The Saint John Bible: Art, Scripture, and Community

May 26, 2026
12:00pm - 1:00pm

The Saint John’s Bible, commissioned by the monks of Saint John's Abbey in Collegeville, MN, is the first handwritten and illuminated Bible created in over 500 years. Brought to life by a team of artists and calligraphers under the direction of renowned calligrapher Donald Jackson, the seven-volume work brings together the ancient tradition of illuminated manuscripts with modern artistic expression.

In this program, participants will be introduced to the vision and creation of The Saint John’s Bible and the process behind its development. The presentation will include images and video exploring how the project moved from initial vision to the completion of the full seven-volume set.

A Heritage Edition volume featuring the Gospels and the Book of Acts—recently hosted by St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Wheeling—will also be on display. The presenter, Fr. Joshua Saxe, will briefly share how the manuscript was used in congregational life for study, prayer, and reflection, demonstrating how this work of art continues to inspire engagement with Scripture today.

Speaker Bio: The Ven. Joshua Saxe is Rector of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Wheeling, WV. He has served at St. Matthew's since January 2022.

Lunch With Books Livestream starts at noon on Facebook and YouTube.

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"Lunch With Books" is the library’s flagship program for adult patrons. These lunchtime programs feature authors, poets, musicians, historians, and more every Tuesday at noon. Bring lunch (to your computer), feed your brain!