Event - Ancient versions of the bible to go on display at Southwell Minster

MORE than 50 ancient versions of the Bible are to go on display at Southwell Minster to mark the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible.

The special collection includes a 13th century vellum manuscript, originally from a Monastery in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, along with several other 16th century Bibles and two first edition copies of the King James Bible.

The King James version was the only one approved for use in the Church of England for nearly 300 years.

The Rev Canon Ed Pruen, the Minster's canon to education and learning, said: "The story of its ascent includes executions, protests, civil war and propaganda. Its importance today is partly the result of politics, colonisation and the slave trade."

The exhibition will be held from tomorrow until Friday, June 17. Visitors will also be able to explore the Historic Chapter Library, a collection of 1,200 rare books. There will also be a series of lectures.

For more information, contact the Minster Office on 01636 812649.

From: http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/news/Ancient-versions-bible-display-Southwell-Minster/article-3558683-detail/article.html

Event - King James Bible exhibition at Sheffield Cathedral

An exhibition to mark the 400th anniversary of the publication of the King James Bible has opened at Sheffield Cathedral. 

'Telling tales of King James' Bible' examines the origins, use and abuse of the Bible.

The King James was the first English Bible authorized for use in churches in England.

Iona Hine, from the project, said: "For a 400-year-old translation the King James is remarkable."

The exhibition also looks at the influences the text has had over world events and the books which it has inspired. 

It also examines the Bibles relevance today. 

Also on show will be a Geneva Bible from 1597 donated by retired Methodist Minister Alan Saxby from Barnsley.

Reverend Saxby rescued the Bible from his neighbours house when it was going to be thrown away. 

The Kings James Bible came about because King James did not like the Geneva Bible. 

Ms Hine said: "King James wanted to get rid of some of the troublesome passages in the Geneva Bible which suggested that he should not have the amount of power which he as King had."

Other local artefacts on display include a 1671 copy of the King James Bible from Sheffield Parish collections and a Sheffield Flood Bible which was presented to survivors of the Great Sheffield Flood in 1864. 

The exhibition is part of a series of events organised by the University of Sheffield and Museum Sheffield which includes talks from the former poet Laureate Andrew Motion and Frank Field MP. 

The exhibition is at Sheffield Cathedral until 30 June. 

From: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-13268922