EXCLUSIVE: Lawmakers Sponsor Resolution Commemorating 1782 Bible

Republican Reps. Michael Cloud of Texas and Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania are cosponsoring a House of Representatives resolution to be introduced on Friday to recognize Sept. 12 as “The Day of the Bible” in the United States. 

The resolution explains that on Sept. 12, 1782, Congress under the Articles of Confederation officially endorsed the “Aitken Bible” or “The Bible of the Revolution” as the first complete English-language Bible in America. That Bible was named after its printer, Robert Aitken, and this Sept. 12 will be the 243rd anniversary of Congress’ approval of it. 

“The Bible is a source of hope and encouragement for Christians around the world,” Thompson told The Daily Signal. 

“I am proud to introduce this resolution observing September 12th as ‘The Day of the Bible,’ honoring when the U.S. Congress in Philadelphia approved the first English Bible printed in America in 1782. Since then, scores of Americans have found strength, guidance, and meaningful discernment of God’s Word in its pages,” Thompson said. 

The Revolutionary War was raging at the time of the resolution, and it was supported by the chaplains of Congress at the time. This week’s resolution comes at a time when Christians are facing increased persecution around the globe.

“More than any other source, our Founders cited Scripture as the source for the principles upon which our nation is established. Today, we’re seeing renewal in our culture and a return to the values that once anchored us,” Cloud told The Daily Signal. 

“This week I’m introducing a resolution to recognize September 12th as the National Day of the Bible—243 years after Congress approved the 1,452-page Aitken Bible. Marking this day reminds us that the Bible is not only the bedrock of our liberty, but the living Word of God that continues to guide us as a people,” Cloud said.

Rep. Michael Cloud, R-Texas (Al Drago/Getty Images)

The resolution encourages schools and civil society organizations to observe the day with programming that focuses on the Bible’s importance to the country’s past and present. It notes that “the Bible has long been a foundational text in shaping the moral, cultural, and spiritual heritage of the United States.”

It also says that the president shall “issue each year a proclamation designating September 12th as National Bible Day, on which the people of the United States may observe this day and participate in activities that highlight the Bible’s significance in our nation’s past and present.”

The resolution has drawn the support of the American Principles Project, Wallbuilders, Christians Engaged, and the Family Policy Alliance, among other organizations. 

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