The ESV Bible: Now Catholic-Approved and Available for UK Readers

What do Evangelicals, Anglicans, and Catholics all have in common?

Increasingly, it’s the Bible translation they read.

The English Standard Version (ESV)—a Bible once most associated with Reformed churches—is now making its way into Catholic parishes, pulpits, and pews across the UK and beyond. Thanks to the development of the ESV Catholic Edition (ESV-CE), this beautifully crafted translation has gained formal approval for Catholic use and is fast becoming a favourite among clergy and lay readers alike.

If you're looking for a Bible that's faithful, readable, and embraced across traditions, the ESV might be the perfect choice.

What Is the ESV Catholic Edition?

The ESV Catholic Edition is a specially adapted version of the English Standard Version, incorporating the Deuterocanonical books and textual changes based on Catholic theological and liturgical tradition. It was created under the direction of the Indian Bishops' Conference, and its significance has only grown since.

In 2018, the Vatican formally approved the ESV-CE as a liturgical translation, allowing it to be used for Mass readings in English-speaking dioceses—especially in India and Africa, and now increasingly in the UK.

What sets it apart?

• ✔️ Retains the word-for-word accuracy of the ESV
• ✔️ Includes all 73 books of the Catholic canon
• ✔️ Uses reverent, clear language rooted in scholarship
• ✔️ Designed for both devotion and proclamation

Why More UK Catholics Are Choosing the ESV

Traditionally, Catholic Bibles in the UK have used the Jerusalem Bible or Revised Standard Version (RSV-CE). But as liturgical needs change and the call for clarity, faithfulness, and consistency grows louder, the ESV is stepping in to meet the moment.

The ESV-CE has been praised for:

• Precision – A translation that doesn’t gloss over theological detail
• Study-ready layout – Ideal for both personal formation and academic use
• Liturgical tone – Poetic and rich, perfect for public reading
• Ecumenical value – A shared translation across Catholic and Protestant readers.

Explore the ESV Bible Range at Eden

At Eden, we offer a wide range of ESV Bibles, including:

• Standard ESV Editions – Ideal for everyday reading
• Study Bibles – With in-depth notes and resources
• Children’s ESV Bibles – For young readers discovering Scripture
• Hosanna Revival ESV Bibles – Beautiful, gift-worthy editions
• Catholic Edition ESV Bibles – Complete with all 73 books

🔗 Browse All ESV Bibles →

Whether you're a Catholic exploring the ESV for the first time, or a church leader looking for a shared translation across traditions, Eden has something for your journey.

Final Thoughts: A Bridge Between Traditions

The ESV has long been respected for its accuracy and grace. Now, with the Catholic Edition, it becomes something more: a bridge between communities, a common ground for study and worship, and a Bible for today’s Church in all its diversity.

Catholic-approved. Protestant-admired. Globally embraced.

Find your ESV Bible today at Eden, and join a growing movement of believers seeking a translation as timeless as the truth it holds.