Engaging with Scripture is a very important way to grow in faith, deepen prayer life, and align with the teachings of the Church. However, navigating the Bible’s 73 books can feel overwhelming without guidance. Thankfully, structured reading plans can transform this journey into a meaningful spiritual practice. Below are five thoughtfully designed Bible reading plans tailored to different lifestyles, goals, and levels of commitment—each rooted in Catholic tradition.
1. The Saint Joseph Bible Reading Plan (Intense, Daily)
For the Committed Spiritual Athlete
Named after the patron saint of workers and fathers, this plan is perfect for those seeking a rigorous, daily immersion into Scripture. It systematically covers the entire Bible in one year, dividing readings into manageable yet substantial daily portions. Ideal for disciplined individuals or those in a season of life where they can dedicate focused time to study, this plan emphasizes consistency and thoroughness. Pair it with prayers to St. Joseph for perseverance, and you’ll find strength in his example of quiet dedication to God’s will.
Structure & Schedule:
- Duration: 1 Year (365 Days).
- Daily Reading: 3–4 chapters (alternating Old and New Testaments).
- Morning: 2 Old Testament chapters (read straight through from Genesis to 2 Maccabees).
- Evening: 1–2 New Testament chapters (Gospels, Acts, Epistles, Revelation) or Psalms (1–2 daily).
Best for: Seasoned readers, seminarians, or anyone craving a deep, fast-paced dive into Scripture.
2. The Saint Teresa Bible Reading Plan (Two-Year Plan)
For Contemplative Souls and Busy Schedules
Inspired by St. Teresa of Ávila, the mystic Doctor of the Church, this two-year plan balances depth with grace. It splits the Bible into smaller, reflective daily portions, allowing time to meditate on passages and apply their wisdom to daily life. The slower pace makes it ideal for students, parents, or professionals juggling multiple responsibilities. St. Teresa’s emphasis on “mental prayer” aligns beautifully with this approach—readers are encouraged to pause, journal, and let the Word resonate spiritually.
Structure & Schedule:
- Duration: 2 Years (730 Days).
- Year 1: Old Testament (Genesis to Sirach) + Gospels.
- Year 2: New Testament (Acts to Revelation) + Wisdom Books (Proverbs, Wisdom).
- Daily Commitment: 1–2 chapters (10–15 minutes) + a weekly reflection day.
Best for: Students, parents, or professionals seeking sustainable, prayerful pacing.
3. The Catholic One-Year Bible Reading Plan
The Balanced Classic
A middle ground between intensity and simplicity, this plan guides readers through the entire Bible in 365 days. It often alternates between Old and New Testament books, providing variety while highlighting connections between prophecies, psalms, and the Gospels. Many versions of this plan include daily Psalms or Proverbs for added richness. Consider pairing it with the Magnificat or another devotional to enhance your reflection.
Structure & Schedule:
- Duration: 1 Year (365 Days).
- Old Testament: Chronological order (skip duplicates).
- New Testament: Chronological order (Gospels first).
- Daily Mix: 1 OT chapter + 1 NT chapter + 1 Psalm.
- Example: Day 1: Genesis 1, Matthew 1, Psalm 1.
Best for: First-timers aiming to read the full Bible or those who thrive on structured variety.
4. The Liturgical Bible Reading Plan (Follows Mass Readings)
For Unity with the Church’s Rhythm
This plan mirrors the Scripture readings used in daily and Sunday Masses throughout the liturgical year. By following it, you’ll synchronize your personal prayer with the global Church’s celebrations—Advent, Lent, Easter, and Ordinary Time. It’s an excellent way to prepare your heart for Mass, understand homilies more deeply, and feel connected to Catholics worldwide. Bonus: Many apps (e.g., iBreviary or Universalis) offer these readings daily, making access effortless.
Structure & Schedule:
- Duration: 1 Liturgical Year (Advent to Christ the King).
- Daily Mass Readings:
- First Reading (OT/NT).
- Responsorial Psalm.
- Gospel.
- Sunday Mass Readings:
- First Reading.
- Psalm.
- Second Reading.
- Gospel.
- Source: Follow the USCCB Daily Readings.
Best for: Liturgy lovers, parish ministers, or anyone craving communal spiritual unity.
5. The Catechism + Bible Reading Plan
For Doctrine Enthusiasts
Why choose between Scripture and Church teaching when you can study both? This innovative plan pairs daily Bible passages with corresponding Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) sections, revealing how doctrine is rooted in divine revelation. For example, a Gospel reading on the Eucharist might be paired with CCC paragraphs on the Real Presence. It’s a transformative way to grasp the “why” behind Catholic beliefs while staying grounded in the Word.
Structure & Schedule:
- Duration: 1 Year (365 Days).
- Daily Pairing:
- Bible Passage (e.g., John 6:51-58).
- Corresponding Catechism Paragraphs (e.g., CCC 1373-1381 on the Eucharist).
- Weekly Themes:
- Mondays: Doctrine (Trinity, Incarnation).
- Wednesdays: Sacraments.
- Fridays: Morality.
- Sundays: Prayer & Spirituality.
Best for: Catechists, converts, or anyone eager to strengthen their theological foundation.
Choosing Your Path
Whether you’re drawn to the intensity of St. Joseph’s plan, the contemplative rhythm of St. Teresa’s, or the doctrinal depth of the Catechism plan, each of these paths offers a unique way to encounter Christ in Scripture. Remember, the goal isn’t to finish quickly but to grow closer to God. Start with prayer, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, and don’t be afraid to adjust a plan to fit your life. After all, as St. Jerome said, “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.”
Your next step: Pick a plan, grab a Bible, and let the adventure begin! 🌟
Explore our Best Personalized Catholic Bibles: Our Top 7 Picks to find the perfect companion for your reading plan