Thomas Nelson Inc.'s Jesus Calling® Brand Surpasses Five Million Sold

NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomas Nelson, Inc., the world's largest Christian publisher, announced that more than five million Jesus Calling® products have been sold worldwide.

After many years of writing in her prayer journal, missionary Sarah Young decided to listen to God with pen in hand and wrote down what she believed He was saying to her through Scripture. In 2004, Young's words were compiled into a devotional written in the perspective of Jesus speaking directly to the reader, and published under the title "Jesus Calling." The 365-day devotional has appeared on the "Wall Street Journal," "Publisher's Weekly," "USA Today," and ECPA bestseller lists.

"What an honor it is to watch God at work, drawing people closer to Him through the pages of this book," says Laura Minchew, Senior Vice President and Publisher of Specialty Products at Thomas Nelson. "It is truly inspiring to hear from so many whose lives have been transformed by these messages of comfort and peace."

"Jesus Calling" has been translated into 18 languages and has inspired an entire brand of products in multiple formats: eBooks, apps, audio books, and CD's. Other popular titles in the product line include: fellow devotionals "Jesus Lives" and "Dear Jesus," children's devotional "Jesus Calling for Kids," the "Jesus Calling Devotional Bible," and a Spanish translation of the original devotional book, "Jesus Te Llama."

"The continued growth of the Jesus Calling brand is a testament to its powerful, life-changing content," says Mark Schoenwald, President and CEO of Thomas Nelson. "Being able to inspire more than five million lives worldwide is a true example of our company mission. We have been honored to work with Sarah Young on these projects and to see God shine His light through her words."

In September 2012, readers can look forward to the release of Young's newest devotional "Jesus Today™: Experience Hope through His Presence," which brings heart-lifting hope to people struggling with life problems, health, or even faith. Also releasing in September is the beautifully illustrated "Jesus Calling Bible Storybook" for children, which shows kids Jesus' plan and love for their lives.

Thomas Nelson, Inc. is the world's largest Christian publisher. The Company provides multiple forms of "inspirational" content including: Bibles, books, eBooks, journals, audio, video, curriculum and applications for Apple and Android devices. The Company is headquartered in Nashville, TN, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Live Event Management, Inc., a Thomas Nelson company, is the nation's leading producer of Christian live events. For additional information, visit www.thomasnelsoncorporate.com.

Sarah Young is quietly leading millions of men and women worldwide on a journey of intimacy with Christ. Her devotional books—which include the #1 bestseller "Jesus Calling" and the top sellers "Jesus Calling for Kids," "Dear Jesus," and "Jesus Lives"—have sold over five million copies. Sarah and her husband have traveled extensively, planting churches and counseling. They currently are living in Perth, Australia, where they are ministering to Japanese people and helping establish an international church. They have two married children and two grandchildren.

SOURCE Thomas Nelson, Inc.