Co-branding Agreement Entered for DVD-based Study Experience

(Nashville, Tenn) Thomas Nelson, Inc.’s Bible Group is pleased to announce that it has entered into a co-branding distribution agreement with Willow Creek Association for the Liquid curriculum series. Both entities will participate in the distribution and marketing of future releases as well as the seven installments that are currently available.

Created by Jeff Pries and John Ward of Mariners Church in Irvine, CA, Liquid is a DVD-based experience featuring five 10-minute episodes in each series offering. Building upon the parable teaching style of Jesus—who told stories using everyday characters—each  episode introduces present-day characters whose problems and struggles mirror biblical stories, illustrating that God’s word is just as true today as when it was written. Each DVD kit offers emotionally provoking videos, a reflection guide, introspective questions, and tips for facilitating a small group.

“What I’m looking for in group material is something creative, engaging, and provocative, yet deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and easy for a leader to use,” says Bill Donahue, Ph.D. of Willow Creek’s Group Life. “That’s a tall order, but Liquid meets these criteria with a powerful convergence of timeless truth and compelling drama in an accessible format. Way to go!”

“Small Groups and churches are seeking tools that will allow them to become closer to those in their community while digging deep into God’s Word. The Liquid series is an engaging experience that’s perfect for small group study or individual growth,” notes Wayne Hastings, Senior Vice President and Group Publisher for Thomas Nelson’s Bible Group.  “Best of all it is a proven tool, as Mariners Church alone has seen group numbers increase by 300% since implementing the Liquid style of study. In fact, I’ve been blessed by the series first-hand as it has promoted healthy discussion amongst my personal small group.”

The Willow Creek Association was founded in 1992, and works to link like-minded, action-oriented churches with each other and with strategic vision, training, and resources. The WCA is a not-for-profit ministry, with more than 12,000 Member Churches from 90 denominations and 45 countries. Visit them online at http://www.willowcreek.com.

Thomas Nelson, Inc. is a leading provider of Bibles, products, and live events emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes. For more information on the company and titles, visit http://www.thomasnelson.com. Samples of Liquid content can be viewed at http://www.experienceliquid.com.

The first seven Liquid series include:
Crossing (ISBN: 978-1-4185-2759-4) features five stand-alone episodes based on stories from the book of Joshua. Each story illustrates a situation that could either be controlled by fear and insecurity, or where God can reach out and help His people cross to a better place. Crossing always calls for uncommon courage, faith, and obedience, just like Joshua exhibited when leading nearly two million people across the Jordan River. But the results are always beyond what was imagined before crossing.

Fork in the Road (ISBN: 978-1-4185-2763-1) is a modern retelling of the life of David. From his legendary triumph over Goliath to his greatest downfall with Bathsheba, Fork in the Road portrays one man’s crucial moments of decision that either lead him to victory or defeat.

Live at Five (ISBN: 978-1-4185-2757-0) is the story of Natalie Neff and her struggles to discover purpose and direction in her life. Just out of college, she’s faced with daunting challenges both personally and professionally. Based on the book of James, Live at Five portrays the practical advice of James in a light-hearted, culturally relevant way. Filmed in High Definition (HD).

Mirror Image (ISBN: 978-1-4185-2761-7) is the story of a family from Orange County who faces dramatic events and must choose how to respond. Based on some of the most famous biblical parables, Mirror Image reminds us that Jesus’ teachings ask us to change the way we think in order to be salt and light in the world. Filmed in High Definition (HD).

Money Talks (ISBN: 978-1-4185-2765-5) takes a lighthearted but important look at one of the more difficult issues of our faith: stewardship.

The Ten: 1-5 (ISBN: 978-1-4185-2767-9) focuses on the first five of the Ten Commandments, allowing participants to explore and deepen their understanding of God’s laws to His people.

The Ten: 6-10 (ISBN: 978-1-4185-2769-3) focuses on the last five of the Ten Commandments, allowing participants to explore and deepen their understanding of God’s laws to His people.

DVD kits retail for $24.99, and additional participant’s guides are available for $9.99.

Contact:    Brenda Smotherman
Publicist
tel:    (615) 902-2231
fax:    (615) 902-1132
email: bsmotherman@thomasnelson.com

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