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Pope Benedict XVI began a week-long Bible-reading marathon on Italian television today.

The marathon will feature more than 1,200 people reading the Old and New Testament  over seven days and six nights.

RAI state TV began its programme, The Bible Day and Night, with Benedict reciting the first chapter of the book of Genesis.

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 4th century.

Besides Catholics, members of other religions, including Jews, Protestants and Orthodox Christians will participate.