Religious Education and Social Justice

The Joy of Reading

In May this year, Pope Leo reflected on how reading books allows us to encounter others and nourish our minds.

In an article written by Deborah Castellano Lubov published in Vatican News, the Pope is quoted as speaking about books and reading:

"When we hold a book in our hands," he observed, "we encounter its author in an ideal sense. At the same time, we also encounter those who have read it before us, those reading it now, and those who will read it in the future."

Pope Leo suggested that books serve as bridges toward others, fostering dialogue, enriching understanding, and broadening perspectives. He underscored that, for Christians, books are also an opportunity to proclaim Christ.

“We know well how reading the biography of a saint or a well-presented spiritual reflection can touch the heart,” he said.

The Pope also reflected on artistic depictions linking saints and sacred texts.

“The Virgin Mary," he pointed out, "is often depicted, in scenes of the Annunciation, intent on reading the Sacred Scriptures. Saint Anthony of Padua is portrayed holding the open Book of the Gospels, upon which the Child Jesus stands. Saint Augustine is often shown seated at a writing desk before a large book and, at times, holding a heart in his hand: truth and charity.”

“In the school of Mary and the Saints,” the Pope said, “let us nourish ourselves with the Word of God, so that it may shape our way of thinking and acting.”

In the Bible we can read the teachings of Jesus through scripture:

The Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. – Romans 15:4  

Heavenly Father, 

thank you for the Scriptures 

that were written for our instruction. 

Thank you for the hope and encouragement

I can gain as I read about your word being fulfilled in the coming of Jesus. 

May I wait with joyful expectation 

for the ultimate fulfillment of your promises 

at the second coming of Jesus, 

where I will live with Him forever.   

Amen

Jane Wilkinson

Religious Education Leader