The acquisition by YouthWorks--a multidenominational group of ministries in more than 80 cities in the U.S. and Canada--is expected to be completed before the end of the year, Zondervan officials said. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

"We believe that the work and the ministry of Youth Specialties are so very important," said Paul Bertelson, founder and president of YouthWorks. "We recognize and value that the events and resources offer to pastors and ministry teams and the impact they have on our youth and the church as a whole. ... We hold dear the stewardship of the Youth Specialties legacy that is being passed on to us."

Zondervan CEO Moe Girkins added: "We believe this agreement allows Youth Specialties to move to the next level under the guidance of a missions-minded ministry. Our appreciation for the heart and mission of Youth Specialties has been at the forefront of this venture, and we are confident that our friends at YouthWorks offer a great fit."

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