I was only eight years old when I first read the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelations. The main reason why I was able to finish the book at such a young age is that the Bible on my lap was the illustrated version.
There are many illustrated Bibles in existence. Although manga already existed in Japan and in other countries as an artform in my childhood, the Bible I’ve read was not in the manga style. But that is not saying that I did not enjoy the graphic Bible available to me then. Until now I still love reading comics and I even use comics in my homilies and presentations. I believe that comics is a force that should be harnessed for evangelization.
So now you understand my interest in knowing that there exists a manga Bible. Illustrated by Ajinbayo Akinsiku, the book is entitled “The Manga Bible: From Genesis to Revelation.” It opens up new and creative ways of presenting the history of salvation and the Word of God. I am sure it will particularly appeal to the faithful who love manga (or comics in general) as well as to reluctant readers and the illiterate. As a Catholic priest, I appreciate that.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, is quoted as saying, “This is an exciting new venture, in completely up-to-the-minute style and speech. It will convey the shock and freshness of the Bible in a unique way.”
I googled for the author, and I found out that Akinsiku, 42, has recently completed his theological studies in London and hopes to become a priest someday. As a graphic artist, illustrating the Bible is for him the best way to glorify God.
This is really neat, Fr. Stephen! Thanks for sharing! I’ve blogged on it myself, adding the blog of the son of friends who specialises in Catholic art, and have submitted it for inclusion in the latest Catholic Carnival, which should allow for wide-spread dissemination in the Catholic Blogosphere.
One thing though – are you sure you tagged the correct Siku? My searches reveal the artist is a 39-going-on-40 year old Briton, of Nigerian origin.
No matter though – I agree it is a wonderful work that is worth sharing with others.
Hi Fr. Stephen,
I am nick from pinoydreamer.com. I’m currently conducting reviews for pinoy blogs, and I have decided to make one for this great blog.
Will you permit me to reproduce some of the pictures in this blog so that I can publish it in my blog? I hope you will
Thank you,
nick
Hello Nick, yes you may reproduce the text and images you need.
Fr. Stephen,
A friend gave a recommendation for an interesting comic book illustration of Jesus’ being tempted by the devil:
http://home.windstream.net/themessiah/
I’m looking at it right now … more than interesting, the illustrations are very well done! You may want to have a look at it …
Lyn F.
Hello Fr Stephen
I’m a catechist by vocation with an interest in promoting the reading of scripture, so was interested to hear of the Manga Bible. I have quite a collection of children’s & youth Bibles as I feel a need to review them so that I know what to recommend.
I was a little disappointed that the Manga Bible is protestant, but that does not mean that I would discount it as a valuable teaching tool for Catholics.
The other thing that I was disappointed about is the style of artwork. This is a personal matter – I know that the Japenese style is popular here with Canadian kids – at least right now.
Have you heard of the Graphic Bible? It is quite a powerful comic Bible from Genesis to Revelation. It also is protestant, but I think an excellent resource for Catholics.
Sherry
Hi Father! I saw one like this when we went to the floating bookstore last year. but it was limited to the New Testament only and i wasn’t able to get one. may i ask where i could get a copy of this? thanks.
padre, this is a great way of motivating our young generations to read the bible. Thank God for these creative minds.
Hey Pads. I saw your name on Linuxtoday.com. Great blog! Linux rocks!
WOW! You had finished the Bible from Genesis to
Revelations when you are at age of 8 yrs. old beautiful indeed. I myself always love to read this
combination specially Lent season.
Hi!
xoxo
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Hi Fr. Stephen
Where can I get the Manga Bible in the Phils? =)
BTW Ubuntu rules! =)
@Gabriel – I do not have a copy of this book. What I have is “Manga Messiah” (http://www.nextmanga.com/), which I bought in a Christian bookstore here in Manila.