Only a few weeks remain before the launch of the annual National Capital Bible Reading Marathon! You’re invited to join us in person or via the Internet May 3 – 7 for this unique outreach to our nation’s Capital. The Marathon is now in its 20th year as the only non-stop public reading of the entire Bible ever staged in Washington, DC. This year the Marathon returns to the plaza on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol, just beneath the area where new presidents swear the Oath of Office on Inauguration Day.

During the 90-hour, four-day program, volunteers will mount the podium and read designated sections of the Scripture beginning at Genesis and ending with the last verse of Revelation. The Marathon has a strict policy that only Scripture is to be heard with no commentary or other remarks. Reading is open to anyone and includes pastors, Christian leaders, members of Congress and other public officials, passers-by, foreign tourists, young and old.

Faith and Action is a primary co-sponsor of the Marathon. Rob Schenck, an adviser to the Marathon planners, said, “This is the only time the Word of God is proclaimed in its entirety to all of Capitol Hill. It makes a huge impact. People renew their faith, make first-time commitments to Christ, and foreign visitors from countries without religious freedom are strengthened and emboldened by this experience. It’s a win-win-win for everyone.”

This year the Marathon faces several impediments it has not faced in the past. For the first time US Capitol Police authorities have denied planners the use of a sound system. In addition, they are demanding all equipment, supplies, etc., are removed from the Capitol grounds at the end of each 24-hour permit period, only to be immediately replaced again so the event can resume. Planners say that’s an unfair burden for them to bear, as the distances are great and volunteer help is scarce. The interruptions will also threaten the very tight schedule, almost assuring the reading will be incomplete by the time National Day of Prayer events must be staged on May 7.

US Senator Sam Brownback of Kansas and several members of Congress have offered to intervene on behalf of the Marathon by seeking a waiver of the restrictions. Faith and Action is assisting these congressional offices to craft a joint resolution of Congress to lift the difficult provisions.

To find out more about the Marathon or to volunteer, go to www.dcbiblemarathon.org