Elvis Presley 'always turned to God whenever he needed help', says stepbrother

The stepbrother of Elvis Presley wants to tell the world how important Christianity was to the King of Rock n' Roll. 

Billy Stanley goes into detail about the superstar's Christian faith in his new book, The Faith of Elvis, coming out in October. 

In an interview with the Observer newspaper about his famous stepbrother, Stanley said the music legend used to pray to God before every concert because it helped settle his nerves.

He remembered the two praying together at bedtime when he was a child and Elvis reading him Bible stories. 

He also recalls Elvis singing gospel songs at home. 

When it came to praying before shows, Stanley said that Elvis "always turned to God whenever he needed help".

"I asked him once, 'Why do you say the prayer before [each show]?' He said: 'It kind of settles my nerves but also I want God to help bless this concert, so make it a good one,'" Stanley said. 

Stanley said he wants to shed more light on Presley's Christian faith so that people can see past the "glitz and glamour". 

"Elvis was so appreciative of what the Lord had given him. He thanked God every day and constantly sought God's guidance through prayer and reading the Bible," he said. 

The 16 August will mark the 45th anniversary of Elvis' death. He died at Graceland on 16 August 1977 when he was 42.

Stanley's mother was Davada 'Dee' Stanley, the second wife of Elvis' dad, Vernon Presley. 

News
Bishop urges churches to embrace growing interest in Christianity
Bishop urges churches to embrace growing interest in Christianity

The Bishop of Blackburn has called on churches across Lancashire to prepare for a renewed interest in Christianity, saying there are encouraging signs of a “rebirth” among young people and families exploring faith.

Young people are finding their way to the Christian faith through media, says bishop
Young people are finding their way to the Christian faith through media, says bishop

Bishop Ruth Bushyager says an exciting shift is happening after years of unfulfilling secularism.

John Lennox urges Christians to overcome fear of sharing their faith
John Lennox urges Christians to overcome fear of sharing their faith

“What we all can do is to share what Christ has done for us,” he said. 

Anti-Christian harassment continues to rise in Jerusalem
Anti-Christian harassment continues to rise in Jerusalem

Many perpetrators believe their actions are justified under Judaic law.