Fun with Church Websites - Easy! Quick! Limited Time Only!

Problems with Church Websites
[from personal experience and researched data]

1. Churches often believe they need a website but have not really thought out what they want it to do.
2. A techie does the site, but then leaves the church or becomes too busy. Site grows out-of-date.
3. This often gets repeated many times as it has in our church.
4. No one but the techie can change it, so soon it is not really up to date.
5. It does not encourage communication between members the way Facebook and other social sites do.
6. Often a professional is hired and makes a beautiful site for a BEAUTIFUL price. Seldom is it built for easy updating or communicating new info to members and the public.
7. If you want it updated the pro has to do it and that costs MORE money.
   
8. Does it really communicate what your church's purpose is to the world of cyberspace?
9. Does it connect your members?
   
10. All-in-one websites are very satisfying and accomplish many purposes.
1. Informing visitors and members about what is going on currently
2. Connecting people and groups within your church
3. Can be updated by anyone with very little training if you can use a word processor
4. Can inform members of sudden events between Sunday's such as the death of a senior member, the birth of a baby, a victory in someone's life so that all may celebrate
5. Appear to the general observer looking for a church that here is a church which is up-to-date, active and alive

Here are three of the sites I have found, each of which is a solution for most of the problems presented above.

Hosting, informing, domains, updating, newsletters, event calendars are all contained in one place.

Each of these sites have free trials.

Advanced Ministry ranges from free to so comprehensive that you can a store so that members can have access to purchasing materials and books being studied in various groups within the church. The price range is the best I have found anywhere.

Just recently I helped a small church here in Niagara to get a website that they could maintain themselves. If you are interested see WindMill-Point-Church

This Church has a different philosophy which gives you everything available on the site but just a bit less storage space for smaller churches.

More and more churches are turning to comprehensive all-in-one websites like those at Advanced Ministry, or This Church or ChurchFlock.com [a demo site for MyFlock]
Probably the MOST important use for these sites is that ANYONE with a little instruction can update the section of the site for their small group. The church secretary can update the event info weekly or as often as needed.

No professional is needed [with apologies to web pros]. A workman IS worthy of his hire.

Any discussion about this would be welcome. Constructive disagreement is NEVER disagreeable (:-).

I have spent many hours poring over sites on the web and forums and listening to the tribulations of churches with out-of-date websites which are not a good witness to the world about your church.

I have found sites which give excellent tips for effective church sites. Contact me directly at churchmedia@cpedley.com or through the group as you prefer if you would like individual help with this changing field.

We live in an age of connection. People are "crying out" to be noticed. If this were not true why is Facebook so successful EVEN among Christians? Why is there a Twitter? Why has GodTube changed to Tangle?

It seems that every time I do a bit of web searching I find new sites which tend toward social interaction. A few years ago Plaxo was a way to store your email addresses on the web so you could get them from anywhere. Now it too is changing into a social interaction site.

It is a phenomenon that a church which wants to minister to the current needs of society cannot ignore forever.

At the same time it solves the problem of static, out-of-date websites which do not represent your active church or which drain too much money from church coffers which could be used for the ministry that Jesus left for us.

The Great Commission

¹⁶Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. ¹⁷When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. ¹⁸Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in^[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." NIV Mathew 28: 16-20

Is there any better use for the Lord's money or your time?

Sincerely,

Charles G. Pedley
905-228-2161
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SAVE $20 PER MONTH?
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FREE and USEFUL APPLICATIONS

Most of these are either ALL FREE or have a free component and a paid component.

There are literally dozens of freebies here which may help you. Check them out!

My favourite place on the web for groups and individuals to create a FREE website is
ZOHOWIKI - I always found wikis very confusing even though I have created many websites and blogs. This makes WIKI simple. Can be used only as an easy website for yourself, your family or a group.

http://www.thechristiannews.com/ - put customized Christian news on website

http://www.Airset.com - FREE, Paid Upgrades
Online 'Computer' for individuals, groups, organizations, A storehouse of freebies. Can also send info to your phone as a reminder. Free sites, blogs, calendars and much more. http://www.airset.com

www.Blogger.com, by Google is a free EASY blogging community. I have about 15 - 20 blogs there all on different topics. The goodies you can add are easy and tremendous. Plus it also allows connection to Google's other apps.

Charles Pedley's EARTH-SHATTERING NEWS!
My writings and recommendations.
http://charlespedley.blogspot.com/


Christian AV Magazine - FREE

Christian Audio/Visual Magazine.
http://www.christianav.com/
We are a sister magazine of Christian Computing Magazine. Both of our magazine are 100% digital and are received in pdf format. In 2005 we made the switch to all digital, only because of the overwhelming request from subscribers. Both Christian Computing Magazine and Christian Audio/Visual Magazine are completely free of charge. All we need from you is your email address, for us to start sending you magazines.

Christian Computing Magazine - FREE SUBSCRIPTIONS
http://ccmag.com/ccmag_issues/view_issue2.php?recordID=1
Our Vision The first issue of Christian Computing Magazine (CCMag) was published January 1989. CCMag has helped to keep its readers informed on software, services and other areas of technology, pertaining to how it relates to the Christian community, the church and ministry.


Christian Media Resources
http://christian-media-resources.blogspot.com

Christian Video Magazine - FREE
http://www.christianvideomag.com/
About Christian Video Magazine Christian Video Magazine is the result of several conversations between Steve Hewitt, Editor-in-Chief of Christian Computing Magazine, and George Temple, of SermonSpice. In those conversations they both discovered that they had the same passions to help churches use video to enhance ministry. As a result of those talks, they decided to partner together and create a new publication designed to cover anything and everything related to using video for ministry. Christian Video Magazine was born. The first issue was sent to 100,000 in June 2008.

Advanced Ministry Websites - FREE sample site - Upgrades from $9.95 to $149.95 per month as desired for your church community. Not only gives you free hosting but many other resources to enable your church or ministry to inform, communicate, or send newsletters and announcements to its members. Also optionally includes a store to sell products which relate to studies you are doing. This is probably the most comprehensive site for churches since the range of costs can accomodate small, medium or large churches.



ThisChurch - an excellent church or ministry site to communicate and connect members. Donations online, newsletters and email blasts are all included and so much more! Click the link and get a free trial site.

ChurchFlock.com
http://www.churchflock.com
Fantastic free & paid resources for connecting, tracking, informing any group. You would not believe what it includes.

Churchmedia Ministry
http://www.churchmedia.net
CMN is a unique worldwide community of volunteer and paid media ministers. We share knowledge and media for use by churches, and help one another grow in skills for delivering the most important message ever: God's Word. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FORUM & Resources

JUBAL MAGAZINE - Church Music & Worship -FREE
http://www.jubalmagazine.com/
This publication is 100% digital and is received in PDF format. Jubal Music and Worship Magazine is completely FREE of charge. All we need is your e-mail address for you to being receiving the magazine. Send this to your friends and encourage them to sign up for a free subscription.

Webs.com [formerlyFreewebs]
http://www.webs.com
Another unbelievable free and upgradable paid site to do a website in an easy way without coding. Too many freebies to mention. Can add PayPal ecommerce and sell and much more

Picasa - Free Photo App from Google
http://picasa.google.com/
Organize Manage your photos in one place, and find photos you forgot you had edit Edit Eliminate scratches & blemishes, fix red-eye, crop and more create Create Turn photos into movies, collages, slideshows and more share Share Upload seamlessly to Picasa Web Albums to share with friends, family & the world. I use it for the basic photo edits such as cropping, lightening, etc.

Overview - Picasa Video Explanation



PicasaWeb - FREE - Can upgrade to paid if you need more space.
http://picasa.google.com/features.html
Store your photos online and share them as desired or not. Works great with Picasa software. Just click the "Upload to Web" link and wait. Together, Picasa & Picasa Web Albums make it easy for you to organize and edit your digital photos, then create online albums to share with friends, family & the world. Slideshows, downloads, prints and more.

Zoho - www.zoho.com
http://www.zoho.com - Unbelievably comprehensive
BEST SITE ON WEB that I have found for FREE APPLICATIONS! Free & Paid Online Applications: Best site I know on the web to coordinate estimating, invoicing, free easy-to-use wikis which can be YOUR website if you are not a coder, free mail & much much more. Check it out!


[I hope to put in descriptions of these later. Some are obvious by the URL'S]

http://www.myfreecalendarmaker.com/

http://sumopaint.com/app/

http://www.famundo.com/

http://www.calendars.net/

http://www.intellipodcast.com/Web/Index.aspx

http://wufoo.com/

http://www.businessitonline.com/pricing.aspx

http://www.timebridge.com/lp/share.html

http://blog.econsultant.com/print-2008-calendar-fifty-two-pages-weekly

http://blog.econsultant.com/print-2009-calendar-twelve-pages-monthly

http://www.webasyst.net/contacts/pricing.html

http://www.theresumebuilder.com/worknew.php

http://www.pongoresume.com/index.cfm?affiliate=google&keyword=resume%20template&gclid=CK6Cl8SxyJYCFQIyxwodrWuixA

http://www.southworth.com/page.php?id=137

http://www.scheduleworld.com/tg/cal/preferences.jsp?cal=1967652&getdate=1225598400000

http://www.slideroll.com/free-slideshow-creator.php

http://www.webpasties.com/create_slideshow.html

http://www.pictobrowser.com/

http://www.vstore.ca/free-sign-up.php

http://www.1freecart.com/

http://www.auctionlotwatch.com/free/

http://www.free-auctions.ca/members_area.php?page=store&section=categories&generate_subcategories=1

http://www.createforms.com/

https://www.invoice.com/user/invoice_menu.asp

http://corlive.com/

http://sharetabs.com/

http://www.websnapr.com/

http://www.collabtrak.com/

http://springloops.com/

https://www.dexrex.com/

http://www.smashingapps.com/2008/07/25/23-free-and-online-web-based-applications-specially-if-you-are-designer-or-developer.html

http://www.qipit.com/

http://www.ning.com/

http://jott.com/

http://www.imeem.com/

http://doodle.com/main.html

http://www.meebo.com/

http://www.rememberthemilk.com/home/cpedley/#section.overview

https://www.photoshop.com/

http://skydrive.live.com/

http://www.screentoaster.com/

http://www.posterous.com/

http://www.truveo.com/

http://www.joongel.com/

http://www.rescuetime.com/

http://ping.fm/

http://animoto.com/

http://instacalc.com/

https://www.mesh.com/Welcome/default.aspx

http://www.palaestratraining.com/blog/2008/07/29-web-apps-for-students-and-white-collar-workers/

http://website.grader.com/#ReportTop

http://en.web-graphics-maker.com/

http://www.anyclient.com/applet.html

http://www.whoishostingthis.com/

http://www.phpform.org/

http://pingability.com/

http://www.surveygizmo.com/

http://www.mikogo.com/Welcome.aspx

http://psd2cssonline.com/

http://writer.bighugelabs.com/

http://mashable.com/2007/08/09/online-business/

http://www.freebusinessforms.com/invoicepackage/purchaseorderproducts.htm

Photo-Video-Worship Resources
http://worship-photos.blogspot.com
Resources in the area of photos, videos and other like resources for your church or ministry. Video tutorials and overviews of select products.

Church-Software-Store.com
http://www.church-software-store.com
Church Software, Hardware, Bibles, Multimedia, Projectors, Internet Security, Resource Links, Wordsearch Bible products and more.

Who is this guy? http://www.charlespedley.com

How to log into Yahoo! Groups - Christian Moderators

Hi Beth and ministry partners:

If you would like members of your forum/e-newsletter to have access to
Yahoo! Group features, have them log into Yahoo! Groups to syncronize
their e-mail address with their Yahoo! Groups account.

Your members need to go to your home page and add the word "join" to
the URL as follows:

1. CanadianChristiansinMedia (Beth)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CanadianChristiansinMedia/join/

2. CanadianPerformingArtsMinistry_Newsletter (Susan)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CanadianPerformingArtsMinistry_Newsletter/join

3. ChristianRadioCanada_News (Beth)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChristianRadioCanada_News/join

4. ChristianWritersCanada_Newsletter (Gerri)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChristianWritersCanada_Newsletter/join

5. FilmandVideoMinistryCanada_Newsletter (Sam)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FilmandVideoMinistryCanada_Newsletter/join

6. MusicMinistryCanada_Newsletter (Laurie)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MusicMinistryCanada_Newsletter/join

7. NewMediaMinistry_Newsletter (Charles)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NewMediaMinistry_Newsletter/join

8. PublishingMinistryCanada_Newsletter (Bob)
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/PublishingMinistryCanada_Newsletter/join


In Service for Jesus,

David Spencer
http://media.davidspencer.ca

In ChristianModerators@yahoogroups.com, "Beth Warden"
bwarden@...> wrote:
Hi all! I thought I'd just share an experience I had tonight with
setting up two new items in the "database" part of the yahoo group
site.

I decided to start off the member directory by setting up a database
for it, allowing members to log on and add their own details.

In addition, I started up another database for any broadcasters to
list programs that other stations could air as well.

Since posting that new "our group is growing" e-mail to all the
members with an invitation to them to add their details, it turns out
that many of the members don't know for sure how to log into yahoo to
access the group site! They've been members for years, but it's been
with e-mails going back and forth to their inbox, rather than them
signing into yahoo to actually go into the group site.

Thinking back, it's very understandable how there could be members who
didn't log in to sign up for the group. I've added members by just
typing in their e-mail addresses. It's a learning curve.

Tomorrow I'll send out an e-mail just asking folks to send me their
details, and I'll compile the directory and other database in another
program and e-mail it to those interested.

Hopefully my experience will help with your group too!

Have a great night!

Beth

Yahoo! Groups Links

To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChristianModerators/

To change settings via email:
mailto:ChristianModerators-digest@yahoogroups.com
mailto:ChristianModerators-fullfeatured@yahoogroups.com

Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

InScribe Christian Writer's Fellowship

The links below came from InScribe Christian Writer's Fellowship found at

http://www.inscribe.org/09-StayMotivated-Get%20Connected.htm

You may like to visit the site and perhaps even join.

BLOGS CHATS, Writing Forums MENTORS: Find or Be One NETWORK with Other Writers WRITER'S GROUPS: Join or Start One WEBSITES for Writers writers organization

Unless someone advertises themselves as a mentor, finding one involves developing a relationship. Get to know other writers. Join aith either a general membership or one that fits your preferred genre. Also try a small group setting. (InScribe has several.) If you are looking for a mentor, this might be the best place to find one. If you want to mentor someone else, a group gives opportunity for you to get to know each other. Blogs and chat rooms do not offer a face-to-face relationship, but you might meet someone through these online resources that will be interested in a mentoring relationship. InScribe has online critique groups reporting success as they mentor one another. To find someone who offers mentoring for a fee, check out the links below to individual writer's sites. Also, you can be mentored by keeping up with the latest information about the craft and the industry. Check out the websites for writers listed on this page. GIFTS FOR WRITERS: try InScribe's Offers

NETWORKING (Click here to contact InScribe Members)

Blogs: getting started Blog for Fun and Profit Blogger, Free set-up service owned by Google Blogging is about Writing - great tips for great blogs! How to host a Blog Tour Live Journal, free blogging service Typepad - blogging service, fee-based WordPress - blogging service, free, similar to Blogspot, has extra fee-based options To Think About Some countries do not allow feeds from anything with the word "blog" in them, so consider this if you want your blog to go everywhere in the world. "I fail to see how most writers actually enhance their careers by blogging. Blogs by experts about current events make more sense, because they're commentary by people who have proven expertise in writing about those topics. Most blogs, however, are mental and emotional incontinence. People who claim to be writers should spend more time pitching stories and proposals than venting their thoughts. I would blog only in conjunction with having a book on the market." —Anonymous (From July 2007 Writers Digest newsletter) Hit counters to put on your blog My Computer - fee-based stat reports The Counter - fee-based stats for your blog or website Site Meter - free, or fee-based has more options Increase traffic to your blog Visiting the blogs of others. Leave your blog URL. If you leave a good comment, the blog owner and others who comment are likely to drop over to visit you. If they like what they see, they may keep on returning. Ads on your blog? BlogAds - Select ads here, or reverse the process and put your ad on influential blogs. Only ads that you approve. BloggingAds - uses Paypal Blogsvertise - pays in Paypal per task/blog entry, for writing / talking about / mentioning their website in your blog Crispads - bloggers target the ads because you best know your content. Google ads - Pick the style of ads you want and paste the code into your blog template. Google's Adsense crawls the web and chooses content-appropriate ads for your blog. If you are writing about butterflies or yaks, the ads posted will suit your topic. You are credited on a per-hit basis and paid after you've reached the $100 level in your account. PayPerPost - another place to find ads for your blog. Problogger - lots of information about earning money from a blog. Other Tips Blogspot and others allow you to postdate an entry. After you write your post, click on "post options" beside the box to put in tags. Enter the date and time you want it to appear in the blog. For example, enter 10/21/08 || 6:00 P.M. which will publish it on October 21, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. Then click on 'Publish' and you will see an orange message on the 'edit' screen saying that your post is scheduled and will be published on the date and at the time you have selected. However, DO NOT SAVE YOUR POST AS A DRAFT because it will just stay there. Also pay attention to your dates. If you write them 10/21/08, it may reverse them to 21/10/98. BLOGS by and for WRITERS (top) InScribe Writers Online - a blog for InScribe members to post their short stories, articles, and poetry. Advanced Fiction Writing - blog by Randy Ingermanson with helpful advice for all writers Deborah Antonio - Canadian Christian writer Gordon Atkinson His blog is called Real Live Preacher Beatrice, by Ron Hogan, literary news J. Mark Bertrand for Christian writers Lauralee Bliss - blog on writing by a Christian author Judy Blume talks about writing. Blog for Books - Mind & Media, Publicity with Faith, site requests book reviews, offers free publicity for review authors Book Blog Susan Taylor Brown - her blog Belinda Burston - one of several Canadian contributors to blog called "Whatever He says, Do It" CAN - We CAN Market our Books - Christian Authors Network authors blog tips for marketing your book. Charis Connection - Contributors to this blog are published Christian novelists. Christian Fiction blog by Traci Depree - discusses the world of writing and editing, the journey to become a published author, and the challenges of navigating the publishing industry. Church of the Masses - Barbara Nicolosi's blog about Christians in the film industry in Hollywood Confessions of an Idiosyncratic Mind, blog by Sarah Weinman Brenda Coulter for Christian writers Rachel Cunliffe Offers blog design services also Dabbling Mom John Davies UK blog Cathi-Lyn Dyck - "Somewhere Between Dreams" a Canadian writer Val Dykstra Canadian writer Mary DeMuth for Christian writers E4God Blog service for Christians, churches, ministries Stephanie Emmons - Running account of her book, Calcutta is Everywhere Faith in Fiction - David Long, a fiction acquisitions editor at Bethany House Publishers and himself a novelist, writes this blog not only to further the discussion of faith and fiction, but to find and hopefully publish compelling novels written from the biblical worldview. Faith in Fiction Discussion for Christian writers Joe Clifford Faust for Christian writers The Fishbowl Flogging the Quill for Christian writers Forensics & Faith - for Christian Suspense writers, by Brandilyn Collins Patricia Fry - Writing and publishing blog Alton Gansky - mystery & suspense writer Anna Louise Genoese - editor with lots to say about publishing Tricia Goyer's My Writing Mentor - offers a bi-weekly email newsletter and a personal mentor who will give you advice, answer your questions, and prod you on. Bonnie Grove - Canadian author highlights fiction writers on her blog. Deborah Gyapong, Canadian Christian writer. Defilers blog, Linda Hall - Canadian mystery writer Katie Hart for Christian writers Robin Lee Hatcher - Christian novelist Hobgoblin - Sci-Fi, fantasy Gina Holmes - writes about her novel writing journey Angela Hunt - blog for this prolific Christian fiction writer The Ink's Not Dry - Tina Helmuth offers a free one-chapter critique on her blog. Inky Girl - "Daily Diversions for Writers" Is This Thing On? Jan Burke blog with posts on getting an agent and self-publishing. The Language Hat - fascinating! Susie Larson - writes books, articles, freelances for Focus on the Family Marcia Laycock, InScriber, blog is called “Writer-lee” Canadian Brenda Leyland - Living Life Beautifully - Canadian Christian writer Nancy Lindquist - That's Life LitBlog, discussions and reviews about favorite books Dave Long Popular blog by fiction acquisitions editor at Bethany House Chip MacGregor - Christian literary agent, blog about the industry Eveline Maedel, InScribe member Marketing Mavericks a blog intended for the sole purpose of networking and education in the field of marketing and promotion of the arts, including books. D. S. Martin - Canadian poet, author of So the Moon Would Not Be Swallowed The Master Artist Blogs for Christian writers Eunice Matchett, “Whirlwind Words” by current President of InScribe, Canadian The Mindful Hack - Canadian writer, Denyse O'Leary Dr. Albert Mohler - thought-provoking articles putting Christian perspective on current issues. Elsie Montgomery - “Practical Faith” - living out what God puts in! Canadian Pam Mytron - Blog is “Scrolls of Clay” by this InScribe member, Canadian Violet Nesdoly, InScribe member, Canadian Alex Newman, Canadian writer Beverly Nippard, InScribe member, Canada Novel Journey - blog about writing, several contributors Denyse O'Leary is a Toronto-based Canadian journalist and blogger Debbie Ridpath Ohi, Canadian Writer & author of “Inky Girl” blog. Her website. Kimberley Payne - Canadian author of Fit for Faith - Seven weeks to improved spiritual and physical health Martin Roth Links to other blogs The Master's Artists - various authors My Writers Group for Christian writers Pod-dy Mouth: blog about POD and self-publishing Rebecca Writes - Christian writer from the Yukon, great theology plus all sorts of fun interaction. Debbie Ridpath Ohi for Christian writers Lisa Samson for Christian writers Donald Sensing One Hand Clapping Robin Sloboda - InScriber from Saskatchewan, Canada Jennifer Jacoby-Smith - Freelance writer, Canada Michael Spencer, The Internet Monk Short Stories - caution, observe ratings! Sally Stuart's Blog with market updates, a good one to bookmark and check often. Cindy Swanson - look for interviews, including one with Linda Hall Colleen Taylor - Canadian writer. Time Management Development Resources, Diana Lance blog about Time Management Chris Well Terry Whalin - The Writing Life, shares his journey as a writer Karen H. Whiting - Creative ideas for bloggers Lani Wiens InScribe member, site is “Fresh Flowers” Canada Reba White Williams Soul Food Cafe - inspiration for artists & writers Whatever He Says - blog by a group of Canadian Christian writers Will Write for Chocolate - blog by Debbie Ridpath Ohi The Word Guild Authors - TWG professional members post their work Word Imperfect - fun blog where readers invent and vote on meanings for given words Writing for Kids - blog subtitled “The Children's Writing Super site” Writer-Lee A place for Christians who write. Canadian. Writer's – Beware. Blog about publishing scams. The Writer's Crucible - blog by Ontario Canada Christian writers' group. “Bringing glory to God through our writing.” Write to Inspire By various writers, Christian Blog The Writing Life for Christian writers Mary J. Yerkes - Christian writer's blog, A Way with Words WRITER'S DIGEST BLOGS (top) Guide to Literary Agents - Editor of this annual volume, Chuck Sambuchino, offers the latest news and views on literary agents. Poetic Asides - Published poets Nancy Breen and Robert Lee Brewer blog on issues affecting poets from the poet's perspective. As the editors of Poet's Market and Writer's Market respectively, Breen and Brewer also share insights on the publishing industry, especially as it relates to poetry. Questions & Quandaries - Don't know the difference between "who" and "whom"? Facing an ethical dilemma about accepting gifts from subjects? Let Brian A. Klems answer your grammatical, ethical, business and writing-related questions. This Writer's Life - "Writer's Life" columnist Kevin Alexander gives his witty take on starting a writing career, posted weekly. The Writer's Perspective - WD Editor Maria Schneider writes a blog dedicated to the publishing industry and other writing-related news, writing essentials, links of interest and commentaries on the industry's hottest topics. Writing Forums, Lists, Chats (top) Alt.usage.english - newsgroup Analog Science Fiction - Chats with authors, twice a month Burry Man Writers Center Christian Bookshelf - Message board where authors and readers connect, various books are discussed, etc. Christian Market Listserv - "a forum for networking and discussing issues related to publishing and marketing in the Christian marketplace." Christian Writers Workshop Join here and chat in iUniverse chat room Community Live Journal - to help members finish their novels. Creative Pen - Yahoo group for serious writers Crime Writers - a Yahoo group with nearly 700 members who chat about writing crime fiction. Critique Circle - An online workshop for writers of all genres to receive feedback on their work, about 7-10 critiques per manuscript. Also includes tools for manuscript progress, submission tracking, character generation and more. Critters - an on-line workshop/critique group for serious writers of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror. You get your work critiqued in exchange for critiquing the work of others Dancing Word Writers Network Dedicated Author - lists opportunities, contests & jobs for writers Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers - a place to meet readers and writers and discuss the latest and greatest fiction that inspires. Faith In Fiction discussion board Faith Writers Fellowship of Christian Writers - listserv, free but must apply, "vision is to provide mentoring and instruction; share skills; offer kindly criticism; supply information on markets, contests, conferences and other areas of interest...; share prayer needs; and to be inspired and encouraged by fellow writers. Our desire is that our written words always reflect Christ and glorify God." Fiction Factor Forum Forward Motion - free forums, workshops and more For Writers - forums, references, markets, groups, conferences, author sites, agents. Freelance Writing - several forums listed Hobgoblin - Sci-Fi, fantasy Jewish Writers - This site will connect Jewish writers with other Jewish writers and give help with navigating today’s market. LitDotOrg - a place to publish and discuss stories, poetry and classics Mss Editing - groups List of groups, includes forums & chats Drew Marshall - Canadian spiritual talk back program. Muslim Writers Society - Place for Muslim writers to post their work, get market information and participate in a chat offered each Sunday open to up-and-coming authors, famous writers and other writing industry professionals (moderated to allow attendees to get the most information). My Writer's Circle - review boards for prose, poetry and scriptwriting, general advice boards, writers resources, a chat room and even a coffee shop (for off-topic conversation), a place that supports writers of all levels. The Next Big Writer - a variety of services including has a forum where writers can post their work and get feedback from other writers. Must be a member; some services are free, others require a fee. Novelspot - “If books were people, they’d mingle at Novelspot.” Site features interviews, tips for writers of action-adventure, fantasy, historical fiction, romance and sci-fi. (Note: some adult content). Also posts calls for submissions. Omnichat Book Chat - various genre chats Online Guide to Writing in Canada - featuring a comprehensive a-z listing of Canadian authors as well as resources and a forum. Romance Central Romance Club Message Boards - for romance writers Speculative Vision, Science Fiction & Fantasy Story Circle Network. For women with stories to tell, has a newsletter. Toasted-Cheese - site withe feedback and information about issues that affect writers, also contests, forums, chats, encouragement to polish your writing. Today’s Woman Writing Community - offers peer-to-peer feedback, a weekly contest, you own personal page (with photo option) and blog. Men are welcome but no one under 18. WIN - groups Online and real world critique groups WordTrip - family-friendly forums to discuss all genres with other members. Children can use Word Trip Junior. The Writer's Almanac. Radio, poetry & history. Writers BBS The Writing Bridge - requires membership application, has large number of forums, also writing prompts and critique sections. The Writer's Chatroom - site has Celebrity Sundays, where new authors, famous writers and other writing industry professionals stop by and chat online (chats are moderated). Writers' Dock - an international resource site with forums, discussions, various groups, all with help, encouragement and advice for writers. Writers Net Discussion Forums Writers Remember - group that focuses on reigniting creativity, encouraging those burning out. Has forums, resources, an e-zine/newsletter, and a warning section to help you avoid writing scams. Writers Write Forums iVillage - chat about books, etc. Table Talk UPOD - Web group for working journalists. Wordplay - for beginning and established screenwriters. Websites of other writers (top) (Click here to contact InScribe Members) Hannah Alexander - pen name for the writing collaboration of Cheryl and Mel Hodde. Donna Allard - Canadian poet Margaret Avison - Canadian poet Judy Baer - life coach as well as a novelist, can help you on the journey to publication. Marlene Bagnull - writer and writing instructor Karen Ball - Christian fiction writer, “a lover of wonder” James Scott Bell - suspense novelist, has page for writers. Tim Bete - humor columnist Baxter Black - cowboy humorist Debbie Blue - author of Sensual Orthodoxy Judy Blume - well known author who writes for children, teens, YA and adults. Paul H. Boge - Canadian author of The Chicago Healer Erma Bombeck - well-known humorist Sigmund Brouwer - Canadian author, new page Susan Taylor Brown - author and speaker, has pages on writing Bonnie Bruno - Children's author and photographer Michael Card - well know Christian singer/song writer Jack Cavanaugh - Christian fiction writer Keith Clemons - Canadian Christian writer James R. Coggins - Canadian author from Abbotsford, BC, former editor of the Mennonite Brethren Herald, author of a new mystery series - first book, Who's Grace? Brandilyn Collins - Christian fiction writer Stephen Coonts - fiction, action-adventure, best sellers Lori Copeland - Contemporary and Historical fiction June Cotner - has a newsletter with publishing tips Brenda Coulter - Christian writer. Judith Couchman - Christian writer Lisa Crayton - Personal page for editor of Spirit-Led Writer Connie Brummel Crook - Canadian author. Sarah Cypher - The Threepenny Editor, Editing services for the starving artist. Portland, Oregon. E-mail Ted Dekker - Christian novelist Mary E. DeMuth - Christian writer Athol Dickson - Christian writer of novels and short stories Editor & Editing Links (Through Threepenny Editor) Suzanne Eller - links to publishers, magazines, resources, FAQ’s, other info for Christian writers Angelina Fast-Vlaar - award-winning Canadian author. Susan Fish - Canadian writer. Donna Fleisher - Canadian author and editor, Christian novelist. Linda Formichelli - offers helps, online courses Grace Fox - Canadian author & speaker, lives in BC Alton Gansky - mystery & suspense writer Ken Gire - author of The Weathering Grace of God (Gold Medallion Finalist 2002), Intimate Moments with the Savior, and Windows of the Soul Kimn Swenson Gollnick - owner of “The Write Place, Inspiration for Writers on the Web” with extensive, regularly updated contests Kretz, Catherine - Canadian script writer's consultant who offers support to aspiring and professional writers. Sue Grafton - Mystery novelist Paul Graham - PC programmer and writer Alison Gresik - Canadian author Nikki Grimes - Poet & Author John Grisham - best selling author, official site Philip Gulley - author of Harmony novels Rene Gutteridge - Christian writer, comedies and suspense! Deborah Waters Gyapong - Canadian writer, writing coach, offers other services Blake Harris - Canadian writer, photographer, journalist, look for a manual on scriptwriting on his website. Nick Harrison - Link for his book Robin Lee Hatcher - Christian novelist Veronica Heley - Christian author with tips for aspiring writers. Click on “How to Write.” Patricia Hickman - Click on FAQ for some writing advice from Christian author, Patricia Hickman, author of Katrina's Wings. Liz Curtis Higgs - Christian speaker and author of best-selling series Bad Girls of the Bible books, workbooks, and videos. BJ Hoff - Christian author, historical and other fiction. Loriann Hoff Oberlin - Author of Writing for Quick Cash Denyse O'Leary is a Toronto-based Canadian author, journalist and blogger. Mona Hodgson - Christian writer of Children's books. Elaine Hogg - Canadian Christian writer Ann-Margret Hovsepian - Canadian Christian freelance writer Angela Hunt - Christian writer Kathy Ide - consultant to authors & publishers Randy Ingermanson - Christian PhD. with a sense of humor and down-to-earth writing advice Ink Spotter - Betty Dobson, writing & editing services P. D. James - literary mystery writer. Jerry B Jenkins - Christian writer Eric Kimmel - writes children's books Jane Kirkpatrick - Award-winning Christian author and speaker, also special speaker for 2008 Fall Conference! David Kitz - Canadian Christian writer Penney Kome - Canadian journalist and author, editor of Straight Goods Catherine Kretz - Canadian script writer's consultant who offers support to aspiring and professional writers to fine tune their crafts and aid in the furthering of their respective careers. Dave Lambert - Christian writer, children & youth Marcela Landres - A former Simon & Schuster editor offers help with the business side of writing and offers the latest Latino/Hispanic literary events, contests and writing opportunities. Susie Larson - writes books, articles, freelances for Focus on the Family Mary Lauzon - Canadian poet Krysia P. Lear - Canadian author & editor Madeleine L’Engle - Christian writer Paul Lima - Writing Helps & Services N. J. Lindquist - prolific Christian author & supporter of Canadian writers and writing Les & N. J. Lindquist - Joy-Equipping Ministries Nancy Loucks-McSloy - Canadian freelance writer. Cynthia Lui - writes for children and teens, good site. Steven Manchester - Editor, writer, teacher, sells “Authors Toolbox” Nancy Robinson Masters - American Christian writer who is a licensed pilot, frequent speaker for writing conferences, schools, civic, social and professional organizations, and the only woman twice named Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the United States Air Force. Josh McDowell - Christian writer of apologetics Members of Oregon Writers - Links to individual writer's pages Kevin Miller - Canadian Screenwriter Barbara Mitchell - Canadian poet Rebekah Montgomery - Author of six books, online column Tom Morrisey - Christian novelist Robert Munsch, a popular children's writer. Site has stories you can download. Jennifer Leigh Mustoe writer, editor for hire. Brenda Nixon - Author of Parenting Power Han Nolan - novelist Linda Oatman High - Be sure to read her entertaining bio! Denyse O'Leary - Canadian writer on faith & science issues Susan Titus Osborn - Writer and writing instructor Kimberley Payne - Canadian, Christian author of Fit for Faith - 7 weeks to improved spiritual and physical health. Gloria Jean Pinkney - children's books Adrian Plass - Writer and speaker, much in demand Arthur Plotnik - Author and editor, be sure to check out his Lessons & Links page. Simon Presland - Canadian Christian writer Murray Pura - Canadian Christian writer Deborah Raney - Christian novelist Violette L. Reid - author and poet. Sandra Reimer - Canadian Christian writer & publicist Mitch Robbins - Christian director, producer, screenwriter, editor Marilynne Robinson - author of Gilead Lisa Samson - Christian novelist who writes "so that people will know they're not alone." Robert J. Sawyer - Canadian Science Fiction Writer, huge website! Has a large section on how to write. Elma Schemenauer - Canadian Christian writer, author of 70 published books, editor of about 250. Ellie Schroeder - Ellie's World of Christian Fiction Alan Sharpe - Canadian freelance Christian writer Luci Shaw - Christian poet William Shunn - author, editor, information for writers Jennifer Jacoby Smith - Canadian freelance Christian writer Steve Stanton - publisher of Sky Song Press, also a Canadian writer Rick Sutcliffe - Canadian writer Judith Tarr - offers camps, weekends with her horses, mentoring Ann Tatlock - Christian writer Colleen Taylor - Canadian writer. John Terpstra - Canadian poet Bodie & Brook Thoene - Christian writers, fiction Three Penny Editor Phyllis Tickle - author of Prayer is a Place Sandy Tritt - Inspiration and help for beginning writers Lisa Tuttle - Inspirational writer Kathy Tyer - Author of Christian science-fiction Firebird series and Shivering World. Linda Wegner, WORDS OF WORTH, Writing For and About Business Walter Wangerin Jr. - Christian author & essayist Kari West - Author of Dare to Trust, Dare to Hope Again: Living With Losses of the Heart, and When He Leaves: Choosing to Live, Love, and Laugh Again. Terry Whalin - Author of over 55 books, lives in Colorado, his web site for writes Carolyn Wilker - Canadian freelance editor and writer Lauren Winner - Author of Girl Meets God, a memoir. Ray Wiseman - Canadian Christian writer. Site includes weekly tips for writers. Eric Wright - Canadian Christian writer Websites for Writers (top) 101 Writing Answers, browse these links for workshops, other information Absolute Write, variety of help, instruction Author's Den "Where authors and readers come together" Backspace, "dedicated to helping writers navigate the often confusing world of Big Publishing." BellaOnline, large site for writers, many, many resources Book Spot Books & Writers Christian Writers Workshop, Instructions for joining this online group Coffee House for Writers Colorado State University, writing center, links to tools for writers Dabbling Mum: Write Center, articles and links Dartmouth College Composition Center E-zine Articles Fanstory - Writing reviewed by writers and readers on this site, also separate review by the Seal of Quality Committee and all posted work is rated. All genres welcome. Reading other's work is free, submitting your work costs a small monthly fee. Fear of Writing Fiction Factor Fillers, how to write them For Writers, links to other resources Freelance Writers, lots in this site For Writers - forums, references, markets, groups, conferences, author sites, agents. Hamilton College, Writing Resources Center How to decide what you should write I Love To Write Inspired Author, lots of resources, instruction, forums, chats, etc. Jak Koke, Secrets of Writing Professionally Literary Leaps, links to publishing and book-related sites Literary Marketplace Manuscript Editing Resource Index, vast list of resources Missouri Writer's Guild NetWords - PWAC Toronto e-Newsletter for writers and editors with workshops, seminars, and events in and around Toronto and the greater Toronto area. Online Guide to Writing in Canada Peak Writing Places for Writers Predators and Editors Purdue Internet Resources, links to online writing resources Purdue University Writing Lab (OWL) The Real Writer, site by Chris Stewart Right Writing, Terry Whalin's helpful site The Robin’s Nest, links for writers to online courses, workshops, etc. Rutgers University, writing Links Saturday Writers, web site for the St. Charles/Lincoln/Warren and St. Louis County chapter of the Missouri Writer's Guild. Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America, how-to articles Shaw Guides - links to events for writers Smart Writer, many links, articles Sharp Writer Spirit-Led Writer Suite 101, online courses on writing Susette Williams, helpful site for Christian writers The Write News The Writers Site Theology Through the Arts Toronto Writers Centre, Canadian air-conditioned, writing place for members to work, find resources, etc. Trinity College Writing Center University of Alberta Writing Program (use search feature) Wheaton College Writing Center Willwrite4food, “to inform, equip, encourage” World of Writing, many links for writers Worldwide Freelance Worldwide Learn, directory of online courses for writers Write from Home, website for parents who freelance Write to Inspire, Christian site, various topics and helps Writer 2 Writer Writer Advice, interviews, etc. The Writer Gazette, lots of articles about writing Writer Unboxed - goal is to help “unbox” genre-fiction writing through a discussion of craft and by interviewing authors who’ve already done it with style. Be sure to read the author interviews. Writers Break - interviews, marketing tips, publishing resources, much more to help writers get their work in print and out to readers. Writer's College - correspondence courses Writers’ Exchange, help for freelancers Writer Gazette - free newsletter, writer-related articles, freelance job postings, tips, contests, resources and a classified section of magazines to pitch. Writer’s Guide, University of Victoria, Canada Writer’s Resource Center, lots of help for writers The Writer Online Forum Writer's Online Workshops, various basic and advanced topics Writer's Resource Center Writer's Resources Writer's Weekly - many articles for writers Writers Write - useful information for those interested in self-publishing, also articles and interviews. Resource section has advertising related to writing. Writing.com - writers can display their work here, find a wide range of support including free membership, an online portfolio, numerous user tools and e-mail services. Writing World, a “World of Writing Tips” Writing For Money, click "writer's resources" Young Writers Society - for young writers age 13-25 to share work, chat, create a blog, join usergroups and more, plus a monthly publication, Squills E-Zine, compiled of members’ work.

Christian Book Publisher - kill first link - now more complete

Sorry Gerri. I should have given you all of this before.

Canadian Christian Book Publisher

http://www.wordalivepress.ca/default.htm

PUBLISHING MADE REFRESHINGLY SIMPLE

Word Alive Press offers you…

• Professional publishing solutions
• Exclusive marketing
• Effective sales and distribution

Creating an opportunity for you to share your heart and words with others—this is what Word Alive Press has been doing for Christian writers across Canada for the past seven years. Word Alive Press is the only Canadian Christian book publishing company that can offer you everything you need to successfully publish, market and distribute your book throughout Canada. We can supply all of your publishing needs in one place!

WORD ALIVE PRESS – JUST WRITE!

 

Word Alive Press
131 Cordite Rd
Winnipeg, MB R3W 1S1
CANADA

Phone: 1-866-967-3782 ext.203

Fax: 1-800-352-9272

E-mail: publishing@wordalive.ca

Alive Communications, Inc. - Literary Agency

I came across this website and thought it may be of interest to any
Christian authors who may be looking for representation.

http://www.alivecom.com/default.asp

Grace & peace,
Susan G. Acheson
www.augustproductions.org

ChristianWritersCanada_Newsletter" provides an opportunity for sharing, asking questions and connecting Christians working and ministering as writers, editors and publishers in Canada. Members include AD sales staff, editors, graphic designers, pastors, printers, publishers, speakers, teachers and writers.

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http://www.wikichristian.org/index.php/Gerri_Maynard
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Leveraging Technology for Ministry

Leveraging Technology for Ministry I recently came across some interesting statistics with regard to the Church and the use of the internet. The resource stated that in 1998, 17 percent of churches reported having web sites but today, that number is 44 percent. Another interesting data point is that seventy-four percent of all church attenders nationwide are in churches with a web site. This tells me that while only 44 percent of the churches have web sites (which I still find surprising), those churches with web sites are attended by 3 out of every 4 persons attending church anywhere. At my church (AliveChurch.com), the leadership has consistently tried to leverage the power of the internet and they're still learning new ways to reach people for Christ. They've been through some major transitions over the past 12 months with some incredible results. One area where they've matured by leaps and bounds is in the use of video on the web. A year ago while still meeting in a local high school, we were diligent to video tape each teaching service with a member's camcorder then post that video onto our web site using the services of Google Video. Almost every new visitor to our church checked us out online before they came in person and one of the more popular areas on our site was our sermons area. In February of '08 we moved into our new building and soon decided to take the video to the next level. The leadership embraces the one church/multiple sites philosophy, so they launched another campus on the other side of town and turned to the internet to broadcast the teaching from the main campus to this satellite campus meeting in an elementary school. Since they relied on the internet broadcast to the satellite campus, the leadership decided to also offer the services live on the internet to anyone interested in attending. We started by simply embedding the video stream onto one of our web site pages. One thing led to another and the church leadership decided that they would make the internet site into a full-blown web campus. The church hired a full-time "web pastor" and focused on making the live web service a more interactive, rewarding experience for those attending online. The church employed the recently developed services of StreamingChurch.tv to create an interactive online experience. StreamingChurch.tv provided AliveChurch.com with several tools such as push technology to update the site dynamically during the service, member and guest chat, integrated sermon notes and most recently a dynamic map to show where guests are attending from. AliveChurch.com also invested in an improved high speed dedicated internet connection, a high quality video camera, a video switch, a separate mixer board for the internet sound and the talents of several volunteers. The results have been amazing! The online experience has dramatically improved while the total church attendance has more than quadrupled over the past 10 months. While moving into the new building was a major boost to the church's growth, I feel that the leadership's attempts to embrace and leverage technology has also helped dramatically.

Micro-Blogging has Arrived We've recently incorporated micro-blogging into your ministry web site. What's "micro-blogging"? Well it's just like blogging, only quicker and shorter. It allows your friends and ministry partners to keep up with your daily activities. Micro-blogs provide short commentaries on a person-to-person level. Now when you visit your ministry site, the system will recognize you and prompt you for "what are you doing now?". As your members reply, your blogs and updates area will automatically be updated. It's only been in place for a day and it's dramatically increasing the activity at our church site. As the administrator, you have the option of turning the feature off if you prefer. Just go to your admin control panel and select the "Enable/Disable Features" link to turn off micro-blogging on your site. If you aren't logged in as a member on your ministry site, the tool isn't visible.

Broadcast Your Services Live over the Internet This new system allows you to conduct your church services live over the internet. You can get more information at StreamingChurch.tv. The system is set up with an integrated chat room, an active dynamic area on the page that automatically updates when the administrator pushes a button, and a choice of streaming video players. The system is really cool as it lets you do things during the service like "pass the plate" to allow for online donations, you can allow guests to learn more about a worship song or even buy it online while it's playing, you can also set up the sermon notes for immediate download plus lots more. It's all built into your existing MyFlock ministry site. You'll just need to contact us to set up the streaming server account. This new service is found under "streaming services" on your admin control panel and will be free for a limited time. Contact us at info@StreamingChurch.tv to begin broadcasting your services live.

Native Domains We've made some changes that will allow your domain name to remain in the browser address bar when anyone visits your site. In the past there were some drawbacks with member logins that prevented us from setting up your domain to remain in the address bar of your site. Our technical folks have upgraded the system to now be able to handle domain names natively without compromising the member login information. So now when you type "AliveChurch.com" in the address bar, it will take you to the AliveChurch.com site without redirecting the URL. We're in the process of updating each domain name starting with the beginning of the alphabet. We've got hundreds of domains and we've made it through the A's and B's so far. We hope finish updating all the domain records within a few weeks, although if you can't wait, send an email to info@myflock.com and we'll update yours right away. Multi-media Cover Flow Vault We've completely remodeled both the admin portion where you upload your sermons and media, as well as the area where guests choose and download notes, videos and audio messages. We've implemented a new "cover flow" tool for selecting and downloading your media. Every media item now comes with an automated cover flow artwork and/or you can upload your own custom artwork for each media item. Streaming Services With some cameras, computer and a streaming server provider, you can now stream your services live over the internet. Check it out, there's lots of tools to create a great environment for streaming your video services live on the internet. We've also added a new automated page to your site manager called "Streaming Services" that will allow visitors to participate in your service online.

Featured Products: ExtremeYouth.com: 92% of your teens are going online. With ExtremeYouth.com you will have an edgy, powerful web-site for your youth group. You can provide a safe place that your teens will love, www.extremeyouth.com MyFlock.com: Interactive Web-site and your churche's online community: myflock.com. With MyFlock you will have a professionally designed web site that will connect your members with one another. You'll also have easy to use online tools that will allow you and your staff to manage your site and church.

To subscribe to this newsletter, you can sign up at myflock.com.