"I have been hearing from people that are behind CBA and actively praying for us," Thomsen said. "I really think that is the call to our industry-that we work together as stewards of what is God's industry."

More than 20 suppliers--including Kregel Publications, Integrity Music and Warner Press--have so far signed on for the Virtual Christmas Showcase. In addition to highlighting products and specials, the online event also includes interviews, new release spotlights and other offers. The virtual show has drawn more than 1,800 visitors from more than 50 countries since it began Sept. 30, with more than 5,000 page views.

Click here to view the complete VBS guide, to be published in the Nov. 9 issue of Christian Retailing magazine.

Tomlin shares a behind-the-scenes look at his vision for his first Christmas record, which he says has "been a long time coming." The popular artist and worship leader also reveals some of his favorite holiday projects, how Christmas is celebrated in his family and the worshipful nature of Christmas music.

Consisting of six sculpted-stone, resin pieces, this new collection is designed to serve as a reminder of Christ's resurrection. The centerpiece of the collection is a 9.5-inch tall Cross figurine (0-45544-29072-2) proclaiming the message of Luke 24:34. Incorporating symbols of Christ's sacrifice and ascension to heaven, the figurine has 360-degree detailing and inlaid crystal accents. It retails for $25.

Other items from the launch include a wall cross, a tabletop centerpiece depicting Christ's ascension and three decorative Easter ornaments. Gregg is also releasing three new "Legacy of Love" figurines that focus on family, fatherly love and unconditional love.

The "Legacy of Love" brand has décor-neutral color palettes and incorporates hints of stone and metal in the sculpting and painting.

Introduced in January 2008, "Legacy of Love" started as a celebration of Christmas. With strong support from retailers, an everyday figural line quickly followed in the spring. With a fall launch, the new products will be available for February delivery.

Read more in the Nov. 9 issue of Christian Retailing.

"Christmas in Spanish-speaking areas is a very important religious holiday and is celebrated in a variety of ways," said Cathy Vila, director of marketing for Editorial Portavoz. "One of the most beloved characters from the Christmas story is the donkey, known to Spanish-speaking children as ‘El burrito de Belén,' the Christmas donkey. Throughout all the Spanish-speaking countries of the world, children sing a song about the Christmas donkey."

Based on sales for the four-week period through Oct. 17, the charts find Lucado followed by: 2. Crazy Love by Francis Chan (David C. Cook); 3. The Love Dare by Stephen and Alex Kendrick (B&H Books/B&H Publishing Group); 4. The Shack by William P. Young (Windblown Media/Hachette Book Group); 5. The Missing by Beverly Lewis (Bethany House Publishers/Baker Publishing Group); 6. Intervention by Terri Blackstock (Zondervan); 7. Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Thomas Nelson); 8. Forgotten God by Francis Chan (David C. Cook); 9. Living With Confidence in a Chaotic World by David Jeremiah (Thomas Nelson); and 10. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Northfield Publishing/Moody Publishers).