The Week's News in Christian Publishing

Craig Groeschel helps young adults break free from negative and destructive thinking in ‘Winning the War in Your Mind for Teens’ from Zondervan

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Pastor and New York Times bestselling author guides teens through practical and faith-based approaches to managing mental health in new book

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 27, 2023—It’s no secret that today’s teens face a multitude of challenges to their mental well-being, often leading to a spiral of unhealthy thoughts and doubts about their self-worth. These thinking patterns often leave young people feeling less-than and unvalued, contributing to feelings of anxiety and depression throughout their lives.

In his new book, Winning the War in Your Mind for Teens (Zondervan, hardcover, $19.99, April 4, 2023), nationally known podcast host, pastor, and bestselling author Craig Groeschel builds on his book Winning the War in Your Mind to present the scientific and spiritual discoveries he made after struggling with his own negative and anxious thoughts since youth. Using personal stories, research, and hands-on thought exercises, Groeschel provides readers with practical and easy-to-use strategies that are customized for today’s teens, helping them find freedom from the grip of harmful and destructive thinking.

“Take it from a guy who survived his teen years but could have done it so much better,” Groeschel writes. “Our lives are always moving in the direction of our strongest thoughts. What we think shapes who we become. If you agree, then it’s time to change your thinking so God can change your life.”

Groeschel announced the book on his social media platforms today. See more about the book here: https://www.craiggroeschel.com/books/winning-the-war-in-your-mind-for-teens

Winning the War in Your Mind for Teens helps readers learn what they can do to challenge their everyday thinking and change the course of their lives for the better, as well as discover all the ways a closer relationship with God and an understanding of their value in God’s eyes can help them see their innate value and more fully believe what is true about themselves.

Readers will discover:

  • How their brain works, and how to rewire it so they can short-circuit the triggers that lead to negative thoughts
  • How to identify the lies the enemy wants them to believe
  • The ways prayer and praise can transform their mind
  • Practices that allow God’s thoughts to become their thoughts

Presented in a stunning hardcover with gloss details, Winning the War in Your Mind for Teens is the first book from Groeschel written for young adults, and the perfect gift for readers ages 13 and up. Other inspirational self-help titles from Groeschel include The Power to Change, Winning the War in Your Mind, Dangerous Prayers, and Hope in the Dark.

About the Author
Craig Groeschel is the founding and senior pastor of Life.Church, one of the largest churches in the world and the creator of the free YouVersion Bible App. The New York Times bestselling author hosts the top-ranking Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast and speaks to hundreds of thousands of leaders around the world annually through the Global Leadership Network. Craig and his wife, Amy, live in Oklahoma. Connect with Craig at www.craiggroeschel.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’s offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.

Contact:  Jessica Westra, Director of Publicity, Zondervan YA/Zonderkidz, Jessica.westra@harpercollins.com, (616) 403-6628   

Ken Harrison book, “A Daring Faith in a Cowardly World,” named 2023 CLA Book of the Year

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Chicago, IL – Christian Leadership Alliance (CLA) will present Promise Keepers Chairman Ken Harrison with the 2023 CLA Book of the Year Award at its Outcomes Conference this week in Chicago. The award recognizes Harrison’s June 2022 release, A Daring Faith in a Cowardly World: Live a Life Without Waste, Regret or Anything Unfinished, published by Thomas Nelson Publishers.

“We’re pleased to recognize A Daring Faith in a Cowardly World,” says Tami Heim, Christian Leadership Alliance President and CEO. “It’s a clarion call to seize what has been entrusted to you. To learn how to stand strong and live fearlessly God’s best plan for your life and His kingdom purpose.”

The Outcomes Conference 2023, with the theme of “Entrusted”, seeks to equip and unite courageous leaders who are committed to transforming the world for Christ. Harrison, as the volunteer chairman of Promise Keepers, works to inspire men to be bold, faithful and godly fathers and husbands. He is also the CEO of WaterStone, which helps Christian donors give away $2 million weekly for God’s Kingdom.

An author and speaker who has appeared on dozens of national media outlets, including “Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk,” The 700 Club, Fox News, The Blaze TV, OANN and The Huckabee Show and with a long record of dedicated service to ministry, Harrison has preached in high-risk areas of countries such as Mexico, South Africa, Haiti, and the Philippines.

Before his ministry work, Harrison spent his early career as a Los Angeles police officer and later built a successful commercial real estate business, which he eventually sold to the second largest commercial real estate company in the world. He has also served on numerous local and national boards, including FCA, Colorado Uplift, Urban Youth Ministries, Corban University and WaterStone.

Harrison will serve as a main stage presenter at this year’s Outcomes Conference, taking place March 28-30 in Chicago.

To connect with Ken Harrison, contact: Jason Jones, Jones Literary, jason@jonesliterary.com, 512.720.2996

ECPA presents Dwight Baker with Chair Award

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March 27, 2023, Grand Rapids, Mich. –  ECPA has presented to Dwight Baker, former ECPA board chair and president/CEO of Baker Publishing Group, its Chair Award for distinguished leadership to ECPA and the publishing industry.

The award was presented on March 16 by ECPA president and CEO Jeff Crosby at a retirement celebration held for Dwight at the Baker Book House in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Baker will retire in April.

ECPA recognized Dwight’s 43-year career in Christian publishing as president of Baker Publishing Group, considered the leading independent Christian publisher in the United States; and for his vital role as ECPA board chair during a time of consolidation and transition in the industry.

During the award presentation, Jeff stated, “Dwight guided our association with grace, diplomacy, humor, and wisdom. In addition to his impact in North America, Dwight’s work on the board of the Theological Book Network has enabled countless people in the majority world to have access to life-changing Christian resources.”

ECPA’s current board chair Dan Kok, SVP of Operations for Crossway, reiterated ECPA’s gratefulness for Dwight’s contributions: “Christian publishing is a much better enterprise because of Dwight’s involvement in it for more than 43 years. On behalf of the ECPA board of directors, we are pleased to recognize his contributions through this Award.”

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The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) is an international non-profit trade organization comprised of member companies that are involved in the publishing and distribution of Christian content worldwide. Since 1974, ECPA has strengthened Christian publishing by building networking, information, and advocacy opportunities within the industry and throughout multiple channels so that our members can more effectively produce and deliver transformational Christian content. For more information about ECPA: info@ecpa.org ECPA.org @ECPA

Contact:  Jeff Crosby, ECPA president & CEO,  jcrosby@ecpa.org or 630-989-0222 (mobile)

Zonderkidz author and EWTN broadcaster Raymond Arroyo announces tour events

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FOR “THE UNEXPECTED LIGHT OF THOMAS ALVA EDISON”

Appearing on FOX & Friends Tuesday, March 21

Grand Rapids, MI – March 20, 2023 – Zonderkidz is pleased to announce that New York Times bestselling author, broadcast journalist and producer Raymond Arroyo will be on tour for his new children’s picture book series titled Turnabout Tales, with the first book arriving in stores on March 21, 2023, titled The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison.

Arroyo will appear at these locations for readings and book signings:

While the events are free and open to the public, a book purchase will be required to enter the signing line at each location. More information can be found at www.raymondarroyo.com.

The virtual “Live Signing” with Arroyo will take place for those fans who cannot travel and want to receive a copy of the signed book, on Tuesday, March 21, at 6:05pm ET. Fans can go to https://livesigning.com/unexpectedlight  to pre-order and submit questions to the author. Arroyo will appear on Facebook and speak to how the book came together, while signing copies for fans.

He will also appear on FOX & Friends the day of the book release, March 21.

Illustrated by Kristina Gehrmann, the book will be for children 4-8 and beyond who will enjoy learning how small moments and events in one’s life can create a big change, much like Edison’s life did.

Based on the younger years of inventor Thomas Alva Edison, the book highlights the support of his mother, Nancy Edison, who understood Thomas had a special curiosity and went on to school him at home to help expand his worldview and understanding of all things nature and science. Edison’s curiosity often got him into trouble, but also led to his love of chemistry, the mechanics of the telegraph and more. His struggle with deafness at an early age also compelled him to become a compulsive reader. Edison’s mother was his biggest advocate, and he opened up an “invention factory” in 1876 to honor her after her unexpected death.

The Turnabout Tales series will feature pivotal moments in other historic lives, each revealing  challenges faced, paths changed and history turned.  More books will be announced later in 2023.

“We often forget that talent is nurtured by love and belief. I was drawn to Edison when I read a comment where he attributed his entire career as an inventor to his mother,” says Arroyo, host of the global news program The World Over Live on EWTN, and a FOX Contributor. “At a critical point, when he was tossed from school, it was Edison’s mother who recognized his spark and changed the trajectory of his life.  My hope is that the whole series will inspire kids and their families to be open to the direction of their children’s gifts and interests. Often it is by looking back that we can see the best way to go forward –and that’s what I hope to do with Turnabout Tales.”

The book includes an author note and bibliography for further reading. A Teaching Guide and Activity Guide will also be available for free download to parents and educators at www.zonderkidz.com.

“…the light of the invention within Tom might have never illuminated the world, had it not been for a mother who first saw the glow of curiosity in her Al.” – The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison

Advance copies of the book and interviews are available upon request. Please contact Publicity Director Jessica Westra at jessica.westra@harpercollins.com or Velvet Kelm at velvet@mcollective.com for more information.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison
By New York Times bestselling author Raymond Arroyo
Illustrated by Kristina Gehrmann
Hardcover w/Jacket, $17.99
9780310799238
March 21, 2023 On Sale

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING:
“This moving, hidden story of one of our great inventors, in Raymond Arroyo’s skillful hands, becomes a lesson in the power of love and family.  This Turnabout Tale will touch any parent who has ever defended or encouraged their child and inspire any student who has been underestimated.  There’s true light in this tale.”
– Kathie Lee Gifford, Best-selling author and 4-time Emmy award winning entertainer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Raymond Arroyo is an internationally known, award-winning journalist, producer, and New York Times bestselling author.  As a Fox News Contributor and Editorial Advisor to the top-rated, The Ingraham Angle, he has created the popular “Seen and Unseen” and “Friday Follies” segments that have become audience favorites.  He regularly files reports for FOX and appears across the network.

As founding News Director, Managing Editor and Lead Anchor for EWTN News, he is seen in more than 350 million homes on six continents each week and heard on more than 500 AM/FM affiliates and a stand alone Sirius channel throughout the U.S.  Arroyo established EWTN News and The World Over Live in 1996, which he hosts from Washington D.C. each week.

Five of his adult books, including his biography of Mother Angelica, were all New York Times bestsellers.  His first picture book, The Spider Who Saved Christmas, was also a New York Times bestseller.  Additionally, he is author of the bestselling Will Wilder series for young readers.  In 2015, Arroyo founded Storyented.com, a literacy initiative to inspire reading by connecting the world’s great authors and their readers.  Arroyo resides in New Orleans and Washington D.C. with his wife Rebecca and their three children.

Zonderkidz™, the children’s division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imaginative, innovative and educational resources that represent a Christian worldview and build up God’s children and teens. For additional information, please visit www.zonderkidz.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’s offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.

Media Contact:
Jessica Westra, Director of Publicity, Zonderkidz, Jessica.westra@harpercollins.com, 616.403.6628
Velvet Kelm, 615.476.9933

Elk Lake Publishing nabs seven finalists for Christian Indie Awards

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Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. announces seven finalists for the Christian Indie Awards sponsored by the Christian Independent Publishers Association (CIPA).

The Elk Lake Publishing Christian Indie (CIPA) Award Finalists are:

  • Bible Study:
    Bible Study Briefs: God’s Will, Unraveling the Mystery by L. G. Westlake
  • Children’s Picture Book:
    Do Your Best, Tess! by Janet Morris Grimes
  • Children’s 8–12:
    Into the Great Marinara by Nicolas C. Day
  • Children’s 8–12:
    No Bones About It by Annette O’Hare
  • General Fiction:
    Into the Room by Steven Rogers
  • Novella:
    Awakened by T. E. Bradford
  • Speculative:
    Beneath the Deep by Andrea Chatman

Publisher Deb Haggerty said, “We have been blessed with exceptional authors who call Elk Lake home. Our family atmosphere and incredible support team make us extremely proud. And our ten finalists in the Selahs and seven in the CIPA awards show the success of our mission.”

L. Michael Morales signs series editor agreement for IVP Academic’s Essential Studies in Biblical Theology

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March 2023 | WESTMONT, IL—IVP Academic is pleased to announce that L. Michael Morales has signed a series editor agreement for new Essential Studies in Biblical Theology (ESBT) books.

Rachel Hastings, associate editor of IVP Academic, said, “Michael will continue to guide this series with his careful and thoughtful scholarship and his passion for accessible biblical theology. I’m thrilled to be working with him on the expansion of the ESBT series.”

Morales is professor of biblical studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Taylors, South Carolina. Previously he was provost and professor of Old Testament at Reformation Bible College in Sanford, Florida. He is the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus, Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?, and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption.

Essential Studies in Biblical Theology (ESBT) explores the central or “essential” themes of the Bible’s grand storyline. Taking cues from Genesis 1–3, each author teases out a unique theme throughout the entire sweep of the history of redemption. The ESBT project functions as a whole in that each theme is intentional, and each volume does not stand solely on its own merits. The individual volumes interlock with one another, and, taken together, form a complete and cohesive unit. Written for students, church leaders, and laypeople, the ESBT is intended to be an introduction to core biblical-theological themes of the Bible—accessible, yet rich in content.

Morales will take over for current ESBT series editor Benjamin L. Gladd, who will remain the editor for the ten volumes that have been contracted up to this date. Gladd’s titles include:

Gladd (PhD, Wheaton) is professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary. His publications include Hidden But Now Revealed, Making All Things New, and The Story Retold.

Contact:  Krista Clayton | 630.734.4013 | kclayton@ivpress.com

Landmark One-Volume Bible Commentary from Central and Eastern Europe launched

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3rd March 2023, Prague, Czech Republic — Readers of the Bible and followers of Christ can now gain new insights as they study Scripture thanks to a recently launched one-volume commentary on the whole Bible. The Central and Eastern European Bible Commentary (CEEBC) is the result of several years of work from over 100 Bible scholars and theologians from Central and Eastern Europe. Spanning contributions from twenty countries within the region, this is the first work of its kind.

The release of this commentary adds to the growing collection of similar volumes now published or underway in several regions of the world that have been supported by Langham Partnership — a global ministry founded by the late preacher and author John Stott. Their mission is to equip Christian leaders in the Majority World, which is where the majority of Christians reside. Over the last two decades Langham Partnership has fostered this mission through the support of major regional one-volume commentaries. To date, seven regions have produced these commentaries covering Africa, South Asia, the Slavic region, Middle East, Latin America, Central and Eastern Europe, and Central Asia with many of these regions producing them in multiple languages.

During the launch of the CEEBC at the Církev Bratrská in Prague, attendees, including many contributors, editors, local Christians, and members of the Langham Partnership, celebrated the commentary and recounted its story. Pavel Černy, a former president of the Církev Bratrská and resident of Prague, hosted the event and led the evening’s activities, which included singing, organ performances, and multiple guest speakers.

International Director of the Langham Partnership, Rev. Tayo Arikawe shared:

“It is with joy that we have come to celebrate. I want to welcome on behalf of Langham Partnership International, all the academics who have participated in this commentary, all of the leaders of different churches that have made some effort to be part of it. And the idea that there has been a lot of cross-cultural working together in this process speaks volumes.”

Local church leaders commemorated the work and attendees received a keynote address from Rev. Dr. Christopher J. H. Wright entitled, “The Whole Bible for our Whole Context.” During his speech, he reflected on the importance of the Bible to give us wisdom and lead us to salvation:

“Today, more than ever, we need the voices of all God’s people, sharing their insights, their understanding of the word of God in all its ancient power and contemporary relevance.”

As well as celebrating, it was a time of reflection and remembrance. One of the chief architects and the general editor of the CEEBC, Corneliu Constantineanu, died from COVID-19 in 2021. Dr. Constantineanu, who was loved by many, was described as a bridge builder and advocate for the necessity that Christian academia must be in service of the church, not for the sake of academia. At the time of his death, Dr. Constaneanu had completed two-thirds of his work on the commentary. His place in this project was taken on by one of the CEEBC’s theological editors, Peter Penner, who shared his thoughts on this during the launch:

“This was an attempt, which has been successful, to bring this diverse group, these diverse countries with their very different languages, together. Here Corneliu has been very instrumental in bringing together, bridging, and connecting people. In diversity, to bring unity. 

So this is one symbol; I hope it is one big step. And I hope we will follow with some more steps as we continue in this direction.”  

The commentary is now available in English, published by Langham Partnership’s official publishing house in their Langham Global Library imprint. Discussions are already underway with partners in the region for possible translations into several languages in the coming years.

Thomas Nelson releases “The Garden Children’s Bible”

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A partnership with illustrator Butch Hartman

Nashville, Tenn., March 2023 – Thomas Nelson, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, in partnership with award-winning illustrator, Butch Hartman, is pleased to announce the release of The Garden Children’s Bible. Hartman is best known for his animated works “The Fairly OddParents” and “Danny Phantom.”

The Garden Children’s Bible is based on Hartman’s new animated “The Garden” series and invites kids to understand the gospel in an entertaining and truth-centered way as they read the Scriptures alongside stunning stories and Hartman’s signature illustrations.

“I took on the assignment of drawing The Garden Children’s Bible because of one word: legacy,” says Hartman. “Children will learn the word of God through reading and enjoying this Bible for years to come and, to me, there is no greater honor than that.”  

In this Bible, as in “The Garden” series, Hartman’s characters Lenny the Lion and Lucy the Lamb provide hundreds of application notes and helpful facts in clear, easy-to-understand language. More than 100 Bible story original illustrations, and five full-color comic strips from the animated series are included as well.

“We have deeply enjoyed our partnership with Butch Hartman. He’s a faithful Christian and his deep passion for helping children place their faith in Christ is infectious,” said Philip Nation, vice president and publisher of Bibles for Thomas Nelson. “I believe that The Garden Children’s Bible will be used to draw many children into a lifelong practice of reading the Bible.”

ABOUT THE GARDEN SERIES
“The Garden” is a Christ-centered children’s cartoon series aimed at teaching kids the Gospel in a way they can understand. It features Lenny the Lion and Lucy the Lamb—two best friends who work inside a magical garden where anything can grow! Each story revolves around them having to accomplish their goals by learning a Bible story or an original song. “The Garden” will take your kids right along on these adventures, too! For additional information about “The Garden” series, visit gardencartoon.com.

ABOUT BUTCH HARTMAN
Butch Hartman is an award-winning illustrator and creator of iconic kids’ television shows, including “The Fairly Odd Parents,” “Danny Phantom,” “T.U.F.F. Puppy,” and “Bunsen is a Beast.” He is also the creator and executive producer of “The Garden” cartoon series. A dedicated Christian, he has devoted his life to redemptive storytelling. Butch lives in Los Angeles, California with his wife Julieann. They have two grown daughters, Carly and Sophia. 

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S BIBLE (ICB)
The International Children’s Bible® (ICB) is a complete translation, not a paraphrase or storybook Bible, created especially for children at the earliest reading levels (third grade and up) and provides the ideal blend of readability and fidelity to the original meaning of the Scripture text.

ABOUT THOMAS NELSON
Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational products 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: Amy Bigler, Public Relations Director, amy.bigler@harpercollins.com

NIV Value and Economy Bibles celebrate sales milestones

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Grand Rapids, Mich., March 2023 – Zondervan, a division of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, is pleased to announce two of its low-cost outreach Bibles have surpassed significant sales milestones: the NIV Economy Bible with three million units sold and the NIV Value Outreach Bible with two million units.

Zondervan began producing the NIV Economy Bible in 2014. The NIV Value Outreach Bible was first published by Zondervan in 2015, after Zondervan undertook the lead stewardship role for outreach Bibles from Biblica. With pricing under $5, both Bibles are considered low-cost options for churches and ministries. They represent a significant portion of Zondervan’s commitment of equipping churches to use Bibles as a powerful resource in their missional impact.

“We are so pleased that both of these Bibles have reached such a significant sales milestone,” said Melinda Bouma, vice president and publisher of Bibles for Zondervan. “More important than any sales figure, is the reach that these works have had in furthering the kingdom.”

The NIV Value Outreach Bible and the NIV Economy Bible use the New International Version (NIV), the most widely read Bible translation in contemporary English. The NIV is trusted for its combination of accuracy, readability, and beauty.

 

About Zondervan:
Zondervan, a worldwide leading Christian publisher of books and Bibles, is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. Its publications include a variety of Bible translations for all ages; books in different genres and subject areas for the general reader; curriculum for individual and group Bible study; books for children and young adults; academic resources including textbooks and reference books; ministry resources; and books on faith and culture. Zondervan is located in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, visit www.zondervan.com.

Contact: Amy Bigler, Public Relations Director, amy.bigler@harpercollins.com

Gateway Publishing® releases “Let It Rise” by Mary Jo Pierce, an invitation to experience a life of prayer

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(Dallas-Fort Worth, TX – March 14, 2023) Gateway Publishing is pleased to announce the release of Let It Rise: Sacred Ingredients for a Life of Prayer by Mary Jo Pierce.

God can meet you anywhere, and He met Mary Jo in her kitchen. Using something as seemingly ordinary as baking bread, God patiently taught her a whole new way to worship, pray, and enjoy His presence. He showed her how to stay connected to Him through healthy rhythms of work and rest, and He made her home a joyful house of prayer. And she realized, this isn’t just for her to experience—it’s for everyone.

Mary Jo delights in discovering the presence of God in everyday life. In this book, she shares poignant personal memories, miraculous stories, and honest reflections about Sabbath, worship, grief, friendship, and more.

“I’m delighted to share how God graciously revealed the sacred ingredients that, when mixed together, helped me develop and nurture an intentional life of prayer,” says Mary Jo. “Within these pages are practical and powerful ways to cultivate an environment to meet with God every day.”

Since the 2020 pandemic brought many people home, bread-baking has increased in popularity. Readers will be delighted to find two bread recipes included in Let It Rise: “Mary Jo’s Honey Challah” and “Let It Rise Babka.”

So what does baking bread have to do with prayer? Mary Jo explains, “Baking bread was simply the vehicle God used to enrich every part of my prayer life. Like the yeast that activates flour and causes it to rise and taste all kinds of yummy, God used this simple yet enjoyable engagement with a few ingredients to impact and influence every aspect of my life of prayer.”

This book was written during a global crisis—not just a medical crisis but also wars and rumors of wars and a battle for “One Nation Under God.” We are experiencing a powerful emerging prayer movement. Mary Jo writes, “The world is trying to cancel many things, including our voices, but the Holy Spirit can’t and won’t be canceled. Our faith will be strengthened, and we will find ourselves very Joshua-like—praying bold, courageous, and strong prayers.” Like the aroma of freshly baked bread, it’s time to let our prayers rise for our families, our churches, our communities, and our world!

Grammy-nominated artist and worship pastor Mark Harris (a close friend of Mary Jo’s) writes in the foreword of Let It Rise, “As a worship pastor, I can say what’s missing in most believers’ lives more than anything else is rest. We’re caught up in the busyness of life. We’re pouring out and not receiving or refilling. We’re talking and not listening. But we need to slow down. I know firsthand how unhealthy it is to not pause and honor the Sabbath each week. We can’t afford to miss God’s presence or rest. Mary Jo is the voice the Church needs right now.” He goes on to say, “It doesn’t matter whether you love being in the kitchen or not. It doesn’t matter if you’re male or female, old or young—God is inviting us all to the table to be with Him. No matter what stage of life you’re in, I know you will find incredible wisdom to apply to your life within these pages.”

Dutch Sheets, founder of Dutch Sheets Ministries and author of Intercessory Prayer, has known Mary Jo for many years. He says, “Some authors and teachers are well-informed, diligent students and, therefore, can dispense good information. Then there are those who have actually fleshed out the teaching, put their theories to the test until they are proven, and are now laced with wisdom. These are the leaders who can say with genuine authority, ‘Here’s what works.’ Mary Jo has mixed the ingredients, kneaded the dough, seasoned it with experience, and baked the bread. You can trust her.”

Mary Jo Pierce, author and speaker, resides in Keller, Texas, with her husband of 44 years, Bruce, and their two Maltese puppies, Honor and Glory. She is a lifelong student of prayer and intercession, and she delights in discovering the presence of God in everyday life as she shares her passion for prayer, intercession, and Sabbath. Mary Jo loves using every tool available to inspire and exhort people in their prayer lives, including teaching, mentoring, writing, photography, social media, and especially, baking bread! She served as the pastor of prayer and intercession at Gateway Church in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, for more than 17 years. Mary Jo’s previous books Adventures in Prayer: A 40-Day Journey and Follow Me: An Unending Conversation with Jesus have inspired and unlocked the pure joy of living prayer and studying the Scriptures for thousands of people around the world. For more teachings on prayer and intercession, as well as stories and recipes from her kitchen, connect with Mary Jo on her website (MaryJoPierce.com) or on social media (maryjo_pierce.)

For more information, to receive a copy of Let It Rise, or to schedule an interview with Mary Jo Pierce, contact:  Peyton Sepeda, publishing@gatewaypeople.com, 855.712.5774, gatewaypublishing.com

Available now at Amazon, GatewayPublishing.com, store.gatewaypeople.com, and all eBook retailers.

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