Curious about the Bible but not sure where to start?

Join us for a friendly, supportive journey through the Bible over the course of a year. You don’t need any prior knowledge, and you don’t need to be a regular churchgoer. We’ll read a little each day, ask questions, and discover together why this ancient book still matters today.

At a glance

• Starts: Saturday, 28 March, 2026.

• Time commitment: about 15–20 minutes a day.

• Who is it for? Anyone who is curious about the Bible – beginners very welcome.

• How: Read or listen at your own pace, with others.

Why read the Bible?

The Bible is the best‑selling book of all time and has shaped art, culture, politics and ideas for thousands of years. Many people recognise some of its stories and phrases, even if they are not sure where they come from.

Reading the Bible from start to finish helps us see the big picture. Instead of encountering isolated readings or famous verses, we begin to understand how the different books fit together and tell one unfolding story.

People who take part often say that reading the whole Bible:

• helps familiar passages make more sense

• reveals new and sometimes surprising ideas

• encourages reflection on life, purpose, justice and love

• offers fresh insight, whether or not you consider yourself religious

You don’t need to agree with everything you read. Curiosity and honesty are more important than certainty.

When does it happen?

We begin on Saturday, 28 March, with a relaxed launch event.

Why this date? Many people try to start reading the Bible on 1 January, but we know from experience that resolutions can fade quickly, especially around a busy Christmas period. Late March gives us space to begin without distractions.

This date also falls near the end of Lent. This is the six‑week period before Easter in the Christian calendar, when many people focus on reflection and reading. Starting here allows us to prepare well – and, importantly, to finish together on Easter Sunday, 2027, celebrating the journey we’ve shared.

How?

We will provide:

• a clear 365‑day reading plan

• access to a New International Version (NIV) Bible – a modern, easy‑to‑read English translation

• Each day includes:

• a short passage from the Old Testament (the earlier part of the Bible)

• a short passage from the New Testament (the part about Jesus and the Early Church)

• a few verses from Psalms or Proverbs (poetry and wisdom writing)

Altogether this takes around 15–20 minutes a day.

You can read in your own Bible, online, or using a Bible app. If you prefer listening, you can also follow the readings as an audiobook, recorded by the actor David Suchet, which many people find easier to fit into daily routines.

What if I can't keep up?

Life happens. Some days will be missed – and that’s completely fine.

You can:

• catch up later if you want

• or simply pick up again where you are

There is no pressure to be perfect. The most important thing is to keep going in a way that works for you.

Getting started: warm-up events

In the weeks leading up to the start, we’re offering a series of relaxed, friendly events to help people feel confident and ask questions. You are welcome at any or all of these.

Thursday, 26 February (7:30 pm) 
Why read the Bible? 

Why should anyone read this ancient book today – and why read all of it? Deacon Mel Beaven, the Director of Discipleship in the Methodist Church, will help us start our journey together.

Thursday, 12 March (7:30 pm) 
The Bible in 90 Minutes 

A fun, fast‑paced overview of the whole Bible story, from Genesis to Revelation, showing how the different books fit together.

Thursday, 26 March (7:30 pm) 
Bible Question Time

Bring any questions you like about the Bible – its meaning, its background, or how people read it today.

Saturday, 28 March (10:30 am) 
Bible Brunch - Launch Event

We begin our journey together with a free brunch at the church. We’ll be joined by Trey Hall, Director of Evangelism & Growth, who will offer an inspiring and practical start to the year ahead.

Ongoing support

You won’t be doing this alone. Throughout the year there will be opportunities for support, conversation and encouragement, both in person and online.

We plan to offer at least one in‑person gathering each month on Monday evenings at the church, alongside options such as WhatsApp groups or podcasts, depending on what works best for participants.

Monthly dates include:

• 20 April
• 18 May
• 15 June
• 13 July
• 17 August
• 21 September
• 19 October
• 16 November
• 14 December
• 18 January
• 15 February
• 15 March

We will also hold a special celebration event at Easter 2027 to mark the completion of the year.

Next steps

If you’re interested in joining us on this year‑long journey – or simply want to find out more – please sign up here to receive updates and practical details. You are also very welcome to come along to any of the events in February or March with no commitment.

We would love you to join us as we explore the Bible together over the course of a year.