White House Marks 250 Years of the Bible in America, Launches Nationwide Reading Initiative.
Washington, D.C.:
The White House has issued a presidential message commemorating 250 years of the Bible in America, highlighting its historical and cultural influence while announcing a nationwide initiative titled “America Reads the Bible.”
The message extended greetings to citizens gathered at the Museum of the Bible and across the United States, where nearly 500 participants are set to take part in a week-long public reading of the Bible, covering the entire text from Genesis to Revelation. The initiative is being described as a historic effort to celebrate the enduring role of scripture in shaping American identity.
Tracing the roots of biblical influence, the message referenced early milestones such as the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the New World and the establishment of the first permanent English settlement at Jamestown, noting how religious teachings became intertwined with the nation’s development. It also recalled the vision of John Winthrop, who famously described America as a “city upon a hill,” drawing from the teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew.
The statement further connected biblical principles to foundational national documents, including the Declaration of Independence, emphasizing ideals such as equality and unalienable rights. It cited historical figures like John Adams, who praised the Bible for its philosophical and moral guidance, and referenced the Northwest Ordinance, which underscored the importance of religion, morality, and knowledge in governance.
Highlighting the Bible’s influence across different eras, the message pointed to moments such as George Washington taking the oath of office on a Bible, Abraham Lincoln invoking scripture during the Civil War, and Franklin D. Roosevelt leading the nation in prayer during World War II. It also recalled Ronald Reagan declaring 1983 as the “Year of the Bible,” emphasizing its foundational role in American life.
The message framed the initiative within the broader context of the United States marking 250 years of independence, encouraging citizens to reflect on the spiritual and moral traditions that have influenced the nation’s trajectory. The week-long reading event will feature participation from leaders across faith, government, business, and entertainment sectors, aiming to inspire renewed engagement with scripture.
Concluding on a note of unity and reflection, the message commended participants and expressed hope that the initiative would strengthen national values, promote faith, and reaffirm the United States as “one Nation under God” as it looks toward the future.
