Illuminating Faith and Art: The Saint John’s Bible Finds a Home at the University of Jamestown
The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition stands as a testament to the values that animate our university community.
A remarkable new presence now resides at the University of Jamestown—a work that quietly invites reflection, study, and connection. On September 11, 2025, The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition arrived on our campus. It is the result of many hands and hearts, and it stands as a testament to the values that animate our university community.
This is no ordinary Bible.
Crafted over fifteen years in a scriptorium in Wales by master calligraphers and artists led by Donald Jackson, Senior Scribe to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s Crown Office, The Saint John’s Bible is a project of extraordinary devotion and artistry. Its pages shimmer with gold and silver leaf, vibrant colors, and intricate illustrations—each stroke a testament to discipline, care, and vision. Bound in Italian leather and printed on 100% cotton paper, the Heritage Edition is the only full-size, signed, and numbered fine art edition that will ever be produced—there are just 299 in existence, 140 of which reside in prominent locations around the globe.
But how did this treasure find its way to Jamestown?
The idea for bringing The Saint John’s Bible to campus began—as many good ideas do—at a local Rotary meeting. There, Rev. Dr. John F. Ross, former pastor with ties to Saint John’s, gave a presentation that caught the attention of Elmer Schindel ‘63, a Trustee Emeritus and devoted supporter of the university.
At first, the thought of acquiring such a remarkable work seemed uncertain; both the cost and questions about how it would fit into campus life gave many pauses. Months passed, but Schindel believed deeply in the value of making faith visible and tangible. He encouraged President Dr. Polly Peterson and her team to see The Saint John’s Bible as not only a work of art, but as an investment in the spiritual and intellectual life of Jamestown.
“Elmer’s encouragement reminded me that our strongest commitments are those we make visible. He had a gift for seeing what could be possible here,” President Peterson reflected.
“We also wanted to be sure this would be a living part of our campus—not simply a beautiful object, but something our community could truly engage with. Once we understood the care and imagination behind the Bible’s creation, it became clear this was something that belonged at the heart of our community,” she continued.
A Display to Honor the Work
Members in leadership roles at UJ knew that making The Saint John’s Bible a part of daily campus life took more than simply placing it on a shelf.
To honor its significance and roots, Matthew Bowen, Senior Maintenance Technician in the Physical Plant, designed and built a custom display case. Bowen, a man known for doing things right, used wood reclaimed from twenty of the old chapel pews, giving them a new story to tell.
Through his skill and vision, the display connects the Bible’s story to our own—a reminder that tradition and renewal are shaped by the hands of those who care deeply for this place.
As one of only 299 institutions worldwide entrusted with this edition, the University of Jamestown is now a steward of a work that bridges centuries, disciplines, and traditions.
The Saint John’s Bible is available for everyone on campus—students, professors, staff, and visitors alike. Whether you approach it as a scholar examining ancient artistry, a student seeking inspiration, or a community member in search of meaning, you are invited to turn its pages.
Now residing in the Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life, the Heritage Edition is not a relic, but rather a living invitation to faith, learning, and shared discovery.
To learn more about the collection visit https://saintjohnsbible.org/.
In Gratitude and Memory of Elmer Schindel ’63
The arrival of The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition at the University of Jamestown is, above all, a testament to the vision and generosity of Elmer Schindel ’63. Schindel’s legacy here is not easily summed up—he was a man of deep conviction, strong opinions, and remarkable commitment to his community and his faith. Schindel’s path was not always easy, and those who knew him best appreciated his honesty and complexity.
“Elmer might be the most unusually committed man I’ve ever met,” said UJ President Polly Peterson. “He was decisive, opinionated, and sometimes carried the burden of life’s challenges in a way that showed through. But over time, he became a true friend. He always encouraged me to pursue what I believed in, even when it wasn’t easy.”
It was after all Schindel who first saw how this remarkable Bible might belong at Jamestown.
He was not shy about sharing his perspective, and he was also the first to champion the people and projects he believed in. Whether advocating for the Bible’s arrival or nudging others to pursue their goals, Schindel’s influence was persistent and heartfelt.
“He would bother me about it all the time— ‘Get it done, get it done, complete it on time,’” President Peterson laughed, recalling with fondness Schindel’s personal and university pursuits.
Schindel’s gift was not simply financial; it was an act of faith in the university’s mission and in the people who make up its fabric.
The Heritage Edition stands as a living testament to Schindel’s belief that Jamestown should be a place where faith, learning, and community are not just spoken of, but made real—visible for all to see. His story, like The Saint John’s Bible itself, is one of both tradition and transformation. For his candor, his generosity, and his unwavering love for this university, we give thanks.
Each time we gather around this extraordinary work, we will remember Elmer Schindel—not as someone perfect, but as someone who made us all better by insisting, we reach for what’s possible, together.
