World Vision President’s ‘The Hole in Our Gospel’ Named ‘2010 Christian Book of the Year’

May 4, 2010 – “The Hole in Our Gospel,” the Christian bestseller by Richard Stearns, the president of World Vision U.S., has won the “2010 Christian Book of the Year” award.

The award was presented Monday in Nashville by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA).

“We hope the honor of being named ‘Christian Book of the Year’ will help ‘The Hole in Our Gospel’ mobilize even more Christians to care for the poor worldwide,” said ECPA’s President Mark Kuyper. “In a year of unforgettable world disasters, including the devastating earthquake in Haiti, we are eager to encourage believers to take action for those in need.”

Published by Thomas Nelson, the book chronicles Stearns’ journey of faith, as well as his decision to leave the corporate sector after more than 20 years and lead the major fundraising office of the world’s largest Christian humanitarian organization.

“The response to ‘The Hole in Our Gospel’ has far exceeded my hopes,” says Stearns, who heads up the U.S. offices of the global agency. “Hundreds of readers have contacted me to explain how the book has enlightened them to embrace Jesus’ commandment to serve the poor and the downtrodden.”

World Vision has more than 40,000 staff in nearly 100 countries, and this year it is celebrating its 60th anniversary.

Thomas Nelson CEO Michael Hyatt also praised Stearns’ book.

“’The Hole in Our Gospel’ moved me at a profound level,” Hyatt said. “It helped me see poverty, and the opportunity to do something about it, in a whole new light. I truly believe that Stearns' message can change the world. It certainly has changed me."

The paperback edition of Stearns’ book is being released this week and is available in bookstores and online. All royalties due to the author will benefit World Vision.

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. For more information, please visit www.worldvision.org/press.