The world’s most famous book is to be the subject of a marathon – but reading not running will mark the occasion.

The King James version of the Bible, which turns 400 this year, is to be read aloud continuously at the Taranaki Cathedral Church of St Mary from March 6.

The event is being organised to coincide with the first anniversary of the church’s consecration as a cathedral.

The Dean of Taranaki, Jamie Allen, will read aloud for an estimated 80 hours – taking no more than five-minute breaks. “No sleep till revelation,” he says.

He isn't daunted by the perils of reading non-stop for four days.

“I won’t sleep for three nights, so I’m hoping the sound of my own voice won’t send me off! But I am looking forward to the poetry and sometimes convolutions of King James version.”

While the version is now seen as old-fashioned it emerged in 1611 after remarkable advances in Hebrew and Greek scholarship.

“It was translated with the goal of being read aloud," Dean Allen says. "In many ways we have moved on from that era of thee’s and thou’s, but it was the first Bible version to come to these shores and is still held in considerable affection today.”

The event will also raise funds for a new youth enabler who will build networks with young people across the city and throughout Taranaki.

“One of the youth worker's roles will be to share the Word of the Bible, so there's quite a powerful link," Dean Allen says. "We will aim to raise at least $25,000 towards the youth ministry post through this non-stop read. My five-minute breaks (no more than one per hour) will be covered by teenagers – so that the Word continues.”

Sponsorship is now being received from other churches, organizations and individuals – especially those interested in work with young people.

Other events are planned around the marathon read. Much of it will be done in the cathedral although there are plans to read sections on a marae, in the foyer at Puke Ariki, in the city centre, and on the beach. Dean Allen will continue reading aloud while being driven to each venue.

He's hoping that people from around the city and region will call into the cathedral to sit and reflect on the Bible’s significance and depth.

He aims to finish about 7.30pm on Wednesday, March 10 coincide with the beginning of an ecumenical Ash Wednesday service.

For online donations, visit the cathedral website, www.taranakicathedral.org.nz