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
Televangelist Jim Bakker dies at 86
Televangelist Jim Bakker dies at 86

Jim Bakker, the controversial televangelist who once owned one of the most popular theme parks in the United States but later went to prison for his financial misconduct, has died at age 86.

Christian faith seen as ‘significantly more relevant’ to young people than church, new report finds
Christian faith seen as ‘significantly more relevant’ to young people than church, new report finds

The Christian faith is perceived as “significantly more relevant to children” and young people than the church itself, according to new research which calls on churches to rethink how they engage the next generation.

Winnie-the-Pooh centenary marked with new Christian reflection resources for schools
Winnie-the-Pooh centenary marked with new Christian reflection resources for schools

Church schools are being invited to explore Christian values through the much-loved stories of Winnie-the-Pooh as part of new resources produced to mark the character’s 100th anniversary.

UK ranks seventh globally for daily Bible App use as searches for anxiety and hope rise
UK ranks seventh globally for daily Bible App use as searches for anxiety and hope rise

The UK has ranked seventh in the world for daily Bible App engagement, as new figures from YouVersion suggest growing numbers of people are turning to Scripture for reassurance, guidance and spiritual support.