Writing for the Soul

Each year the nationally attended Writing for the Soul conference sponsored by Jerry B. Jenkins' Christian Writers' Guild (www.christianwritersguild.com) is held at the historic Broadmoor Hotel. This year's conference dates are February 19^th-22^nd.

Christian writers gain a deeper understanding of what it means to write for the soul (of the reader) and from the soul (of the writer). All the while, those who create, teach at and attend the conference are doing so with the same focus: honoring Jesus Christ. Like most conferences, it is a bit pricey, but worth every penny and the Christian Writers' Guild is happy to make payment arrangements so that everyone can afford to attend.

The entire event is beautiful. Not that Christians are exempt from human nature, but having personally attended secular conferences, I see a big difference between the secular and the Christian conference. There seems to be no backbiting or favoritism. Writers help and encourage one another, sincerely glad for each other's opportunities.

The ambiance is elegant with gourmet meals, award-winning, live music and widely known keynote speakers. The Christian Writers' Conference opens and closes each day with prayer; it's a great time of fellowship and networking.

Who's Who at the Conference

Naturally, book publishers, magazine editors and literary agents are present to give conferees the opportunity to strut their spiritual stuff. Among book publishers for 2009 are Guidepost Books, Hallmark Gift Books, Harvest House and Zondervan to name a few. Additionally, several magazine editors will be present including In Touch, The Upper Room and Bible Advocate. Literary agents from the Hartline and Les Stobbe Agencies will be there to inspire and meet seasoned and new writers. Conferees have the opportunity to sign up for individual appointments with publishers of their choice.

An impressive line-up of instructors and mentors make this the inspirational conference of the year. Every year. Attendees glean information from award-winning authors such as Gary Chapman (The Five Love Languages) and Jerry B. Jenkins (Left Behind Series and 160+ more books), and many more!

"In [his book] Writing for the Soul, best-selling author Jerry B. Jenkins takes you on a personal and inspiring journey, imparting experience and wisdom gained from his impressive writing career," says Amazon.com

General seating arrangements allow writers to sit with authors, speakers, publishers and agents during each meal and talk less formally. One writer said, "I can't believe how down-to-earth Jerry is, I feel like I've known him for years!"

Writers Perfect Their Craft

Thursday evening, the 19^th begins with a networking and fellowship time. Then, first thing Friday morning after a light breakfast, writers dig in their heels in with Continuing Classes. Some topics this year are: Publishing 101 - Establish Yourself As A Published Writer, by Lin Johnson, Non-fiction - Refine Your Ideas for Maximum Results, by Dr. Dennis Hensley.

At midday, writers enjoy a few hours of personal time including an attractive sit-down lunch; after that, it's back to business with the workshops. Available workshops such as The Fiction Dialogue Clinic by DiAnn Mills, or The Thick-skinned Manuscript Clinic by Jerry B. Jenkins and Andy Scheer are fun and informative.

In these classes and workshops, seasoned writers work with conferees to help them do their best writing. Award winning authors who teach these classes are often available for chat afterwards. It's very low-key and relaxed, yet serious.

By Sunday morning (the 22^nd), writers are charged up, ready to go back to their computers and create. They are also pooped! The Christian Writers' Guild provides a lot of information, a lot of inspiration and a lot of mental energy!

Accommodations

(Note: Colorado Springs is 6,000 feet above sea level. The only way to replenish the lack of oxygen at this altitude is to drink more water than usual. Water replenishes the oxygen and prevents altitude sickness or serious headaches.)

The Broadmoor Hotel is stunning! Noted as one of the world's most historic and luxurious resorts, the hotel and its grounds set the stage for inspirational writers to pursue their craft. Cradled in the Rockies next to a gorgeous lake, the Broadmoor is unequaled in elegance. Lodging and airfare are not included in the conference price and are the responsibility of each writer. Special room rates are available at the Broadmoor for conferees and the Christian Writers' Guild is happy to set up "roommates" who want to make the most of the discounted room rates. However, there are local hotels within a five-mile radius that are also nice.

If you are not located in or near Colorado Springs, there is an airport in the city (COS). However, Denver International Airport (DEN) may be more economical and is about 1.5 hours away from 'the Springs'. Shuttle service is available through the Broadmoor; just check out the websites listed below.

If You've Got the Umph!

If you are fortunate enough to be able to stay a few extra days in Colorado, be sure to check out the surrounding attractions. Not to be missed is Pike's Peak where our country's national anthem was inspired and written! There are also several other one-day (or less) attractions. Garden of the Gods is free as is the tour of the nation's Air Force Academy. Cave of the Winds, Seven Falls and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo are very affordable. There are also many outdoor hiking trails and natural beauty in the Centennial state.

Guaranteed to be the highlight of 2009 for Christian writers, the Writing for the Soul Conference is truly unique. There's still time to register! Do it now! It's not an expense - it's an investment for those who are really serious about their writing. And for those who are already accomplished writers, it's a great time of networking, hanging out and seeing old friends. Come if you can!