Choosing a Bible translation is not only about language preference; for Catholics, it also involves Church approval, doctrinal reliability, and liturgical use. Several modern English translations are commonly discussed, but they are not equal in Catholic status or suitability for Mass.
This article explains the differences between NABRE, NABR, NRSV, NRSV-CE, and NRSV-CI from a Catholic perspective, with special attention to liturgical usage.
Understanding the Catholic Context
The Catholic Bible contains 73 books, including the Deuterocanonical books (Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, 1–2 Maccabees, and additions to Esther and Daniel).
Only translations approved by Catholic authorities may be used for Mass and public worship.
It is also important to distinguish between:
- A Bible translation (for reading and study), and
- A Lectionary (the official text proclaimed at Mass), which may be adapted from a Bible translation.
1. New American Bible – Revised Edition (NABRE)
Catholic status
- Fully Catholic
- Approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Translation features
- Modern American English
- Extensive footnotes and study material
- Old Testament translated primarily from Hebrew, New Testament from Greek
Liturgical use
- Basis for the Lectionary in the United States
- The Lectionary text is adapted from NABRE (especially the Psalms)
- Used for Mass readings in the USA only
Strengths
- Strong Catholic theological notes
- Ideal for study, catechesis, and teaching
Limitations
- Academic tone may feel heavy for devotional reading
- Text does not always match the Mass readings word-for-word
Best suited for
- Catholics in the United States
- Structured Bible study and reference
2. New American Bible – Revised (NABR)
Catholic status
- Catholic, but outdated
Liturgical use
- No longer used
- Superseded by NABRE
Recommendation
- Of historical interest only
- Readers should choose NABRE instead
3. New Revised Standard Version (NRSV – Standard Edition)
Catholic status
- Not Catholic
- Does not include the Deuterocanonical books
Translation features
- Highly respected scholarly translation
- Inclusive language where supported by original texts
Liturgical use
- Not permitted for Catholic Mass
- Cannot be used in Catholic public worship
Best suited for
- Academic or comparative biblical studies
- Not recommended for Catholic devotional or liturgical use
4. New Revised Standard Version – Catholic Edition (NRSV-CE)
Catholic status
- Fully Catholic
- Approved by Catholic authorities
Translation features
- Includes all 73 books
- Formal, accurate, and doctrinally neutral language
- Fewer interpretive notes than NABRE
Liturgical use
- Used as the basis for Lectionaries outside the USA
- Commonly used in:
- United Kingdom
- India
- Ireland
- Many Commonwealth countries
Strengths
- Excellent balance of accuracy and readability
- Closely aligns with what is heard at Mass in many countries
Best suited for
- Serious Catholic reading and study
- Catholics outside the United States
5. New Revised Standard Version – Catholic Interconfessional Edition (NRSV-CI)
Catholic status
- Catholic-approved
- Also accepted by Orthodox and some Protestant churches
Translation features
- Complete Catholic canon
- Ecumenical orientation
- International (British-style) English
Liturgical use
- Rarely used for Catholic Mass
- Sometimes used in:
- Ecumenical services
- Academic or prayer settings
Best suited for
- Inter-church dialogue
- Ecumenical Bible study
Summary Table: Catholic and Liturgical Use
Practical Catholic Guidance
- For Catholics in the United States
- Study Bible: NABRE
- Mass readings: NAB-based Lectionary
- For Catholics outside the USA
- One Bible for both study and Mass alignment: NRSV-CE
- For ecumenical or academic settings
- NRSV-CI may be appropriate
- Avoid for Catholic worship
- Standard NRSV (non-Catholic edition)
Final Note
No single English Bible is universally used across the Catholic world. The best choice depends on where you live, how you read Scripture, and whether you want your Bible to match the liturgy you hear at Mass.
A well-informed choice helps Scripture become not only readable, but also fully integrated into Catholic faith and worship.
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