Pennsylvania Leads National Push for Day of the Bible

Pennsylvania has taken the lead in a growing movement to establish September 12th as an official "Day of the Bible," with state legislators successfully passing a resolution this year that has now sparked a nationwide effort to create a similar observance across America.

State Representatives Stephanie Borowicz and Doug Mastriano spearheaded the Pennsylvania initiative, which passed the state legislature earlier this year. The resolution designates September 12th annually as "The Day of the Bible" throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The date was chosen for its historical significance: on September 12, 1782, the Continental Congress authorized the publication of the first complete English-language Bible printed in America, known as the Aitken Bible or "The Bible of the Revolution."

Historical Foundation

The Aitken Bible holds a unique place in American history. During the Revolutionary War, while Congress was meeting in Philadelphia, lawmakers approved the printing of this Bible under the direction of a congressional committee led by James Duane, with endorsement from congressional chaplains. Proponents of the resolution argue this event demonstrates the deep connection between faith and the founding principles of the nation.

"I can't think of anything more important than to put and restore the Bible back before America's 250th anniversary," Representative Borowicz stated, referring to the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence. The Pennsylvania legislators view the resolution as part of a broader spiritual awakening they believe is needed in the country.

National Momentum Building

The Pennsylvania effort has quickly gained traction beyond state borders. A joint resolution has been introduced in the U.S. Congress that would express support for designating September 12, 2025, as "The Day of the Bible" nationwide. The federal resolution encourages schools, civic institutions, and community organizations to observe the day with educational, historical, and cultural programs highlighting the Bible's significance in American history and contemporary life.

The congressional resolution also calls for the President to issue an annual proclamation designating "The Day of the Bible," allowing Americans to observe the anniversary of the Congressional approval of the Aitken Bible and participate in activities recognizing the Bible's role in the nation's past and present.

Senator Mastriano expressed optimism about the movement's prospects, stating, "We are that rock that dropped into the lake, and I believe we're taking this land back." He and Representative Borowicz celebrated the resolution's passage last month with an event in Philadelphia's Independence Square.

Purpose and Vision

According to the resolution's text, the observance aims to encourage citizens to reflect on what proponents describe as the Bible's enduring role in promoting values of justice, redemption, personal responsibility, and compassion. Supporters also highlight the Aitken Bible as a symbol of national resilience, unity, and self-governance during a critical period in American history.

Representative Borowicz has cited anecdotal evidence of the Bible's positive social impact, noting that when groups gather at the Pennsylvania State Capitol to read through the entire Bible over the course of a week, "crime goes down." She added, "They said every time they read at each State Capitol, crime goes down."

Mastriano emphasized the personal application of the initiative as well, encouraging families to incorporate Bible reading into their daily lives. "Study it, read it, read it to your children at night, read a Psalm a day, do something with it, because our foundation, our virtue, our nation, our republic can only be sustained with it," he said.

Looking Ahead

As Pennsylvania becomes the first state to officially recognize "The Day of the Bible," supporters hope other states will follow suit while the federal resolution makes its way through Congress. The movement represents what its advocates see as a return to spiritual foundations during a time they characterize as one of national division and violence.

Whether the national resolution will gain sufficient support in Congress remains to be seen, but Pennsylvania lawmakers have positioned their state at the forefront of what they envision as a spiritual renewal movement that could reshape American civic life in the years ahead.