Abilene, TX —Ancient Extravagance shows us that life is more than our accomplishments and what we do. The key to a life of meaning is developing our spiritual senses, which only come awake when we worship with others. That might seem like a waste of time, but in fact, these ancient practices have the power to wake up all parts of our lives—not just Sunday morning. Snider begins with a recovery of childlike wonder and story, reclaiming how prose, poetry, memory, and reflection heal and strengthen the soul. Next, he turns to melodies our grandmothers taught us, examining how they reach into our bones. He then reflects on what it means to eat meals with strangers and how a simple act of hospitality can gently inscribe love, generosity, gratitude, and hospitality in our hearts.

These seemingly insignificant practices are mustard seeds that grow into trees to create shade for the world. When we cease simply going to worship and start becoming the worship, we will discover the friendships, beauty, purpose, stories, and sacred moments that will save us and make us more human. Deeply meaningful and delightfully humorous, candid yet surprising, Ancient Extravagance will connect you with a more beautiful and meaningful life.

“At first glance this is a deeply humane book that builds on our life experience and demonstrates how the Holy Spirit turns it from water into wine. But on closer inspection this is a profoundly incarnate book that inspires us through example, argument, anecdote, and timely quotation to see God in Christ entering the intricacies of our mundane existence and raising up that existence into the heart of God’s eternal essence. As you read you will find the exalted in your life humbled and the humble in your life exalted.”
—Samuel Wells, Vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London, UK

Ryan Snider is a writer, pastor, thinker, and educator committed to nurturing spiritual growth, fostering meaningful connections, and telling a more beautiful story. He has spent his career in the church and higher education. Ryan lives with his wife, Danielle, and two children in Atlanta, Georgia. He enjoys hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors with his family. He also takes pictures and drinks a lot of Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee. Find out more at ryancsnider.com.

Ancient Extravagance
By Ryan Snider
October 2024, Softcover
224 Pages, $17.99
ISBN: 9781684260836

Media Contact: Rachael Ray, publicity@leafwoodpublishers.com

Leading publisher deepens its presence in religious market to expand to new channels and audiences

(New York, NY—October 30, 2024)—Penguin Random House has announced the launch of the Penguin Random House Christian Publishing Group, a new standalone entity that builds on its esteemed evangelical Christian publishing program. With a renewed focus on market growth and a commitment to dedicating additional resources, this initiative aims to significantly expand readership, strengthen connections with audiences, and deepen its range of books and content offerings for the Christian readership.

Comprised of the Waterbrook, Multnomah, Image, and Forum imprints, this new publishing entity will be led by Campbell Wharton, who has been named SVP, Publisher. Wharton will newly be reporting into Manuel Sansigre, CFO of Penguin Random House.

Highly regarded for his experience and expertise in publishing across all aspects of the business, Wharton is perfectly positioned to lead the expanded Christian publishing program. He has led publications in multiple categories, including celebrity, music, pop culture, social justice, politics, business, religion, and current affairs, working with such notable authors as Tim Tebow, Daymond John, Michael Todd, Austin Channing Brown, Jennie Allen, John Mark Comer, Leanne Morgan, Justice Neil Gorsuch, Richard Rohr, and Elisabeth Hasselbeck. Reporting to Wharton will be Laura Barker VP, Publisher, who will continue to lead the WaterBrook and Multnomah editorial team of this new group. Ginia Croker, VP, Director of Marketing, and Beverly Rykerd, VP, Director of Publicity, and their respective teams will report to Wharton.

Based in Colorado Springs, Waterbrook & Multnomah has a long and successful track record publishing books that inspire readers to find rich, spiritual purpose in their daily lives, with practical guidance for applying Christian principles to the complexities of life today. The many categories include Christian Living/Inspiration, Health/Wellness/Relationships, Social and Cultural Commentary, Spiritual Formation, and Devotionals. Notable authors include John Mark Comer, Jennie Allen, Tim Tebow, Mark Batterson, Andrew Peterson, Latasha Morrison, Madison Prewett Troutt, Michael Todd, Jordan Lee Dooley, Rich Villodas, and Katie Davis Majors.

Image, a leading imprint of Catholic content, and Forum, an imprint of conservative thought leaders, will now be a part of the newly formed Christian Publishing Group. Those editorial teams will report into Barker. The Convergent publishing program, with its mission to publish books that draw on deep experience both in mainstream and Christian publishing with a focus on nour­ishing readers’ inner lives in the categories of spirituality, personal growth, self-help, relationships, social commentary, memoir, and lifestyle, will remain with the Random House Publishing Group. The imprint will join the Harmony and Rodale Books team with Derek Reed, Editorial Director of Convergent, reporting to Theresa Zoro, President of Harmony and Rodale Books and now Convergent, effective immediately.

Tina Constable has been named EVP, Business Development, Penguin Random House Christian Publishing Group, also reporting to Sansigre. In this new position, Constable will draw upon her more than three decades in publishing to collaborate with Sansigre and Wharton on acquisitions, exploration of new consumer channels, and partnership opportunities including streaming curriculum and direct-to-church initiatives.

Lori Addicott, VP, Director of Christian Market Sales, will also serve as VP, Director of Sales, PRH Christian Publishing Group. Lori and her growing team will continue to serve as Sales representatives for all Penguin Random House Publishing titles in the Christian market and will be an integral part of the company’s growth strategy as it forges new partnerships.

“The Penguin Random House Christian Publishing Group is an exciting home for Christian authors. As a new standalone division, we are going to be able to invest more deeply in our imprints, expand our content offerings, and ultimately be a place that services a wide range of Christian readers in innovative ways. Building on the incredible roster of authors already home to us, our growth strategy will underscore our commitment to readers and broadening our footprint in the evangelical publishing space. I am thrilled by this opportunity to take our Christian program to a whole new level,” said Wharton.

“This sector holds immense potential, and as we develop innovative strategies for this dynamic and growing marketplace, we are thrilled by the opportunities our renewed commitment to Christian publishing brings,” said Sansigre. “This focus not only enhances our position at Penguin Random House but also empowers authors and enriches the reading experience for countless readers.”

Penguin Random House, the world’s largest trade book publisher, is dedicated to its mission to ignite a universal passion for reading by creating books for everyone. The company, which employs more than 10,000 people globally, was formed on July 1, 2013, by Bertelsmann and Pearson. As of April 1, 2020, Bertelsmann is full owner of the company. With more than 300 imprints and brands on six continents, Penguin Random House comprises adult and children’s fiction and nonfiction print and digital English- German- and Spanish-language trade book publishing businesses in more than 20 countries worldwide. With over 16,000 new titles, and more than 700 million print, audio and eBooks sold annually, Penguin Random House’s publishing lists include more than 80 Nobel Prize laureates and hundreds of the world’s most widely read authors.

NASHVILLE, Tenn., October 2024­­ ­­— Zondervan today announced that Webster Younce is stepping down from his position as Vice President and Publisher of Zondervan Books to take on a full-time editorial role at Zondervan as Vice President and Executive Editor. Daniel Marrs has been named as the new Vice President and Publisher of Zondervan Books. Zondervan is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, the world’s largest Christian publisher.

“I have loved my four years as publisher of Zondervan Books,” said Younce. “I am proud of all that our team has accomplished on behalf of our authors and their books, and how well we are positioned for the future. I look forward to being part of where Daniel will take Zondervan going forward. But I am excited about returning to my first love, which is working daily with authors on their books as their editor and champion.”

Marrs, who previously served as the associate publisher for Nelson Books, also at HarperCollins Christian Publishing, will begin his leadership at Zondervan Books on October 28, 2024.

“Zondervan Books has an incredibly rich heritage as a leader in the Christian publishing space,” Marrs said. “It’s a tremendous honor to step into this leadership role and I look forward to working with Webb and the rest of this talented team to build on the great work they’ve already been doing. Together with our amazing agent partners we’re excited to continue working with authors to craft life-changing messages that honor God, encourage the church, and inspire believers in their walk with Jesus.”

Marrs’s seven-year tenure in publishing includes working as publisher for Thomas Nelson Bibles (where he stewarded multiple Bible translations, including the New King James Version and the NET Bible), Vice President and Editorial Director for Ave Maria Press, and Associate Publisher with Nelson Books. As an editor, he has worked with multiple bestselling authors, including Dr. Anita Phillips (the New York Times bestselling The Garden Within), John Eldredge (Resilient), and Chris Hodges (Pray First). Titles published under his editorial direction include multiple New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestsellers and ECPA Christian Book Award winners. Marrs holds a Doctor of Philosophy in theology and ethics from Baylor University, with minors in church history and philosophy. In addition, he earned a Master of Arts in theology from Talbot School of Theology.

Under Marrs’s leadership, the Zondervan team will be stewarding publications from many of today’s most influential Christian thought leaders, including Rick Warren (The Purpose Driven Life), Craig Groeschel (Winning the War in Your Mind), Drs. Henry Cloud and John Townsend (Boundaries), Lee Strobel (The Case for Christ), Justin Whitmel Earley (Habits of the Household), and Peter Scazzero (Emotionally Healthy Spirituality). Upcoming titles from the imprint include Ian Morgan Cron’s The Fix (January 28, 2025), Craig Groeschel’s The Benefit of Doubt (February 18, 2025), and Lee Strobel’s Seeing the Supernatural (March 18, 2025).

Don Jacobson, Senior Vice President and Group Publisher for Harper Collins Christian Publishing said, “I’ve worked closely with Daniel over the past several years and have seen firsthand not only his talents as an editor who’s passionate about the written word but also an entrepreneurial business leader. Further, he demonstrates genuine care for the authors and books he publishes. I am excited to have him move into this new leadership role with Zondervan and believe that his strategic vision will build on Zondervan’s heritage while also guiding this imprint into an exciting new season.”

Zondervan is a HarperCollins company and part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Zondervan is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian communications. The company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit zondervan.com.

Contact:  Amanda Woods, Director of Publicity | Zondervan Books, Harper Collins Christian Publishing, Amanda.Woods@harpercollins.com, 615-902-1277

 

(Nashville, TN – October 28, 2024) Nelson Books, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, is excited to announce the promotion of Brigitta Nortker to the role of Associate Publisher. Since joining Nelson Books in 2016, Nortker has had a substantial hand in shaping the imprint’s editorial program and publishing portfolio. Most recently, she has served in the role of Editorial Director, where her strategic planning and thoughtful implementation have continued to elevate the quality of authorial and reader experience. She has worked with highly acclaimed and bestselling authors such as: Jason Wilson, Tori Hope Petersen, Shawn Johnson, and Ruth Chou Simons.

“I’m thrilled to take on this new role at Nelson Books, where I will continue to strengthen our team and champion the work of our exemplary author and agent community,” said Nortker, “My years at HarperCollins Christian Publishing have been deeply formative and I’m excited to continue that journey in this new season of leadership.”

Andrew Stoddard, VP & Publisher of Nelson Books, expressed his enthusiasm for Nortker’s leadership. “We are so pleased that Brigitta will be stepping into this pivotal role as a part of the Nelson Books Leadership and Acquisition team. Her thoughtful and nuanced editorial approach is consistently appreciated by her authors and their agents. By proving time and time again that she understands the creative modalities and commercial mechanics of publishing, Brigitta has earned the respect of her peers and fellow publishing professionals across the industry.”

Simultaneously, Nelson Books is eager to announce that Paul J. Pastor will be joining the team in the role of Executive Editor.

Pastor has served critically acclaimed and bestselling authors such as: Dallas Willard, Eugene Peterson, Rich Villodas, Justin Whitmel Earley, Faith Womack, Tauren Wells, Sho Baraka, Lee Strobel, Melissa Dougherty, Rod Dreher, Dr. Ben Carson, and many more.

Paul holds an MA in Biblical and Theological Studies from Western Seminary and is a candidate for Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at the University of St. Thomas. He is a widely published poet, essayist, and critic, and the author of several books. His writing and editorial work has won more than a dozen Evangelical Press Association awards, a prestigious Maggie award, and numerous awards from ECPA’s and Christianity Today’s respective book awards.

“I am thrilled and honored to be joining the world-class team at Nelson Books and am excited to strategically continue my work here at HCCP,” said Pastor, “It is truly a dream to have my calling and craft so closely align with my career. I am humbled by this dream opportunity to continue investing in top authors and culture-making books, and excited to serve this remarkable publishing program.”

Stoddard also shared his excitement about Paul joining the team: “Paul Pastor is a profoundly gifted acquirer and editor. Poll any one of Paul’s authors and you’ll quickly hear phrases like ‘thoughtful dialogue partner,’ ‘dynamic, creative ally,’ ‘deeply attuned and insightful,’ – the list goes on. I look forward to seeing all that he brings to market in his new post at Nelson Books.”

Paul will continue to work from his home state of Oregon, where he lives with his wife Emily, a classically-trained fine artist, and their three children.

Thomas Nelson, part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., is a world-leading provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. The publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, children’s books, and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information, please visit www.thomasnelson.com or contact Lisa Beech at lisa.beech@harpercollins.com.

Ada, Mich. (Oct. 11, 2024)— . Baker Publishing Group is pleased to announce the addition of an acquisition editor and publicist for its Chosen Books Division.

Luverta Reames joined Chosen Books in September as an Acquisition Editor. Since middle school, Reames, has known she wanted to be part of the Christian publishing industry and has made it her focus. As a graduate of Pace University’s MS in Publishing Program in New York City, she provided editorial support for Embolden Media Group’s indie publishing services and the writing community, Pneuma Writers.

For two years, Reames served nine editors as editorial assistant at WaterBrook and Multnomah, the Christian imprints of Penguin Random House. In Spring 2023, she launched a weekly prayer series on social media designed to support and encourage authors and publishing professionals, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth within the industry. She resides in North Carolina.

Taylor Koziarz is the new Senior Publicist at Chosen Books. With a communications degree from UNC Charlotte, she brings a strong foundation in public relations and nonprofit marketing to her role. She previously served as a Public Relations Specialist at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, where she developed expertise in media outreach and strategic communication.

Having grown up with a Christian author as her mother, Koziarz has always been passionate about the world of publicity. A Charlotte native, she now lives on a farm just outside the city with her family.

“With a rich publishing legacy as our foundation and an exciting blend of established and emerging authors in our current catalog, we are also looking to the future at Chosen and considering how we can best serve the church as a leading publisher in the Charismatic market,” said Kim Bangs, Editorial Director for Chosen.

“Luverta brings a keen eye for relevant projects and powerful new voices in the spirit-empowered community as well as a passion for Chosen’s mission of equipping the saints for the work of the ministry. And Taylor’s background positions her to serve Chosen authors with excellence with her breadth of knowledge in all forms of media—including and especially social media. To that end, we are thrilled to add Luverta Reames and Taylor Koziarz to our team this year.”

Chosen Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, publishes well-crafted books that recognize the gifts and ministry of the Holy Spirit and help readers live more empowered and effective lives for Jesus Christ.

Baker Publishing Group (Bethany House, Revell, Baker Books, Chosen, Brazos Press, and Baker Academic) is a leading producer of Christian resources that give insight and inspiration to readers worldwide. Our divisions reflect the broadest scope of topics, which includes fiction, self-help, inspiration, professional books, Christian living and academic titles.

Contact:  Kelli B. Smith, ksmith@bakerpublishinggroup.com

Carol Stream, IL (October 28, 2024)—Tyndale House Publishers will release six new kids, middle-grade, and YA books in the spring of 2025. In line with Tyndale’s corporate purpose, the new products—Battle of Lion Rock, Wonders of the Ocean Realm, Easter in the Barnyard, When It Hurts, Let’s Go! Bible Adventures, and R Is for Risen—are designed to minister to the spiritual needs of children and young adults.

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Battle of Lion Rock by D. J. Williams
Beacon Hill #3Battle of Lion Rock is the third novel in the Beacon Hill series, an epic young adult supernatural fantasy that launches readers on an action-packed quest for ancient artifacts, secret realms, and true allies. This book is for teens and adults (ages 13+) who love fantasy, incredible world-building, adventure, found family, loyal friendships, a taste of romance, and the ultimate gift: forgiveness.

Ryan Steck (founder of The Real Book Spy) praises the series as “a blistering, high-stakes, fast-paced supernatural thriller that’s impossible to put down.”

D. J. Williams is an executive producer and director on over 500 episodes of broadcast television. He is also the creator of the Writer Life app, which coaches aspiring and published authors. Titles in the Beacon Hill series have received glowing reviews from Kirkus Reviews and Midwest Book Review. 

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Wonders of the Ocean Realm by Tricia Goyer and Sherri Seligson

Dive into the world of marine life with Wonders of the Ocean Realm, where readers (ages 8–12) embark on an adventure blending faith and science through five immersive short stories.

Throughout these tales, kids will follow realistic sea creatures to learn about their life cycles, habitats, and environments. The magnificence of Astrid, the sea star; Maximus, the peacock mantis shrimp; Dexter, the mimic octopus; Wendell, the humpback whale; and Luna, the deep-sea anglerfish, all reflect the amazing intricacies of God’s creation.

Accompanying the five stories are several engaging features that facilitate effortless learning and practical faith applications. “Ocean Notions” offer brief facts about each creature’s habitat, body, or abilities. “Undersea Understanding” sections highlight God’s intentional design in His creation. Additionally, “Deep-Sea Dive” features provide a single-page life application, emphasizing the spiritual truths or faith themes reflected in each creature’s story.

The book is coauthored by Tricia Goyer and Sherri Seligson. Tricia is the author of over 90 books and has won numerous awards. She is a homeschooling mom and is a sought-after conference speaker (such as at MomCon and Teach Them Diligently). She is also the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana. Sherri is a marine biologist and science author. She has written several science textbooks, homeschool curricula, and a science apologetics devotional.

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Easter in the Barnyard by Dandi Daley Mackall
Barnyard Blessings

Children (ages 0–4) join the barnyard animals’ Easter festivities. This board book celebrates the resurrection of Jesus as the sheep, chicks, horses, and more prepare for the Easter parade. The rhyming story is a perfect read-aloud book for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. The endearing illustrations portray barnyard busyness with sweet humor.

This book is ideal for animal lovers looking to celebrate Easter and Lent.

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When It Hurts: Comforting Promises for Hard Times by Emily Assell
Generation Claimed

When It Hurts is a board book filled with Bible verse affirmations to comfort and guide little ones through tough times. Whether they have had a difficult day, feel scared or lonely, or miss someone special, these inspiring words will remind kids (ages 0–4) of God’s love, care, and strength.

Children will be reminded that it’s okay to be sad, that they can tell God everything, that God hears every prayer, and that they are not alone.

When It Hurts provides a foundation of biblical truth to foster hope through life’s challenges, featuring a variety of life-giving verses to remember God’s promises every day!

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Let’s Go! Bible Adventures: Real Bible Stories for Kids Who Love Trains, Tractors, Ice Cream Trucks, and More! by Valerie Ellis

Let’s Go! Bible Adventures is a rhyming storybook that tells real Bible stories and contrasts Bible-times transportation with modern-day vehicles. Trucks, trains, tractors, as well as bulldozers, boats, hot-air balloons, motorcycles—and of course ice cream trucks—will capture the attention of children (ages 2–5).

The book remains true to the 20 Old Testament and 20 New Testament stories as families are drawn through stories that highlight the depth of God’s care for them. Filled with full-color illustrations of Bible-times and modern-day vehicles, this rhyming text is perfect for adventurous kids who love different modes of transportation.

Tama Fortner, an ECPA award–winning and bestselling author, describes the book as “a joyful, bouncing, rhyming delight!”

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R Is for Risen by Crystal Bowman and Teri McKinley
An ABC Easter Story

Award-winning and bestselling authors Crystal Bowman and Teri McKinley bring children (ages 0–6) on a journey from Palm Sunday to the Resurrection and the great commission in this rhyming ABC Easter story. Unlike other ABC books that attribute a random Easter-themed word to a letter, R Is for Risen thoughtfully tells the chronological Easter story. The book includes Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, his prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, his arrest and interrogation, his death and resurrection, and the great commission.

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Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, Tyndale is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale’s mission is to make the Bible accessible to as many people as possible in language that they can relate and respond to. Tyndale publishes the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT) and offers nonfiction books that equip readers with Christ-centered insight, counsel, and life-improving stories. In addition, Tyndale publishes fiction from fresh new voices and celebrated authors alike, capturing the imagination of millions of readers. With a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing future generations, Tyndale also publishes children’s products that make God’s Word and wisdom come alive. Tyndale’s independent status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a substantial portion of annual revenue—millions of dollars per year—through corporate donations and the work of Tyndale House Foundation. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact:
Natalie Wierenga, nataliewierenga@tyndale.com

Nashville, Tenn., October 2024 – Thomas Nelson, a division of HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP), announces its partnership with Museum of the Bible to sponsor more than 150 events at their renowned World Stage Theater in Washington, DC.

“We are delighted to partner with Thomas Nelson, an organization aligned with our mission to let all people experience how the Bible can transform their lives,” said Garrett Hinton, chief revenue officer of Museum of the Bible. “The events at our World Stage Theater are one of many expressions of that mission. This partnership will allow us to make these events even more mesmerizing for our visitors.”

The partnership supports an expansive live event program, including highly anticipated Broadway-style productions of “Prince Caspian” and “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” diverse concerts and thought-provoking lectures.

“We are thrilled to work with Museum of the Bible to make these spectacular events possible,” said Nikki Getman, marketing vice president of Bibles for Thomas Nelson. “Thomas Nelson’s commitment to excellence and our partnership with Museum of the Bible exemplify our shared vision: to boldly enhance and uplift the collective understanding and appreciation of the Bible through meaningful and exhilarating experiences.”

For more information on upcoming events, please visit museumoftheBible.org

About the Museum of the Bible:
Museum of the Bible is an innovative, global, educational institution located in Washington, DC, whose purpose is to invite all people to engage with the history, narrative and impact of the Bible. Experience its story through research, exhibits, cutting-edge technology and programs that offer visitors a perspective on the Bible’s influence on cultures throughout time.

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 thomasnelson.com

Contact:  Amy Morris, Director of Public Relations, amy.morris@harpercollins.com 

By Lauren Pratt

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Lifeway Christian Resources released its latest Bible study by Preston Perry, Everyday Evangelism: Pursuing Hearts, Not Arguments, focused on equipping the everyday believer to share their faith with confidence and to engage non-Christians with love, respect, and truth.

“Most Christians find it difficult to share their faith. If we aren’t careful, we’ll let these hesitations keep us from the important work God’s given us to do,” said Perry. “God has called us to be evangelists. If we are willing to engage with this calling, He is more than willing to empower us through the Holy Spirit to give the gospel to anyone we encounter.”

Based on Perry’s book published earlier this year, How to Tell the Truth, the six-week study is designed to serve individuals and small groups alike in deepening their biblical view of God’s call on every Christian to share their faith with their friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Perry added, “Before we can have productive conversations about the gospel, we need to cultivate a desire to see people come to faith in Jesus—and desire that more than being right or proving a point.”

According to a 2022 Lifeway Research study, less than half of self-identified Christians have, at least once in the past six months, shared a Bible verse or Bible story with a non-Christian loved one (46%), invited a non-Christian friend or family member to attend a church service or other program at church (43%), or shared with a non-Christian loved one how to become a Christian (38%). Additionally, the 2022 State of Theology report published by Lifeway Research and Ligonier Ministries, only 32% of the 3,011 American adults surveyed strongly agree that it’s very important to personally encourage non-Christians to trust Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

“We see a clear, biblical mandate to go and make disciples, and that starts with sharing the gospel,” said Ben Mandrell, president and CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources. “While evangelism should be the heartbeat of every follower of Jesus Christ, we’re seeing a massive drop-off in Christians regularly taking the gospel from the pews to the people next door who don’t know Christ.”

Mandrell explained that seeing this decline in evangelism highlights the need for greater discipleship among believers to share their faith consistently and effectively. “We pray Everyday Evangelism will equip men and women in the local church with the tools necessary to share the gospel with their friends, family and coworkers. We want to help our church members become everyday evangelists who are, as 1 Peter 3:15 says, ‘ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.’”

Perry builds on his own story of coming to faith and learning how to evangelize in his book and subsequent Bible study, giving readers an example of how the everyday Christian—not just vocational ministers—can talk about their faith wisely and winsomely. Perry, husband to Christian author and speaker Jackie Hill Perry, also founded Bold TV (now Apologetics with Preston Perry) and Bold Apparel in 2017 as avenues to engage the public in theological discourse.

Everyday Evangelism includes video access to teaching sessions, discussion questions, personal study between group sessions, applicable Scripture, “How to Use This Study,” and tips for leading a group. Interwoven into the study are personal stories from Perry and his journey of coming to faith and developing a robust understanding for communicating the gospel clearly and effectively with people from a variety of spiritual backgrounds.

For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

Lauren Pratt is a contracted publicist for Lifeway Christian Resources.

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:  Aaron Earls, aaron.earls@lifeway.com

Colorado Springs, CO (October 28, 2024)—Focus on the Family, in alliance with Tyndale House Publishers, will release five new kids and middle-grade titles in the spring of 2025. The new products—What’s in Mommy’s Tummy; Fears, Flights, and Kangaroo Fights; Double Cross Down Under; At Face Value; and Sleuth Family Robinson—equip parents to raise their children to have thriving faith.

What’s in Mommy’s Tummy? by Abby Johnson

In a fun and child-friendly way, Abby Johnson helps parents show their kids (ages 2–4) that the life growing inside Mommy’s tummy is a baby brother or sister. It’s a new human being, who will soon appear and join the family.

Little Luke (inspired by one of Abby’s eight kids) has noticed that his mom’s tummy is getting bigger. He wants to know what is growing in there. He wonders if it is various animals, including a cat and a dragon. Through this humorous story, the author provides parents with a tool to celebrate the miracle of life that begins in the womb.

Abby Johnson worked for Planned Parenthood for eight years, working up the ranks to become the clinic director in Bryan, Texas. She was Planned Parenthood’s Employee of the Year in 2008, but she walked away from her job after witnessing the abortion of a 13-week-old fetus during an ultrasound-guided abortion. Upon leaving Planned Parenthood, her defection became a national news headline, which led to a pro-life speaking career. In 2012, she founded And Then There Were None, the only ministry in the nation that helps abortion workers leave their jobs and find new ones out of the industry. To date, she has helped over 700 abortion workers quit. She also founded ProLove Ministries and LoveLine in the fall of 2019. Her bestselling book, Unplanned, was made into a feature film that debuted in theaters nationwide in March 2019 under the same name, and she is the host of the podcast Politely Rude.

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Fears, Flights, and Kangaroo Fights by Bill Myers
Magnificent Mulligans #6

From bestselling author Bill Myers comes a hilarious, faith-filled, and action-packed adventure (for ages 8–12) starring the Mulligan family.

The Mulligans are off to the jungles of South America to help Mom save some snakes. Jessica, terrified of slithery critters, is not thrilled to be on this particular mission of mercy. Meanwhile, Nick and Lisa are on their own mission to transport Bob the kangaroo back to the animal park. But they encounter a group of bad guys who have their own plans: putting a kangaroo in a boxing ring with some unlucky human and charging admission to the fight.

Back home, Dad, Janelle, Stephanie, and Julie are facing their own challenges: taking care of the animal park while worrying about what is happening to the rest of the family. As Dad tells Julie, we can’t get rid of fear by ignoring it, but we can focus on something better, like God’s love and His promises.

As an author and filmmaker, Bill Myers has won 70 national and international awards, including the C. S. Lewis Honor Award. His books and videos have sold over 8 million copies. He co-created the popular McGee and Me series; wrote, directed and starred in several Adventures in Odyssey episodes; and wrote The Incredible Worlds of Wally McDoogle series.

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Double Cross Down Under by Marianne Hering and Marshal Younger
Imagination Station Books #33

When kids step into the Imagination Station, they travel back in time and across the world with cousins Patrick and Beth. Each book is historically accurate, and readers (ages 7–12) will grow in their faith and in their knowledge of history as they race through each unforgettable story.

Hot on the trail of Amelia Darling, Patrick and Beth are transported to Australia where they encounter Reverend George Taplin and his friend James Unaipon, two faithful men of God serving the Aboriginal people and helping them understand the good news of the Gospel. But not every person is interested in this good news.

In the dark of night, Patrick and his new friend, Jandamarra, are kidnapped by bushrangers who need an Aboriginal person to show them the way to a great treasure.

The Imagination Station Books have sold over one million copies.

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At Face Value by Focus on the Family
Adventures in Odyssey #78

Adventures in Odyssey audio dramas release the imagination of both young and old as listeners (ages 7+) follow a host of characters through adventures in the town of Odyssey. These high-quality audio dramas teach biblical truths and moral foundations to help children make decisions throughout their lives. They are perfect for car rides and for initiating important conversations with kids.

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Sleuth Family Robinson: Fighting Evil around the World by Christopher P. N. Maselli

This graphic novel from Focus on the Family and Clubhouse Magazine offers quality, fun, and engaging Christian entertainment. Kids (ages 8–12) learn alongside the Robinsons as they solve problems together as a family.

In addition to the graphic novel, there are over thirty pages of extra content for readers to enjoy, including character profiles, bonus artwork, and faith-building lessons. This comic is especially fun for Adventures in Odyssey fans because it was “written” by Wooton and is an “in-universe” collectible. The story is clean, relevant, exciting, and spiritually uplifting.

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Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, Tyndale is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale’s mission is to make the Bible accessible to as many people as possible in language that they can relate and respond to. Tyndale publishes the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT), and offers nonfiction books that equip readers with Christ-centered insight, counsel, and life-improving stories. In addition, Tyndale publishes fiction from fresh new voices and celebrated authors alike, capturing the imagination of millions of readers. With a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing future generations, Tyndale also publishes children’s products that make God’s Word and wisdom come alive. Tyndale’s independent status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a substantial portion of annual revenue—millions of dollars per year—through corporate donations and the work of Tyndale House Foundation. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.

Focus on the Family, which reaches about 38 million people in 120 countries, is a global faith-based ministry that helps families thrive in Christ. Tyndale House Publishers is pleased to partner with Focus on the Family to help provide trusted resources for strengthening believers in their faith and sharing the gospel; building resilient marriages that reflect God’s design; equipping parents to raise their children with a thriving faith; advocating for the preborn, orphaned, and life at every stage; and engaging the culture through a biblical worldview. Visit Focus at FocusontheFamily.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

Contact: Natalie Wierenga, nataliewierenga@tyndale.com, 630.784.5211

October 2024 | LISLE, IL—IVP is excited to announce that The Disrupters podcast will be adding three election-related bonus episodes to its fifth season to prepare listeners the day before the presidential election, the day of the election, and the day after the election.

Seasons one and two of The Disrupters podcast asked the question, “What does it mean to disrupt the church?” Seasons three and four asked the question, “What does it mean to disrupt culture?” For its fifth season, hosted by IVP author Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters asked the question, “What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?”

Continuing this theme, this bonus mini-series features host Miranda Zapor Cruz, author of Faithful Politics. Cruz offers a disruption of the noise surrounding Election Day 2024 through thoughtful meditations accompanied by relevant Scripture readings, to help listeners combat the anxiety and uncertainties that accompany the selection of our next national and local leaders. Together, these episodes educate, inspire, and reassure listeners who seek a healthy posture this election year, for the health of their souls as well as for the flourishing of their communities.

Each bonus episode will include a related Scripture reading from the First Nations Version (episode 11), The Second Testament (episode 12), and The First Testament (episode 13).

The schedule of topics and readers will include:

November 4, Episode 11, “Before You Vote”

• Amy Williams is a youth ministry veteran and a certified gang intervention specialist. She is the author of Worth Seeing.
• Chloe T. Sun is the author of Conspicuous in His Absence and is professor of Old Testament and program director of the Chinese Studies Center at Fuller Theological Seminary.
• Terry M. Wildman is the lead translator, general editor, and project manager of the First Nations Version. He serves as the director of spiritual growth and leadership development for Native InterVarsity. He is also the author of Birth of the Chosen One.
• Michael F. Bird is academic dean and lecturer in New Testament at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia. He is the author of over thirty books on the Bible, theology, and history, including Introducing Paul and A Bird’s-Eye View of Luke and Acts.

November 5, Episode 12, “While You Wait”

• Prasanta Verma is the author of Beyond Ethnic Loneliness. Her essays and poetry have been published in Sojourners, Propel Women, (in)courage, Inheritance Magazine, The Indianapolis Review, Barren Magazine, and The Mudroom blog.
• Lynn H. Cohick is distinguished professor of New Testament and director of Houston Theological Seminary at Houston Christian University. She is an associate editor of Dictionary of Paul and His Letters, the second edition.
• Terence Lester is a minister, speaker, community activist, author, and founder of Love Beyond Walls, a nonprofit organization focused on poverty awareness and community mobilization. He is the author of five books, including the forthcoming From Dropout to Doctorate (September 2025).
• Scot McKnight is professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary in Lisle, Illinois. He is the author of many books, including Reading Romans Backwards, Pastor Paul, and The Second Testament.

November 6, Episode 13, “After the Result”

• Dorena Williamson writes children’s books and is the author of ColorFull, ThoughtFull, GraceFull, and The Celebration Place. In 1995, Dorena and her husband, Chris, cofounded Strong Tower Bible Church in Franklin, Tennessee, a multicultural fellowship passionate about biblical justice and God’s diverse kingdom.
• Carmen Joy Imes is associate professor of Old Testament at Biola University. She is the author of Bearing God’s Name, Praying the Psalms with Augustine and Friends, and Being God’s Image.
• Jay Y. Kim serves as the lead pastor at WestGate Church in Silicon Valley and on the leadership team of the ReGeneration Project. He is the author of Analog Church and Analog Christian and is the host of IVP’s The Digital Examen podcast.
• Robert Chao Romero is associate professor in the Departments of Chicana/o Studies and Asian American Studies at the University of California at Los Angeles. He is the author of Brown Church.

Read this press release for information about the schedule and guests for season five of The Disrupters, which is available through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast distributors.

Contact:  Krista Clayton | kclayton@ivpress.com