The Catholic Writers Guild 2024 Conferences and All the News You Need!

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The Catholic Writers Guild 2024 Conferences and All the News You Need!

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Since it’s November and, in the United States, we’ll soon celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to share a little game I play with myself. I often challenge myself to name 10, 15, or 25 things I’m grateful for in the moment or from throughout the day. (I’ve never not been able to exceed my challenge. God is good!)

Here’s an off-the-cuff list of 10 things I’m grateful for about the Catholic Writers Guild:

  1. Camaraderie with members who share similar goals and missions.
  2. People who get the “Catholic stuff” in my writing.
  3. The online conference, through which I’ve learned so much during seasons where getting away for in-person events was difficult.
  4. The live conference, through which I’ve met so many fantastic people – writers and others – in person.
  5. The connections I’ve made with publishers, editors, authors, bloggers, etc.
  6. The goodness of our members, who are quick to lift up others in prayer and with practical means of support.
  7. The generosity of our members who, though busy, are willing to take on volunteer responsibilities to serve their fellow Guild members.
  8. The Guild’s founders, who saw a need and invested the time and effort to make this organization a reality.
  9. The dedication of our Board members, past and present, who truly have the best interest of the Guild at heart.
  10. The retreats hosted. Would a Catholic writers retreat even be a thing if the Guild weren’t offering it? (And I’ll just take this opportunity to thank Guild member Margaret Rose Realy for all the work she did to make last month’s Guild retreat a success! Thank you, Margaret.)

See how easy it is? I bet you could come up with a list of your own.

There’s a lot going on in the Guild, so please read on for news about our online and live 2024 conferences and other Guild activities and opportunities!

Finally, according to our bylaws, November is the time for our annual elections! Look for a separate email for nominations within a week.

I’ve served the Guild as president since September 2021 and before that as vice president. As the list above indicates, I’m so grateful to the members who have been kind, supportive, and have stepped up to help in so many different ways. You are a generous bunch!

While I’ll be continuing to serve as the Evaluator Coordinator for the Seal of Approval and assist in transitioning to our new website for continuity’s sake (we are so close, and we can’t wait to share it with you!), I will not accept a nomination for president for 2024.

God is still laying stories on my heart over these past very busy years, and I want to get back to writing them. I won’t bore you with my list of other obligations and commitments beyond the Guild – we all have them! – but it’s time for me to scale things back a little bit.

To that end, I hope that some of you will be generous in considering who might be willing and able to take on this role and then submit your nominations.

Guild Member-Hosted Retreat in Sunny Florida!

Sorry, gentlemen. This one is for ladies only.

Longtime Guild member Karina Fabian is  hosting a writing retreat open to ladies of the Catholic Writers Guild.

When: January 5-9, 2024.

Where: The Fountains, Orlando, Florida.

How much: $300 includes accommodations, food, and transportation to Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady, Queen of the Universe.

Limited to the first six paid registrations.

Questions? Email Karian Fabian at [email protected].

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Registration is Open for CWCO 2024!

CWCO 2024 is scheduled for February 23-25, 2024, with pitch practice on February 26 & 27 and pitch sessions on February 28-March 1. Register at https://catholicwritersguild.org/online-conference

Here are some of the things you can look forward to:

  • A greater emphasis on how our faith informs our writing. We have speakers who will discuss writing as a Calling, literature as evangelization, and even how genre fiction like horror and science fiction can still reflect our Catholic values.
  • Practical advice and tips you can put to work immediately. From managing your time to reconstructing your plot, and developing great characters to building your social media presence, our experienced and well-published presenters share their best practices.
  • Webinar format that incorporates audio and visuals. It’s easy – if you can handle Skype or FaceTime, you can do this! Or call in to listen to the presentations if your internet is slow. (Don’t worry, there’s still chat available for talking or “passing notes.”)
  • Networking. We’ve built in time each year for open chat, sharing links and books, even reading and on-the-fly critique.
  • Recordings! We’ll have recordings of each session available free for attendees.

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Spread the Word

Help spread the word about CWCO 2024 to fellow Catholics by sharing the information below and the image above in your parish bulletin.

The Catholic Writers Guild is hosting its annual online writing conference February 23-24. It features presentations on faith and writing, chances to meet fellow authors, and opportunities to pitch to Catholic publishers like Ave Maria and Chrism Press. It’s totally online—no travel!—and costs $60. Learn more at https://catholicwritersguild.org/online-conference

 

CWG Live Conference 2024

The Guild is excited to announce that our live conference will once again be hosted in conjunction with the Association of Catholic Publishers (ACP) meeting in Chicago, Illinois!

Our conference dates are Tuesday, May 28 through Thursday, May 30. We have an invitation to attend the ACP’s breakout sessions on Thursday afternoon, and we look forward to the chance to get to know their members. You’ll definitely want to plan your departure for Friday morning to take advantage of this opportunity to meet and learn from Catholic publishing experts. We’ve also invited the ACP members to consider joining us as attendees, speakers, panelists, and mentors!

Consider sharing your expertise as a speaker or panelist: to apply, fill out our Speaker and Panelist Application.

Last year’s conference was our first time working with the ACP, and we’re grateful to be invited back and to have the opportunity to integrate better with their conference. Mark your calendar now; we’ll open registration in February.

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Job Opportunity

Catholic Book Publishing, located in Totowa, New Jersey, has served the Catholic community for 112 years. We are currently seeking an experienced editor.

Description

As an editor, you will join a dedicated team that is committed to the publication of timely and timeless Catholic resources that achieve the highest quality of content and production. Our extensive line includes Bibles; Missals; Prayer Books and Devotionals; Spirituality, Marian, and Saints Titles; Liturgical Books; Spanish Resources; Communion Gifts; and Children’s Books.

The successful candidate for this position will possess a strong command of the competencies and requirements listed below.

Competencies:
·      Solid knowledge of the Catholic Faith and familiarity with liturgy
·      Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills
·      Well organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
·      Attention to detail
·      Excellent communication skills
·      Capable of demonstrating resourcefulness in problem-solving
·      Strong initiative
·      Marketing capabilities

Requirements:
·      Proven editorial work experience for a minimum of 5 years in the Catholic publishing sector
·      Work in office (no remote or hybrid)
·      Collaborative, cooperative spirit
·      Dedicated, hardworking, adaptable
·      Willingness to travel occasionally
·      Knowledge of Spanish a plus
·      Trade and consumer show experience a plus

Qualified individuals for this full-time, salaried position should send a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to carla@catholicbookpublishing.com.

Heartbeat

Whether you’re a new member or you missed the email invitation in your inbox, we’d like invite you to join the Catholic Writers Guild Heartbeat community!

More than 280 of our members have joined, and it has become a lively place for our members to discuss, chat, critique, plan meet-ups, and more!

If you are an active member (meaning your dues are paid up) and have not received or have lost your invitation, reply to this email, and I’ll be sure you receive an invitation. (If you’re not a member, you can still access our Sunday night chats and the public portion of our community.)

Seal of Approval

Currently seeking an Author Coordinator!

The Author Coordinator prepares the Main Spreadsheet before the start of each quarterly submission period, communicates with submitting authors as to whether their submission has been accepted or if they are waitlisted, updates the Main Spreadsheet to reflect new applications, and uploads book files to the appropriate SOA folder. To volunteer, email [email protected].

Application dates for 2024:

  • Monday, January 15
  • Monday, April 15
  • Monday, July 15
  • Monday, September 16

During the 24-hour application window, you can access the Seal of Approval application form. Reminder: If your book has received an Imprimatur, it is ineligible for the Seal of Approval but receives all benefits associated with the Seal. More information on the Seal of Approval process.

Reminder: Books designated with an Imprimatur or nihil obstat are not eligible for the Seal of Approval but automatically enjoy all the benefits of that designation.

To become a volunteer evaluator, email the SOA committee at [email protected]. Training is provided.

 

CWG Member News: January 2023

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Guild election results, conferences, retreat, & new Heartbeat community

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January 2023

I don’t have a pretty picture for you this month, but with Saint Thomas Aquinas’ feast day coming up, this quote seemed apropos. “It is only God who creates. Man merely rearranges.”

First, it’s a great reminder that our creativity ultimately comes from God. Second, we’re doing some re-arranging lately at the Catholic Writers Guild. So, let’s get right to it.

Election Results

Thanks and congratulations to our new officers according to our election results (certified by our vice president, Barb Szyszkiewicz).

President – Carolyn Astfalk
Vice President – Barb Szyszkiewicz
Secretary – Michael Shelton
Treasurer – Cesar Chacon
Committee Coordinator – Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur

One-hundred fifty members voted in the election, and four of our five elected officers are incumbents. Welcome to Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur, the new Committee Coordinator, who has served the Guild in a variety of ways, most recently as the Author Coordinator on the Seal of Approval Committee.

Thank you to Patrick Chalmers, who so generously gave his time to the Board as Committee Coordinator in 2022. Your input and wisdom is much appreciated, Pat!

There are many roles in which you can support the Guild besides being an officer. I hope you’ll consider how you can assist the Guild, whether as a 2024 officer, supporting our events, joining a committee, blogging, or more. I’ll be listing volunteer needs in our newsletter each month.

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Catholic Writers Conference Online

February 24-26, 2023
Price: $60 non-Guild members, $40 for Guild members.

Register today!

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Save the date!

Our in-person conference is scheduled May 30 – June 1, 2023, in Chicago, Illinois, at the Holiday Inn O’Hare. This year we’re partnering with the Association of Catholic Publishers, and we look forward to this new conference adventure! Registration links, room rates, and more will be available soon. You can view the conference schedule: CatholicWritersGuild.org/live-conference.
Catholic Writers Retreat 2023!

 

Our retreat is back after a hiatus!

Member Margaret Rose Really, Obl. OSB, has graciously volunteered to coordinate a retreat set for October 9-13, 2023 at St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt, Michigan.

More details on theme and presenter coming soon!

 

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One of the Catholic Writers Guild’s greatest strengths, as we discovered from our informal survey in 2021, is our community. Relationships are at the heart of what we offer the Catholic writer, along with education conferences and other support for the writing craft and publishing business.

We have a lively Facebook community and a thriving Discord community. (But nary the twain shall meet.)

Additionally, many members are not active on either Facebook or Discord. Some are wary of social media or disenchanted with Facebook, where users are subject to its whims and changes. Discord is sometimes difficult for new users to access or acclimate themselves to. Both sites have various advantages and disadvantages.

In an effort to unify our membership and expand our community, the Board has decided to use Heartbeat as the place where our members meet and interact.

You can learn more about Heartbeat and what it has to offer. Our hope is that it will integrate well with our (new) website and provide a place for not only discussion threads and critique groups but events as well.

I know we’re all comfortable where we’re at. And we’re all tired of adding another app. (Even my puppy’s vet expects us to download an app!) But, I hope you’ll give Heartbeat a look. It’s fairly simply to join and navigate. Is it a perfect solution? No. Is it an improvement for our community? Yes, I think so.

We’ve started inviting our Discord members over, and, if you’re an active member, you’ll be receiving an email invitation soon. Heartbeat is accessible both from your desktop computer and by mobile app. Please take a few minutes to check things out.

(Our Facebook and Discord groups will remain operating as we all learn to navigate Heartbeat.)

Volunteer Corner

Our blog is a place where Catholic Writers Guild members can publish their articles and showcase their writing. We are looking for volunteer writers and editors to join our blog team for 2023.

We especially need editors who can edit one or more articles per month. If our team of editors grows, we will have the capacity to publish more writers.

If you are interested in writing or editing for the blog, please contact [email protected].

Thank you!

 

Seal of Approval

The Seal of Approval application opens for the 2nd quarter on Friday, April 14, 2023 at Noon EDT. Once open, you can access the Seal of Approval Application Form for 24 hours. Reminder: If your book has received an Imprimatur, it is ineligible for the Seal of Approval but receives all benefits associated with the Seal. More information on the Seal of Approval process.

Remaining application dates for 2023:

  • Fri., April 14
  • Fri., July 14
  • Fri., September 15
You may notice that the dates have shifted from the beginning of the month to the middle. This was done to avoid regular conflicts with New Year’s, 4th of July, and Labor Day.

Check Your Spam!

If you’re waiting on a reply from an official Guild email account (one ending in catholicwritersguild.com or catholicwritersguild.org), please be sure to check your spam or junk folder. Unfortunately, our messages have a way of ending up there.

If you’ve not received a reply to a message in a reasonable amount of time, please check your junk or spam folder before resending your message.

With rare exception, I personally reply to messages within 2-3 days, maximum.

Copyright 2023 Carolyn Astfalk

Have You Expired? CWG Newsletter, August 2022

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This message comes to you a few days later than I’d hoped. Our little world was upended by the adorable puppy pictured below. Tillie has been with us three days now, and she is a wonderful addition to our home and family.

Tillie arrived somewhat unexpectedly. When I texted my oldest son, who’s 19, that his dad and I were bringing a dog home, he thought we were being incredibly irresponsible. As a good son, he was careful not to say it quite that bluntly, but I confirmed that’s what he was thinking.

His feelings about this seemingly spontaneous decision weren’t unwarranted. When we brought Tillie home we had no dog dish, collar, or leash. The living room floor was littered with the little kids’ LEGO sets. The dining room had piles of papers from the last school year that needed to be sorted. The only place we had ready for this dog was our hearts.

 

Sentimental maybe, but not practical.

It seemed a rash decision. But we’d been thinking about what kind of dog we wanted for months. Tillie checked all the boxes. Every last one.

As I told my son, we weren’t entirely ready for him or his siblings either, but that worked out okay.

We really were ready enough for Tillie. We knew what we wanted. We have a large, safe, fenced-in yard for her to run and play. And we have six people ready to love and care for her.

Sure we needed to do some housecleaning and buy some supplies, but the biggest obstacle was the simple but necessary act of actually getting the puppy. And that required an element of spontaneity.

I find that’s been my biggest obstacle to writing over the past couple of years: just doing it.

When people ask about my writing progress, I’m quick to tell them how things were upended here when my kids were all sent home from school due to the pandemic in March 2020. Life was topsy turvy. A year of genuine homeschooling followed. Then I took a part-time job. I just couldn’t find time to write.

As true as it is – and believe me, there have been many obligations taking my time – I’d been allowing those excuses to keep me from taking that necessary step. Just writing.

I’d spent years mulling over stories and characters. I simply needed to do something that wasn’t on the schedule, that there wasn’t room for in the schedule. Just writing.

Conditions weren’t – aren’t – perfect for writing. I have a list of chores and duties a mile long. I’m not entirely ready to write. My stories aren’t entirely complete, even in my head.

But I’m ready enough.

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to begin that next writing project, in my experience, that time will never come. Conditions will never be perfect. There will always be something else clamoring for your time and attention.

We all have obligations that should take precedence—God and family, obviously. But somewhere after those priorities, if God is calling you to write, you’re going to need to take that leap.

Your’e ready enough. Just write.

Catholic Writers Conference at Momentum ’22 a Success!

I’ve heard and read so many positive comments about the recent Catholic Writers Guild conference at the Catholic Marketing Network’s Momentum ’22. So many of you who attended have been reinvigorated for your personal projects and sharing your enthusiasm for the Guild and its efforts.

Thanks to Amy Cattapan, who chaired the event. Thanks, too, to the many volunteers who assisted her, especially committee heads CWG Vice President Barb Szyszkiewicz (volunteers), Stephanie Landsem (pitch sessions), Carmela Martino (speakers & scheduling) Amanda Lauer (sponsorships), Tony Kolenc (speaker introductions), Karina Fabian (Meals with Mentors) and Leslea Wahl (marketing).

 

Conference chair Amy J. Cattapan (r) with speaker Deacon Harold Sivers

 

Thank you to each of our presenters and panelists, who brought so much valuable information and encouragement to the attendees. For those that volunteered in the trade show booth, your assistance was invaluable.

Barb Szyszkiewicz reported: “All told, our volunteers logged more than 70 hours among 14 volunteers (not including conference committee members or mentors who did not also sign up as volunteers). They are truly the heartbeat of the live conference! We even had a few drop-in volunteers, and they always showed up right when we needed them most.”

And, finally, thank you to those who prayed for the conference and its attendees. Your prayers were felt.

 

 

Next up: Catholic Writers Conference Online in February 2023. See below!

Are You Expired?

Please take a few minutes to log in at CatholicWritersGuild.org and check your membership status. Perhaps you missed the reminder to renew or simply forgot. (You may be surprised that you’ve long been expired!)

In order to remain eligible for the online conference member discount, free submissions for the Seal of Approval, and continued access to our members-only groups (Facebook, Discord, MeWe), you’ll need to have an active membership.

By renewing your membership, not only do you benefit, but you support the Guild’s goals as we seek to offer more and better opportunities for you, such as awards, retreats, conferences, and an upgraded website.

Renew today!

Register now for the online conference!

Volunteer Corner

So many opportunities, formal and informal, come through volunteering. When you volunteer for one of the Guild’s projects, you develop relationships in ways simple membership does not allow. While your service obviously benefits the Guild at large, it benefits you as well.

The Seal of Approval Committee is always seeking volunteers. The more volunteer evaluators we have, the more books we can evaluate each quarter. We’d love to avoid putting any member books on a waiting list.

If you’re interested in volunteering as an evaluator, please send a message to [email protected]. Online training is provided. As a perk, you get to read other Catholic authors’ digital books for free! Each quarter there are a variety of books for children, teens, and adults, both fiction and nonfiction. Sometimes, poetry.

Are you on LinkedIn? So are we.

I’ve been dusting off our LinkedIn page, hoping to make it more active and useful. If you have a LinkedIn account, please follow the Guild and considering adding your membership to your resume.

Seal of Approval

The Seal of Approval application opens for the 4th quarter on Thursday, September 1, 2022 at Noon EDT. When open, you can access the Seal of Approval Application Form. Reminder: If your book has received an Imprimatur, it is ineligible for the Seal of Approval but receives all benefits associated with the Seal. More information on the Seal of Approval process.

 

The Secret About the Catholic Writers Conference Live

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I saw the advertisements, read the testimonials, and took the plunge: I signed up to attend the Catholic Writers Conference Live (CWCL) in July 2022. This decision felt monumental for many reasons, but most significantly because it signified the first time I invested financially in my new aspiration as a Catholic writer. 

As promised, the sessions were relevant, educational, helpful, and intimate. The subjects included things like spiritual writing, the benefits of traditional publishing, and social media guidance; and every session included opportunities to ask questions. 

The CWCL was one available track during The Catholic Marketing Network’s Conference and Tradeshow: Momentum ‘22. This meant two things for us writers. First, we had access to browse the tradeshow floor and check out all kinds of cool merchandise and companies in the Catholic world, and second, though the entire conference was large, the writers track stayed small enough that by the end of the three days, I recognized every face–even if I hadn’t learned every name. 

This community and their support, both from the professionals presenting and leading the conference as well as from my fellow attendees, is what really made the trip to the Chicago suburb worth it. Sitting in those rooms, surrounded by others who find themselves sharing my call to spread the love of Christ through the written word, was the most at home I’ve felt beyond my own family and local parish. 

I expected relevant topics and to take a lot of notes. I expected to connect and network with others in this field. But here’s what they don’t tell you: the Holy Spirit joins us in those rooms. 

The Catholic Writers Conference Live is a place where more than two are gathered in His name, and His presence is felt. I personally felt touched by the flame of the Holy Spirit as I was sent out, back to real life, to continue to pursue my vocation. Life is full of uncertainties, but this I know: attending the CWCL gave my soul the boost it needed to take my writing career to the next level.

I can’t wait to go back next year. I hope to see you there. 

© Maria Riley

Creating a “Social” Social Media Presence

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Creating a “Social” Social Media Presence

During last month’s Catholic Writers Conference Live in Chicago, I was blessed to offer a presentation on the importance of creating a truly “social” social media platform. Flat posts that bombard followers with “salesy” type content does not help build the loyal readers most writers desire when launching a social platform. Since forty-five minutes is never enough for this verbose girl to share all that’s in her head on the subject, and for those who could not attend, I’ve decided to do a little series of posts on some best practices and fun tips.

A well-crafted and curated social media presence begins with deciding which platforms best suit your intentions, personality, and potential audience. Great news—no, seriously!—you do not need to be on all of the social platforms; you don’t even need to be on more than one. Pick one, do that fabulously (or even haphazardly), and you’ll not only find it less stressful but might even (gulp) find you really enjoy social media! For many of us, it is striking that balance between building credibility, being authentic, making friends, and protecting our privacy, all while not becoming too salesy or burning out.

Let’s Start With Setting Boundaries

Prayerfully decide what you feel comfortable sharing, especially if what you share isn’t yours to share, aka your children’s stories.

Don’t give into pressure to follow all the trends. Yes, be aware of what social trends are increasing reach and engagement, but if you don’t feel comfy following them, don’t! For instance, I love Reels. I see the very clever ones where words pop up, and people point to them while jazzy music plays in the background. This method is not for me! So, I’ve experimented with different Reel techniques, and while maybe I don’t get millions of views or followers, I know I’m staying true to myself and trusting the Holy Spirit to guide the message I’m portraying to whomever is meant to see it.

Be You! Always be you. Don’t create an avatar version of yourself. People will eventually see right through that and drop off following your posts. Readers want to know the authors. You know; you are readers as well! Turn the tables and consider your favorite authors. Do you NOT check out all you can about them? Website, bios, social? Whatever you enjoy discovering or engaging in as a reader, try to provide that same experience for your current and potential readers!

To be seen or not to be seen is an important question. If you need separate personal and business platforms, that’s fine, but make sure your public platforms are public! If you are using social media to be discovered, to invite others to share your materials, and to interact and be social, then make sure people can find and follow you easily! This is super important if you are writing for any online publication that wishes to share your posts and tag you, such as CatholicMom.com. As their Social Media and Digital Specialist, I get so frustrated when I am trying to help one of our contributors by sharing their awesome articles but either can’t find their social platform, or when I do, permission to tag is not granted.

Post as often as fits your schedule, and don’t stress when you can’t. Like loyal friends, your followers will still be there two days (or weeks) from now!

Next month, I’ll share the importance of discerning your motivations and weighing the benefits of launching or maintaining a social media presence. Social media may not be for everyone. Many people have to (or want to) step away from Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and may be weary of exploring TikTok. They may be looking to maintain a website only. I can respect that. However, let me leave you with one question to ponder: How will potential readers find that website?

 

P.S. Don’t miss the fabulous Catholic Writers Conference Online on February 24-26, 2023!

 

 

 

 

How the Catholic Writers Conference Made a Gardener into a Writer

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CWCOicon

Registration is still open for the Catholic Writers Conference Online, March 4-6. Get the details and sign up here.

Attending a writing conference is an investment of time and money. How can you be sure you’ll get anything from it? The Catholic Writers Guild has had dozens of success stories, from writers who found their inspiration to those who landed book contracts. One of the most touching and inspiring stories is that of Guild member Margaret Realy. But we’ll let her tell you:

How could I possibly glorify the Lord by writing? I was only a gardener, and rapidly losing my identity as one because of encroaching arthritic disability.

The life change from landscapes to laptops was nothing I had anticipated. It began in the Adoration chapel with tearful prayers for direction and guidance. That guidance came through the Catholic Writers Guild.

In 2009 when I attended the CWG Live Conference, I set aside my fears and entered the unfamiliar world of publishing. I listened intently to those who guided me into an industry I knew nothing about.

There were seminars, workshops, and pitch sessions. I was introduced to professional writers and acquisition editors. Each opportunity that the CWG offered, I seized. As an introvert, the hardest event to manage—and most significant—was the informal networking that took place in hallways and at meals.

Through the guidance of Guild members and their willingness to mentor, my anxiety and insecurities began to lessen. My words became manuscripts which became book summaries and proposals. These were groomed for pitch sessions through the CWG support system.

The graces and blessings of the Guild have allowed me to develop as a writer, to serve God with words instead of a trowel. Left to my own devices, I would never have realized the seed planted in me to be a spiritual gardening author. The CWG members gave breath to my prayers.

Margaret Rose Realy, Obl. OSB, is a lay hermit and award winning author of three books: A Garden of Visible Prayer, Cultivating God’s Garden through Lent, and A Catholic Gardener’s Spiritual Almanac. She is a columnist, presenter, retreat leader, and a regular contributor to Aleteia, Catholic Mom, and Catholic Digest. Margaret blogs at Morning Rose Prayer Gardens on Patheos.

Margaret’s amazing transformation came at the live conference, but others have found blessings at the online one as well. The online conference offers instruction, networking, and even pitch session opportunities at a fraction of the cost and without the hassle of travel.

If you haven’t signed up yet, do it now. Go to https://www.anymeeting.com/PIID=EC51DE87844F3B and fill out the form. We’ll see you there!

 

From the President’s Desk – August 28

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“There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

Lots to share this beautiful warm day in August!

Catholic Writers Conference Live
First, if you attended the Catholic Writers Live Conference last month, it was great to meet you! It was a wonderful time of edification, networking and fellowship as well as spiritual renewal.

CWGLive attendees gather to say goodbye at the CMN Trade Show with Paper Pope Francis

CWGLive attendees gather to say goodbye at the CMN Trade Show with Paper Pope Francis


Speaking to the bookstore owners on Tuesday at CMN

Speaking to the bookstore owners on Tuesday at CMN


Before the first talk! #cmnselfie2015 (with the help of Pat Gohn)

Before the first talk! #cmnselfie2015 (with the help of Pat Gohn)

World Meeting of Families
If you are attending the World Meeting of Families next month in Philadelphia, the Guild will be there with a booth (Booth 747). I will be manning the booth, along with a few other helpers. Please stop by and say hello!

Catholic Writers RetreatCatholicWritersRetreatLogo2011iiii Have you thought about attending the upcoming Catholic Writers Retreat? If you haven’t, please consider doing so. I’m looking forward to a time of spiritual renewal and an opportunity to write. Here’s the information:
Catholic Writers Retreat: Your Word is my Delight. October 25-29, 2015. St. Francis Retreat Center, 703 E. Main Street, DeWitt, Michigan 48820. Register online at this link, click on ‘Other Offerings,’ or call 866-669-8321. $490 for five days.

Stepping Down as President
Last but certainly not least, I wanted to let you all know that I will not be running again for president in November. Besides writing, publishing, editing and book coaching, I am now also working for a Catholic non-profit organization called Live the Fast (based in Waltham, Massachusetts). Although I will be stepping down as president, I am certainly not leaving the Guild. I plan to be involved with the live conference as well as some of the committees. I will also remain on the Board as “past president.”

Please pray for me in my new endeavors and I will continue to pray for all of you.

As always, if you have any comments, questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me president(at)catholicwritersguild (dot) (com)

In Jesus and Mary,

Ellen Gable Hrkach

From the President’s Desk – June Ponderings

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Photo copyright Ellen Gable Hrkach

Photo copyright Ellen Gable Hrkach

“There is a good reason they call these ceremonies ‘commencement exercises.’ Graduation is not the end; it’s the beginning.” Orrin Hatch

This has been an exciting month at the Hrkach household. #3 son graduated from Ottawa University (photo to the right) a few weeks ago and #4 son graduated from high school yesterday. At the university commencement, the speaker said that with new technology and healthier lifestyles, many of the students (22- and 23-year-olds) could expect to live another hundred years. Therefore, they could “return for the 200th anniversary of the university in 2115.”

Another reason it’s been a busy month is because the conference committee has been finalizing its plans for the Catholic Writers Conference Live, set to take place July 22-24th in Somerset, New Jersey. If you’re planning to attend and haven’t registered, please do so ASAP at this link.

A group of Indie Catholic authors have gotten together for a huge group sale. If you’re interested, check it out here.

Are you working on a unpublished manuscript? Would you like feedback from more experienced authors? We have active critique groups for both fiction and non-fiction. Just let me know if you’re interested and I’ll connect you with the right person.

Finally, the Catholic Writers Retreat will be taking place in late October. I’ll be attending and looking forward to some reflection and writing time! Here’s the information: Catholic Writers Retreat: Your Word is My Delight. October 25-29, 2015. St. Francis Retreat Center, 703 E. Main Street, DeWitt, Michigan 48820. Register on line at this link. Click on “Other Offerings,” or call 866-669-8321. $490 for five days.

As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Enjoy the warmer weather!

Blessings,

Ellen Gable Hrkach
President, CWG

From the President’s Desk – Inspiration and the Catholic Writer

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Image by Ellen Gable Hrkach 2015

Image by Ellen Gable Hrkach 2015

Where do you find inspiration? As a writer, I find inspiration in places you might expect and those you might not. Not surprisingly, I find inspiration in Scripture and in the lives of the saints. Reading the Bible and the lives of the saints often inspires me to include a chapter or whole storyline about that citation or saint in my novels.

I also find inspiration in simple things. Years ago, I watched a tiny hummingbird hover near our kitchen window, his little wings flapping so quickly that I could barely see them. I was mesmerized by this little creature’s simple beauty, and it inspired me to write an entire storyline involving a hummingbird in my novel, A Subtle Grace.

Last week, I was frantically trying to finish several writing deadlines, focusing on the monitor in front of me. My office happens to be in a corner of our bedroom, near the window to our backyard. It was about 7:00 a.m. and my boys had just gotten on the school bus. We live in the country, thick forests on both sides of our house and a large field behind our yard. Suddenly, out of the corner of my eye, I could see movement beyond the window. Looking up, I was surprised to see a beautiful young deer grazing on the grass just beyond the window. I calmly stood up and went to get my iPad to take a photo. I took a few photos, but I watched her and marveled at her beauty. All of a sudden, she stopped munching and looked up in my direction. I stared at her as she stared at me. For the next half-hour, I watched her graze and move about our yard with no fear. I had a bazillion deadlines to meet, but I decided that it was more important to marvel in the beauty of God’s creation than to sit at a computer and work on my deadlines. And, you guessed it, it has sparked inspiration for a scene in one of my works in progress.

Where do you find inspiration? Please feel free to comment below.

Upcoming Events:
Catholic Writers Conference Live July 22-24, 2015, Somerset, New Jersey, to be held in conjunction with the Catholic Marketing Network Trade Show. Great speakers, wonderful fellowship and Mass, adoration and confession every day. Register here at this link: Catholic Writers Conference Registration 2015

CatholicWritersRetreatLogo2011iiiiThe Catholic Writers Retreat is taking place in late October. Your Word is My Delight takes place October 25-29, 2015 at the St. Francis Retreat Center, 703 E. Main Street, DeWitt, Michigan 48820. Register online here at this link or call 866-669-8321. $490 for five days.

Image copyright Ellen Hrkach

Image copyright Ellen Hrkach

One last thing: today is my husband, James, and my wedding anniversary, 33 years married (we’ve known each other for 37 years). When I came to Canada in 1978, I never expected to meet the man I would end up marrying. I never thought I would be living in Canada and enjoying these seven-month long winters! Through 33 years, James has held my hand and cried with joy during the births of our five sons, grieved with me during the loss of seven babies through miscarriage, laughed with me in good times, fought with me in bad, and has been a faithful witness of God’s love to me. Happy Anniversary, James!

As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me: president (at) catholicwritersguild (dot) (com)

In Jesus and Mary,

Ellen Gable Hrkach
President, Catholic Writers Guild

From the President’s Desk – Mediocrity

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Copyright Ellen Gable Hrkach

Copyright Ellen Gable Hrkach

“Do not be satisfied with mediocrity.” St. John Paul II

Any person who settles for mediocrity in terms of his or her spiritual life is setting himself up for failure.  Reaching high for the virtues and striving for perfection isn’t always easy, but it’s always worthwhile.  None of us will ever be perfect, but we must try.  Most of us will fall short frequently, but as Catholics, we’re blessed to have the Sacrament of Reconciliation to give us the grace to be better people.

Authors who settle for mediocrity with regard to their writing are also setting themselves up for failure.  Articles and books that have not been professionally edited will frustrate readers. These authors can become known for their mediocre writing, and readers may not return for more.  If you’re posting to a blog, ask a writer friend to be your second pair of eyes. If you’re traditionally publishing a book, your assigned editor will help make your book as professional as possible. If you are self-publishing, please hire experienced and professional editors to edit your book. Most importantly, humbly consider any and all suggestions from your editor.

Don’t settle for mediocrity in either your spiritual life or your writing life. Strive to be the best you can be!

Special thanks to CWG member Allison Gingras for featuring my third novel, Stealing Jenny, during her radio show, A Seeking Heart, this week!  Check out a few of the shows here:
https://www.realliferadio.com/a-seeking-heart-with-allison-gingras.html

And, today, I’ll be live on A Seeking Heart from 10:00 until 10:45.  Listen live here at this link: https://www.realliferadio.com/a-seeking-heart-with-allison-gingras.html

If you’d like to call while we’re on the air, here’s the number: Call 1-855-949-1380

CWG News:
We  have an upcoming live conference in July in Somerset, NJ (July 22-24) and registration is now open.

The Catholic Writers Retreat is taking place in late October.  Your Word is my Delight takes place October 25-29, 2015 at the St. Francis Retreat Center, 703 E. Main Street, DeWitt, Michigan 48820. Register on line at here at this link, Click on Other Offerings, or call 866-669-8321. $490 for five days.

As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to email me: president (at) catholicwritersguild (dot) (com)

In Jesus and Mary,

Ellen Gable Hrkach

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