Across Ontario, many Catholic schools celebrate a special milestone during Catholic Education Week as Grade 4 students receive their own Bible or Gospel for the first time. While it may appear to be a simple tradition, for many families it becomes the beginning of a lifelong relationship with God’s Word.
A priest once explained it this way: “When we pray, we speak to God. When we read the Gospel, God speaks to us.” This simple truth can change the way children view Scripture. Rather than seeing the Bible as a collection of stories from long ago, they begin to recognize it as a source of guidance, comfort, and encouragement for everyday life.
For Catholic parents, grandparents, and educators, one of the greatest gifts they can offer children is helping them develop the habit of turning to God in every season of life: in times of joy, sadness, uncertainty, gratitude, and hope. These habits of faith often begin at home through prayer, conversation, and regular encounters with Scripture.
Many adults can still remember the first Bible or prayer book they received as children. Often, these treasured gifts become lasting reminders of the faith passed on by parents, grandparents, teachers, and parish communities. Long after childhood, favourite verses and prayers continue to provide strength and reassurance during life’s challenges.
Scripture offers countless examples of God’s presence and encouragement. Passages such as “Do not fear, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10) and “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13) often become words that children carry with them into adulthood.
Music can also help bring Scripture to life. Many hymns and contemporary Christian songs are rooted directly in Biblical passages. Whether heard at Mass, school liturgies, or at home, these songs help children remember God’s Word in a meaningful and memorable way. Families may wish to create a faith playlist together and explore the Scripture passages that inspired their favourite songs.
Perhaps the greatest lesson adults can teach is not simply to own a Bible, but to open it. Children should be encouraged to ask questions, highlight meaningful passages, and discover how God’s Word speaks to their lives today.
As another school year comes to a close, families may wish to consider how they can continue nurturing faith at home during the summer months. Reading a Bible story together, praying as a family, or giving a child their first prayer book or Bible can become simple yet powerful ways to strengthen faith.
In a world filled with gifts that are quickly forgotten, a gift of faith has the potential to last a lifetime. More importantly, it can help children discover that God’s Word is always there—ready to guide, strengthen, and accompany them throughout their journey of faith.
Where to buy a bible?
Families interested in purchasing a Bible may find a variety of options through local Catholic bookstores, parish gift shops, or online retailers such as Amazon. The Great Adventure Catholic Bible is a popular choice for older children, teens, and adults, while younger children may enjoy an age-appropriate Catholic children’s Bible or prayer book.