The Saint John's Bible Heritage Edition : University of Dayton, Ohio

‘The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition’

The Marian Library holds The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition, a seven-volume fine-art reproduction of the handwritten and hand-illustrated Bible commissioned by Saint John’s Abbey and University in Collegeville, Minnesota. The University of Dayton is one of 124 permanent homes worldwide.

Open bible featuring illuminated artwork and text

Close up of an open volume illustrated with vibrant color and calligraphy

The Word of God and Sacred Art

The seven-volume reproduction is to scale of the original; printed and embossed on cotton; and hand-bound in Italian calfskin leather.

Close up of an page illustrated with vibrant blues and greens and calligraphy

The Word of God and Sacred Art

The seven-volume reproduction is to scale of the original; printed and embossed on cotton; and hand-bound in Italian calfskin leather.

The Word of God and Sacred Art

The seven-volume reproduction is to scale of the original; printed and embossed on cotton; and hand-bound in Italian calfskin leather.

Donors Bring ‘The Saint John’s Bible’ to UD

Recognizing the importance of The Saint John’s Bible to the mission of UD as a Catholic, Marianist university, Father Thomas Thompson, S.M., organized fundraising for the acquisition of the Heritage Edition in 2013. By the time the seventh and final volume was acquired in 2016, 91 individual donors had contributed in amounts from $10 to $25,000.

‘The Saint John’s Bible’ is not just another book on the shelf. It is a piece of culture that both forms and reflects UD’s identity, akin to the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception or the statue of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade.

Father Thomas Thompson, S.M.

Former director of the Marian Library

Integrated into Faith and Learning

The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition has been used in worship and faith programs on campus. Volumes have been loaned for use during Mass at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. The large illustrations found throughout the volumes have paired well with visio divina reflections. Volumes are often used in instruction sessions with UD classes.

Crafted with Purpose

Brother M. Gary Marcinowski, S.M. stands to the right of the case he designed. One volume is open inside the case and the glass top is lifted and propped up.

A Versatile and Protective Display Case

Visitors to the Marian Library reading room can view The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition in the white oak display case designed by accomplished artist, sculptor and woodworker Brother Gary M. Marcinowski, S.M. Each drawer, hinge and handle was designed with care and purpose.

The Collective Enhances the Collection

Thanks to donors, a special work of devotion is on display in the Marian Library and used all over campus.

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"The Saint John's Bible" and UD's Catholic, Marianist Tradition