Pope kicks off Bible marathon on TV
RAI state TV began its program called "The Bible Day and Night," with Benedict reciting the first chapter of the book of Genesis — the holy text's opening verses about the creation of the world.
The marathon will feature more than 1,200 people reading the Old and New Testament in over seven days and six nights.
While the pope recited his segment from the Vatican, most of the reading will be done live in Rome's Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, a basilica built in the fourth century.
Besides Roman Catholics, members of other religions, including Jews, Protestants and Orthodox Christians, will participate.
The Bible marathon is scheduled to end with Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican's No. 2 official, reading the last chapter of the Apocalypse.
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