When I began writing for publication over 40 years ago, opportunities to learn the craft were limited and there was only one writers’ conference on the East Coast. I’ll always be grateful for my pastor who sent me to the St. David’s Christian Writers Conference. That conference changed my life and launched me on an Ephesians 3:20 journey.
I believe going to one or more writers’ conferences every year is critically important for those who have not yet published (or even submitted a manuscript for publication) as well as those who are publishing regularly. The opportunity to grow your writing and marketing skills, to learn from and meet with established authors, and to pitch your ideas to agents and editors can change your life even as it has mine.
That’s why I’ve kept on keeping on directing the Colorado Christian Writers Conference for 21 years and the Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference for 34 years. (The July 26-29 Philly conference is in the planning stages.) It’s meant I have far less time for my own writing, but I have no doubt I make a much greater Kingdom impact through directing the two conferences and teaching at my writing seminars. I have to admit, however, that if Father had told me at the first conference I attended that one day I’d be directing not one but two conferences, I would have told Him I wasn’t qualified and I would have run the other way!
As I flip through the 16-page brochure for the May 17-20 Colorado Christian Writers Conference, I am amazed at what Father has enabled me to put together. It is certainly beyond what I could have ever imagined or dreamed over 40 years ago.
But what to choose? In addition to 42 workshops (you get to choose six or apply for a clinic), 15 early bird workshops, keynotes, panels, and one-on-one appointments (full-time conferees get FOUR 15-minute appointments), here’s a quick peek at our eight continuing sessions. Choosing just one isn’t easy!
The Chase with D.J. Williams – Create a roadmap to chase your cause-driven novel in this interactive workshop that dives into the structure that moves novelists and screenwriters to write stories that make a difference in the world.
You Can Indie Publish and Market Your Book with Sarah Bolme (director of CSPA, the Christian Small Publishers Assn.) – Gain the knowledge and tools you need to publish and market your book affordably.
Writing Powerful Narrative Nonfiction with Sherri Langton – You’ll learn how story communicates biblical truth, where to find ideas, and how to be sure an idea is marketable.
The Courage to Write with Judy Couchman – Build a solid foundation for your writing ministry by learning from an author who felt just as scared as you when she started. Now she has traditionally published 44 works.
Develop & Market Your Nonfiction Book with Mike Loomis – Explore a market-driven approach to creating a nonfiction book, from premise to press release.
Reaching Women through Writing & More with Linda Evans Shepherd – From the podium, to written word, to Web publications, and to Internet video, Linda will help you formulate a plan to build your ministry to meet the needs of today’s women.
Writing that Changes Lives with Bill Watkins – Learn how writing that connects, challenges, provokes, inspires, casts vision, provides hope, and refuses to back away from telling the truth can change lives and eventually cultures.
Market Your Message without Selling Your Soul with Eryn Lynum – Learn how to create a healthy, growing platform and marketing plan along with the importance of remembering the “why” of your writing so you don’t become lost in the marketing.
Now glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of—infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes.
Ephesians 3:20 (TLB)
Write His Answer 
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