Reading Scripture and Religious Books

The Holy Bible is recognized by the Church as the supreme expression of God's revelation to man, and Christians must always be "People of the Book". But if Christians are People of the Book, the Bible is the Book of the People; it must not be regarded as something set up over the Church (that is why one should not separate Holy Scripture and Holy Tradition). Holy Tradition is the witness of the Spirit, and finds expression within the Church, through Scripture, the doctrinal definitions of the Ecumenical Synods, the writings of the Fathers of the Church, the Liturgy, the Canon Law of the Church, the lives of the Saints, Icons, and through the Liturgical sources of Christian spirituality.

The Bible and religious books of devotional character recognized by the Church as Orthodox and conducive to piety, are highly recommended to be read and kept in the Orthodox home for study and guidance. Consulting the Parish Priest for Orthodox reading materials is advised when in doubt.