As Read-A-Book-A-Month bible-challenge enters its second year, Catholic Voice asks promoter Mary Callan to reflect on the year’s experience.

‘It’s all very low-key,’ says Mary, ‘apart from the Pope launching the Bible Readathon on Italian TV at the same time as we launched this challenge in York. That was a huge encouragement. A few people have bought newer translations of the bible and are reading it. Each of the monthly launch events has been special in its own way. English Martyrs singers and the drama group did a splendid event for Genesis. For Exodus, the Ark Church brought live reports from the Plagues of Egypt, including an interview with a frog. The small events have shown what the laity can achieve by networking and twisting arms. The intimacy is important too, with a real touch of God into people’s hearts. I hope the pamphlets will reach far and wide. Some parishes download them from the website as study material, and one family sends them to Canada. It’s wonderful to be involved in a project which is acceptable to all Christians. Catholic Voice keeps me on the ball, making sure I plan ahead.’ Mary has now returned to work, part-time, at a local supermarket. ‘I would never have started this venture,’ admits Mary, ‘if I knew I had to keep the day-job. Life is just a great scramble to get the pamphlets written.’

October’s book is 1 Samuel, followed by 2 Samuel in November. The launch will take place at Our Lady’s parish, Acomb, York, Sunday 11th October. Mary will sell pamphlets at the Diocesan Choir rehearsal and after the 5.00 pm Mass.