Pennsylvanians may soon recognize a historic Bible with ties to the Revolutionary War, if a newly proposed state resolution moves forward.

According to the Christian Post, State Rep. Stephanie Borowicz is introducing a resolution to designate Sept. 12 as “The Day of the Bible” across Pennsylvania, marking the unique authorization of the Aitken Bible by the Continental Congress on that date in 1782.

Borowicz, a Republican representing the 76th District, announced plans to introduce legislation that would formally recognize the Aitken Bible’s significance to both state and national history. The resolution seeks to honor the religious and cultural legacy surrounding the Bible’s production and congressional endorsement.

According to Borowicz, the initiative is meant to commemorate both a pivotal historical artifact and the values it represents. The Aitken Bible, also known as “The Bible of the Revolution,” was printed in Philadelphia during a critical point in the nation’s early history.

The Aitken Bible holds the distinction of being the first complete English-language Bible printed in the United States after independence from Britain. More notably, it remains the only Bible ever authorized by an act of Congress.

The Aitken Bible’s Congressional Endorsement

The Bible was produced by Philadelphia printer Robert Aitken, who sought official approval for its publication from the Continental Congress. On Jan. 21, 1781, Aitken submitted a petition requesting the body’s support for the printing of a full edition of the Old and New Testament in English.

Aitken undertook the project at his own expense, viewing it as a service to the American population following the Revolution. With British imports cut off, English Bibles were in short supply in the colonies, underscoring the need for a domestically printed version.

After reviewing Aitken’s finished work, Congress adopted a resolution on Sept. 12, 1782, that praised the printing as a noble and religious endeavor. Lawmakers described the project as being helpful to the cause of faith and encouraged U.S. citizens to use this American edition of the Bible.

Historical Legacy within Pennsylvania

In her co-sponsorship memo to fellow legislators, Borowicz called the authorization of the Aitken Bible “a profound moment in American history.” She highlighted Pennsylvania’s central role in its publication, noting the work took place entirely in Philadelphia during the nation’s formative years.

Borowicz emphasized that congressional chaplains, as well as numerous lawmakers, were deeply religious, which she believes influenced their support for Aitken’s efforts. According to the Library of Congress, the Continental Congress, active between 1774 and 1789, included many delegates with strong spiritual convictions.

“The Aitken Bible stands not only as a religious text but as a symbol of national perseverance and unity at a time when Americans were fighting for independence and self-governance,” Borowicz stated. She further described its endorsement as a reflection of how spiritual beliefs shaped the early republic.

Goals of the Proposed Resolution

The upcoming resolution outlines three main objectives for establishing “The Day of the Bible.” First, it aims to acknowledge the Bible’s lasting influence on the moral and civic foundations of both the United States and Pennsylvania specifically.

Second, it seeks to recognize the state’s place in the preservation and printing of this uniquely American religious document. Finally, it encourages schools, institutions, and private citizens to reflect on the Bible’s broader societal values, including justice and individual responsibility.

While Borowicz has not provided an exact date for the introduction of the resolution, she confirmed it would be presented “shortly.” She invited colleagues to join her in supporting the proposal as a way of commemorating both religious legacy and patriotic heritage.

Commemorating Faith and Independence

The 1782 Congressional resolution approving Aitken’s Bible referred to it as a “pious and laudable undertaking” that served the religious interests of the young nation. It officially recommended the edition to the general public, making it the only version ever approved by Congress.

Borowicz’s initiative frames the Bible not purely as a spiritual document but also as a cultural artifact tied to American independence. She portrayed its creation and endorsement as a reflection of unity and shared purpose during the Revolutionary period.

“Its endorsement by Congress and the Congressional chaplains illustrates how deeply rooted spiritual values were in the formation of our republic,” she noted. Her resolution intends to reflect those origins annually through a statewide observance each Sept. 12.