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Careers: Writing/Christian Magazines

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Expert: - 5/8/2010


Question
Nowadays, like in my country, Kenya; many of the Christian magazines, the writers who write for these magazines are mostly or usually Christian leaders like pastors.

I am Christian and also a Creative writing student. How can I break in such a market when I have something to say or submit to such markets?

Are there topics I need to avoid as a junior writer and I am not yet holding any position in church as I am just a youth? Which issues or topics do I need to break into more than others?

Thank you

Answer
Greetings Benny,

I would suggest that you write about those issues in the Christian community that are of interest to you, and your rising generation. While it is a good practice to take note of what some of the mainstream magazines in your country are focusing on, there is also a need for a fresh perspective. I strongly encourage you to find your own way.

When reading existing magazines, note the writing styles, the magazine headings and get an overall picture of the "feel" of the magazine. Then when you get that "idea" to write, simply compose the best article you can and pitch it to the magazine you believe is most receptive to your work.

In addition, technology has reached heights in this time in our lives in which you could even toss around the idea of launching your own magazine and/or writing for publications outside of your country.

Don't limit yourself! The world of journalism -- especially for the Christian writer is full of unchartered territory.

Theresa Johnson

Careers: Writing

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Theresa Harvard Johnson

Expertise

I am an expert in Christian Writing, with an emphasis on those who write creatively. My primary focus is in the area of mentoring and training Christians who write "as ministry." Another area that I can assist in is press release development, writing effective website content, reviewing letters, developing book endorsements, and reviews.

Experience

By profession, I have more than 18 years experience in writing and publishing. I have won writing awards from the Georgia Press Association, the Associated Press, the Georgia Association of Educators, and currently freelance. Some of my most recent writing experiences include Esdras' Scroll, Kingdom Vibes Magazine, Charisma Magazine, the former Rejoice Atlanta News, and The Christian Answer Newspaper. I have published six book - The Scribal Anointing, The Scribal Companion, Spiritually Critiquing, Scribal Purpose, and Thank God for Salvation. In addition, other books are in the works. In addition, I am the founder of Voices of Christ Literary Ministries International, and teach around the nation on this very subject. Our website is www.voicesofchrist.org. We have an online mentoring group that's really strong on Yahoo! Groups, and recently launched a new blogcast entitled, Writing As Ministry. It is currently in development, and has not officially launched. The website is www.writingasministry.com.

Organizations
Currently, I am a member of a two Christian writing groups.

Publications
The Scribal Anointing Online Esdras' Scroll: A Prophetic Poetry & Creative Writing Magazine The Christian Answer Newspaper Charisma Magazine Rejoice Atlanta News Faith Writers The Whistle The Dublin Courier Herald The Henry County Record The Ledger Newspaper (Multiple Other Publications)

Education/Credentials
I am a college graduate, and earned a BA in Communications with a focus on News Writing and Reporting. I am currently working on a Masters in Public Administration. I've worked as a Communications Director and writer for multiple religious, educational, and governmental organizations over the past 18 years. My experience is extensive.

Awards and Honors
Please review my experience in this area.

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