'Purpose of Christmas' DVD, CD released Print
Wednesday, 05 November 2008 07:00 PM America/New_York

Zondervan is reporting strong sales for the release of the DVD study The Purpose of Christmas by Rick Warren, megachurch pastor and author of The Purpose-Driven Life.

Released last month, the 75-minute video—featuring newly filmed material of author and Saddleback pastor Warren—is geared toward small groups and families. Warren teaches three sessions about Christmas, discussing that it is a time of reconciliation, salvation and celebration.

Karen Campbell, director of public relations for Zondervan, said the company had exceeded sales goals for the product after only a few weeks since its release. The DVD can be purchased for $14.99 and the study guide for $6.99 or both for $19.99.

Howard Books released the gift book The Purpose of Christmas Nov. 4 with an initial print run of 1.8 million copies.

Meanwhile, The Purpose of Christmas ($14.98) CD was released last week exclusively at Wal-Mart by producer David Pack. The 16-track CD features inspirational Christmas songs by several artists, including Sarah McLachlan, Martina McBride, Third Day and Vince Gill. Net proceeds from the CD—which is not available in the Christian retail channel—will benefit the P.E.A.C.E. Plan, a global initiative created by Warren at Saddleback.