Francis Chan writes children's books, resigns pastorate Print
Written by Eric Tiansay   
Thursday, 06 May 2010 02:30 PM America/New_York
California pastor and best-selling author Francis Chan has modeled his two new children's picture books, Halfway Herbert and The Big Red Tractor and the Little Village, after his adult books from David C. Cook, Crazy Love and Forgotten God--which have sold more than 900,000 copies combined.

Releasing in September from David C. Cook, the books are for children 4-8 years old. In Halfway Herbert--based on Chan's first book, Crazy Love--Herbert learns the importance of honesty and following God with all of his heart. The Big Red Tractor and the Little Village, based on Forgotten God, shows children how to understand the Holy Spirit.

"Francis and his wife, Lisa, want to make Christianity real to children--whether it is for their own four kids, children in their church, kids around their community or around the world," said C. Ryan Dunham, senior vice president of sales and marketing for David C. Cook. "We all believe these two children's books will impact a future generation to commit to bold and passionate living at a young age."

Additionally, Chan's first DVD series, "Basic," comes out this summer from David C. Cook and Flannel.

Meanwhile, Chan announced April 18 to his congregation at Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley, Calif., that he would be stepping down to pursue a different kind of ministry reaching the poor in Los Angeles. He plans to teach through this month at the church and fulfill speaking dates across the country in June and July. In August and September, Chan will be praying and walking large cities to seek God's leading, and in October and December serving in a Third World country before launching his new ministry in January 2011.