“But who sets direction for the writers in the ministry?” Susie asked. As one of two writers with Cru in Boston who traveled to Dallas for our training, she wanted to know if anyone could help give her and her co-worker, Michelle, some direction. (I’m coaching Michelle in this photo.)

“I think there’s a guild,” I answered. A group of Cru writers from the Campus ministry join a conference call every month to talk about projects they’re working on. Susie and Michelle are part of that group,

Yes, but it’s not enough,” Susie answered. I didn’t know how to respond. Ministries are encouraged to forge their own paths. Susie was looking for something more structured.

“What if I walked through this with you in the coming year. Would that be helpful?” I asked. Along with training teams at national events, I also coach writers for a year at a time.

“Will you do that?” Susie asked. “Of course,” I answered. I train, I coach and I equip writers to tell more powerful stories. Late last month, Mark and I traveled to Dallas with Becky, the new editor in chief of Worldwide Challenge, to train 21 writers. They came from various Cru ministries plus three other non-profits: Voice of the Martyrs, Mission to the World and Probe Ministries.

When we train, four things happen. First, everyone writes. Then I give feedback. We take extra time for meals so that we can have in-depth conversations and learn from each other. Finally, we give the writers time to rewrite what they first produced. These conferences work because we make space for writers, made in the image of God, to create by writing. Writers gain confidence and they do amazing work.

Please thank God for the people who came and for the things they learned while they were with us. Ask Him to increase their effectiveness as they begin to practice the things they learned. Please pray that God will give me and the leaders I’m talking to wisdom about what comes next. I have several opportunities, including a trip to Taiwan in January to consider.

Thank you very much for the important part you play in our lives. Through your prayers and generosity, Mark and I are able to do the work God has called us to do. Please let us know how we can pray for you.

– Anne Marie –