The Biblical Institute was founded in 1909 to prepare scholars to come to grips with problems raised. In 1943 Catholic scholars were given the green light for their studies when Pope Pius XII issued his letter Divino Afflante Spiritu . Although modern biblical criticism is only about a hundred years old, we can t find examples of critical and intelligent examination of the Bible throughout the centuries. Bible readers have long been aware of things that can't be taken literally. Jonah in the belly of the whale is hard to swallow.
Biblical criticism is no threat to our faith.
Rather, it enhances our faith by giving us a better understanding of the Scriptures. Back to square one, looking at the Bible itself. We can't understand the source of our faith if we do not read the Bible. I can't think of a better time for you to begin reading the Bible than right now. Pick it up, dust it off if you have to, and turn to the Gospel of Mark.