Diocesan News24 May 11

Bible Reading Marathon - Rossory Parish Church, Clogher

‘A memorable experience’, ‘very uplifting’, ‘a privilege to take part in this special event’ are just some of the many comments recorded in the visitors book during the Bible Reading Marathon that took place in Rossorry Parish Church during Holy Week to mark the 400th Anniversary of the King James Bible.  

The project, to read the King James Bible continuously day and night from beginning to end, commenced at 8.00pm on Palm Sunday evening with the Archbishop of Dublin, The Most Rev Dr Michael Jackson, reading the first 7 chapters of Genesis and finished at exactly 8.00pm on the following Maundy Thursday evening with the Rector, The Revd Arthur Barrett, completing the final chapters of the Book of Revelation; to rapturous applause from the assembled congregation.

Over 250 people took part in the reading marathon which included Rossorry Parishioners, parishioners from the local Presbyterian, Methodist and Roman Catholic churches and elected representatives and community leaders. A strong group of stewards were always on hand during the marathon to provide assistance, support and much appreciated refreshments. Over 300 people signed the Visitors Book, with many remarking on how much they enjoyed the peace and tranquillity of the church whilst they listened to the readings.

It was the consensus of all who participated in the event that it was a deeply moving and unique experience and one which engendered a strong feeling of satisfaction at having completed such a remarkable and challenging project.