16 International Artists Collaborate for a Unique Bible Story Experience 

LOVELAND, CO — Illustrated Bibles and story Bibles have traditionally been targeted solely at children. But in an age of declining scriptural literacy, a new book aims to bring Bible stories to a more grown-up audience.

Eyewitness: The Visual Bible Experience is a 256-page, fully illustrated coffee table book that brings to life 39 Bible stories and beloved Scripture passages. Containing more than 120 original works of art by 16 artists from around the world, Eyewitness offers Biblical narratives written from the perspective of the people in the stories. Eyewitness releases on September 1.

“Research has shown that most people don’t read the Bible much, if at all,” said author Jeff White, who wrote an illustrated story Bible for children in 2017 called Friends With God Story Bible. “Many adults admit that the Bible feels intimidating. They aren’t sure how to read the Bible, how to understand it, or even where to start with it. Eyewitness is an effort to change that.”

The book presents most of the major stories in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, with roughly half of the stories from the Old Testament and half from the New Testament. Eyewitness also features many stories by female characters, with about one-third representing women.

One distinctive aspect of the book is that each story has been rewritten from a first-person perspective. All the Bible characters—from Adam and Eve to Moses, Esther, and even Jesus himself—tell their own stories from their unique points of view.

“The entire book is really a giant exercise in empathy. The first-person approach makes the stories highly relatable because you discover that these Bible characters are far more like us—average, everyday folks—than we usually assume,” White said. “The results are rather surprising.”

Publisher Thom Schultz believes the art will draw a lot of people to the book.

“We recruited artists from 13 different countries on four continents to be a part of this project,” said Schultz, the president and founder of Group. “We wanted to present the Bible with images that readers have never seen before—something original, compelling, and even a bit unexpected. We’re thrilled with what these very creative and culturally diverse artists have dreamed up.”

The artists—all professional, full-time illustrators—come from all over the globe, including Greece, Indonesia, Spain, Colombia, Poland, Brazil, Canada, Italy, Argentina, Turkey, Russia, and the U.K.

The publisher enlisted the help of veteran Bible curriculum editors and Bible scholars to ensure that every story and passage interpretation remained true to Scripture. What one reads in Eyewitness is the same thing one would read in the Bible itself, except that it’s retold with an engaging, conversational quality.

Group Publishing has produced a wide variety of Bible- and Jesus-based resources for more than 45 years, including the world’s most popular vacation Bible school programs and the bestselling Jesus-Centered Bible. Eyewitness is published under Group’s Lifetree imprint.

For more information, please contact Karen Hennings at 970-292-4131, or visit www.group.com and www.experienceeyewitness.com.

CONTACT: Karen Hennings, 970-292-4131, khennings@group.com

[NASHVILLE, TENN., August 19, 2020—] B&H Publishing is proud to announce its acquisition of writer and Bible teacher Amy Gannett for an adult trade book and several children’s board books.

Gannett’s adult trade book, tentatively titled “Fix Your Eyes” and set for publication in September 2021, will walk believers through key theological concepts and show how each can be lived out in a daily life of discipleship.

“Our pursuit of worshiping God has to be founded on our knowledge of him,” said Gannett. “Our worship needs to have deep roots in the Word of God. And the more we learn about him, the more we should find within ourselves a worshipful posture of humble surrender and obedience.”

An experienced leader and teacher, Gannett has created a variety of resources for believers. She is the founder of Tiny Theologians, which offers training tools that will help parents and children’s ministries pass on the Christian faith to the next generation. She also created Take Root Seminars and The Rooted Home Bible studies. In addition to writing regularly on her blog and to her social media followers, she has also written for top Christian media outlets including The Gospel Coalition, For the Church and Risen Motherhood.

“Amy is a strong, vibrant and deep theological thinker whose passion for biblical and doctrinal literacy is a force to be reckoned with,” said Ashley Gorman, B&H associate publisher. “Her work drips with an undeniable love for God, his Word and his people, and her determination to help others grow in their spiritual maturity is inspiring. Her writing carries a certain quality that can only come from years spent in the pages of the Bible, and her debut book will compel readers far and wide to fix their eyes on the one it reveals.”

Gannett will also write three children’s board books that are all slated for publication in February 2022, with the theme being God’s attributes and character qualities.

“B&H Kids is thrilled to partner with Amy, who has a passion and talent for connecting even the youngest readers with sound theology,” said Michelle Freeman, B&H Kids Publisher. “This upcoming board-book series—simple in format yet rich in message—will be welcomed not only by fans of Amy’s Tiny Theologians brand but also by any parents hoping to teach their little ones to know and love God fully.”

Gannett’s contract was negotiated by Austin Wilson with Wolgemuth and Associates, with worldwide rights.  For more information, visit bhpublishing.com

Amy Gannett (M.Div, Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary) is a speaker, writer and Bible teacher. She has authored several exegetical Bible studies (amygannett.com) and is the founder of Tiny Theologians.

B&H Publishing Group, an imprint of LifeWay Christian Resources, is a team of mission minded people with a passion for taking God’s Word to the world. Because we believe Every Word Matters® we seek to provide intentional, Bible-centered content that positively impacts the hearts and minds of people, inspiring them to build a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ. Among our print and digital releases for the trade, church and academic markets, titles include “The New York Times” No. 1 bestsellers “The Love Dare” and “The Vow,” No. 1 CBA bestseller “I Am a Church Member,” as well as the newly-revised Christian Standard Bible (CSB) version.

Iron Stream Media (ISM) is pleased to announce that four of our authors have been honored at the 2020 Golden Scroll and Christian Market Book Awards at AWSA’s (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) virtual awards ceremony on Saturday, August 15, 2020.

ISM’s 2020 Golden Scroll Awards were as follows:

• The Devotional Book of the Year was awarded to Lucinda Secrest McDowell for Life-Giving Choices: 60 Days to What Matters Most;
• Second place for the Christian Living Book of the Year was awarded to Tina Yeager for Beautiful Warrior: Finding Victory Over the Lies Formed Against You;
• Third place for the Christian Living Book of the Year was awarded to Lucinda Secrest McDowell for Soul Strong: 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life.

This is the inaugural year for the Christian Market Book Awards, open to all authors who publish in the Christian market.

ISM’s 2020 Christian Market Awards were as follows:

• Christian Market Nonfiction Book of the Year went to Lauren Crews for Strength of a Woman: Why You are Proverbs 31;
• Second place for the Christian Market Nonfiction Book of the Year was awarded to Rhonda Robinson for FreeFall: Holding onto Faith When the Unthinkable Strikes.

ISM also offers congratulations to Janet McHenry, this year’s recipient of the Jennifer Kennedy Dean Award, which is named for the author of the Live a Praying Life, ISM’s best selling book for many years. According to AWSA’s founder, Linda Evans Shepherd, “This special award recognizes someone who carries the light with excellence to a hurting world.”

Iron Stream Media derives its name from Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This sharpening describes the process of discipleship, one to another. Iron Stream Media provides a variety of solutions for churches, ministry leaders, and nonprofits that include in-depth Bible study curriculum, Christian book publishing, and consultative services. Iron Stream Media is the home of New Hope Publishers, Iron Stream Books, Ascender Books, LPC Books, and New Hope Kidz. Through the popular Life Bible Study and Student Life Bible Study brands, they also provide web-based, full-year and short-term Bible study teaching plans as well as printed devotionals, Bibles, and discipleship curriculum.

Nashville, August 13, 2020 – The headquarters building of The United Methodist Publishing House (UMPH) in Nashville, TN remains closed due to the coronavirus emergency. The John Dickins House offices have been closed and UMPH staff have worked remotely since mid-March, and the earliest the building could reopen is the end of September, contingent upon COVID-19 developments.

Meeting July 31, 2020 via teleconference, the UMPH Board of Directors approved a plan to transition to a permanent remote work arrangement. UMPH management will use the next weeks to fashion appropriate solutions to assure staff effectiveness and efficient operations, and to evaluate options regarding the future use of the New House Commons campus facilities.

WESTMONT, IL—D. Michael Lindsay, president of Gordon College and author of the Pulitzer Prize nominee Faith in the Halls of Power, has signed a contract with InterVarsity Press to release his next book, Hinge Moments, in April 2021.

Lindsay said, “After years of working on a book project that examines the best way to manage change and transitions in our life, I am thrilled to be publishing my next book with IVP. InterVarsity Press has provided so many resources that have blessed me personally and professionally. I look forward to seeing Hinge Moments in print.”

The eighth president of Gordon College, Lindsay’s tenure has coincided with record years of opportunity and growth for the campus. Prior to arriving at Gordon, Lindsay was a member of the sociology faculty at Rice University, where he won multiple awards for both his teaching and scholarly research. Author of two dozen academic publications, Lindsay’s most recent book, View from the Top, won two awards and has been translated into Chinese and Japanese. As a scholar and educational leader, Lindsay has lectured on six continents and works tirelessly to create opportunities worldwide for Gordon students, faculty, and staff. He earned his PhD in sociology from Princeton University and graduate theological degrees from Wycliffe Hall at Oxford University and Princeton Theological Seminary.

In the forthcoming Hinge Moments, Lindsay leans heavily on dynamic anecdotes and storytelling to flesh out the importance of the pivotal moments that will define our lives moving forward. His hope is that the book helps readers navigate any number of life transitions, including job changes, the loss of loved ones, graduation and entering the professional world, and even the unexpected transitions that have come with a pandemic.

“There are particular moments in life that are very much like a hinge on a door,” writes Lindsay. “Sometimes we call them pivotal, but what we really mean is that whatever follows will hinge on the decisions made in these opportune times. Such moments are axial by nature. They represent a fixed time, place, or event that produces consequences for the rest of our days. Getting them right can change our lives for the better. Getting them wrong can pose problems for years to come. Each of us is given a finite number of these hinge moments in life. In total they may represent only a few hundred minutes out of our total lives of seventy or eighty years, but they have an outsized impact on the other thirty-seven million minutes of our time on earth.”

Edward Gilbreath, executive editor at IVP, said, “In this era of real-time anxiety about the future, Michael Lindsay is bringing a fresh perspective on recognizing and leaning into life’s defining moments. Transitions are never easy, whether personal or professional, but Michael’s inspiring storytelling and compelling insights will help readers navigate change in hopeful and redemptive ways. We’re excited that he has chosen IVP as his publishing partner for this important book.”

[NASHVILLE, TENN., August 24, 2020—] Having inspired audiences through story and song for almost 30 years, GRAMMY-nominated and Dove Award-winning Christian music trio Point of Grace will release a giftable and uniquely customizable book full of life lessons and wisdom to pass down in “How You Live: Lessons Learned from Point of Grace” (B&H Publishing Group, October 27, 2020).

Named after the Dove-Award-winning (Country Recorded Song of the Year) single, “How You Live (Turn Up the Music),” this book draws on the combined life experiences of Shelley Breen, Denise Jones and Leigh Cappillino in the areas of work, marriage, parenting, faith and music. The song was the title track of their 12th album, “How You Live,” which hit No. 56 on the Billboard 200 and No. 4 on the Billboard Christian & Gospel Album Charts.

The book explores the universal challenges of weathering the ups and downs of life, featuring 41 essays on the lessons God has taught them in a variety of areas, including: marriage, career, anxiety, graduation, motherhood parenting and much more. The women encourage readers that whatever challenges they face there are lessons to be learned.

“I have learned to look at getting older as a gift, in that God uses the time to teach you things about Him, yourself and the world around you,” Breen said. “Writing this book allowed me to be very vulnerable about my own lessons learned, and to document them to pass down to whomever might find them helpful or encouraging, beginning with my own daughter. I’m excited to share the finished product with our faithful listeners, who have been with us every step of the way!”

Each essay comes with thought provoking questions woven throughout the book’s beautiful art. Also, a special section in the back of the book features journaling space, giving the reader the opportunity to respond to the stories and record their own lessons learned, or personalize the book to give to someone else. Beautifully designed, photographically rich, and warmly interactive, “How You Live” makes a meaningful gift or thoughtful addition to any library.

With faith-filled and passionate lyrics, memorable melodies and soaring harmonies, Breen, Jones and Cappillino have inspired generations to live boldly and keep God’s love as the foundation of their lives. Together, they have written several books, including devotionals based on their music, a cookbook and a devotional series for young women, “Girls of Grace,” which included an interactive Bible study guide and a tour by the same name.

B&H is supporting “How You Live” with a preorder campaign, national media tour and special retailer incentives. For more information about “How You Live,” visit howyoulivebook.com.

Point of Grace is Shelley Breen, Denise Jones and Leigh Cappillino. They have provided a soundtrack to our lives for over two decades. With over 8 million recordings sold, 3 GRAMMY® nominations, multiple Dove awards, and countless accolades, the story of a few gifted college girls with a simple passion to unite and share their musical gifts for the glory of God continues to evolve and engage thousands of fans, both old and new. Their unique ability to affect audiences with heartfelt song and story is stronger than ever. Each new season of life seems to challenge the trio to reach even higher and dig deeper into their craft, as seen in the musical and lyrical depth of their more recent projects.

B&H Publishing Group, an imprint of LifeWay Christian Resources, is a team of mission minded people with a passion for taking God’s Word to the world. Because we believe Every Word Matters® we seek to provide intentional, Bible-centered content that positively impacts the hearts and minds of people, inspiring them to build a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ. Among our print and digital releases for the trade, church and academic markets, titles include “The New York Times” No. 1 bestsellers “The Love Dare” and “The Vow,” No. 1 CBA bestseller “I Am a Church Member,” as well as the newly-revised Christian Standard Bible (CSB) version.

Emerging Leaders will participate in PubU Online, a series of webinars and forums beginning next week

TEMPE, ARIZ., August 24, 2020 – ECPA has announced the recipients of the Emerging Leader scholarship program for PubU Online, the industry’s training and networking event for Christian publishing professionals – taking place in a series of daily webinars beginning Monday, August 31, throughout September, and ending on October 1st.  Nominations were made by companies in Christian publishing with a goal to invest in talent and emerging leadership in their organizations.

So far, 49 emerging leaders have gone through the program, with now 14 more added from 10 companies.  The PubU Online Brain Trust – the committee of industry leaders who developed the program – will connect with each of these recipients through Zoom in a mentorship program managed Brain Trust veteran Dave Schroeder, Director of Publishing & Consumer Products at WTA Media.

“Thanks to the ECPA companies who nominated these outstanding publishing practitioners, the Emerging Leaders will enjoy all that PubU Online has to offer, plus a new level of mentorship,” expressed ECPA President and CEO Stan Jantz.  “We are so pleased to welcome this fine class of leaders who represent the future of the industry!”

We congratulate the 2020 PubU Online Class of Emerging Leaders:

David Geeslin has been a member of the Alliances team at Tyndale House Ministries for five years. He spearheads marketing efforts on many brands, including The Message Bible and Adventures in Odyssey. Before joining Tyndale, he was the Director of Admissions & Marketing at Chicago Hope Academy. His wife Callie is in the Physician Assistant program at Rush University and they have two young kids, Clara & Josiah. When he’s not promoting his titles, he’s probably playing board games, organizing Tyndale’s softball team, or backpacking.

 

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Rachel Jones is an editor at The Good Book Company, where she has had the privilege of working with authors such as Sinclair Ferguson, David Mathis, Melissa Kruger, and Christopher Ash, as well as leading on projects with partners such as Christianity Explored Ministries. Her role embraces the full breadth of the editorial process, including acquisitions and manuscript development. She is the author of Is This It? and several titles in the award-winning “Five Things to Pray” series. She holds a first class degree from The University of Manchester and lives in southwest London.

 

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Chelsea Kirkland is a sales associate with Baker Publishing Group. She is a hard-working, self-starter always looking for opportunity to grow and learn. The PubU Emerging Leaders Program will expand Chelsea’s publishing experience, skills and industry knowledge.

 

 

 

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Elodie Leroy was born in St. Martin to Haitian parents and grew up in South Florida. She is a writer and editor who finished her Professional Writing degree at York University (Toronto). She took her talents to the Miami area where she lives with her husband and a 7-year-old who is a handful and a heartful. She currently serves as a Literary Agent with the Embolden Media Group. She will also never forgive Kevin Durant for leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram: @elodie_ql

 

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Allisyn Ma is an editor for Faithlife. As part of an editorial team, she helps to shape Christian nonfiction books for Lexham Press and educational video material on seminary-level topics. In addition, she started her own freelance business editing young adult fiction. She ran this business for several years with a consistent customer base and enjoyed helping serial authors find their voices and strengthen their writing. Allisyn also enjoys reading outside of work and always has a stack of books on her shelf waiting to be read.

 

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Bethany McIlrath is the U.S. Digital Marketing Manager for The Good Book Company. Her passion is helping others know Christ and grow in Him. She is married to Matt and they enjoy their small dog’s antics and opportunities to serve together.

 

 

 

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Jenna Petersen is Assistant Editor in the Bible group at Zondervan. She has five years of experience in Christian publishing. Jenna holds an English degree from Grand Valley State University and an MBA with an emphasis in Missional Leadership from Southeastern University. In her role as Assistant Editor, she has edited both the NIV Boys’ Backpack Bible and NIV Girls’ Ultimate Backpack Bible, contributed to the development of the Artisan Collection Bibles, and worked with Passion Publishing to create The Jesus Bible Journals, NIV.

 

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Luverta Reames serves as a Community Manager with Embolden Media Group.  She is an editor, proofreader and scribe. Born and raised in Chicago, Luverta started her editorial career as a writing intern with the Speakers, Publishers and Authors Association. Luverta graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Journalism from Olivet Nazarene University and has a Masters in Publishing from Pace University. In 2018, Luverta launched Bookmarked Media, an editing company devoted to helping writers and authors produce top-quality content.

 

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Emma Saisslin started in publishing two years ago as a publicity assistant at Harvest House Publishers before being promoted to marketing writer. She is thankful her role allows her to incorporate her creativity as she develops back cover copy, promotional materials, and media kits. Emma graduated Phi Beta Kappa from University of Oregon and has won several awards for her writing. She provides key ideas and well-articulated insight into current trends and the future of publishing, and she is excited for the opportunity PubU provides to learn more about the industry.

 

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Jasmine Smith SHRM-CP is the Human Resources Manager of Baker Publishing Group. She has served in this role for two years and has brought about instrumental and impactful change during this time. Jasmine has developed training programs, streamlined electronic systems, and formalized HR process and procedure for the organization. She is a champion of the HR profession. Her principal areas of interest are: diversity, training, process improvement, and employee relations. She aspires to continue in her HR leadership role and expand on her expertise while inspiring others along the way. In her spare time, Jasmine enjoys spending time with her husband and their two kids.

 

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Andrew Weitze is the Media Content Manager for Amplify, a streaming service for churches from the United Methodist Publishing House. Prior to joining the Amplify team, Andrew spent four years as the assistant buyer of books, curriculum, and VBS in UMPH’s Cokesbury division. In 2018, Andrew graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master of Arts in Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near Eastern History. His thesis was entitled “They Shall Be To You As Citizens – Prophets, Laws, and the ‘Resident Alien.’” In his spare time, Andrew enjoys all things related to movies, including working with the Nashville Film Festival as a pre-screener for the 2020 season. He is also an avid reader, a musician, and loves to cook. He, his wife Maggie, and their Australian Shepherd “Addie” live outside of Nashville, Tennessee.

 

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Ellen Wildman is the Associate Product Manager over Bibles and Bible Resources at DaySpring in Siloam Springs, AR. She holds a B.A. in Bible and Ministry to Women from Moody Bible Institute and is currently pursuing her M.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies at Denver Seminary. Ellen recently relocated to Tontitown, AR from Nashville, TN. In her free time, she enjoys reading both popular fiction and Christian nonfiction, listening to true crime podcasts, and tending to her thriving herb garden.

 

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Tambra Womack is a Content Distribution Manager at The United Methodist Publishing House and manages the print and digital distribution working closely with new and established vendors. She has served in various roles over her 30-year tenure at UMPH; most recently serving as a Content Distribution Specialist. She is a lifelong Nashvillian and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren.

 

 

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Helen Young graduated from Gordon College in May 2019 with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a concentration in Marketing. She is currently a Marketing and Social Media Assistant at Hendrickson Publishers where she manages and creates compelling content for their social media accounts, as well as assists the Marketing Manager with implementing marketing strategy and research. Helen is passionate to help others grow in their relationship with the Lord through faith-based products. She loves singing (especially worship songs), dancing (hip-hop), and spending time with loved ones.

 

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PubU Online, the month-long virtual program, includes more than 25 webinars – scheduled Monday through Thursday at 10 am central – in several tracks meeting weekly: Editorial, Marketing, Data-Delivery-Workflow, and a new track devoted to important conversations with industry leaders on Diversity & Inclusion. Attendees have access to all the programming – including Master Classes, Keynote General Sessions, Forums, and Zoom Meet-Ups — for one low price of $99 for members and $129 for non-members.

The opening session is next Monday, 10 am central, with DR. THEON HILL who will gather the industry around the theme, “The Role of Publishing in a Time of Crisis.”  The other two general sessions will be presented by NPD’s Kristen McLean on Wednesday, September 2nd on the latest Christian market data and opportunities; with the closing session on October 1st with award winning author and artist Ruth Chou Simons and the Top Shelf Book Cover Award presentations.

REGISTRATION AND PROGRAM INFO IS AT ECPAPubU.ORG.

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About PubU Online
ECPA PubU Online is the industry’s “Publishing University” for Christian publishing professionals, taught by experts and industry leaders, and considered the premier training ground for the industry. In-depth webinars are offered in tracks on Marketing, Editorial, Data, Delivery & Workflow, and Diversity & Inclusion.  Master Classes, Forums, and Zoom Meet-Ups are also part of the month-long virtual program. Three keynote webcasts will focus on the theme, “Publishing in a Time of Crisis.”  Full program details and registration are at ECPAPubU.org.

About ECPA
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. ECPA.org

Media Contacts:  Stan Jantz, ECPA President & CEO, sjantz@ecpa.org or 480-966-3998 ext. 101
Sheri Toomb, Marketing Manager, stoomb@ecpa.org or 480-966-3998 ext. 104

WHEATON, Ill.—Crossway is pleased to announce that Executive Vice President of Production Don Jones has been promoted to the position of Crossway’s Chief Publishing Officer and Bible Publisher as of August 14, 2020, replacing Dr. Dane Ortlund, who recently left Crossway to pursue a call to vocational pastoral ministry.

Reflecting on Ortlund’s significant contributions to Crossway’s ministry since his hiring in 2010, Crossway President Josh Dennis notes, “It’s been a joy to work alongside Dane over these last ten years and we thank God for his significant contributions to Crossway’s Bible publishing ministry. While we will miss him dearly, we are also very excited for him to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather as a third-generation pastor—a calling that aligns with Crossway’s core mission ‘to help people understand the massive implications of the gospel and the truth of God’s Word, for all of life, for all eternity, and for the glory of God.’” Dennis continued, “God has gifted Dane as a preacher and also as a writer. We are grateful for our partnership with him as a Crossway author and look forward to his preaching ministry in the future.”

Ortlund is the author of Edwards on the Christian Life (2014) and most recently Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers (2020)—a volume well-known pastor and author Mark Dever has called “one of the best books I’ve ever read.” Ortlund also serves as editor for Crossway’s Knowing the Bible series and Short Studies in Biblical Theology series.

Don Jones, who joined Crossway in 2007 as a Bible Project Manager, was the ministry’s first exclusively Bible-focused hire and has played an instrumental role in establishing Crossway as a leader in Bible publishing. Under his leadership, Crossway’s Bible production team conceptualized, developed, and produced a host of innovative Bible editions, including the ESV Reader’s Bible, Six-Volume Set (2016); the ESV Illuminated Bible, Art Journaling Edition (2017); and the best-selling ESV Scripture Journals (2018), and helped to oversee production for many other ESV Bible resources, including the award-winning ESV Study Bible (2008).

In his new role as Chief Publishing Officer, Jones—who holds a BA in Business Management from Hope College and an MA in Biblical Studies from Reformed Theological Seminary—will oversee all aspects of Crossway’s publishing activities, including acquisitions, editorial, production, and manufacturing.

“God has prepared and equipped Don for his new role as Chief Publishing Officer and Bible Publisher,” comments Josh Dennis. “His background in production and manufacturing, along with his godly discernment with regard to content, will allow him to bring all facets of our publishing efforts together and enable him to provide leadership to our entire publishing division.” Dr. Justin Taylor will continue to serve as Executive Vice President of Book Publishing and Book Publisher, working closely with Jones in his new role.

Crossway is also pleased to announce plans to welcome Dr. Doug O’Donnell as Senior Vice President of Bible Publishing. A published author who currently serves as Senior Pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Elgin, Illinois, O’Donnell brings years of ministry experience as well as a wealth of biblical and theological training to his new role overseeing the editorial process for all ESV Bibles published by Crossway.

“We are thrilled to have Doug join the Crossway team,” Dennis notes. “He has been a friend of Crossway for years and has worked closely with us on a number of Bible resources.”

O’Donnell holds a BA and MA from Wheaton College, an MA from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a PhD from the University of Aberdeen.

Dennis concludes, “As we seek to transmit the treasure of the gospel to the next generation, we have been encouraged by God’s provision and leading, and seek to remain faithful to our calling to gospel-centered publishing.”

Contact: Lauren Susanto, lsusanto@crossway.org crossway.org

CHARLOTTE, NC– As many Christians grapple with what evangelism looks like, especially in the everyday “new normal” without many common church programs or events, Becky Pippert, a renowned evangelist, offered examples and advice in multiple interviews across diverse radio stations. Pippert expands on these concepts in her new book: Stay Salt (The Good Book Company, May 2020.)

Listen in:

• Chris Fabry Live– a fresh look at how to “stay salt” in a rapidly changing world.
• Kurt and Kate Mornings– the world hasn’t changed in one way: It still needs Jesus.
• The Eric Metaxas Radio Show– sharing Christ in our everyday lives.
• Dawn and Steve Mornings– Pippert encourages us to live life as an effective witness for Christ!

For media inquiries and access to promotional assets, contact publicity@thegoodbook.com.

About the author: Rebecca Manley Pippert regularly speaks on spiritual renewal, evangelism and character formation for church conferences, at schools and colleges and in pastoral training seminars. Becky has written several books on evangelism and Christian living, including the best-selling Out of the Saltshaker and Stay Salt.

About The Good Book Company: Founded in 1991, The Good Book Company (TGBC) is an international Christian publisher. Their Bible studies, books, devotionals, videos, tracts, evangelistic courses, and training materials are used throughout the English-speaking world, and in translation in over 35 languages worldwide. Everyone at TGBC is passionate about the Lord Jesus, His word, His church, and His gospel of grace. They create and publish biblical, relevant, and accessible resources that will encourage Christians to keep going, keep growing, and keep sharing their faith.

AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) announced the winners of the 2020 Golden Scroll and Christian Market Book Awards at their Virtual Awards Ceremony on Saturday, August 15, 2020. The awards were presented by Monica Schmelter, host of “Bridges,” a daily program on the Christian Television Network (CTN).

This is the 12th year that AWSA has presented the Golden Scroll Awards. The Golden Scroll Awards are open to all 600 members of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.

The Golden Scrolls Book of the Year was awarded to Dr. Michelle Bengtson for “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” (Revell of Baker Publishing Group).

The Nonfiction Book of the Year Award was awarded to Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones and Karla Dornacher for “Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament: A Creative Devotional Study Experience” (Harvest House Publishers).

The Novel of the Year Award was awarded to DiAnn Mills for “Fatal Strike” (Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.).

The Children’s Nonfiction Book of the Year was awarded to two authors: Michelle Medlock Adams for “How Much Does God Love You” (WorthyKids) and Crystal Bowman for “Little Duckling’s Easter Prayers” (Zonderkids).

Second place for the Children’s Nonfiction Book of the Year was also awarded to Michelle Medlock Adams for “Cuddle Up Prayers” (WorthyKids). Third place was awarded to Michelle Lazurek “The Best Gift of All” (Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.).

The Children’s Fiction Book of the Year was awarded to Donna Arlynn Frisinger for “Bink and Slinky’s Christmas Adventure” (Progressive Rising Phoenix Press).

Second place for the Children’s Fiction Book of the Year was awarded to Michelle Medlock Adams for “I Love You Bigger Than the Sky” (WorthyKids). Third place was awarded to Michele McCarthy for “Daddy and Me” (Redemption Press).

The Christian Education Book of the Year was awarded to Cynthia L. Simmons for “Pursuing Gold: A Historical & Critical Thinking Curriculum” (Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.).

Second place for the Christian Education Book of the Year was awarded to Pamela Christian for “Prepare for the Harvest! God’s Challenge to the Church Today” (Protocol, Ltd.).

The Bible Study Book of the Year was awarded for two books: Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones and Karly Dornacher wrote “Discovering Joy in Philippians: A Creative Devotional Study Experience” (Harvest House Publishers), and Misty Phillip authored “The Struggle Is Real: But So Is God” (MistyPhillip.com).

Second place for the Bible Study Book of the Year was awarded to Jennifer Smith Lane for “Transformed: Eating and Body Image Renewal God’s Way” (Jennifer Sue Lane). Third place was awarded to Janet H. McHenry for “Stronger Every Day” (First Place for Health).

The Memoir of the Year was awarded for two books: Ginny Dent Brant wrote “Unleash Your God-Given Healing: Eight Steps to Prevent and Survive Cancer” (WestBow Press), and Luann Mire, with Patti Richter, wrote “Signs of His Presence: Experiencing God’s Comfort in Times of Suffering” (Carpenter’s Son Publishing).

Second place for the Memoir of the Year was awarded to Lisa W. Smith and Thanh D. Boyer for “The Ground Kisser” (Kerysso Press). Third place was awarded to Paula Jaush for “Cross Addicted: Breaking Free from Family Trauma and Addiction” (Redemption Press).

The Christian Living Book of the Year was awarded to Robin Luftig for “God’s Best During Your Worst: Living Under His Umbrella” (Bold Vision Books).

Second place for the Christian Living Book of the Year was awarded to Tina Yeager for “Beautiful Warrior: Finding Victory Over the Lies Formed Against You” (New Hope Publishers). Third place was awarded to Lucinda Secrest McDowell for “Soul Strong: 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” (New Hope Publishers).

The Devotional Book of the Year was awarded to Lucinda Secrest McDowell for “Life-Giving Choices: 60 Days to What Matters Most” (New Hope Publishers).

Second place for the Devotional Book of the Year was awarded to Leigh Ann Thomas for “Smack Dab in the Midlife Zone: Inspiration for Women in the Middle” (Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.). Third place was awarded to Karen Whiting for “52 Weekly Devotions for Families Called to Serve” (Rose Publishing).

The Inspirational Gift Book of the Year was awarded to Adria Wilkins for “The Joy Box Journal” (Ellie Claire Gifts).

Second place for the Inspirational Gift Book of the Year was awarded to Michelle Medlock Adams for “Encouraging Words for Mothers (Morning & Evening): Daily Devotions for a Mother’s Soul” (Barbour Books). Third place was awarded to Cynthia Cavanaugh for “She Writes for Him: Stories of Resilient Faith” (Romans 8:28 Books: An Imprint of Redemption Press).

The Western Novel of the Year was awarded to Janet Chester Bly for “Beneath a Camperdown Elm” (Bly Books).

The Historical Novel of the Year was awarded to Jocelyn Green for “Veiled in Smoke” (Bethany House Publishers).

Second place for the Historical Novel of the Year was also awarded to Jocelyn Green for “Between Two Shores” (also from Bethany House Publishers). Third place was awarded to Rebecca Price Janney for “Sweet, Sweet Spirit: One Woman’s Spiritual Journey to the Asbury College Revival” (Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.).

The Contemporary Novel of the Year was awarded to Kaley and Rhonda Rhea for “Off-Script & Over-Caffeinated: A Novel” (Bold Vision Books).

Second place for the Contemporary Novel of the Year was awarded to June Chapko for “Legacy’s Path” (Legacy Treasures). Third place was awarded to Deborah Raney for “Chasing Dreams” (Kregel Publications).

The Mystery/Suspense Novel of the Year was awarded to Carrie Stuart Parks for “Fragments of Fear” (Thomas Nelson).

Second place for the Mystery/Suspense Novel of the Year was awarded to Catherine Finger for “Capsized by Death” (Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.). Third place was awarded to Lori Altebaumer for “A Firm Place to Stand” (BookBaby).

The Arise Daily Writer of the Year was awarded to Sheri Schofield.

AWSA’s official magazine, “Leading Hearts,” won their sixth straight Evangelical Press Association Merit award. The “Leading Hearts” Columnist of the Year went to Saundra Dalton Smith for her column, “Healthtracks.” Article of the Year went to Lisa Burns for, “Breakthrough the Movie: Exclusive Interview with Pastor Jason Noble.”

The 2020 AWSA Member of the Year Award went to Edie Melson. Edie, an award-winning author of “Soul Care When You’re Weary,” directs the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and serves in several leadership roles in AWSA. AWSA founder Linda Evans Shepherd said, “Edie works tirelessly and gives selflessly for the cause of Christ.”

The Jennifer Kennedy Dean Award went to Janet Holm McHenry.  Janet, also a best-selling prayer author, was a close friend and prayer partner of Jennifer’s.  Janet continues in Jennifer’s tradition to teach prayer principles to readers.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Stormie Omartian, in honor of her life of excellence in serving the Lord.  Her books on prayer, including “Power of a Praying Woman” and “Power of a Praying Wife,” have sold over 40 million copies.

AWSA, the sponsor of the Golden Scroll Awards Banquet, is an outreach of Right to the Heart Ministries and consists of over 600 top women authors who both publish and speak nationally. See www.AWSA.com.

This is the first year to present the all new Christian Market Book Awards. These awards are open to all authors who publish in the Christian market.

The Christian Market Novel of the Year was awarded to Anne Greene for “Shadow of the Dagger” (Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.).

Second place for the Christian Market Novel of the Year was awarded for two books: C. Kevin Thompson for “The Letters” (Mantle Rock Publishing LLC), and Buck Storm and Bill Perkins for “The List” (Compass Publishing). Third place was awarded to Jeanette Morris for “Her Shining Eyes: A Novel” (Bold Vision Books).

The Christian Market Nonfiction Book of the Year went to Lauren Crews for “Strength of a Woman: Why You are Proverbs 31” (Ascender Books).

Second place for the Christian Market Nonfiction Book of the Year was awarded to Rhonda Robinson for “FreeFall: Holding onto Faith When the Unthinkable Strikes” (New Hope Publishers). Third place was awarded to Michelle Medlock Adams and Bethany Jett for “They Call Me Mom: 52 Encouraging Devotions for Every Moment” (Kregel Academic & Professional).

The Christian Market Children’s Book of the Year was awarded to Michelle Medlock Adams for “I Love You Bigger than the Sky” (WorthyKids).

Second place for the Christian Market Children’s Book of the Year was awarded to Amy Houts for “God’s Protection Covers Me” (Beaming Books). Third place was also awarded to Michelle Medlock Adams for “How Much Does God Love You” (WorthyKids).

The Christian Market Book of the Year was awarded to Luann Mire, with Patti Richter, for “Signs of His Presence: Experiencing God’s Comfort in Times of Suffering” (Carpenter’s Son Publishing).

Monica Schmelter and Linda Evans Shepherd, author and AWSA founder, presented the awards and recording artist Cheri Keaggy performed a parody by Martha Bolton.

For more info please contact Linda Evans Shepherd at LindaReply@gmail.com or 303-772-2035.