Tag: Sarah Young

September 1, 2023 (Nashville, Tenn.) — With great sadness, HarperCollins Christian Publishing announces the passing of Sarah Young, the New York Times bestselling author of Jesus Calling.

“It has been a joy and an honor to have Sarah Young as part of our publishing family,” said Mark Schoenwald, President and CEO of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “Sarah was a remarkable woman who deeply loved God. Her words have resonated with people from all walks of life, and the global impact of her work is unparalleled.”

With more than 45 million units sold across more than 35 languages, the Jesus Calling brand is one of the most widely read devotionals of all time. Originally published in October 2004, Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence is a 365-day devotional featuring Scripture and personal reflections from Sarah.  Inspired by her personal prayer journals, Sarah wrote Jesus Calling to help people connect with Jesus and with the Bible.

“Sarah was a dear friend who will be deeply missed,” said Laura Minchew, Senior Vice President and Group Publisher of the Children’s and Gift Book Group at HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “Through nearly 20 years of publishing with Sarah, I had a firsthand seat at seeing millions of lives changed through the Jesus Calling books. Her books have met people in their darkest hours, taught children about Jesus, and changed lives for eternity. Knowing Sarah professionally and personally has been the privilege of a lifetime.”

Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Sarah earned her undergraduate degree in philosophy. She credited her background in philosophy and Francis Schaeffer’s Escape from Reason as her motivation for studying with L’Abri Fellowship, a Christian community in a tiny Alpine village in France, where she became a Christian. Sarah earned a master’s degree in biblical studies and counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary. There she met Stephen Young, whom she married in 1977. In 1977, Sarah and Stephen joined World Presbyterian Missions, which in 1983 merged into Mission to the World (MTW), the global missions-sending agency of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA).  They spent eight and a half years planting churches and ministering in Japan. From 1987 to 1991, Sarah and Stephen were on loan to Mission to North America, working with the Westminster Japanese Church in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1991, Sarah and Stephen moved to Melbourne, Australia, and began a Japanese language church in cooperation with the Presbyterian Church of Victoria. In 2001, the Youngs moved to Perth, where Sarah began contemplating and eventually revising her personal devotional journals into the manuscript for what would become Jesus Calling. In 2013, Steve and Sarah returned to Nashville, Tennessee, where they remained active with the PCA.

Sarah believed that praying daily for the readers of Jesus Calling was an amazing privilege and a God-given responsibility. She committed time every morning to these prayers, often in the sunroom of her Tennessee home. Even as she struggled with her own physical health, and battled cancer, she continued the ministry of these daily prayers.

“Despite the tremendous success of her books, it was never about sales for Sarah,” said Michael Aulisio, Vice President and Publisher of the Jesus Calling brand at Thomas Nelson. “Sarah cared solely about leading the reader into deeper, richer relationships with God. It is impossible to measure the effect her words have had.”

Sarah’s greatest longing was that her devotional books help readers grow closer to Jesus. The publishing team at Thomas Nelson celebrates the tremendous impact of her message, which will continue to encourage generations of readers to approach God confidently and joyfully.

Sarah is survived by her husband, two children, and six grandchildren.

ABOUT JESUS CALLING: Jesus Calling has sold more than 45 million units across more than 35 languages since its 2004 publication. The Jesus Calling brand includes children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, a quarterly print and digital Jesus Calling magazine, the Jesus Calling podcast, the Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith television program, and an app available on both Apple and Android platforms. For additional information visit JesusCalling.com.

ABOUT THOMAS NELSON: Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, curriculum, and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit ThomasNelson.com.

Publicity Contact: MacKenzie Collier, [email protected]

Sarah Young’s devotional brand is one of the most successful devotionals of all time

Thomas Nelson announced today that the Jesus Calling brand by Sarah Young has surpassed 45 million units sold.  Originally published in October 2004, the 365-day devotional Jesus Calling has expanded to include children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, as well as the new bestselling prayer devotional Jesus Listens, published in October 2021.  Over the past nineteen years, the sales and inspirational reach of Jesus Calling brand have grown steadily.  With more than 45 million units sold, the Jesus Calling brand is one of the most successful devotionals of all time. 

“Jesus Calling has connected with people from all walks of life in an extremely unique and truly unparalleled way,” said Michael Aulisio, Vice President and Publisher of the Jesus Calling brand at Thomas Nelson. “While the inspiration, faith, and hope that Jesus Calling delivers is impossible to measure, these massive sales figures confirm the tremendous impact of the Jesus Calling message.”  

“Publishing Jesus Calling was a long, prayer-filled journey,” said Sarah Young.  “Ever since its publication, I’ve prayed daily for people who are reading Jesus Calling or any of my subsequent books. I consider it an amazing privilege and a God-given responsibility to pray for readers.”

This fall Thomas Nelson will add Jesus Listens for Advent & Christmas (on sale October 3, 2023) to the popular line of life-changing devotional books. 

The Jesus Calling brand has also inspired the television show Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith, which sharesinspiring and encouraging stories of success, loss, heartbreak, and redemption told by people of faith from all walks of life.  Grammy-winner Chris Tomlin hosts the third season of guests including Amy Grant, Rev. Run & Justine Simmons, Tim Tebow, Tabitha Brown, and Walker Hayes. All three seasons of Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith are available on UP Faith & Family, the leading streaming service in uplifting entertainment. 

The Jesus Calling Podcast has been downloaded nearly 15 million times since its 2016 launch.  Each weekly podcast episode features two guests — business leaders, actors, church leaders, musicians, authors, and everyday readers — who share personal stories of faith. Recent guests have included Dionne Warwick, Patti LaBelle, Kristin Chenoweth, Reba McEntire, Kathie Lee Gifford, T.D. Jakes, Rita Wilson, and Melinda Gates.

The Jesus Calling app is packed with digital versions of Jesus Calling, Jesus Listens, and other products available on-the-go along with special features like the ability to take notes, share messages with a friend, and search by keyword, date, or Bible verse.  This summer a special compilation called Living Hope:  365 Devotions to Know Jesus Is Always with You will be available exclusively in the app and features devotions from Jesus Calling, Jesus Always, Jesus Today, plus some brand-new devotions.  Living Hope was specifically compiled by Sarah Young to speak to the real needs of those who are battling anxiety, depression, and hopelessness – and let them know Jesus is always close beside us and they are not alone.  The Jesus Calling app is available on Apple and Android platforms.

The Jesus Calling Magazine is published digitally and in print quarterly. The Summer 2023 issue features actress Tamera Mowry-Housley on the cover and highlights stories of people who have stepped out in faith like country star Aaron Tippin, MLS player Walker Zimmerman, and everyday people like Bill Magnusson, whose gift of a piano changed an eleven-year-old autistic child’s life.  The print magazine is available at Books-A-Million, Mardel Christian bookstores, and select independent Christian bookstores.

Jesus Calling has sold more than 45 million units across more than 30 languages since its 2004 publication. The Jesus Calling brand includes children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, and a quarterly print and digital Jesus Calling magazine, the Jesus Calling Podcast, the Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith television program, and an app available on both Apple and Android platforms. For additional information visit JesusCalling.com.  

Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.ThomasNelson.com.

Jesus Calling devotional reaches 35 million units sold, and Jesus Listens debuts Oct. 5

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 15, 2021) – Today, Thomas Nelson announced that its Jesus Calling brand line has surpassed 35 million units sold. Adding to the popular line of life-changing devotionals, Thomas Nelson will once again be working with best-selling author and creator of Jesus Calling, Sarah Young, to release the next title Jesus Listens: Daily Devotional Prayers of Peace, Joy, and Hope on October 5, 2021.

Jesus Listens will offer readers a prayer for each day of the year, enriching their faith life with scripture at the end of each devotion to deepen their relationship with God. By praying through this daily devotional prayer book, readers will experience how God uses our prayers not only to change circumstances, but to change us.

“The devotional prayers in Jesus Listens are designed to draw readers into deeper, richer communication with God,” Young said. “My hope is that readers will not only read these devotions but make them their own. The prayers in Jesus Listens are meant to be a starting point for other prayers—helping readers bring all their concerns to Jesus and enjoy spending time with Him.”

In Jesus Listens, Young draws on that closeness with God to offer honest prayers for readers who

• have been praying for years but long for renewed biblical insights
• are looking for a  short devoted prayer time to provide support throughout the day
• want to pray God’s promises straight from Scripture
• are going through difficult times
• are new to faith and not sure how to begin in prayer
• have found spiritual rest in Jesus Calling and Jesus Always
• are eager to start a meaningful new spiritual discipline

Since it was first published in 2004, Jesus Calling remains one of the most successful devotionals of all time and has expanded to include children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, and the ECPA 2018 Book of the Year, Jesus Always.

“It is remarkable to see how Jesus Calling has made an impact on so many lives,” said Laura Minchew, senior vice president, Children’s and Gift Group publisher for HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “This brand, that started as a single devotional, has expanded its reach into people’s hearts through a podcast, magazine and television program. We are so thankful for Sarah and her amazing faith that she so freely shares that has impacted millions of lives. She is changing God’s Kingdom.”

“I give God the glory for helping us reach this amazing milestone,” said Young. “I want to thank all the talented people at Thomas Nelson who work so diligently and effectively with the Jesus Callingbooks. Also, I’m grateful for the many wonderful faith stories that readers continue to share with us.”

“Jesus Listens: Daily Devotional Prayers of Peace, Joy, and Hope” (ISBN# 9781400215584) releases on October 5, 2021 and now is available for pre-order everywhere books are sold. More information about the Jesus Calling brand can be found at www.jesuscalling.com.

Contact:            Natividad Lewis

Publicity Manager

931.698.9620 [email protected]

Country-Gospel Singer Susie McEntire-Eaton to Host

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 28, 2021) — Publisher Thomas Nelson announced today that Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, the bestselling devotional brand that has sold more than 30 million units, will premiere the second season of its inspirational TV show, Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith, May 18 at 8:30 p.m. EST on Circle Network. Viewing options for the show are available at https://www.circleallaccess.com/watch, including over-the-air and streamers like Peacock, Roku, Samsung TV Plus, and more.

Based on the namesake book Jesus Calling^® (Thomas Nelson), the series is produced in partnership with Four Eyes Media and will share more inspirational stories of success, loss, heartbreak, and redemption told by people of faith from all walks of life. Host Susie McEntire-Eaton kicks off the second season with country music superstar Sara Evans and gospel music sensation Kierra Sheard-Kelly, followed by an A-list roster of guests including NFL Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy, pop star Ally Brooke, MLB star Darryl Strawberry, country music star and Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith Season 1 host Lauren Alaina, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, and many more.

Additionally, the season will feature an exclusive interview of Susie talking with her sister, country music superstar Reba McEntire. The sisters will share their experiences growing up in the McEntire family, and how their lives were impacted by ranching, rodeo, and faith.

“I’m so excited to host the new season of Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith,” said McEntire-Eaton. “I know how much Jesus Calling has meant to me in my own faith walk, and I’m thrilled to share stories from others who have seen their lives changed and hope restored through this book.”

“We are thrilled to have Susie hosting Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith,” said Michael Aulisio, Vice President of Marketing for the Children’s & Gift Books Group at HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “Susie’s powerful story of resilience connected with countless viewers during our first season. Her warmth and sincerity will continue to inspire viewers all throughout this new season.”

Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith is a part of Circle’s two-hour Faith Block, airing from 8 – 10 p.m. ET on Tuesdays and 2 – 4 p.m. ET on Sundays.

“The diverse stories and guests featured on the first season of Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith resonated with our Circle viewers in an organic way, so we are excited to partner with Thomas Nelson and Four Eyes Media for a second time on season two,” said Teresa George, Circle VP of Strategic Partnerships. “The show was inspired by various country artists and celebrities who were transformed by their faith in God. We’ve enjoyed helping to bring these real stories of heartache and success to life, and look forward to continuing to do so in the new episodes to come.”

Since it was first published in 2004, the Jesus Calling brand has grown to include children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, an app, two ECPA Book of the Year awards for Jesus Today and Jesus Always, a print and digital quarterly magazine, a podcast that recently exceeded 7 million downloads, and a TV show. Author of Jesus Calling, Sarah Young, continues to be inspired by how the brand touches lives in new ways, including the TV show.

“I am delighted that Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith is returning for a second season,” said Young. “It’s wonderful to be associated with people who are willing to share their powerful faith stories and tell us how God is at work in their lives and in the world today.”

The Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith programming schedule—airing from Tuesday, May 18 through Sunday, August 8—includes:

Tuesday, May 18 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, May 23 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 1:  Faith to Shine the Light

Main Guest:  Sara Evans, Country Music Star

Guest 2:  Kierra Sheard-Kelly, Gospel Singer

Tuesday, May 25 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, May 30 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 2:  Faith in Your Hour of Need

Main Guest:  Darryl Strawberry, MLB Star

Guest 2:  Kay Warren, author, wife of Pastor Rick Warren of The Purpose Driven Life

Tuesday, June 1 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, June 6 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 3:  Faith to Overcome Obstacles

Main Guest:  Kurt Warner, NFL Hall of Fame Quarterback

Guest 2:  Kurt Angle, Olympic Gold Medalist and WWE Superstar

Tuesday, June 8 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, June 13 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 4:  Faith to Believe in Love

Main Guest:  Chris & Emily Norton, Motivational Speakers/Authors

Guest 2:  Ally Brooke, Pop Singer

Tuesday, June 15 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, June 20 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 5:  Faith to Be Restored

Main Guest:  Ryan Sheckler, Pro Skateboarder, Star of MTV’s Life of Ryan

Guest 2:  Russ Taff, Christian Musician

Tuesday, June 22 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, June 27 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 6:  Faith in Things Not Seen

Main Guest:  Lauren Alaina, Country Music Star

Guest 2:  Raleigh Keegan, Country Music Artist

Tuesday, June 29 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, July 4 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 7:  Faith Over Fear

Main Guest:  Nik Wallenda, Tightrope Walker

Guest 2:  Collin Raye, Country Music Star

Tuesday, July 6 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, July 11 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 8:  Faith to Become Who We’re Meant to Be

Main Guest:  Rashad Jennings, Former NFL Player, Dancing with the Stars winner

Guest 2:  Michael Franzese, Public Speaker, Former Mob Boss

Tuesday, July 13 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, July 18 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 9:  Faith to Be Different

Main Guest:  Lathan Warlick, Country Music Artist

Guest 2:  Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris, Veteran POW, Hanoi Hilton Survivor

Tuesday, July 20 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, July 25 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 10:  Faith & Family First

Main Guest:  David Crowder, Christian Music Worship Artist

Guest 2:  High Valley, Country Music Duo

Tuesday, July 27 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, Aug. 1 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 11:  The Faith of Two Sisters

Main Guests:  Reba McEntire & Susie McEntire-Eaton, Country Music Singers

Tuesday, Aug. 3 @ 8:30 PM ET (re-airing Sunday, Aug. 8 @ 2:00 PM ET)

Episode 12:  Passing the Faith Along

Main Guest:  Tony Dungy, NFL Hall of Fame Coach

Guest 2:  Daryle Singletary Tribute (Country Music Artist) with wife Holly Singletary

ABOUT CIRCLE:

Circle is a media network dedicated to celebrating the country lifestyle and putting fans inside the circle of everything country. Circle offers entertainment news, documentaries, movies, archival, new and licensed programming, Grand Ole Opry performances, and more. The network recently announced ad-support streaming distribution partnerships with Redbox, Peacock, The Roku Channel, Samsung TV Plus, XUMO and VIZIO Free Channels, bringing its country lifestyle programming to millions more through TVs, smart phones and tablets. Named Digiday’s 2021Best Streaming TV Platform and Pollstar’s #1 Livestreamer for 2020, Circle is a joint venture between Opry Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, and Gray Television.

ABOUT SUSIE MCENTIRE-EATON:

Susie McEntire-Eaton is the product of a third-generation ranching/rodeoing family from the hills of Southeastern Oklahoma. Raised in a house with four children who cut their teeth on ranch work, sports, singing, and rodeo, Susie says all of these activities helped mold her values and shape her character into the woman she is today. “My mama and daddy didn’t have a lot of money,” she says, “but they had determination and a great work ethic. They instilled that in us, and gave us lots of opportunities.”

Susie started singing in front of a crowd in 2nd grade, and appeared onstage with her brother and sister as “The Singing McEntires” in high school and toured with Reba from 1980–1982. She also appeared with Reba on The Opry, The Johnny Carson Show, and Hee Haw.

In 1984, Susie said yes to God to sing for a different purpose. She was on fire to share her message, and the world opened up as Susie and her young family traveled across the globe and Susie performed as a country gospel singer. In the meantime, she recorded 17 albums.

Since 2007, Susie has served as a co-host of Cowboy Church on RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. A seasoned performer with an amazing story, Susie is a member of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame who has a unique ability to connect with audiences everywhere and instantly make them feel like friends.

ABOUT THOMAS NELSON:

Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Contacts:       

Circle

Teresa George, [email protected]

Sunshine Sachs, [email protected]

Susie McEntire-Eaton

Mark Eaton, [email protected]

Thomas Nelson

Natividad Lewis, [email protected]

Devotional continues to grow year-over-year, more than 15 years post-release

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 26, 2019) – Today, Thomas Nelson announced that the Jesus Calling brand by Sarah Young has surpassed 30 million units sold since it was first published in October 2004. It remains one of the most successful devotionals of all time.

Since it was first published, this 365 devotional has expanded to include children’s devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books, as well as other devotionals including ECPA book of the year Jesus Always. Its strong sales history, product diversity, and customer loyalty are unlike any other devotional on the market. It has been 15 years since publication and sales continue to grow year-over-year. In fact, from 2018-2019, sales increased five percent. But, this milestone represents a great deal more than sales alone.

“I’ve never seen a book connect with so many people in such a deeply personal way,” said Laura Minchew, senior vice president and publisher of Gift books and Tommy Nelson Children’s Books at Thomas Nelson. “Aside from the sales numbers—which are, of course, remarkable—what we value are the tens of millions of lives that have been impacted by Sarah’s work. Through her writing, study of the Bible, and prayers, people from all walks of life, all over the world, experience a closer, more intimate relationship with Jesus. Helping people develop a stronger faith is a benefit that is impossible to measure.”

The deep connection that readers feel to the content in Jesus Calling is evident across its various social media accounts, which total more than 1.5 million followers across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Readers regularly share their experiences with Jesus Calling on social media, and those experiences led to the creation of the Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith Podcast, which recently surpassed 3 million downloads.

The podcast, available on iTunes, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and other podcasting platforms, features stories from readers of Jesus Calling and illustrates how spending time with the devotional has made a difference in their lives. Guests on the podcast range from everyday readers to celebrities like Kathie Lee Gifford, T.D. Jakes, Reba McEntire, Rita Wilson, Randy Travis, Charlie Daniels and Melinda Gates. And, there were so many stories that the podcast expanded to include video episodes as well, which have been viewed more than 8 million times.

To author Sarah Young, there is one word that comes to mind when she thinks of the success of the book.

“I consider this 30 million milestone miraculous!” Young said. “I can remember sitting at my desk in Perth, Australia—daydreaming about reaching the 100,000 milestone. It seemed like just a pipe dream at the time . . . The Lord has done great things for us.”

But, regardless of the various milestones, one factor that remains the same is that Young will continue to pray for her readers on a daily basis.

“I pray daily for readers of all my books, and I long for them to really grasp that there’s no condemnation for those who belong to Jesus,” she shared. “Also, I want readers to remember that Jesus is with us always and nothing can separate us from His Love!”

More information is available at www.jesuscalling.com.

# # #

About Thomas Nelson: Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson, is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Contact:         

Stefanie Schroeder

Publicity Manager

615.902.1722

[email protected]     

Evangelical Christian Publishers Association names Lysa TerKeurst’s Embraced as Christian Book of the Year

(Nashville, TN) May 3, 2019—HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) is honored to have both its publishing groups, Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, recognized by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) at the 2019 Christian Book Awards.

During its annual Leadership Summit in Chicago, IL, ECPA announced the 2019 recipients of their Christian Book Awards. Lysa TerKeurst was awarded the night’s top honor when Embraced: 100 Devotions to Know God is Holding You Close (Thomas Nelson) was named the 2019 Christian Book of the Year. Nabeel Qureshi was posthumously honored when his book Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: Third Edition with Bonus Content, New Reflections (Zondervan) won in the Audio category.

HCCP was also recognized with three Platinum Sales Awards, which are awarded to titles that surpassed one million copies sold. Recipients for 2019 included Mark Batterson’s Circle Maker (Zondervan), Sarah Young’s Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids (Thomas Nelson), and Bob Goff’s Love Does (Thomas Nelson).

“It’s an honor to have our authors and publishing teams recognized by the ECPA for their efforts to reach readers around with world with meaningful content,” says Mark Schoenwald, CEO and president of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “We are proud to partner with authors like Lysa who help further our mission to inspire the world with content that honors Jesus Christ.”

“To have Nabeel’s work honored by the ECPA is a testament to the legacy he left by sharing the powerful story of his conversion from Islam to Christianity,” says Stanley N. Gundry, senior v-p and publisher for Zondervan Reflective. “It’s a privilege to continue to steward his message and allow his witness for God to live on through his writing.”

Additionally, David Moberg, senior v-p and group publisher for HCCP, was honored with the ECPA Chair Award for the outstanding contributions he has made to the industry throughout his career. Moberg plans to retire this year, effective at the end of June.

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing: The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing Inc., comprises both Thomas Nelson and Zondervan publishing groups in addition to Olive Tree Bible Software.  The Company produces bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, academic resources, curriculum, audio and digital content for the Christian market space.  Also home to BibleGateway.com, the world’s largest Christian website, and FaithGateway.com, an online community dedicated to helping people grow in their faith. HarperCollins Christian Publishing is headquartered in Nashville, TN with additional offices in the U.S. and Mexico.  For more information visit www.HarperCollinsChristian.com.

Guests’ personal stories and diverse backgrounds continue to drive the podcast’s success

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 29, 2018) – Today, Thomas Nelson announced that the Jesus Calling Podcast has surpassed one million downloads since it launched in February 2016. The podcast was created as a result of the success of the bestselling daily devotional, Jesus Calling, which has sold more than 22 million units since it was published in 2004. The weekly podcast, available on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, and other podcasting platforms, features stories from readers of Jesus Calling and illustrates how spending time with the devotional has made a difference in their lives.

“On a daily basis, we receive stories via email and social media about how Jesus Calling has touched a reader’s life,” said Michael Aulisio, vice president of marketing for gift books, Tommy Nelson children’s books and new media at Thomas Nelson. “The podcast has become a revolutionary platform that connects people around the world in one location to hear amazing stories from fellow readers as well as a diverse group of thought leaders – from music to sports to business.  We are thrilled this power of personal storytelling combined with these impactful devotionals is impacting people’s lives and faith.”

Recently, the podcast expanded to include video episodes from individuals such as Kathie Lee Gifford, Emily Ley, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, country star Collin Raye, and Lysa TerKeurst. Those episodes are also available via the podcasting platforms, Facebook, and the Jesus Calling YouTube channel, providing readers and listeners with an additional way to experience the content.

Future episodes will feature incredible personal stories from many other Jesus Calling readers around the world—readers whose lives have been transformed. Upcoming episodes include conversations with Super Bowl-winning quarterback Jeff Hostetler, NFL and Dancing with Stars champion Rashad Jennings, bestselling authors Rachel Hollis and Lisa Harper, and country groups Shenandoah and The Oak Ridge Boys.

Since it was published in 2004, Jesus Calling has expanded to encompass a line of products that includes adult devotionals, coloring books, children’s books, a Bible storybook, custom versions, and many other products. More information is available at www.jesuscalling.com.

Contact:          Stefanie Schroeder

Publicity Manager

615.902.1722

[email protected]

About Thomas Nelson: Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson, is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Company also received two Platinum Awards for titles selling more than one million units

(Nashville, TN) May 2, 2018—HarperCollins Christian Publishing announced today the company’s two publishing groups, Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, received four Christian Book Awards®, cumulatively, including Sarah Young’s bestselling “Jesus Always” (Thomas Nelson) winning the 2018 Christian Book of the Year.

At this year’s ECPA’s Leadership Summit, held in Washington, D.C., Thomas Nelson was also recognized at the ECPA Awards Celebration on Tuesday evening, May 1, 2018, for two titles achieving major sales milestones.

The 2018 Christian Book Award winners include:

• “Jesus Always: Embracing Joy in His Presence,” by Sarah Young (Thomas Nelson)-Christian Book of the Year
• “Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life Changing Truth for a Skeptical World,” by Josh McDowell and Sean McDowell, PhD (Thomas Nelson)- Bible Reference Works
• “Good Good Father” by Chris Tomlin and Pat Barrett, illustrated by Lorna Hussey (Tommy Nelson)- Children
• “The Bible’s Explorer’s Guide” by Nancy I. Sanders (Zonderkidz)- Young People’s Literature*

The Platinum Award for outstanding sales achievements, reaching more than one million units sold, was given to “Jesus Always” by Sarah Young (Thomas Nelson) and “Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely” (Thomas Nelson) by Lysa TerKeurst.

In addition, HarperCollins Christian Publishing was honored to have eight additional titles to be named as award finalists in 11 categories:

• “Faithlife Illustrated Study Bible NIV” (Lexham Press, Zondervan)- Bibles
• “Kids’ Visual Study Bible NIV” (Zonderkidz)-Bibles
• “The Gospel According to Paul” by John MacArthur (Thomas Nelson)- Bible Study
• “God’s Great Love for You” by Rick Warren, illustrated by Chris Saunders (Zonderkidz)- Children
• “‘Twas the Evening of Christmas” by Glenys Nellist, illustrated by Elena Selivanova (Zonderkidz)- Children
• “Goliath Must Fall” by Louie Giglio (W Publishing, an imprint of Thomas Nelson)- Christian Living
• “Standing in the Fire” by Tom Doyle (W Publishing, an imprint of Thomas Nelson)- Faith and Culture
• “The Story of Reality” by Greg Koukl (Zondervan)- Faith and Culture

“Congratulations to the authors and publishing team award winners of the 2018 Christian Book Awards,” said Mark Schoenwald, president and CEO of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “Special congratulations and thank you to Sarah Young for winning the Christian Book of the Year while also being recognized for one million units sold within a year.  The Jesus Calling brand continues to impact millions of people around the world, a true testament to our mission. All named winners and finalists are illustrating the breadth of influence our publishing groups have in delivering life-changing messages to people searching for inspiration.”

For more information about Thomas Nelson, go to www.thomasnelson.com. For more information about Zondervan, go to www.zondervan.com. For more information about HarperCollins Christian Publishing go to www.harpercollinschristian.com.

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing: The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing Inc., comprises both Thomas Nelson and Zondervan publishing groups in addition to Olive Tree Bible Software.  The Company produces bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, academic resources, curriculum, audio and digital content for the Christian market space.  Also home to BibleGateway.com, the world’s largest Christian website, and FaithGateway.com, an online community dedicated to helping people grow in their faith. HarperCollins Christian Publishing is headquartered in Nashville, TN with additional offices in the U.S., and Mexico.  For more information visit www.HarperCollinsChristian.com.

Nashville, Tenn. (Feb. 20, 2018) – The fifth annual Illumination Awards recognized five titles from the Gift and Tommy Nelson Children’s division of HarperCollins Christian Publishing in several award categories:

• Reclaiming the Lost Art of Biblical Meditation (Thomas Nelson), by Robert Morgan, Gold in Christian Living
• Unshakeable: 365 Devotions for Finding Unwavering Strength in God’s Word (Zondervan), by Christine Caine, Gold in Devotional
• Jesus Always: Embracing Joy in His Presence (Thomas Nelson), by Sarah Young, Gold in Devotional
• Love Heals (Thomas Nelson), by Becca Stevens, Silver in Self-Help/Recovery
• Lizzy the Lioness (Tommy Nelson), by Lisa Bevere, Gold in Children’s Picture Book

“It is an honor to our Thomas Nelson Gift, Zondervan Gift and Tommy Nelson Children’s publishing teams and to our authors to receive five illumination awards. Each of these excellent books offer an important and unique way to draw closer to God,” said Laura Minchew, senior vice president and publisher of Gift Books, Tommy Nelson Children’s Books and New Media at Thomas Nelson.

The Illumination Book Awards are designed to bring increased recognition to the year’s very best Christian books and their creators. With more and more people searching for inspiration and seeking answers to life’s tough questions, books dedicated to Christian belief and personal development are fast-growing segment of publishing and bookselling today.

For additional information, please visit: http://www.independentpublisher.com/article.php?page=2281.

Contact:    Angela Guzman

Publicist

tel:    615-902-2737

web: [email protected]

Thomas Nelson is a world-leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. For additional information visit Thomasnelson.com.

Tommy Nelson® is the children’s division of Thomas Nelson. As a leading provider of Christian content, Tommy Nelson publishes a wide variety of high-quality, enjoyable products that are consistent with the teachings found in the Bible. Tommy Nelson’s award winning products are designed to expand children’s imaginations and nurture their faith while inspiring them to develop a personal relationship with Jesus. For more information, visit www.tommynelson.com.

Zondervan is a world-leading Bible publisher and provider of Christian communications. Zondervan, as part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., delivers transformational Christian experiences through its bestselling Bibles, books, curriculum, academic resources and digital products. The Company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, MI. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.