With the announcement of the passing of Marilyn Hickey, Whitaker Corporation recalls and celebrates the author’s impactful life—one spent devoted to teaching others and spreading the Word of God.

(Pittsburgh, PA – April 30, 2026) — Beloved evangelist and minister Marilyn Hickey passed away at 94 on Saturday, April 25, 2026. With over five decades in ministry, the founder of Marilyn Hickey Ministries and host of Today with Marilyn & Sarah reached billions of people around the world. Her influential work was formally recognized with a Lifetime Global Achievement Award from Oral Roberts University, the International Lifetime Peace Award from the Grand Imam and President of Pakistan, and the Pillar of Faith and the Smith Wigglesworth awards from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary.

“With the passing of Marilyn Hickey, we mourn the loss of a truly remarkable servant of God,” says Bob Whitaker Jr., president of Whitaker Corporation. “Her life was a testament to the love of God’s Word and exemplified integrity.

“I recall hearing her preach many years ago about Balaam and his attempts to curse the people of Israel. One quote that has resonated with me for nearly two decades is, ‘You can’t curse what God has blessed.’ Marilyn lived her life as a devoted servant, continually embracing and sharing the blessings of God.”

Whitaker Corporation worked with Marilyn Hickey for over thirty-five years, initially helping distribute her products through Marilyn Hickey Ministries. In 2009, Whitaker House published her best-selling title Names of God, which continues to impact readers worldwide to this day.

Whitaker House Publisher Christine Whitaker says, “Marilyn Hickey lived and breathed the Word of God. She committed to memorize Scripture throughout her life and powerfully taught the Bible in Spirit and truth. Her love of God radiated to all those around her.”

Marilyn’s impact worldwide—through teaching, missions, and TV ministries—will continue to live on through her many publications, recordings, and the countless people she inspired.

The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Whitaker Corporation are with her daughter, pastor Sarah Bowling, and the rest of Marilyn Hickey’s family.

Media Contact: Kate MacGregor, Kate.macgregor@whitakerhouse.com

Planning a wedding can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, exhausting, and stressful. Between endless decisions, parties, and life changes, it’s easy to forget about what a wedding is all about: the joining of two hearts for a lifetime.

This beautiful book helps brides keep the real meaning of marriage – the celebration of lifelong relationships – at the center of it all. Inside, you’ll find 30 entries with a meaningful Scripture, a focused prayer, and space to reflect and journal.

You’ll pray over all the aspects of a wedding that matter most, including:

• The joining of two families into one story
• A wedding day where God’s presence is felt in every detail
• Truly seeing and hearing the man you are about to marry
• Freedom from the pressure of “perfect” and the grace to embrace what is real
• Confidence and joy as you walk down the aisle
• A vision for the lifetime that begins when the last guest goes home

Amid the chaos and stress, this book is a gift that brings peace and joy, reminding every bride that a wedding is only one day, but a marriage is forever.

Michelle Medlock Adams is an inspirational speaker and a best-selling author of more than 100 books, including Dinosaur Devotions, The Christmas Devotional and Dachshund Through the Snow. She is also a New York Times best-selling ghostwriter and has won more than 90 industry awards, including an ECPA Christian Book Award® for Our God is Bigger Than That! Michelle is married to her high school sweetheart, Jeff, and they have two married daughters, six adorable grandchildren, and two spoiled miniature dachshunds. When not writing or teaching writing, she enjoys cheering on Indiana University in sports, watching Doris Day movies, and all things leopard print. www.michellemedlockadams.com

Carol Stream, IL – Tyndale House Publishers is celebrating multiple ECPA awards, including a Christian Book Award® and five Bronze Sales Awards.

Christian Book Award®, Children’s category:

Hello! My Name Is Emmanuel by Emmanuel Jean Russell; illustrated by Martina Stuhlberger (9781496488442). Born in Haiti, Emmanuel was raised by his loving grandmother, who often reminded him that his name means “God is with us.” His life changed when he was adopted by the Kingsbury family, and through his journey of adoption, Emmanuel discovered not only the true meaning of his name but also the constant presence of God in his life.

“Emmanuel’s story is not only powerful for adopted and multicultural children but for any child who wonders whether God is truly with them through every circumstance,” says Talia Messina, kids acquisitions editor at Tyndale. “This essential truth is woven throughout his journey from Haiti to his forever family in the United States.”

The Christian Book Award® program recognizes the highest quality in Christian books and Bibles and is among the oldest and most prestigious awards program in the religious publishing industry. Presented annually to the finest in Christian publishing since 1978, the Christian Book Award® program honors the “best of the year” in 12 categories.

ECPA Bronze Milestone Sales Awards:

The Dead Sea Squirrels: Squirreled Away by Mike Nawrocki; illustrated by Luke Séguin-Magee (9781496434982). The Dead Sea Squirrels series has captivated young readers with its blend of humor, adventure, and faith-building lessons, following two 2,000-year-old squirrels navigating the modern world. Now spanning 13 books, the series continues to engage a growing audience of early readers. Squirreled Away, book one in the series written by VeggieTales co-creator Mike Nawrocki, has now sold over 100,000 copies.

New Living Translation Bibles:

The Daily Walk Bible takes readers through the Word one day at a time in easy, bite-sized readings with guided reflections at the end of each week (9781496483041).

NLT Wide Margin Bible is great for note-taking, journaling, recording prayers, doodling, drawing, or any other creative expression of faith in response to God’s Word
(9781496484017).

NLT One Year Chronological Study Bible arranges Scripture in the order of its historical events, enabling readers to read the story of the Bible from beginning to end in 365 days (9781496456854).

Nueva Traducción Viviente Bible:

Biblia Inspira NTV is the Spanish version of the Inspire Bible, the bestselling coloring Bible in English. This wide margin Bible designed for coloring and creative journaling features over 400 beautiful line-art illustrations created by Latin American artists to inspire creativity while you read the Word of God (9798400509537).

“We’re thrilled to celebrate the impact these Tyndale Bibles have made in the lives of thousands of readers since their release,” says Jeff Gissing, Bible acquisitions director at Tyndale. “Our team is passionate about helping people engage more deeply in God’s Word, and each of these products has done so in distinct and creative ways over a sustained period of time. It’s wonderful to see!”

The ECPA Milestone Sales Awards recognize outstanding sales achievement in the publication of quality Christian literature. The Bronze Award recognizes titles having sold over 100,000 copies.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Andrea Martin, Sr. Director of Public Relations, andreamartin@tyndale.com.

Since 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has positively impacted readers worldwide. Tyndale is one of the world’s largest independent Christian publishers, dedicated to making the Bible accessible in languages people relate to and understand. Tyndale publishes the New Living Translation (NLT) and other Bible translations, nonfiction books that offer Christ-centered insight, fiction that inspires, and children’s resources that help share God’s Word with the next generation. Tyndale’s independence enables it to honor its founding model through annual grants and donations to other charitable organizations around the world, totaling more than half of the funds generated through publishing operations.

Established in 1990, the ECPA Milestone Sales Award program recognizes outstanding sales achievement in the publication of quality Christian literature. For more information, visit the Awards menu at ECPA.org.

ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association) is an international nonprofit 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 members can more effectively produce and deliver transformational Christian content. ECPA.org

Media Contact:  Andrea Martin, andreamartin@tyndale.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Lifeway Christian Resources trustees unanimously elected Dr. Ryan Blackwell as the organization’s 11th president and CEO during a special-called meeting April 22 in Nashville.

“I’m deeply humbled and grateful to be given this opportunity by the trustees. Lifeway has a long and faithful history of serving churches, and I’m honored to step into this role at such a pivotal time,” Blackwell said. “I love the local church and believe deeply in its mission. My heart is to serve pastors and church leaders by helping provide biblically faithful resources that strengthen discipleship and advance the gospel.”

Blackwell, 42, comes to Lifeway from his role as executive pastor and teaching pastor at Cross Church in Springdale, Arkansas, where he has served since 2020. During his tenure, Blackwell provided leadership development, strategic planning and organizational alignment as the church grew from 7,000 to more than 11,000 in weekly attendance and expanded to a fourth campus. Prior to joining the staff at Cross Church, he served as senior pastor at First Baptist Church of San Francisco for nearly a decade, leading the revitalization of this historic congregation from 2010-2019.

A native of Arkansas, Blackwell grew up at Cross Church and previously served as its pastor of young adults. He has served in local church ministry for more than 20 years, including various ministry roles at churches in California, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

“When I look back over the ministry journey the Lord has taken me on, I can see how faithful He has been in every season,” Blackwell said. “I’ve had the opportunity to serve in different churches and contexts and to learn through seasons of growth and change. At the same time, I’m very aware I have nothing to offer apart from the Spirit’s power at work.”

Candidate committed to Lifeway’s mission

The election of Blackwell follows an eight-month search led by the presidential search committee composed of seven trustees approved by the full board in July 2025. Billy Stewart, chair of the search committee, commented on Blackwell’s election.

“The search committee and I couldn’t be more thrilled that Ryan will serve as the 11th president and CEO of Lifeway. After diligently seeking the Lord throughout this important assignment, we are convinced Ryan is an innovative leader who will shepherd Lifeway into the future with a clear sense of purpose,” Stewart said. “He is committed to Lifeway’s mission to honor God and serve churches by designing trustworthy experiences that fuel ministry. We believe him to be God’s man to lead Lifeway ‘for such a time as this.’”

Trustee chair James Carroll agreed with Stewart saying, “I didn’t know Ryan prior to our search process. In a relatively short time, however, I’ve grown to respect him as a leader, trust him as a ministry partner, and love him as a brother,” Carroll said. “I’m thankful for his humble spirit, theological conviction, thoughtful curiosity and commitment to the local church, and I’m excited for Lifeway’s future under his leadership, oversight and care.”

Blackwell will assume the role of Lifeway president on June 1, succeeding Joe Walker, who has served as interim president since July 2025.

Southern Baptist leaders respond

Blackwell’s childhood friend and senior pastor of Cross Church, Dr. Nick Floyd, was among the first to endorse Blackwell’s nomination. “Ryan’s heart beats for the local church, and I’m confident of his ability to lead Lifeway into a bright future of serving churches worldwide,” Floyd said. “While this transition is a significant loss for Cross Church, it is a massive win for Lifeway and Southern Baptists.”

Upon hearing of Blackwell’s candidacy, other Southern Baptist leaders shared their appreciation for Blackwell’s character and leadership in the local church.

“Ryan leads out of his authentic walk with Jesus. He lives with humility and confidence,” said Dr. Hance Dilbeck, president and CEO of Guidestone. “He has proven to be effective in a variety of ministry settings. I know Ryan loves the local church and is deeply committed to helping our churches make disciples of Jesus.”

Dr. Richard Melick, distinguished professor of New Testament at Gateway Seminary, echoed Dilbeck’s enthusiasm. “I’ve been privileged to work with Ryan in both academics and church. He is a multi-gifted man and a capable leader who displays both confidence and a humble spirit,” said Melick. “Ryan possesses strong executive and administrative skills, which have been evident everywhere he has been.”

‘A man of keen vision’

The search committee noted Blackwell’s humility, innovation, wisdom and strategic vision, as qualities that make him uniquely suited to this role.

“Ryan is a man of keen vision, great humility, tremendous wisdom and effective leadership,” Stewart said. “He distinguished himself from other candidates with his diverse pastoral experiences, his demonstrated ability to build successful operations and organizational culture even in complex situations, and his thoughtful and strategic vision for the future of Lifeway. We believe Ryan has the capacity to broaden Lifeway’s reach with the gospel of Jesus Christ, while at the same time preserving Lifeway’s distinct culture and ministry within the Southern Baptist Convention.”

In addition to Stewart, of Jackson, Mississippi, trustees appointed to the search committee include Beth Greene from Knoxville, Tennessee; Madeline Harris from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Caleb Iorg from Portland, Oregon; Michael Schmidt from Reno, Nevada; and Rob Sumrall from Elizabethtown, Kentucky, James Carroll, from Bardstown, Kentucky, is an ex officio member in his role as Lifeway chair.

Stewart said the search committee prayerfully worked together united by their shared commitment to identify a president who would honor Lifeway’s heritage of serving churches.

“In every meeting and every conversation, it was never lost on us the gravity of the significance of the charge given to us by the Board of Trustees,” Stewart said. “However, we were consistently reminded, and rightfully so, that we were really not leading this search; we were simply following the leadership of the Holy Spirit. So, to Him belongs all the glory, honor and praise for today’s great announcement!”

Blackwell graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in Religion. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from Gateway Seminary.

Blackwell and his wife, Rachel, have been married since 2006 and have three children—Brady, Allie and Mae.

Blackwell shared his anticipation and excitement for Lifeway’s future. “We have a real opportunity to serve churches in a rapidly changing ministry landscape,” Blackwell said. “My desire is for Lifeway to continue building on its strong foundation while finding new ways to equip leaders, reach the next generation and help churches make disciples. I’m excited to listen, learn and lead alongside this team as we serve Southern Baptist churches and other believers around the world.”

In operation since 1891, Lifeway Christian Resources is one of the leading providers of Christian resources, including Bibles, books, Bible studies, group curriculum, Christian music and movies, Vacation Bible School and church supplies, as well as camps and events for all ages. Lifeway is the world’s largest provider of Spanish Bibles. Based in Brentwood, Tennessee, Lifeway operates as a self-supporting nonprofit. For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

Media Contact:  Carol Pipes, Carol.Pipes@lifeway.com, 678.360.4197

Douglas Kaine McKelvey, bestselling author of the Every Moment Holy series, brings his hard-won spiritual insight and literary depth to WaterBrook with Wrestling Angels. Known for giving language to the sorrows, hopes, and holy longings of everyday believers, McKelvey now turns to one of the most disorienting struggles of the Christian life: what to make of the disappointments, frustrations, and discouragements that seem to call our sense of purpose into question.

Drawing from Scripture, reflection, and stories from his own creative and spiritual journey, McKelvey makes the counterintuitive case that those very struggles may be among the strongest confirmations of divine calling. Rather than proof that something has gone wrong, our hardships reveal God is at work more deeply than we imagined.

World rights were acquired by Will Parker Anderson, Senior Editor at WaterBrook and Multnomah, for publication in Fall 2027, from Don Pape at Pape Commons.

For rights and inquiries, please contact Denise Cronin decronin@penguinrandomhouse.com.

Break Free from Hidden Spiritual Chains:  

Book Releasing June 9 Invites Readers to Discover Keys to Renewing Their Minds, Breaking Destructive Patterns, Stepping Into Abundant Life God Designed

Nashville, TN, April 23, 2026 – Allen Parr, a prominent YouTube creator of The BEAT and an ordained pastor, announces the release of his transformative new book, Breaking Through: How Ordinary Believers Experience Extraordinary Freedom (June 9, 2026, Nelson Books/ Thomas Nelson). This essential guide offers believers practical, biblical strategies for identifying and breaking spiritual, emotional, and relational chains. Parr wrote the book to help Christians who feel stuck in their faith finally experience true, lasting freedom and step boldly into their divine purpose.

Breaking Through is a powerful manual for spiritual liberation. The book reveals the specific “soul chains” that hold believers captive—including toxic thoughts, unforgiveness, and distorted identity. The core message empowers readers to move beyond merely modifying their behavior. Instead, it teaches them to fundamentally renew their minds with God’s truth, leading to permanent transformation.

In a culture overwhelmed by anxiety, constant comparison, and hidden struggles, many Christians quietly battle recurring patterns of defeat. Parr addresses this modern epidemic directly by offering holistic healing and practical spiritual weapons for everyday life. The book proves that true freedom is not the absence of struggle but the power to overcome it through Christ, offering a timely antidote to the despair many face today.

Parr brings immense credibility and reach to this project. As the founder of The BEAT (Biblical Encouragement And Truth) on YouTube, he reaches millions of viewers worldwide. His digital ministry equips believers with clear, accessible biblical literacy. This massive platform makes him a trusted, influential voice in the modern Christian landscape.

“True freedom is not the absence of struggle but the power to overcome it through Christ. God is not waiting for our perfection,” says Parr. “He is waiting for our surrender.”

On Sale June 9, 2026
Nelson Books/Thomas Nelson / HARDCOVER / ISBN: 978-1400239795

About the Author:
Allen Parr is a trusted national speaker, author, ordained minister, and the creator of one of the most impactful Christian YouTube channels today. As a proud graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, where he earned his Master of Theology degree in 2004, Allen brings deep biblical scholarship to everyday faith. He has served extensively in local church ministry, including pivotal roles as a worship pastor and pastor of Christian education.

Today, Allen is best known for his massive digital footprint. His popular YouTube channel, The BEAT (Biblical Encouragement And Truth), reaches millions of believers around the globe. Through engaging, easy-to-understand videos, he encourages Christians to live out their true calling. He applies timeless biblical wisdom to modern cultural challenges, making scripture accessible to a wide audience.

Beyond his YouTube success, Allen is the co-founder of Let’s Equip, a nonprofit organization he leads alongside his wife, Jennifer. Let’s Equip provides courses and curriculum designed to boost biblical literacy and foster spiritual growth for both individuals and Christian organizations.

As a gifted communicator, Allen travels nationally to speak and equip other content creators to utilize digital media to fulfill the Great Commission. He combines theological depth with a relatable, accessible teaching style. Allen, Jennifer, and their two children live in Texas, where they continue their mission to empower the global church.

YouTube 1.36M

About Nelson Books:
Nelson Books, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, is an industry leader in Christian nonfiction publishing. Nelson Books publishes a diverse array of leaders, experts, and creatives, crafting biblically informed and spiritually fresh books from a Christian perspective that enliven, educate, and encourage readers. The Nelson Books roster of bestselling authors includes Max Lucado, Lysa TerKeurst, Tim Tebow, John Mark Comer, John & Stasi Eldredge, Jennie Allen, Jefferson Bethke, Bob Goff, Ruth Chou Simons, Tyler Staton, Jason Wilson, Christine Caine, Zach Windahl, and Carlos Whittaker.

MEDIA:
Maureen Hoganson, MaureenHoganson@comcast.net, Hoganson Media Relations, 615-542-4458
Lisa Beech, Senior Director of Publicity, Nelson Books, Lisa.Beech@harpercollins.com, 719-439-9403

Lineup includes books from Tammy Trent, D.J. Williams, and Kristin and Montell Jordan

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., April 23, 2026—Fall 2026 releases from Christian publisher David C Cook will feature titles from multiple bestselling and award-winning authors in the Christian and religious book space.

New titles to be released this fall include:

●     Where Are You Now, God? by Tammy Trent (Sept. 1, 2026)—Speaker, recording artist, television host and author Tammy Trent shares her own faith journey to encourage women to trust in God during difficult life seasons. With her trademark warmth and light-hearted spirit, Tammy uses practical tools and an honest exploration of Scripture to help women rediscover the unshakable truth that God is good, powerful, and always close to those who call on Him.

●     Shiloh and the Not-So-Scary Girl Above His Bed by recording artist and pastor Montell Jordan and Kristin Jordan (Sept. 1, 2026)—This rhyming picture book helps parents guide children ages 3–7 to fight their fears with faith. As Shiloh discovers, God didn’t make us to be afraid. He made us strong, loving, and brave. With God on our side, fear and smelly feet don’t stand a chance.

●     Art of the Margins by D.J. Williams (Oct. 20, 2026)—In a culture that often measures creative worth by visibility, D.J. Williams offers a counter-narrative: true artistry is not sustained by applause, it is shaped in the quiet places where we meet God. Across thirty cinematic chapters blending personal history, Scripture and cultural insight, this story-driven manifesto calls creatives to embrace obscurity as the birthplace of purpose and to create from conviction, live from a deeper sense of purpose and make a lasting impact, even from the unseen.

“Our authors have a gift for instilling God’s truth at every stage of life,” said Linda Howard, executive publisher at David C Cook. “Each of our titles offers something distinct, but they all share a common thread: helping people connect more deeply with God and each other.”

About David C Cook
Part of the Cook Media Global family, David C Cook Publishing engages believers, and those exploring faith, through biblically centered content to grow in Christ while strengthening the global Church to fulfill the Great Commission. Read more about David C Cook and its global ministry outreach at davidccook.org.

Contact:  Alli Ehrhardt, 541.973.1994

NASHVILLE, TN (February 18, 2026) — Editorial Vida, Grupo Nelson, and Clie, the Spanish-language publishing imprints of HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP), won 14 awards across at the 2026 Spanish Evangelical Publishers Association (SEPA) awards ceremony.

The winning titles span a wide range of categories — from marriage and family to fiction, Bible study to young adult — reflecting the breadth and depth of HCCP’s Spanish-language publishing program and its continued commitment to equipping readers across generations.

“Today, we celebrate, with deep gratitude, the 47 nominations that resulted in 14 wins in 13 categories, reaffirming our call to continue creating content that impacts lives and transcend generations,” said Cristopher Garrido, Vice President and Publisher, for HCCP’s Spanish publishing program. “We acknowledge God’s faithfulness, as well as the excellence and dedication of our authors who have entrusted their work to us. I’m also grateful for the tireless efforts of our editorial, marketing and sales teams, as well as our distributors and bookstores that make it possible for these books and Bibles to reach millions of readers.”

The winning titles are:

Categoría Matrimonio y familia (Marriage and Family)

• La transformación total de su dinero, Actualizada y ampliada (Total Money Makeover, Updated and Expanded) by Dave Ramsey | Grupo Nelson/HarperEnfoque

Categoría Liderazgo (Leadership)

• ¡Yo pude y tú puedes! (I Could And You Can, Too!) by Margarita Pasos | Grupo Nelson/HarperEnfoque

Categoría Vida Cristiana (Christian Living)

• Batallas silenciosas (Hidden Battles) by David Scarpeta | Editorial Vida

Categoría Libro Jóvenes (Young Adult)

• Viviendo Su voluntad (Living His Will) by Sebastián Franz | Editorial Vida

Categoría Estudio Bíblico (Bible Study)

• Israel, el reloj profético de Dios (Israel, God’s Prophetic Clock) by Jahaziel Rodríguez | Editorial Vida

Categoría Libro Ficción (Fiction)

• El león, la bruja y el ropero (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) by C. S. Lewis | Grupo Nelson

Categoría Biblia de Texto (Text Bible)

• RVR60, Santa Biblia, Premio y Regalo, Letra grande (RVR60, Holy Bible, Gift and Award, Large Print) | Editorial Vida

Categoría Libro de Referencia o Consulta (Reference or Study)

• Pneumatología (Pneumatology) by Samuel Pérez Millos | Editorial CLIE

CATEGORÍAS GENERALES (GENERAL CATEGORIES)

Mejor Portada de Libro — Libro General (Best Book Cover — General)

• Batallas silenciosas (Hidden Battles) by David Scarpeta | Editorial Vida

Mejor Portada y Diseño Interior de Biblia — Estudio o Referencia (Best Bible Cover and Interior Design — Study or Reference)

• RVR Biblia de estudio trasfondo cultural (RVR Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible) | Editorial Vida

Mejor Pieza Publicitaria (Best Print/Digital Ad)

• El león, la bruja y el ropero — Bilingual Board Book (The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe — Bilingual Board Book) | Grupo Nelson

GALERÍA DE HONOR (GALLERY OF HONOR)

Premio Plata — Más de 100,000 ejemplares (Silver Award — 100,000+ Copies Sold)

• RVR, Nuevo Testamento «Novedad de Vida», Tapa rústica (RVR, New Testament “New Life,” Softcover) | Editorial Vida

Premio Oro — Más de 250,000 ejemplares (Gold Award — 250,000+ Copies Sold)

• Historia de la iglesia cristiana por Jesse Hurlbut (History of the Christian Church) | Editorial Vida
• Promesas de Dios para cada una de tus necesidades (God’s Promises for Your Every Need) | Grupo Nelson

The Spanish Evangelical Publishers Association (SEPA) announced the winners on April 23 during a ceremony held at the Hilton Blue Lagoon Hotel in Miami. The event took place during the 2026 SEPA Conference, which brings together booksellers, distributors, and the most prominent Hispanic publishers within the Christian literature sector across Ibero-America.

For more information on the 2026 SEPA awards, please visit its website.

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing
HarperCollins Christian Publishing is the world’s leading Christian publisher, committed to inspiring the world through the reading of Scripture and the telling of stories that reflect a biblical worldview. Its Spanish-language imprints — Editorial Vida, Grupo Nelson, HarperEnfoque, and distributed partner Editorial CLIE — serve millions of Spanish-speaking readers around the globe with resources that equip, encourage, and transform lives.

Contact: Erin Crum, HarperCollins Publishers, Erin.Crum@harpercollins.com 

Ada, Mich. (April 24, 2026)—Baker Publishing Group is pleased to announce the promotion of Brian Bolger, who will serve as Vice President of Academic Publishing, overseeing both Baker Academic and Brazos Press. This position fills the vacancy created by Jim Kinney’s upcoming retirement on July 3, 2026, after thirty years with the company.

Bolger began at Baker Publishing Group in 1996 as an editorial assistant and has worked in acquisitions and editorial for Baker Academic and Brazos, most recently as Senior Managing Editor.

Kinney joined Baker Publishing Group in 1996, following eight years at Eisenbrauns, and for twenty-seven of his years at the company, he led Baker Academic, building it into one of the leading independent Christian academic publishers in North America. Under his leadership, Baker Academic has reached new sales heights in recent years, and Brazos—which he developed alongside Editorial Director Katelyn Beaty—is likewise posting record results.

“Brian has been with us since the beginning of Baker Academic and Brazos Press and has built our outstanding editorial department. I look forward to seeing what he and the rest of my colleagues will accomplish in the years ahead,” said Kinney.

Bolger steps into the role at a time of significant growth for the academic program. Baker Academic expanded its list through the recent acquisition of Lexham Press and prepared for this transition by adding to its acquisitions staff in 2025, promoting Dustyn Keepers and hiring Kristen Padilla and Jennifer Guo.

“We’re extremely grateful to Jim Kinney for his contributions to our company and in particular for his remarkable leadership over Baker Academic and Brazos. The growth and reputation of these programs are a testament to his wise stewardship,” said Jesse Myers, CEO of Baker Publishing Group. “Under Brian’s leadership, I’m confident these teams will continue to build upon that legacy.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Kinney added: “This is a bittersweet time for me, but the overwhelming feeling I have is gratitude for the opportunities I’ve been given and the kindness shown to me by so many people along the way. I hope to extend that kindness to others as I embark on a new season of life.”

Baker Academic serves the academy and the church by publishing works that further the pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom within the context of Christian faith.

Baker Publishing Group publishes high-quality writings that represent historic Christianity and serve the diverse interests and concerns of evangelical readers.

Contact: Shelly MacNaughton, (616) 450-5560, smacnaughton@bakerpublishinggroup.com

[Minneapolis, MN — April 2026]  Widow’s Might, a 365-day devotional by Rachel Faulkner Brown, has been named a finalist in the Devotion & Gift category of the 2026 Christian Book Awards®, presented by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA).

Among the most prestigious honors in Christian publishing, the Christian Book Awards® recognize excellence in content, design, and impact. Finalists represent the “best of the year,” highlighting works that communicate a distinctly Christian message with meaningful influence.

Since its release, Widow’s Might has sparked a growing movement of connection and hope for widows. Its impact has helped launch Seen, a video-driven Bible study created by widows for widows and fueled rapid expansion of local communities—now nearly 90 nationwide, with a new international chapter in Germany. In 2025, more than 500 widows gathered in Atlanta for the largest event of its kind in U.S. history.

“Having this book nominated reminds me that God is committed to ensuring widows are seen,” said Brown. “Every 31 seconds, a woman becomes a widow in this country.”

Widow’s Might offers daily Scripture-based encouragement and hope for women navigating grief.

Available wherever books are sold.

Media Contact:
Suzanne Niles
Suzanne.niles@broadstreetpublishing.com
213.434.3331
www.broadstreetpublishing.com