Testimonials
Comments from past Maranatha Christian Writers’ Conference attendees.
“Maranatha Writers’ Conference provides inspiration, instruction and take-home materials. It keeps me going and growing as a writer.”
See what writers are saying about the Maranatha Writers Conference
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“If you even think you would like to write but don’t know how or where to begin, here is your answer. MCWC presents a broad spectrum of techniques, structure, and ideas. The teachers are Christ-centered, professional, knowledgeable and very helpful. You’ll like it.”
“The conference is small enough to be personable. The friendliness of the staff and presenters is just so warm and welcoming. God shines through them in their smiles. I am thankful for the contacts and new friends I’ve made.”
“MCWC has outdone itself! This conference has stretched me in areas I never thought possible. I’m so excited to explore what God has in store for my writing.”
“We had incredible professional speakers.”
“A college course in writing all compacted into one week of Christian encouragement, powerful witness and loving fellowship.”
“I appreciated the level of excellence and variety of workshops.”
“Finally, a conference where I can get help to write poetry.”
“I’m surprised at how this conference has spurred me on and inspired me to make my writing more of a priority.”
“You have given me gold!”
“You exceeded my expectations, and that was a God thing. The conference allowed God to work.”
“I loved the fast-paced, information packed seminars. Yes, we had to write and listen fast, but it was so inspirational, so motivational, and so interesting and informative. Very worthwhileand worth every penny. Thank you!”
“Days are filled with facts, fun, and fellowship.”
“I appreciated the caring staff which kept a relevant curriculum moving. Guest speakers were also on task. Participants were very positive and appreciative. Food was greatportions out of control!”
“This conference sets the standards for all Christian writers’ conferences. Participants are of all levels of writing achievements and freely interact to the benefit of all. Outstanding facilities for a conference!”
“I feel energized and better equipped to accomplish my writing goals.”
“I loved the variety of topicsmarketing, editing, resources for writers, info about article and book writing, drama, process, writing passion and time management. The bookstore was also helpful.”
“What a refreshing experience!! Our Lord Jesus was glorified and we as writers were encouraged and taught. Thank you!!”
“I feel like a car whose battery died and I just got a jump start. Now I’m ready to roll.”
“The conference has given me the experience and confidence to write for my church and for some classes that I’m taking.”
“I enjoyed those who spoke on getting published after our evening meals. Some commuters missed this. They lost out.”
“I am amazed at the caliber and professionalism of every single speaker who was here.”
Celebrating our Writer’s Successes
Jamie Hope attended the Maranatha Writers’ Conference for the past two years. As a result of her tenacity and hard work, she received a green light from a publisher to submit a book proposal for her teen fantasy novel, Lucent Stones. In addition, She’s applied the confidence and knowledge from the conference and submitted queries to the national magazine, American Thinker.
I’m writing to celebrate that Jamie’s published two magazine articles on the American Thinker since our Sept conference. Here are the links.
If you have a minute, read these excellent, though provoking articles, and drop Jamie a note.
Living What You Teach
Pastor Troy Evans, from the Edge Urban Fellowship in Grand Rapids, passionately discussed living out the faith you proclaim. Troy not only leads two growing inner city churches in Michigan’s largest cities, he also sits on ministry leadership boards. Traveling 10 to 14 days a month, Troy has a number of accountability partners in his life reminding him that he has to stay F.A.T.
F: Faithful
A: Accountable
T: Transparent
and you have to eat what you sell.
Another Conference is just Hours Away
The clock shows 8:30 PM, and in just 12 hours the 2012 Maranatha Christian Writers Conference kicks off. I’ve already met writers form Kentucky, North Carolina, Southern California and the east side of Michigan, over 3 hrs away. We have one of the most diverse and experienced staffs at this years conference, with writers and publishers from around the country.
This year, West Bow Press is sponsoring a FREE book publishing contract, that we will give away on Tuesday. The Amy Foundation, Word Weavers writing groups are here, along with their founders. We expect 80 guests, writers of all experience levels, to gather and learn how to put their visions and life lessons into print to affect the world, and build God’s Kingdom
If you’re following us on Twitter, tune into #maranathaconf.
This years’ theme is: “To know God, and make him known.” Keep watching throughout the week as I talk with writers and faculty about their week here on beautiful Lake Michigan’s Shore.
Choosing to attend a Writers’ Conference
From Author Kathi Macias: Although 2012 will be my first time attending/teaching at the Maranatha conference, I’m a seasoned vet when it comes to writers’ conferences in general. I recently returned from keynoting and teaching at a Christian writers’ conference in Southern California, and as conferences go, it was relatively small but enthusiastic and positive.
Because I speak at several writers’ conferences throughout the year and each seems to have its own unique “personality,” I’ve thought a lot about how those individual conference personalities draw and minister to attendees. Conferences vary according to size, venue, length, and focus, but each has something to offer–IF the attendee has done a little homework first in order to know what to expect.
Conference Reflections
Now that I’m caught up after returning from the Maranatha Conference, I wanted to comment on the conference. In a word, it was “Great.” I consider Maranatha as one of the upcoming conferences that has every indication of continued growth. Verna Kokmeyer, the director, manages to get some of the top people in the industry to come as faculty. Every aspect of the conference is well organized and all runs smoothly throught the week. The location–a 10 minute walk from Lake Michigan–is beautiful and well maintained. If you live in Michigan, or nearby, you will definitely want to consider next year’s conference. It promises to be a winner.
Sally Stuart, Christian Writers’ Market Guide
Conference Wrap Up
Another conference is wrapped up, and already we are looking toward next year. The staff and faculty want to thank each of our conferees. You make this conference what it is. Standing at the front of a room and talking around the lunch tables, watching the Holy Spirit inspire and motivate you to pursue your writing goals is the reward we richly treasure.
I know of at least two writers who were asked to submit proposals to publishers as a result of thier 15 minute consultation. I talked with many more conferees who stepped off the end of the pier, and started blogging for the first time. As a writer, no other venue is more full of possibilities for you to hone your craft, and build your platform. Many more worked on their elevator speeches, book proposals, and grabbed hold of ideas to submit to magazines in the next months.
From someone who has come home from a conference full of excitement and stepped back into the grind of daily life, I want to encourage you. Don’t let the committments you made to yourself slip away. Schedule writing time each week like you would schedule an appointment with a friend for lunch. Follow through, and take the risk of submitting your work to editors and publications. Some will be rejected. That’s part of the game. Other stories will be printed and published, which makes the rejection slips fade into distant memories like the playground bully from grade school.
I would love to have you answer three questions as you look back on this years conference.
- What was your biggest take away, or “Ah-Hah moment” for you this year?
- What was the most unexpected thing you learned or experienced as you attended this year’s conference?
- What is something we could improve, or bring to the conference for next year?
Thank you again for your willingness to spend a week, investing in yourself and in the calling God’s placed in your heart. I hope to see you again next year.
Tim
A Week of Words and Worship
It started today. The 34th annual Maranatha Christian Writers’ Conference is underway. Seventy five writers of all experience levels and denominations are gathered on Lake Michigan’s beautiful shore to pursue their calling, We are Christians who write to influence the world toward Christ. Some of us will find encouragement to finish a long overdue manuscript, and for others inspiration for an upcoming project. As we fellowship together, we’re all learning about the writing and publishing business from experienced authors and editors from around the country.
But perhaps the most valuable treasure of the week is the confirmation I sense deep in my heart. Because God uses everyday people to communicate his message, I qualify.
As Monday evening draws to a close, we are tired, and at the same time look expectantly toward what God will do with the rest of this week. And we would love to hear what God is doing in your life during the week. Please post your thoughts as comments below. Reply to other writers’ contributions as well. Together we will watch God do great things for his kingdom, and in our hearts this week.
Comments from previous Maranatha conferees
Considering a Writer’s Conference this year?
Over the past few years, Maranatha has grown into the largest annual Christian Writers Conference in West Michigan. The combination of top flight speakers, the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan, and the leaves donning their fall colors makes Maranatha a perfect place to be inspired and taught. Writing is a private profession, just you and your keyboard. Yet, together we are inspired, held accountable, and gain the skills we need to overcome that pesky inner critic. Here are some comments from previous Maranatha conferees.
“Maranatha Writers’ Conference provides inspiration, instruction and take-home materials. It keeps me going and growing as a writer.”
“If you even think you would like to write but don’t know how or where to begin, here is your answer. MCWC presents a broad spectrum of techniques, structure, and ideas. The teachers are Christ-centered, professional, knowledgeable and very helpful. You’ll like it.”
“”The conference is small enough to be personable. The friendliness of the staff and presenters is just so warm and welcoming. God shines through them in their smiles. I am thankful for the contacts and new friends I’ve made.”
“MCWC has outdone itself! This conference has stretched me in areas I never thought possible. I’m so excited to explore what God has in store for my writing.”
“We had incredible professional speakers.”
“A college course in writing all compacted into one week of Christian encouragement, powerful witness and loving fellowship.”
“I appreciated the level of excellence and variety of workshops.”
“Finally, a conference where I can get help to write poetry.”
Some of our favorite faculty are joining us again this year. Dennis Hensley form Taylor University, Sally Stuart, editor of the Christian Writers Market Guide, Tim Beals, an editor from Credo Communications, and many more.
And new this year, this blog will be a place to connect with faculty before, during, and after the conference. Beginning this week, we are inviting conference faculty to write about their session, and their experience as Christians who write, edit, and seek to use their gifts to influence the world for Jesus Christ.
Stop back to the blog often, or sign up for our RSS feed to stay connected.
Blessings
Maranatha Christian Writers' Conference
Join us for our 36th Anniversary
Wed, Sept 25 - Sat, Sept 28, 2013. Held @
Maranatha Bible and Missionary Conference
Muskegon, MI, 49441. Spend a week amidst the beautiful fall colors on Lake Michigan's shore. Learn about writing, talk with editors & publishers and listen for God's still small voice.
What Conference Will You Attend in 2013?
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