November 2023
Come along to Sarum College to view rare illustrated bibles on display.
The Saint John’s Bible is the first handwritten and illuminated Bible commissioned by a Benedictine monastery since the invention of the printing press in the 15th century.
Uniting modern technology and ancient Benedictine tradition, the project to create and distribute the bible aims to inspire the imagination of modern seekers.
All are welcome to view the seven giant volumes displayed in the Seaton Rooms of Sarum College from Saturday 25 November to Friday 1st December. Viewing hours are Sat 10-4, Sun 12-4, Mon-Fri 10-6.
There is no charge to view all seven volumes, on display with a guide to answer questions. Visitors may take photographs.
“In our digital world where we can carry the Bible on our mobile phones, we do well to acknowledge the ongoing significance of the physical text. Books remain an important part of our search for truth,” says The Revd Canon Professor James Woodward, Principal of Sarum College.
“These holy words have been the source of conflict down the centuries. They have also inspired imagination in art, music, politics and social change. The text is never neutral. It can highlight our deepest differences but also unite us in vocation, learning and spiritual growth. This is an ancient text for a modern world. We shall cherish these volumes and use them.”
The Heritage Edition, commissioned by the Abbey and Saint John’s University, Minnesota, was donated to Sarum College during the recent anniversary tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the commissioning, and to honour British calligrapher Donald Jackson, Artistic Director and Principal Illuminator, who handcrafted the original manuscript with a team of calligraphers in his scriptorium in Wales.
Prayer and Silence for Solidarity and Sanity
Sharing the Gift of the Saint John’s Bible
Image following the service at Salisbury Cathedral by Peter Langdown Photography
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