Suppliers reported good business and an encouraging spirit at The Gathering 2010.

The event was "very good" for Thomas Nelson, said Inside Sales Consultant for Christian Retail Sales Scott Etheridge, who told Christian Retailing that sales had been strong and consistent. There had been a good response to its new Jack Countryman gift-book spinner rack to be available from the fall, he said.

Helping parents protect and nurture their children presents an opportunity for Christian stores to set themselves apart from the increasing competition they face, owners and managers were told at The Gathering 2010.

Hosted by former retailer and social media consultant Gunnar Simonsen and CBA Business Development Director Eric Grimm, the hour-long "Social Media for Today's Business Webinar" discussed several topics, including "Why Use Social Media?", "How to Make Money Using the Technology?", "Communicating Through Social Media Tool" and "How to Gauge its Success?"

Australian-based rock/worship band Hillsong United was honored with the GMA International Award, which recognizes a non-U.S. performer or organization that has made a global impact.

Bookstore representatives were given a preview of a revival initiative that is to tour the country later this year, at The Gathering 2010 last night.

They joined members of host Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Ky., for the launch of the Not a Fan movement that is to be backed by a DVD small-group video curriculum and book featuring the message of the church's teaching minister, Kyle Idleman.