Contact: Gunnar Simonsen, Content Strategist, Custom Church Apps, 888-990-9210

VANCOUVER, Wash., Oct. 26, 2015 /Christian Newswire/ -- Biblica, publishers of the New International Version Bible (the most widely read contemporary English Bible translation in the world), has added the NIV Bible to the Custom Church App platform. This is an industry first for the NIV Bible to be integrated with a brandable church app platform.

With now more than 40 Bible translations, Custom Church Apps has the largest selection of Bibles in a brandable church app platform. The addition of the NIV Bible translation comes amidst a growing trend of churches (of all shapes and sizes), seeking to partner with Custom Church Apps to build their church app because of the integrated Bible features.

"We are so honored to be able to add the NIV to our app platform, and to offer our church partners a growing selection of now over 40 Bible translations." says Custom Church App CEO and co-founder, Poncho Lowder, who also is a pastor himself.

The Bible, the company says, is now the number one feature on their app platform. And with a growing number of churches using the app to create their own customized daily Bible reading plans, that are in step with their current teaching series; it has catapulted apps created by Custom Church Apps to an industry leading 87% returning user rate.

"We set out to change the church app industry, from an app that people would maybe only use once a week (to listen to a podcast or watch a sermon), to an app people would actually use several times throughout the week to better connect with God and their church. With our Bible, journal, and ability to customize reading plans, we have been able to revolutionize the church app industry." Lowder continues.

Custom Church Apps have also built exclusive relationships throughout the world, with fellowships and denominations such as the Assemblies of God and Church of God. This marks a strategic shift for churches seeking to establish further connection with the digital culture, through the use of smartphone app technology.

"People are using 7-10 apps daily. With data showing all of the ways people are using their smartphone to connect with life; shouldn't your local church and the Bible be right there in the midst of it?" asks Lowder, discussing the current trends of smartphone ownership and usage.

Read more about today's mobile culture, the staggering statistics and the impact on churches at: www.customchurchapps.com/blog