EXHIBIT 10.17

                            EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This contract of Employment is made and entered into by and between Thomas

Nelson, Inc., a Tennessee corporation, hereinafter referred to as "Employer",

and Jerry Park, hereinafter referred to as "Employee."

Employer desires to employ Employee in the capacity of Sr. Vice President,

Trade Sales & Christian Markets, with all principal powers, duties and

responsibilities attendant thereto, and such other duties as shall be requested

of Employee by the Company, and Employee desires to be so employed by Employer.

In consideration therefore, the parties mutually agree as follows:

A. TERM OF AGREEMENT

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The term of this contract shall be for a period of one (1) year commencing on

January 27, 1998 and thereafter shall automatically renew for additional

thirty (30) day periods unless 1) cancelled upon thirty (30) days written

notice by either party or 2) superseded by a new employment agreement.

B.   EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION

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Employee's remuneration shall be as set forth in Schedule A attached to this

Agreement and incorporated herein.

C.   EMPLOYEE CONDUCT

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As Sr. Vice President, Trade Sales & Christian Markets, Employee recognizes and

understands his fiduciary relationship with and responsibilities to Employer.

Employee therefore promises to act always in good faith and in the best

interests of Employer in the discharge of his duties and obligations.  

Further, Employee agrees to devote his full time and efforts to his employment

with Employer. Should Employee during the term of this Agreement fail to so

devote his full working time and efforts to the benefit of Employer for any

reason other than illness or disability, or should he engage in any activity

or business enterprise competing or conflicting with the business or activities

of Employer, its subsidiaries, partners, or agents, or should he engage in any

illegal or criminal conduct or acts of insubordination, or should he violate

any of the terms and provisions of Subparagraph D(1) hereunder, then Employer,

at its sole discretion, may terminate the employment of Employee immediately.

All Employee's rights hereunder shall end upon such termination by Employer and

Employee's only rights in such event shall be to receive all salary accrued

through the date of termination.

D.   CONFIDENTIAL CLAUSES AND NON-COMPETITION AGREEMENT

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Employee further agrees as follows:

(1)   During Employment by Employer:

     Confidential Information

     Employee recognizes and acknowledges that there are certain trade s