In the beginning was the Word... a college and community in Berkshire held a marathon reading of the entire King James Bible in January 2011 to mark the version's 400th anniversary and raise money for Christian Aid.
Over a two week period, Wellington College read every word of the King James Bible - 66 books, 1,189 chapters, 31,102 verses. The Bishop of Oxford opened the event and read the first chapter.
Students, parents, teachers and support staff took part and members of the local community were warmly invited to take a turn. Local churches were invited and the aim was to make this a whole community effort. Everyone involved raised money for Christian Aid.
History of the King James Bible
'This is a unique opportunity... to participate in a major cultural event and to work towards a good cause.'
Jane Lunnon, Deputy Head.
2011 is the 400th anniversary of the King James Version of the Bible and its influence in British history is profound.
As a royally 'authorised' translation, the King James Version became the single most influential work published in the English language. Countless Britons learned to read and write specifically so that they could read it and hundreds of new words and phrases were introduced into the English language.
'The King James Version version is a beautiful masterpiece of translation. Psalm 23 - "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" is one passage familiar to countless generations.'
Guy Williams, organiser of the reading.
Find out more about the Kings James Bible at www.kingjamesbibletrust.org.
Donations can be made via the JustGiving website page at www.justgiving.com/wellingtoncollegebible400.
