Whether you’re a student of the faith, a busy professional, or simply in need of a Bible that fits perfectly in your purse or pocket, these compact editions offer portability without sacrificing the rich content and devotional features important to Catholic readers.
7 Best Pocket Catholic Bibles
1. Saint Joseph Vest Pocket New Testament – NCV Paperback
TBrief Description:
A faithful, pocket-sized companion designed for daily prayer and meditation. This edition of the New Catholic Bible pairs clear, easy-to-read text with helpful devotional material, making it ideal for on-the-go use.
Key Features:
- Portable Dimensions: Approximately 3¾” x 5¼” – perfect for slipping into a purse or pocket.
- Red-Letter Edition: The words of Christ are printed in red for quick reference.
- Devotional Aids: Includes prayers for before/after scripture reading, monthly and weekly prayers, plus a list of Popes.
- Extra Features: Comes with a map of St. Paul’s three missionary journeys.
- Variety: Available in multiple colors, bindings, and price points.
Reader Feedback:
Negative: Some reviewers mention the lack of a ribbon marker and wish it were included.
Positive: Praised for its small size, readable print (even without reading glasses for some), and durable binding. Many appreciate the inclusion of prayers and other devotional material. The red lettering for Jesus’ words is a plus.
2. KJV Holy Bible, Mini Pocket Bible – Zippered Black Faux Leather Bible
Brief Description:
This classically designed King James Bible offers a secure, zippered case in sleek black faux leather. It’s built to protect your Bible while providing modern conveniences, making it a stylish and practical option for travelers and military personnel alike.
Key Features:
- Compact Size: Measures 6.1″ x 4.2″ x 1″ (155 x 107 x 25 mm).
- Protective Design: Zippered closure keeps pages safe from damage.
- Elegant Cover: Black faux leather with a heat-debossed scroll pattern and silver foiled title.
- Premium Interior: Silver gilt-edged pages, red-letter words of Christ, and an attached satin ribbon marker.
- Additional Tools: Features reader-friendly subheadings, a thematic Scripture verse finder, and a one-year Bible reading plan.
Reader Feedback:
Negative: The small print is a common complaint. While some find it manageable, others find it difficult to read. Some have also mentioned the thinness of the pages.
Positive: The zippered closure is a popular feature, keeping the pages safe. Many appreciate the compact size and the inclusion of helpful features like the scripture finder and reading plan.
3. The New American Bible: St. Joseph Edition – Brown Duotone, Personal Size Leather Bound
Brief Description:
This personal-size edition delivers the complete Old and New Testaments in a beautifully bound, brown duotone cover. Enhanced with study aids like maps, a Bible dictionary, and color illustrations, it’s a versatile Bible for both devotional reading and in-depth study.
Key Features:
- Dimensions: Approximately 4½” x 6½″ – an ideal “personal size” format.
- Complete Bible: Contains both the Old and New Testaments.
- Study Aids: Includes a Bible dictionary, doctrinal index, cross-references, and 32 full-color illustrations.
- Design: Leather-bound with a classic brown duotone finish for durability and style.
Reader Feedback:
Negative: Some reviewers have noted that the text is not in red, and the paper, while of good quality, isn’t as thick as some might prefer. The absence of red lettering for Jesus’ words is noted.
Positive: Appreciated for its comprehensive nature, including study aids and illustrations. The duotone cover is also well-received.
4. St. Joseph New Catholic Version New Testament – Pocket Edition (Imitation Leather)
Brief Description:
A practical and beautifully rendered pocket New Testament for Catholics, this edition features a clear, easy-to-read layout and is enriched with numerous visual aids and indexes that support both personal meditation and group study.
Key Features:
- Pocket-Sized: Approximately 4″ x 6″, designed for portability.
- Durable Binding: Imitation leather cover that feels sturdy and elegant.
- Visual Aids: Nearly 40 black-and-white photographs and full-page illustrations.
- Indexing Tools: Includes an analytical index, a liturgical index of Sunday Gospels, and a list of readings for major feasts.
- Additional Extras: Features sections on the miracles and parables of Jesus plus a map of St. Paul’s missionary journeys, and comes with a ribbon marker.
Reader Feedback:
Negative: Some reviewers point out that the words of Jesus are not in red.
Positive: The quality of the binding is frequently mentioned, as is the clear print. The inclusion of photos and illustrations adds value.
5. KJV Compact Checkbook Bible – Burgundy Bonded Leather, Red Letter
Brief Description:
Perfect for those who need a Bible that fits in the palm of your hand, this compact “checkbook” Bible from Thomas Nelson is ideal for travel and everyday carry. Its bonded leather cover and magnetic closure provide both style and protection.
Key Features:
- Ultra-Portable: Designed to fit in a purse, briefcase, or even a pocket.
- Durable Cover: Burgundy bonded leather with a magnetic flap to protect page edges.
- Red-Letter Format: Highlights the words of Christ in red for quick reference.
- Practical Details: In-text subject headings and self-pronouncing text assist with understanding unique words.
- Navigation Aid: Comes with a ribbon marker to help keep track of your reading.
Reader Feedback:
Reviewers celebrate its portability and robust construction, with many remarking on its “perfect size” for on-the-go use. While a few had initial concerns about the durability of the spine or the small print size, the overall consensus is that this Bible is both charming and practical for everyday spiritual journeys.
6. CSB Single-Column Pocket New Testament – Brown LeatherTouch, Red Letter
Brief Description:
This edition of the Christian Standard Bible’s New Testament is crafted in a single-column format for easier reading. Its “checkbook” style and thoughtful extras make it an excellent choice for those seeking a portable Bible with modern design elements.
Key Features:
- Pocket-Friendly Format: Roughly the size of a cellphone for ultimate portability.
- Readable Text: Set in a single-column with 7-point type and red-letter words of Christ.
- Design Accents: Features a presentation page, full-color maps, and topical subheadings.
- Practical Extras: Includes a ribbon marker and a “Where to Turn” section for topic navigation.
Reader Feedback:
Negative: Some reviewers note the absence of Psalms and Proverbs, which are often included in New Testaments.
Positive: The single-column format and larger text are praised. The “Where to Turn” section is a helpful addition. Many appreciate the compact size.
7. The Revised Standard Version Catholic Bible – Imitation Leather with Zipper
Brief Description:
This compact RSV Catholic Bible is a beautifully designed edition that includes official Church texts, supplementary devotional material, and thoughtful extras—all housed in an imitation leather cover with a secure zipper closure, making it a great travel Bible.
Key Features:
- Dimensions & Weight: Measures 5.2″ x 1.3″ x 6.94″ and weighs about 1.22 pounds.
- Secure Design: Imitation leather cover with a zipper closure and a protective two-piece box.
- Catholic Essentials: Includes a presentation section, the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum), and a section on Prayers and Devotions.
- Supplementary Information: Contains a table of Weights and Measures and additional notes appropriate for a faithful Catholic.
Reader Feedback:
Readers love its beautiful, compact design and high portability. Many appreciate the clear, crisp print and additional Catholic content. Some mention that the text is on the smaller side and advise careful handling of the gilt-edged words (which may fade with rubbing), but overall, it’s celebrated as an excellent, affordable option for daily reflection and on-the-go reading.