DEAR ABBY: I have several old Bibles that are literally falling apart. What's the proper way of disposing of Bibles? It seems wrong to just throw them in the trash or burn them. -- ROBERT IN COLUMBUS, OHIO
DEAR ROBERT: The answer to your question depends upon the religion to which you belong. According to my experts, Protestants can dispose of an old Bible by giving it to someone or by throwing it away if they're comfortable doing that -- the paper and ink are not "holy." Old Bibles can also be given to a Bible bookstore or Bible book society for refurbishing or disposal.
Catholics can either burn or bury old Bibles.
Jewish people should call a temple or Jewish cemetery and ask if it has a "genizah" -- a special place to bury books with the name of God in them. (When the genizah is filled, it will be closed and buried.)
Persons of other religions should consult their religious authority governing the accepted manner of disposing of holy books.