Little Rock Catholic Study Bible

By Little Rock Scripture Study
Open the Little Rock Catholic Study Bible and feel at home with the Word of God. Through accessibly written information and engaging visuals that highlight and clarify significant areas of Scripture, readers will easily gain an understanding of these ancient texts that can be carried into today s world. Using the authorized translation in the New American Bible, Revised Edition, this lasting volume is ideal for both personal use and group Bible study. The valuable information in the Little Rock Catholic Study Bible is offered in small notes and inserts that accompany the Bible texts as well as in expanded essays, articles, and graphics. Key symbols help readers quickly identify the type of information they need, such as explanations, definitions, dates, character and author profiles, archaeological insights, personal prayer starters, and insights connecting Scripture and its use in today s church. Colorful maps, timelines, photographs, and charts further enhance the study experience. Longer articles are dedicated to explaining study Bible fundamentals, the Catholic Church s use of the Bible, and the people and places of the biblical world.
- General Editor: Catherine Upchurch serves as the director of Little Rock Scripture Study. Her work in adult faith formation involves writing, editing, lecturing, leading retreats and days of reflection. She is the editor of A Year of Sundays and an associate editor of The Bible Today, a journal of biblical spirituality.
- Old Testament Editor: Irene Nowell, OSB, is a Benedictine of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison, Kansas. She is an adjunct professor at St. John's University School of Theology, has published two books and numerous articles, and is a past president of the Catholic Biblical Association. She is also a member of the Committee on Illuminations and Texts for The Saint John’s Bible.
- New Testament Editor: Ronald D. Witherup, SS, is Superior General of the Sulpicians and lives in Paris, France. He holds a doctorate in biblical studies and is the author of numerous books and articles on Scripture. His current interest is in the letters of Saint Paul and the Acts of the Apostles.
Printed by: Little Rock Scripture Study-Diocese of Little Rock/ Liturgical Press
Edition: 2011
ISBN: 978-0-8146-2679-5
Pages: 2.650

By M. J. Smith (Seattle, WA USA)
I don't get excited about study Bibles - same old-same old varying only by the interests of those putting the Bible together. I do get excited about the Little Rock Catholic Study Bible. Why?
1. It doesn't talk down to the reader but rather explains difficulties plainly. For example, browsing in Proverbs one proverbs gave information about the status of children in order to make the proverb understandable. The next Proverb said that the proverb was difficult - even when the Septuagint was translated people couldn't make sense of it.
2. The layout is inviting and information is provided where needed and in digestible units - an example of the ideal application of information theory.
3. Icons are used to identify the type of notes; cross-references are shown on the side separated from the more "technical" footnotes at the bottom.
3. Notes include ones related to spiritual grow (prayer starters) and application (social justice) as well as the expected notes to help one understand the Scripture itself.
4. Notes often parallel scriptures in unexpected ways, showing scripture interpreting scripture. Paul vs. Peter, Gospel vs. Epistle ...
My only complaint - this wasn't available 20 years ago.