For Individual Writers:
Each individual selects a chapter from a biblical book (see instructions under “Select a Chapter.”) You can sign up for your preferred chapter using the signup genius links below. If your favorite chapter is already taken, please select another option. Make sure to write down your selection, as you may not be able to verify it later.
If you have any questions, please do not use the comments section, but contact chicagoilluminatedscripture@gmail.com.
If you are not able to select a chapter via signup genius, you can call 773-242-7490. Please leave your name and your number, and we will call you back.
For Groups, Teams, and Congregations:
Books of the Bible other than the Gospels and Acts are available to be copied by congregations, parishes, families, choirs, groups, and other associations who commit to copy a whole biblical book. Team captains are asked to contact chicagoilluminatedscripture@gmail.com. We will then send you a signup genius for your group. Please ask your members beforehand how many would like to participate, and mention the (approximate) number of writers in your email.
For Everyone:
You can write in any language you would like. Different languages are explicitly welcome!
For those for whom handwriting is not accessible, we invite you to type your chapter. Or contact us if we can help make this project more accessible for you (chicagoilluminatedscripture@gmail.com).
Choose your preferred translation (e.g. NRSV, NIV, CEB, ESV, the Message…)
You can copy the text from your personal Bible, or you can find it online. Please see links to different translations below.
Write on regular white copy & multipurpose paper, letter size (8 1/2” x 11”)
Choose your favorite writing utensil. Ballpoint, gel, marker and fountain pens are all good options.
Write in portrait orientation, leaving a margin of at least 1″ left and right, and 1/2” on top/bottom. Pencil in your margins (and lines) and erase them later.
Please write the (English) name of the biblical book and your chapter large and visible at the beginning of your text. You do not need to copy the little numbers (verses). Also, please don’t copy the titles of the paragraphs, as they do not belong to the original text.
You are welcome to comment on the text. Please write your personal commentary at the bottom of the page (inside the margins).
You can also illustrate the written text, include photos/images (please use only your own original photos or images), or use calligraphy to highlight individual letters.
Please sign your finished chapter with your name. You may also want to add your age, profession, faith community you belong to, or other aspect of your identity which is important to you that you choose to share.
Make sure you actually submit your finished chapter so we can finish the Bible in time!
Please submit the finished chapter by June 15, 2020.
You can submit your chapter by scanning or sending through post.
Option 1: Scan
Scan your chapter and send it as a PDF to chicagoilluminatedscripture@gmail.com.
In the subject line of the email, note the biblical book and chapter.
Feel free to scan in color or black and white. Use the highest resolution possible.
Option 2: Mail
Mail in a 9”x12” manila envelope or in an appropriate sheet protector. As much as possible, do not fold or bend your chapter, as this will affect the quality.
On the back of your envelope, note the biblical book and chapter.
Mail your chapter to:
Chicago Illuminated Bible Project
c/o St. Luke's Lutheran Church of Logan Square
2020 N California Ave.
Suite 7, Box 191
Chicago, IL 60647