In a heartwarming display of faith and community, Christians gathered on Capitol Hill for the annual Bible Reading Marathon, a powerful event that emphasizes the significance of Scripture in American life. This year, the marathon kicked off on April 29, 2025, and will run continuously for 90 hours, with participants reading the Bible aloud from Genesis to Revelation right outside the U.S. Capitol.
The Bible Reading Marathon, which began in 1990, is designed to highlight the foundational role of God’s Word in the nation’s history. Keith Davidson, founder of Seedline International, a ministry dedicated to distributing Bibles worldwide, explained that this event is purely about reading the Scriptures, free from political commentary. "Our aim is to draw attention back to our legislators and remind them of the principles that shaped our nation," Davidson shared. "We want to encourage people to express their faith publicly."
The event has seen a remarkable turnout, with many passersby stopping to listen. Davidson noted that on one day alone, around 75 people paused to hear the readings. The event also featured an interactive element, inviting attendees to read in their native languages, thus fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.
In addition to the readings outside, this year marked the second occasion that the marathon included a session inside the House of Representatives’ Chaplain’s office, in collaboration with the Faith & Liberty ministry. This initiative underscores the ongoing effort to bring the Word of God into the heart of American governance.
Debra Hottle, a teacher from Christ Chapel Academy in Virginia, brought students to participate in the marathon, recalling how the school’s Bible club has been involved since the 1990s. "It’s a wonderful opportunity for our students to practice what we teach them," she said. "We want them to honor God and show who we are as a community of faith."
Another teacher, Brenda Prather, emphasized the importance of active engagement in faith. "We teach our kids to not just read the Bible but to live it out," she said. The students even took the time to pray with Capitol guards, embodying the principles of their faith in action.
Abe Silos from Gideons International also participated, expressing concern over the increasing number of young people who have never read the Bible. "There’s a void in everyone," Silos remarked. "God made us to worship something, and until we find that purpose, we may end up worshiping anything that comes our way." He stressed the need for public exposure to the Scriptures, particularly in an age where many rely on feelings over faith.
The Bible Reading Marathon serves as a reminder of the enduring power of God’s Word in shaping lives and communities. As participants read aloud, they not only affirm their faith but also invite others to experience the hope and guidance found in Scripture. In a world filled with distractions and competing narratives, events like this highlight the importance of returning to the foundational truths that have guided many throughout history.
For those interested in more information about the Bible Reading Marathon, you can visit the official Capitol Bible Reading Marathon website. As the marathon continues, it stands as a testament to the enduring impact of faith in public life and the collective hope of a nation rooted in biblical principles.