A Pitch for CCWC

The first time I heard about the Colorado Christian Writer’s Conference, I was driving home from work and listening to a Christian station I had recently located on my radio dial. I memorized the phone number, and when I arrived home, I called and spoke to Marlene. She sounded so welcoming on the phone and put a brochure about the conference in the mail right away.

I learned a lot at that first conference. Mainly, I learned there is such a thing as Christian fiction. I had some idea it was out there, but hadn’t paid much attention. I was thrilled to discover that there were people who actually wrote the kind of stories I wanted to write with an inspirational message.

I made contact with people who have since become good friends. I was introduced to ACFW at that first conference, even though I didn’t join until the following year.

My first editor appointment was with Jim Peterson. I was so scared, but Jim put me at ease right away. I don’t remember all that we talked about, but there is one thing I will never forget. At the conclusion of our meeting, Jim said a prayer with me and for me.

CCWC is a deeply spiritual conference. The worship sessions are filled with the presence of the Holy Spirit. Even though I can’t sing, I enjoy being bathed in the glory of all those voices raised in praise to our Lord. Marlene speaks so fluently and offers her petitions to God with such smoothness that it is as though she were speaking to a physical human being standing next to her. I always marvel at the way she moves from speaking to praying all in the same breath.

The backdrop of the resplendent Rockies adds a certain magic to this conference. Whether sunbeams kiss the tops of the peaks or bone-chilling winds blow snow across their faces, the mountains stand as an awe-inspiring testimony to God’s creation. The thinner air can drain a person’s physical strength, yet its purity invigorates the soul.

Marlene always offers a stellar line up of authors, agents, and editors who are there for the sole purpose of helping the conferees further their careers and make their dreams come true, all within the boundaries of God’s will. Her guest speakers provide inspiration and often take us to other parts of the world, speak of other ministries, and fill our hearts with the joy of seeing God at work in this dark and dying world.

Hope to see you in Estes Park in May!

Thanks for reading my blog!