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Bible versions approved for use in public worship

The Bible lies at the heart of Anglican worship, guiding prayer, preaching and the sacraments. This list identifies the translations approved by the House of Bishops for use in public worship, ensuring that scripture readings are both faithful to the original texts and clear for congregations. Updated in 1991, it includes both historic and contemporary versions suitable for liturgical use, alongside any additional translations that the bishop of a diocese may have also approved for local use.

Approved versions (as of 1991)

  • King James (Authorized Version) 1611
  • Revised Standard Version 1952 (and its revision as Common Bible)
  • New American Bible 1970
  • Today’s English Version (Good News) 1976
  • New International Version 1978
  • New Jerusalem Bible 1985
  • New Revised Standard Version
  • Revised English Bible

In addition to providing the official list of Bible translations approved for public worship in the Anglican Church of Canada, this resource outlines criteria for selecting a translation, including fidelity to the original texts, clarity in contemporary English, consistency with liturgical language and avoidance of exclusive language. It also offers guidance to local communities in choosing the translation that best suits their context and congregation.

Suggested uses

  • Reference this list (or consult with the diocesan bishop) when selecting a Bible translation for parish or diocesan worship
  • Refer to noted criteria when evaluating whether a translation aligns with local needs and liturgical language
  • Use the list for procurement, parish libraries and liturgical resource planning

Key themes

  • Liturgical consistency and authority
  • Accessibility and clarity of scripture in public reading
  • Alignment with Anglican worship and tradition

Best suited for: clergy, worship planners, diocesan staff, liturgy committees, parish libraries and anyone involved in selecting or recommending Bible translations for worship.

An open Bible page displays 2 Timothy 3:16.

Acknowledging the land and God’s creation

This acknowledgement is crafted in light of the Principles of Reconciliation by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as we seek to live faithfully in Christ and in right relationship with all. 

We give thanks to the Creator for this land, its waters, forests and all living beings, and for the abiding presence of Christ among us. From coast to coast to coast, these have been cared for and nurtured by First Nations, Inuit and Métis through countless generations. 

We honour the enduring relationship Indigenous Peoples have cultivated with these lands and waters, and the treaties and agreements that reflect these sacred bonds. We acknowledge the harms caused by colonial expansion, through frameworks like the Doctrine of Discovery and structures like the residential school system. We recognize our past failures as a Church, including disruption of connections to the land and suppression of Indigenous spiritualities. 

Guided by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we confess our need for healing. We commit ourselves to seeking truth, pursuing reconciliation and nurturing harmony with all creation. We place our trust in Christ, through whom all things are reconciled to God. 

May God strengthen us to live faithfully as stewards of the Earth. Let us walk in love, justice and reconciliation, joining in God’s work to restore all creation.