The Biblothon began as an idea to raise money to repair our deteriorating church roof.

As the idea developed enthusiasm grew and soon the continuous reading of the Bible from cover to cover became an exciting challenge, not only to engage as many people as we could to read, but also to have the church open so that passers by would feel welcome to come in perhaps to listen, or to share a cup of coffee and a chat; maybe to light a candle, maybe to pray,  maybe just to enjoy the solitude.

We contacted local businesses, leafleted local people and with the help of Mel, Betty Stanley’s granddaughter, caught the imagination of MK News and  Three Counties radio.

As the reading progressed, so did readers involvement. People stayed on to support or listen, or came early to fill in vacant time slots.

Some people read quietly from the table beautifully set out with flowers and clean linen. Others proclaimed from the lectern. Comments were exchanged about the long lists of property and lineage. We all stumbled over the unusual names, struggled with some of the grim happenings and marvelled at the beauty of the language and ideas.  Novice readers, experienced readers, children, even a passing taxi driver took part. Every word in every chapter was read.

The unscheduled ending with Toby reading from Revelation was as moving as the ordered service of dedication which launched the Biblothon three days earlier.

This experience has not only opened our eyes to some of the hidden treasures of the Bible, it has also brought in Mike Khan’s words “ a sense of community and fellowship” and a renewed energy to open the church building and ourselves to more inclusive mission. And we mustn’t overlook the fact that through the generosity of many people, we raised over £2000.