Senate 10

 SENATE RESOLUTION 10

(By Senators Grady, Rucker, Hamilton, Deeds, and Roberts)

[Introduced January 21, 2026]

Recognizing the Day of the Bible at the Capitol.

Whereas, The Bible has been one of the most widely read and influential books in human history; and

Whereas, The Bible has played a significant role in shaping literature, language, art, music, ethics, and moral philosophy across civilizations; and

Whereas, Many early settlers in North America relied upon the Bible for spiritual guidance and moral instruction; and

Whereas, September 12, 1782, marks a historic milestone in American history when the Congress of the United States, during the American Revolutionary War, officially approved the publication of the first complete English-language Bible printed in America, known as the “Aitken Bible” or “The Bible of the Revolution”; and

Whereas, This monumental event took place in Philadelphia under the direction of a committee of Congress led by James Duane, and with the endorsement of the Congressional chaplains, thereby marking Pennsylvania as a birthplace of both American liberty and spiritual legacy; and

Whereas, The Aitken Bible served not only as a religious text but also a symbol of national resilience, unity, and the importance of self-governance during one of the most trying times in the nation’s history; and

Whereas, The Bible has influenced the development of laws, principles of justice, and concepts of human dignity throughout history; and

Whereas, The Bible has provided inspiration, comfort, and hope to individuals and communities during times of challenge and change; and

Whereas, People of many faith traditions, and those studying history and literature, recognize the Bible’s enduring impact on culture and society; and

Whereas, A Day of the Bible provides an opportunity to reflect on the Bible’s historical role and its continuing influence on personal character, charitable works, and civic life; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby recognizes the Day of the Bible; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate acknowledges the historical, cultural, and literary significance of the Bible; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate encourages individuals to reflect on the Bible’s contributions to moral reflection, compassion, and service to others; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate affirms the importance of religious freedom and the right of all individuals to observe, study, or reflect upon religious texts according to their own beliefs; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the appropriate representatives of Day of the Bible at the Capitol.