BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Minnesota Christian Writers Guild - ECPv6.15.17//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Minnesota Christian Writers Guild REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20230126T032757Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T222703Z UID:4532-1776106800-1776112200@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:Joel Warne | INSIDE MOVES: Inner Life Writing for Small Groups DESCRIPTION:Synopsis: Once\, in a dream\, a woman saw an immense logjam clogging a river. The jumbled logs stretched for miles\, locked against each other at crazy angles. God asked the dreamer\, “How are we going to free these logs?” She replied doubtfully\, “I guess we need to untangle them so they face the same direction.” God said\, “I have a different idea.” The next moment\, the level of the water began to rise—and carried the heap away.  Anxieties\, yearnings and pain exist in a tangle in each human heart like private logjams. As Christian writers\, we address the tangle. Where do we find words that speak of deep places in God’s Spirit where painful knots are soothed and undone? How can our writing move beyond religious chatter toward becoming a well of refreshment that saturates and buoys lives in Christ? This presentation will ponder the writer’s craft of drawing words from deep places\, with a special emphasis on shaping them into resources that help small groups glimpse new\, life-giving possibilities in God.      \nPresenter Bio:  Joel Warne is the author of refreshing inner life resources and co-founder of WellSpring Life Resources. A teacher\, spiritual director and retreat leader\, Joel helps groups explore paths to transforming daily life with God. He’s the author of small group and personal resources including: “Soul Craving: An Invitation to the Feast\,” “How to Eat Your Bible: God’s Word as Food for Your Soul\,” and his most recent group resource\, “Inside Moves: Falling\, Rising\, Becoming.” Joel and his wife\, Gerri\, a Therapist and WellSpring co-founder\, live in Plymouth\, Minnesota. \nJoel’s website: https://wellrefreshed.com \nCost of the Event $25 for non-members \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/april/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Speakers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Apr-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260309T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260309T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20230108T225612Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T221636Z UID:4511-1773082800-1773088200@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:Storytelling and the Gospel | Karen Ingle DESCRIPTION:Synopsis: From “the greatest story ever told” comes a storytelling framework as universal as the cosmos and as unique as you. Writers of virtually any story can use this familiar framework to decide what to include\, what to leave out\, and next steps to take toward getting your story told.      \nPresenter Bio:  Karen Ingle enjoys raising chickens\, teaching\, and writing. Especially writing. She is a freelance writer\, editor\, and ghostwriter\, as well as the author of a slow-growing series of novels based on true stories of women facing life-and-death choices for their unborn children. In the course of her research and many interviews\, Karen has discovered that human stories possess beautiful uniqueness alongside astonishing similarity. Now she’s excited to pass on some of the insights that will help you write the story that is uniquely yours. \nKaren’s Website: https://kareninglefreelance.com \nCost of this event is $25 for non members \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/abc-night/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Speakers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Mar-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260209T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260209T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20230109T025409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T221409Z UID:4515-1770663600-1770669000@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:The AI Advantage | Jason Sisam DESCRIPTION:*Can you spot how much of this was written by AI vs how much was written by me? — I’ll be asking the night I speak. \nSynopsis: We are living in the age of “Knight Rider”—artificial intelligence is here to stay\, transforming every aspect of our lives from creative work to everyday tasks. This session is a deep dive into how podcasters\, writers\, and content creators can strategically leverage tools like Google Gemini and ChatGPT to supercharge their output without sacrificing their unique voice. \nWe explore AI as a powerful brainstorming and organizational tool\, demonstrating how to use it for tight outlines\, compelling descriptions\, and content repurposing (even generating a song from show notes!). However\, we provide crucial warnings against skill erosion and over-reliance\, emphasizing that high-quality output depends solely on high-quality human input. Learn to master the tools\, maintain human oversight\, perform fact-checking\, and navigate the ethical minefields of deep fakes and data privacy. \nThe takeaway? AI is not a replacement\, but an accelerator. Use it wisely to move forward\, not backward\, making your message clearer and your job easier. \nPresenter Bio: Jason (J. B.) Sisam is the bestselling author of Divine Moments\, a moving narrative that blends sports drama with profound themes of family\, faith\, and survival. As an ordained pastor and licensed financial advisor\, Jason’s message is built on two decades of ministry and practical experience. As the President of the Minnesota Christian Writer’s Guild\, his passion is to help others find clarity and purpose. Jason powerfully equips audiences to find their voice\, write their stories\, and succeed in life\, delivering the practical motivation necessary to achieve their God-given potential in family\, ministry\, and business. \n Website:   https://jasonsisam.com \nEvent Cost: $25 for non-members \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/february/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Speakers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Feb.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260112T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260112T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20230109T030010Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T220000Z UID:4518-1768244400-1768249800@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:Jerusha Clark | Exploring New Ways to Write DESCRIPTION:Synopsis: Most writers begin with what they know\, exploring the themes or stories in their own minds. There are other ways to expand one’s writing abilities\, however\, ways that stretch a writer beyond his or her thoughts and life experiences. In this presentation\, you’ll learn about research-based nonfiction and collaborative writing (formerly known as ghost writing). Your presenter\, Jerusha Clark\, writes in both genres extensively and will guide you through some basics and beyond. \nPresenter Bio: Jerusha Clark is the author\, co-author or collaborative writer of twenty books. She began by co-authored four books\, including three bestsellers\, with her husband\, Jeramy\, prior to launching her own writing and speaking ministry. Through Be Transformed ministry\, Jerusha focuses on helping others glorify and enjoy God\, one thought at a time. On quiet days\, you can find Jerusha reading\, snorkeling\, or bodyboarding at the beach\, her absolute favorite place. Jerusha and Jeramy have two amazing adult daughters and love ministering together at churches\, retreats\, schools\, conferences\, and as shepherds to pastors and ministry leaders through Standing Stone Ministry. \nEvent Cost: $25 for non-members \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/january/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Speakers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Jan-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251208T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251208T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20220911T224107Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T033005Z UID:4493-1765220400-1765225800@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:Author Christmas Night DESCRIPTION:Join us for a special night where MCWG authors showcase their books\, services\, and more. We’ll have loads of fun\, writing prompts\, topics of choice\, and so much more. You will not want to miss this opportunity to to grab those last minute Christmas gifts\, and enjoy some fellowship with fellow authors and take your writing to the next level! \nIf you’re a paid member use this link to sign up for a table: \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Subscribe\n \n \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/author-christmas-night/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Panel ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Christmas-Dec.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251110T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251110T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20220819T123459Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T030224Z UID:4447-1762801200-1762806600@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:Shawn Morrison and Shawn Nielsen | Will You See Me? DESCRIPTION:In this keynote\, author Shawn challenges us to rethink our assumptions about homelessness. He will share the purpose and process behind his book\, Will You See Me?\, which gives a voice to the unheard. Shawn will take you behind the scenes of conducting interviews at people’s intersections\, revealing the practical steps and uncovering a person’s “why”. He will also discuss his charity\, Good in the ‘Hood\, and his philosophy of changing lives together with simple acts of kindness. He’ll teach us how a simple act of compassionate listening can restore dignity and help us see the humanity in everyone. \nWe will offer a copy of our book\, “Will You SEE Me?” for a suggested donation of $30 or whatever one can afford.  The offerings will be used to purchase additional copies of our book.  We also will have WYSM bookmarks available to purchase and some brochures and information about our nonprofit\, Good in the ‘Hood. \nPresenter Bio: Reverend Shawn Morrison is the Founder and Executive Director for a nonprofit organization called Good in the ‘Hood.  He is a longtime community advocate\, minister\, and nonprofit leader. As the ministry director\, he leads efforts to inspire intentional kindness and provide practical support to those in need. His latest initiative\, “Will You See Me?”\, is a powerful book project that shares the real stories of individuals who panhandle\, aiming to challenge stereotypes and restore dignity. Shawn has served in pastoral leadership\, higher education\, and recovery ministry\, and continues to champion compassionate engagement throughout the Twin Cities. He and his wife Jamie have five children and nineteen grandchildren.  \nMr. Shawn Nielsen is a commercial photographer with a heart.  Shawn is a 36-year veteran photographer with a passion for people. Shawn has a strong interest to create images that reveal the beauty\, strength and fragility of the human spirit. He founded Nielsen Studios\, in Rogers\, Minnesota\, in 2003. In his personal life\, as in the images he creates\, Shawn strives always to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Shawn and his wife\, Cristine\, have four children and two grandchildren. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $25 Non Member Registration\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BECOME A MEMBER\n \n \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/november/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Speakers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Nov-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251013T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251013T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20230505T015733Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T025106Z UID:4585-1760382000-1760387400@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:Dr. Hal Baumchen | Living with Intentionality as a Writer DESCRIPTION:  \nPresenter Bio: Dr. Hal Baumchen is a seasoned clinical psychologist and licensed alcohol and drug counselor with over 30 years of experience in the fields of addiction treatment and mental health. He is the founder of Journey to Recovery\, a comprehensive resource platform designed to support individuals with co-occurring disorders through practical\ntools\, workbooks\, and recovery-focused guidance. \nThroughout his career\, Dr. Baumchen has been dedicated to transforming lives by equipping individuals with skill-building exercises and evidence-based strategies that address both substance use and mental health challenges. \nHe is also the founder and former President and Clinical Director of NorthStar Regional\, a treatment center that has grown to offer over 300 beds for substance use disorder treatment. He recently retired from his role at NorthStar Regional. \nBeyond his clinical work\, Dr. Baumchen has owned and operated Little Tree Properties since 2004—a real estate management company with both residential and commercial\nholdings. \nAs an author\, Dr. Baumchen has contributed several key resources to the recovery community\, including Journeys and Destinations\, and he co-authored Finding Hope Again: Overcoming Depression with Dr. Neil T. Anderson. His writing reflects the insights and practical wisdom gained from decades of counseling\, providing individuals with effective tools for personal growth and emotional well-being. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $25 Non Member Registration\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BECOME A MEMBER\n \n \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/october/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Speakers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Oct.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250908T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250908T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T181939 CREATED:20220819T123039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T023857Z UID:4445-1757358000-1757363400@www.mnchristianwriters.com SUMMARY:Jonathan Friesen | The Identity of a Writer DESCRIPTION:Who are you? Really. As Christians we are quick to answer with a biblical answer or offer our occupation. You were created uniquely by a loving Creator. Hearing your identity from him changes everything\, including how you write\, what you write\, and why you write. Come explore the truest thing about you\, and learn how knowing your identity deeply impacts your thoughts\, vanquishes fear\, and brings life to your written words.      \nPresenter Bio:  Jonathan Friesen is an award-winning author\, university professor and international speaker. He is the author of eight novels for teens including Both of Me and the critically acclaimed Unfolding (Blink/HarperCollins\, 2017). His personal experience with Tourette’s and epilepsy inspired him to write the heartfelt novel Jerk\, California (Penguin\, 2008)\, winner of the American Library Association’s Schneider Award—“Best Book for Teens.” A sought-after keynoter\, Jonathan brings his experience and insight to conferences around the world. Jonathan now serves as a Professor of Education at North Central University in Minneapolis\, MN. To learn more about Jonathan Friesen\, visit his website at www.jonathanfriesen.com. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n $25 NON-MEMBER REGISTRATION\n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n BECOME A MEMBER\n \n \n000000 URL:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/meeting/september/ LOCATION:Oak Knoll Lutheran Church\, 600 Hopkins Crossroad\, Minnetonka\, MN\, 55305\, United States CATEGORIES:Speakers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mnchristianwriters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Sep-1.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR