| I’ve been teaching workshops at Christian writers’ conferences and giving my one- and two-day Christian writers’ seminars for more than 25 years. I’ve met many gifted writers who were discouraged and ready to give up because their work wasn’t selling. Why? Invariably I found they were aiming for the most difficult places to break into print. As a result, I began teaching the “Best Opportunities in Christian Periodicals” – a workshop I just updated for the Vine & Vessels Christian Writers Conference in Delaware.
I’m excited about the ministry opportunity Christian periodicals provide. Whether in print or online, you can reach far more people than you can with books unless you’re a best-selling author. You can also keep your work in print by selling reprints to non-overlapping markets as long as you have not sold all rights. (If you’ve sold first rights, you need to be certain not to submit the piece elsewhere until it is in print and the date of publication has passed.) But what if you’re working on a book? Although obviously there is a BIG difference between a book and an article or short story, I want to encourage you not to overlook the Christian periodical market. Why?
But that brings us back to where we started. You’ve got to know the best opportunities! A CD of the “Best Opportunities in Christian Periodicals” workshop that I just taught can be ordered for $6 at http:writehisanswer.com/CDs_&_Tapes.htm. Scope of Christian Periodicals NOTE: “Best Opportunity Markets” can be downloaded free of charge While ou’re there, check out my expanded bookstore for writers. With over 240 titles, you’re sure to find something that will help you grow your writing God bless you as you “write His answer.” In Him – Marlene |
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When I think of “writing His answer,” I immediately think of the needs of children. You may have heard me say, “No child should go to bed hungry . . . or be abused or forced to witness things a child should never have to see.”
I regularly receive email from Kimberly Smith of Make Way Partners (www.makewaypartners.org), “a Christian mission agency committed to prevent and combat human trafficking and all forms of modern-day slavery.” A staggering quote from her website says: “Sex slavery – in our world today, there are more women and children forced into sex slavery than the entire female population of Atlanta, Houston, LA, and NYC combined.” I highly recommend Kimberly’s book, Passport Through Darkness, and want to encourage you to subscribe to her newsletter. And I urge you to pray for the children in their Hope for Children Orphanage in the Sudan who are in grave danger. This morning the director called to say that “at this very moment a large team of raiders were running through our orphanage property unleashing heavy machinegun fire. At least two locals are dead, maybe more. Our guards were quick thinking and were able to round up all of our children and close them into their dormitory, where all are safe for the moment. It seems tension has continued to rise over these months and one group wrestled a herd of cattle from another. The raiders are killing each other, and anyone who gets in their way. Child trafficking often gets included in these raids so our children are very vulnerable tonight.”
Please pray for these children and for the estimated one million orphans in Sudan. “These precious children,” Make Way Partners says, “are primarily left unprotected to survive by themselves in the African bush. Many find trees to sleep in at night to avoid hyena attack.” And yes, you do hear me saying, “Children should not have to sleep in trees!”
And then I think of children and teens here in America. Did you now that suicide is the third leading cause of death among America’s teenagers? The granddaughter of Fran Pasch, one of GPCWC’s conferees, has written a powerful song, “Take My Hand,” about teen suicide. Fran writes: “I have a special favor to ask you. Our granddaughter April needs people to subscribe to her YouTube account. She will be going to LA within the next month for a big meeting about her music and some good opportunities to write. If you have a YouTube account go on the internet and type in www.YouTube.com/AprilLockhartmusic and press the yellow button to subscribe. She needs to get 1000 people to dothis. If you don’t have a YouTube account you can sign up. There is no charge. You will hear her singing a song when you go on but she did not write this one. After you subscribe, you can click on Take My Hand, the song she wrote about teen suicide. Please ask others to do this too.”
Father, please stir our hearts to pray for children and teens here at home and around the world. Show us how You can use us to make a dfference.
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A Life-Changing Experience – If You Want to Change Your Life
Guest blog from Rick Marschall, GPCWC faculty member
Back in 2004, I was already the author of a few dozen books, and some experience as a writer of articles and interviews and columns. Now that I start thinking about it, I had done a lot of political cartoons and columns too; essays for journals and liner notes for albums. In between those things, I had been an editor, a publisher, and art director too. And I taught creative writing and ran workshops. Yes, I can keep jobs. But I just love all aspects of writing – communicating. God had blessed me richly.
I received an invitation from a Christian Writer’s Conference to speak and hold workshops. I had just been canned from a job at a Christian publishing house, and I wondered whether I would be appearing under false colors. Well, I thought, maybe I can share with aspiring writers how to cope with being let go. Frankly, I was uncomfortable. But I opened morning devotions – an assignment tossed to me by Director Marlene Bagnull, who always knows what she is doing – and I told the audience that I should let them know I was no longer an editor at that publishing house… that I left on account of sickness… (pause) you see, the boss finally got sick of me.
I don’t know about the audience, but it broke the ice for me. To tell the truth, I was quite all right with my situation, but that didn’t stop dozens and dozens (and dozens) of people that week, coming to me, encouraging me, praying with me – strangers, aspiring amateurs, and idols in my field. It was like family. Christian conferences should be like that… Heaven will be like that… and Marlene Bagnull’s Christian Writer’s Conferences are ALWAYS like that.
That is a personal story. I will now tell you some “business” details that can have a very personal impact on your life.
The next of Marlene’s conferences is the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writer’s Conference, on the campus of Philadelphia Biblical University outside Philly, Aug 10-13. Short notice, but not oo late, worth the effort to attend! “Write His Answer” is the evergreen heme, and for anyone with creative urges, a struggling career, a passion to communicate; eager to meet famous and accomplished writers, industry professionals including editors, agents, and publishers; or to network with
other aspiring writers – this conference will be pure gold. Much of the work I ave done in recent years has flowed from these conferences, the contacts – and
friends – made there.
The guest list includes (among a faculty of almost 70) Cecil Murphey, amazing author or collaborator on more han 100 books including 90 Minutes in Heaven; Ted Baehr of the Christian Film and Television Commission and publisher of MOVIEGUIDE Magazine; Dan Wooding of the essential ASSIST News Service; Steve Lawson of Regal Publishing, who will hold a seminar on Christian persecution and social justice; and professionals including Craig Bubeck (editor, Wesleyan); Dave Fessenden (editor, CLC Publishing); Hope Flinchbaugh (author and publisher, History Maker press); Jeanette Windle (missionary and author); Tim Shoemaker (author, youth minister); and Becky Spencer (singer, songwriter, author). I will speak on creative peoples’ response and responsibility to a culture in decline. There will also be a day’s program for young writers, a Teens Write track.
Worship… workshops… seminars… classes… devotions… critiques of writing samples… all types of holy synergy. Get thee to the Conference if at all possible! You will profit in uncountable ways… and you don’t even have to show a pink slip to show up and be blessed!
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When I started writing for publication about 40 years ago, so much of what we today take for granted was not available.
- Computers were HUGE machines only large businesses could afford and data to be processed had to first be keypunched on cards. I suspect that one of the reasons my husband has arthritis in his hands today is because of all the cards he fed into these monster-size computers that required a room of their own in a temperature controlled climate. (Yes, it’s hot here, too. My grandkids are playing under the hose and I’m hoping they get bored quickly because it’s over 100 even in the shade on my back porch.)
- The Internet and all the incredible resources it provides for writers was non-existent. Just some of the helpful info I’ve found online recently:
A great article on point-of-view, one of the biggest problems for fiction writers, by Karen Ball who is now an agent with the Steve Laube Agency. http://www.stevelaube.com/out-of-their-minds-the-basics-of-point-of-view/
A helpful article for crafting your elevator pitch written by literary agent, Rachelle Gardner. In her July 18 and 19 posts Rachelle provided more tips on how to pitch your idea. http://www.rachellegardner.com/2011/07/crafting-your-elevator-pitch/
An article by ASSIST News Service on Dave Fessenden’s new book, Crafting the Christian Nonfiction Book – From Concept to Contract. I had the joy and privilege of providing an endorsement for the front cover. http://www.assistnews.net/Stories/2011/s11070103.htm
In a “Crucial Element to Book Proposal Success” Terry Whalin provides valuable help on identifying your competition. Whether you write fiction or nonfiction you need to include this information in your book proposal. See http://terrywhalin.blogspot.com/2011/07/crucial-element-to-book-proposal.html
And that’s just a brief sample of what came directly to my nbox and can come to yours as well if you subscribe to these helpful resources.
- There were only a few Christian writers conferences to help you grow your writing and marketing skills and connect with authors, editors, and agents who can help you get your work in print. Forty years ago the only Christian conference on the east coast was the St. David’s Christian Writers Conference where I served on the board for over ten years. Their June conference now meets at Geneva College in eastern PA. The Montrose Christian Writers Conference in northern PA (also non-existent 40 years ago) begins next week. I’ve served on their faculty many times. It’s one of my favorite conferences. And then, of course, in just 2-1/2 weeks the Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference that I founded 28 years ago will take place on the campus of Philadelphia Biblical University in Langhorne, PA (north of Philadelphia and easily accessible by public transportation).
Literary agent, Diana Flegal, who will again serve on the faculty, says: “I look forward to this conference every year 🙂 I come away refreshed, and always having learned something vital to my everyday life, both personal and professional. I hope you can make an effort to come this year or begin to plan on coming next.”
Please prayerfully consider coming. The conference has launched so many writers. Maybe you too? You can register securely online, and there’s still time to request appointments with our faculty of over 60 authors, editors, and agents including Dave Fessenden and Terry Whalin.
Serving Christ – Marlene
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1. GPCWC has been equipping Christians to “write His answer” for 28 years.
2. GPCWC has opened the doors of publication for many writers.
3. GPCWC features a faculty of over 65 editors, agents, and authors.
4. GPCWC offers free 15-minute appointments with the faculty of your choice based on availability.
5. GPCWC’s general sessions and keynotes will inspire you to write about a God who is real, who is reachable, and who changes lives.
6. GPCWC offers 60 workshops and 8 continuing sessions to help published and not-yet-published writers grow their writing skills.
7. GPCWC’s clinics provide hands on help to get your book in print. Deadline for applying is July 16.
8. GPCWC offers paid critiques for those who need mre help with their manuscript. Deadline for submitting your manuscript is July 21.
9. GPCWC provides the opportunity for you to form deep friendships with others who share your passion for words and for the Lord.
10. GPCWC happens just once-a-year and the price increases July 16!
God is raising up an army of Christians to “Write His Answer” now, while the doors to write and distribute Christian literature are still open. In the midst of growing hostility to Christ we must not be silent or miss the opportunity to address the critical needs facing our nation and world. Whether you write fiction or nonfiction, for children or adults, GPCWC will equip you to make a difference. I hope to see you there!
Because Jesus is the answer –
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My seven-year-old granddaughter was here today. We had a long talk about how she disobeyed her mother at the pool yesterday, screamed no, and stuck out her tongue. And we talked about last week when she said, “I don’t like having a brother. I hate him.” As a punishment her mother told her she had to write “I will be nice” 100 times. Of course, Laura didn’t, and mom gave up arguing with her. Well today, I decided that this was one of those battles (and yes, I pick them carefully) that needed to be won. To make a long story short, I gave Laura the choice of writing “I will obey and say kind words” only 50 times IF it was readable and IF she didn’t moan and groan through the process. Giving her a choice must have been the key for she did it without her usual theatrics of “I can’t. It will take forever!”
Why am I taking time to tell this story? Certainly NOT because I think I’m a model grandmom or all-wise. I grieve over the seeds of rebellion that are already growing in my granddaughter and can’t help wonder what her teen years will be like if Jesus tarries. And then I received the email below from Donna Partow, an author who has served on the faculty of both conferences several times and who I deeply respect. The statistics Donna shared about American teens deepen my concern for my grandkids and for all of America’s youngsters. And then there’s the burden I carry for children at home and abroad who are abused, homeless, hungry . . .
It’s because of these concerns that I direct the Greater Philly and Colorado Christian Writers Conferences. I truly believe Father can use our writing to make a difference.
I want to encourage you to read Donna’s email below; to respond with your prayers and, if possible, a gift to her daughter’s exciting ministry; and not to miss the opportunity of coming to this year’s conference. The price increases after July 15. If financially you don’t see how you can afford the conference, please contact me. I’ll work with you and God will make a way. He specializes in the impossible! If the date conflicts with something you can’t change, would you consider a donation to our scholarship fund to help someone else come? No amount is too small.
May God bless you and encourage you to “write His answer.”
In Him – Marlene
From Donna Partow
Are you ready to be shocked?
Here are some national statistics about American teenagers:
1 in 3 have been drunk in the past month
1 in 4 will use illegal drugs
8000 contract an STD every day
1 million are pregnant
750,000 get abortions each year
1 in 10 have been raped
9 out of 10 have seen pornography online
1 of 2 are no longer virgins
40% have inflicted self-injury
1 in 5 have contemplated suicide
Over 1,500 kill themselves each year
53% believe Jesus sinned
83% believe truth is relative
What part will you play in reaching this profoundly lost generation?
My beautiful Taraneh is dancing through a marvelous door of opportunity. She will combine her love of dance and her passion for evangelism through the ministry of Youth Quake Live. She needs to raise $500 in support and a team of prayer warriors. Below is the information you will need to prayerfully consider supporting her. (If you are unable to donate financially, your prayers are just as powerful in the battle for today’s youth!)
And from Donna’s daughter, Taraneh
I want to tell you about a great organization that I have committed myself to this year, called YouthQuake Live (YQL). The purpose of YouthQuake Live is to provide life-changing youth entertainment that unflinchingly confronts issues releveant to today’s teenagers, and inspires young people to lead a revolution of righteousness and boldly fulfill their God-given destiny.
YQL is a live variety show with hilarious skits, live music, dance performances, giveaways, and a life-changing message. Some have compared it to a spiritual version of Saturday Night Live for teenagers. The shows are free to the community and are held on the first Friday of the month during the school year. YQL started in 1995 with a small cast of 12 teens and an audience of 40 people. Today, we have a cast over over 150 teenagers who have performed in front of crowds as large as 3000 people. In addition, fifty different churches from many denominations are represented in our cast.
We know that God has placed YouthQuake Live in an unique position to reach teenagers in Florida with an effective and relevant presentation of the gospel. In order to do this, we are looking for support to bring us into the next level of ministry. Some of our goals include new forms of advertising to bring in teens who don’t usually go to church.
My goal is to raise at least $500 for YQL. Would you consider giving a monthly donation or a one-time gift to this life-changing organization? All gifts are tax-deductible, and you will receive a receipt for your gift. You can donate using PayPal at www.youthquakelive.com Simply click the “Support” tab, then click on the “Give” page. When you are redirected to paypal, please be sure to click “Add special instructions to the seller” and note “Donation for Taraneh Partow” in the box provided.
Thank you for supporting YQL as we reach this generation with the Good News!
God bless,
Taraneh Partow
Donna Partow Ministries
P.O. Box 2092
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32004
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The August 10-13 GPCWC is the place to be if you’re writing a nonfiction book!
Dave Fessenden, Senior Editor/Acquisitions at CLC Publications is offering the hands-on help you need in his Nonfiction Books Clinic. Based on his new book, Writing the Christian Nonfiction Book: Concept to Contract, the clinic focuses on eight steps every book author must take to be successfully published. Merging practical advice with spiritual counsel, the emphasis will be on the inspirational impact of the author’s material. The clinic is limited to 10 serious writers and will meet during the six hour-long workshops. The prerequisite is a nonfiction book in-progress or completed and a teachable spirit. You will find more information and the clinic application (due by email no later than July 16) at www.writehisanswer.com/Philadelphia/2011_clinics.htm.
Terry Whalin, author of more than 60 nonfiction books who is also serving on the faculty, says,”I resonated with Fessenden’s insight and instruction which are mixed with humor and honesty. He is a skilled communicator who has written Christian nonfiction books and guided other authors as a book editor. That experience shines in these pages.” Terry generously shares his publishing know-how in his blog, The Writing Life. I highly recommend that you subscribe. He also will be teaching four workshops at the conference including “Nonfiction Book Creation.” Through step-by-step instruction you’ll learn how to determine the big picture for a book project and how to use storyboarding techniques. There are five more workshops in the Nonfiction track plus workshops in the Get Published, Marketing, Writer’s Life, and Craft tracks nonfiction writers will find helpful.
GPCWC is offering a six-hour continuing session on Nonfiction Books taught by Craig Bubeck, Editorial Director for Wesleyan Publishing House. “Do you want to write nonfiction that will impact lives for the kingdom?” he asks. Beginning with a biblical examination of why we write nonfiction, Craig will discuss the practical applications of translating truth into powerful and relevant nonfiction concepts and manuscripts that audiences will want to read.
At GPCWC you’ll also have the opportunity to meet with editors who publish nonfiction and agents who represent nonfiction authors. The sooner you register the more likely you’ll be able to get your top choices.
God bless you as you “write His answer.”
Posted in Called to write, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference | 1 Comment »
A word from Bonnie Calhoun, our Appointments Coordinator:
This is going to be a great conference for fun, fellowship with like-minded souls, and even warm bodies to practice your elevator pitch on. Let me tell you the excitement is building because we have a whole host of fabulous authors on faculty for this conference that would love to mentor you! Every one of them has been in the place that you are now.
If you need someone in the know to practice your pitch with, an established author can help! If you need someone to give you suggestions on the direction you should go with your writing, an established author could be a sounding board.
Many of our authors have specialties. Just to name a few of the helps you could tap into: Twila Belk, Angela Breidenbach, and Linda Waterman are all experts at platform building, working with the media, and social networking. Do you need help building a speaking ministry? Stacy Hawkins Adams and Elaine Miller can answer your questions.
Are you considering e-publishing? Angela Breidenbach has created several e-books and Amy Deardon is also an e-Publish expert! Amy’s two Earlybird workshops on e-publishing (E1, E7) will shorten your learning curve.
Do you need someone to read the first couple of pages of your manuscript and point out grammatical and punctuation problems? Margie Vawter or Kyle Waalen can help you.
Other author/mentor specialties include Becky Spencer, Colleen Capes Jackson, and Kathi Wilson for songs and music. Mona Hodgson writes poetry. Torry Martin writes humor and dramas. And we’ve got authors who write fiction and nonfiction for children, tweens, young adults, and adults.
If you’ve not yet done so, I encourage you to carefully read the author bios at www.writehisanswer.com/Philadelphia/2011_authors.htm. We’ve got a fabulous faculty. Don’t miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to learn from and network with industry pros.
The Lord is going to meet us in Philly! I hope you’ll join us.
Bonnie Calhoun Appointment Coordinator GPCWC & CCWC
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Write His Answer 