President of World Vision to Speak at Houston Church

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May 20, 2010, 02:38 ET

Author of 2010 Christian Book of the Year, "The Hole in Our Gospel"

HOUSTON, May 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Richard Stearns, president of World Vision and author of the 2010 Christian book of the year, "The Hole in Our Gospel," will speak at The Church of St. John the Divine on Saturday, June 5, at 10:00 am. The event is free.

Stearns' book chronicles the circuitous journey of his faith, his struggle to leave the corporate sector after more than 20 years to lead a non-profit organization, and why caring for the poor is not optional for those who call themselves Christians. The book also challenges readers to answer the question, "What does God expect of us?"

"Too many Christians believe that once you have prayed for salvation, you've got your life insurance policy and you're going to heaven," Stearns says. "They are missing half the equation. Jesus did not suggest that his followers serve the poor. He commanded them, and that commandment is as relevant today, as it was 2,000 years ago."

"The Hole in the Gospel" was named Christian book of the year May 3 by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.

Stearns serves as the president and CEO of the U.S. offices of World Vision, one of the world's largest humanitarian organizations with more than 40,000 staff in nearly 100 countries. Its global budget last year was $1.6 billion.

A reception and book signing will follow Stearns' talk. Copies of his book will be available for purchase.

The Church of St. John the Divine is located at 2450 River Oaks Boulevard, on Westheimer between Kirby Drive and Buffalo Speedway.

For more information about World Vision and Stearns, visit www.worldvision.org, or www.theholeinourgospel.com.

SOURCE World Vision U.S.