In a moment when headlines are often filled with division and debate, an unusual gathering is preparing to take place in the nation's capital - one centered not on politics, but on Scripture.
From April 19-25, more than 475 participants - including Hollywood actors, ministry leaders, and members of Congress - will take part in America Reads the Bible, a historic, week-long public reading of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation at Washington, D.C.'s Museum of the Bible.
For seven straight days, voices from every sphere of influence will stand on one stage and read God's Word aloud, uninterrupted.
The initiative, organized by Christians Engaged founder Bunni Pounds, comes as the United States approaches its 250th birthday - a milestone prompting reflection on the spiritual roots many believe helped shape the nation's founding ideals.
The gathering will open with a special kickoff ceremony on April 18, livestreamed nationwide on Great American Pure Flix. Among those participating are Patricia Heaton, Candace Cameron Bure - serving as the event's official spokesperson - and actors Cameron and BJ Arnett. Organizers say the goal is simple but profound: unity through the public reading of Scripture.
"We believe the Word of God simply read and listened to can transform hearts, families, communities, and nations," Pounds said.
Unlike a rally or conference, the focus will not be speeches or policy debates. Instead, leaders will read passage after passage aloud, creating what organizers describe as a continuous wave of Scripture filling the halls of the Museum of the Bible.
In a season many describe as culturally tense and spiritually restless, the event asks a bold question: What might change if the nation paused long enough to listen to God's Word together?
As America reflects on 250 years of freedom, America Reads the Bible aims to remind citizens of what organizers call the country's enduring foundation - faith, family, and Scripture.
