this common reverence for the Bible, believers are united in faith, transcending differences to grow together in the knowledge and love of God.

Cultural and National Relevance

In the context of National Bible Month, the enthronement symbolizes the role of the Bible in shaping the moral and spiritual fabric of the Filipino people. It reaffirms the nation's Christian heritage and highlights the importance of aligning national values with biblical principles.

*On Venerating the Sacred Scripture

Dei Verbum called for a series of initiatives and practices to restore the Scriptures to their rightful place of veneration, alongside the traditional Catholic veneration of the Eucharist. These include:

• Providing access to the biblical text through accurate and correct translations.

• Encouraging a deeper understanding of the Scriptures by reading them through the lens of patristic interpretations and the liturgy.

• Recognizing the Scriptures as a source for theological reflection, not merely a tool: "The study of the sacred page is, as it were, the soul of sacred theology."

• Ensuring that all clergy possess a solid understanding of the Scriptures to enrich their preaching and pastoral ministry.

• Commissioning the bishops to ensure the implementation of these norms.