Beginning at 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 13 thru Sunday, October 16, the 2^nd Annual Southern Illinois Bible Reading Marathon will take place on the front lawn of the Randolph County Courthouse, #1 Taylor Street in Chester, Illinois. With the courthouse’s high geographical elevation and its symbolic position as a seat of governmental authority, event coordinators believe that this location is the perfect place to speak the Holy Scriptures into the atmosphere from. Last years event saw hundreds of volunteers take turns reading the Bible aloud from the Randolph County Seat.

Bible Reading Marathons have been held around the country for many years, but this event is specifically targeted with Southern Illinois in mind. The Marathon’s timing coincides with the Jewish Feast of Booths, which lasts for several days. The last day of this feast, called "Simchat Torah," when Jews celebrate the fact that God has given us His Word, the Bible. Our reading of the Scriptures is a celebration of The Word, a claiming of its promise for Illinois and a releasing of blessing for the region. The prophet Isaiah wrote, " . . .my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55.11)."

This event will have Believers reading aloud the Word of God on one of God’s appointed times (feast of booths), from a government law building. "The symbolism and timing of the Southern Illinois Bible Reading Marathon are very important for the season we are in as a country." says event coordinator Dr. Mike Fogerson. He adds, "If there was ever a time in our nations history that we needed revival, awakening and fresh outpouring from heaven, make no mistake, the time is now."

The opening ceremony will begin at 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 13, 2011. Following the opening ceremony volunteer readers will take turns reading the Holy Bible aloud, continuously, and without commentary, beginning with Genesis 1.1 and conclude approximately 70 hours later on Sunday evening, October 16, with Revelation 22.21. The organizers of Southern Illinois Bible Reading Marathon are inviting all individuals, churches, youth groups, Sunday school classes, prayer groups, and civic leaders to take part in this special event. Bibles will be provided by The Gideon’s International for volunteers to read from. However, readers are welcome to bring and use their own treasured copy of God’s Word.

To reserve you or your groups reading time or to ask any questions, please phone (618) 826.3918 or (618) 615.2933.