The Nashville-based publisher has been airing a 15-minute promotional video about The Word of Promise New Testament Audio Bible, which ships in September for an Oct. 2 release.

Starring Jim Caviezel as Christ, the production includes such well-known Hollywood actors as Michael York (narrator), Richard Dreyfuss (Moses), Marisa Tomei (Mary Magdalene) and Stacy Keach (Paul). Christian singers Michael W. Smith (Cleopas) and Rebecca St. James (servant girl) are also part of the cast.

Encompassing 25 hours of recording, the 20-CD set has a list price of $49.99, with an MP3 version slated for release next year. Retailers and customers can hear a five-minute sample by calling 1-866-WORD-CDS.

"I think our customer is always looking for new formats and new ways of communicating with God," said Wayne Hastings, senior vice president and group publisher for Nelson's Bible unit. "Forty percent of our customers own three to 10 Bibles, so they're always looking for that next Bible to fill out their library. Audio becomes a great option."

The 18-month production originated with Carl Amari, CEO of Falcon Picture Group, who approached Caviezel about playing the lead role after working with him on the family-friendly film Madison. Caviezel is best known for playing Jesus in 2004's The Passion of the Christ.

Planning is already underway on the Old Testament, which Nelson plans to release in September 2009, with York and Dreyfuss among those making return appearances. Jon Voight will play Abraham, and Jason Alexander will portray Joseph.

In the interim, Thomas Nelson will release related products, such as the Easter story next spring, a Psalms rendering in fall 2008 and a pair of radio devotionals that will include clips from The Word of Promise.

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