August 2009

2009-2010 Theme Verse:
“I tell you,” he replied, “if they
  keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”            
                          (Luke 19:40 NIV)

Dear MCWG Members and Friends:

The stones will cry out! Did you read this year’s theme verse at the top of the page? The Pharisees wanted Jesus to rebuke his disciples for their joyous proclamations of praise. Can you imagine that? Jesus couldn’t--thus, his response about the stones.

The world wants to keep us quiet, too. And if we quelled our enthusiasm over the summer, it’s time to renew our commitment to Jesus Christ. Let’s meet as we have in the past: 7:00 pm on the second Monday of each month (September through May) at Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina. There we’ll learn about new markets, exchange helpful tips, and rejoice in our successes. But best of all, we’ll learn together how to use our gifts to further the kingdom.

As you can see in the enclosed brochures, the MCWG Board of Directors has secured speakers and seminar leaders who will expand our writing horizons in the coming months. We’ll start with curriculum writing in September and finish with greeting card verse in May. Sandwiched in between we’ll hear from editors, teachers, pastors and more. We’ll receive instruction in writing Bible studies, learn how to correctly use and cite Scripture, and hear the latest on punctuation and grammar. You’re going to love our seminars, too. Sign up early and circle the dates on your calendars. The autumn seminar is October 31. The spring seminar is April 24.

As in the past, Authors Table Night on November 9 offers an opportunity for members to display and sell their books. To reserve your space go to our website, www.mnchristianwriters.org, click on the Authors Table button, and fill out an Application Form. Last year I caused a bit of consternation by neglecting to mention that this is NOT an interactive form. You must print it out and mail it to me or send information via e-mail. The evening provides fun and opportunity no matter which side of the table you’re on.

Our annual Writing Contest guidelines are in place and will be announced in January. (The deadline for submissions is 9:00 p.m. April 12).

I look forward to seeing you at the September 14 meeting where we can begin and renew friendships, advance writing skills, and cheer each other on.

Blessings,

Mary Fran Heitzman
President

P.S. Janelle will serve treats and Pat will bring tea to our meetings. If you’d like to help out just one time, give Janelle a call. I’m sure she’d love to hear from you. Here’s her number: 612.521.5625