ACFW's mission statement is to encourage writers of Christian fiction, develop their skills, educate them in the market and be a fellowship for writers of like interests.

From airport newsstands to Newsweek, Christian fiction continues to grow in popularity, resonating with readers looking for both faith and fiction. The growth of the genre has birthed many new writers, as evidenced by the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

ACFW, an 1800-member strong group of authors, editors, agents, publicists and aspiring writers, was organized in 2000 under the name of American Christian Romance Writers (ACRW). In 2004, the group changed the name to American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) in response to the diverse needs of its membership, who write across many genres.

The group offers a variety of services and benefits to members in an effort to fulfill its mission to encourage writers of Christian fiction, develop their skills, educate them in the market, and be a fellowship for writers of like interests. Members are invited to join an e-mail loop and participate in the forums, both of which provide venues for discussions about writing and the business of publishing. Mentor groups, critique groups, and monthly online workshops offer aspiring authors the training and interaction they need to develop their craft to a publishable level. Further, members can join regional and local groups and develop relationships with other writers in their area.

Published authors enjoy the promotional benefits provided by the group which include announcing new book releases, the opportunity to have a book featured in the ACFW Book Club, and the Featured Author interviews published on the web site, which attracts thousands of visitors each month.

In addition, ACFW hosts an annual national conference that has become the premier event among Christian fiction writers and other industry professionals for the quality classes and networking opportunities provided there. The first national conference, held in Kansas City, Missouri, in 2002 attracted 100 attendees. In September 2008, over 500 conferees came to Minneapolis, where Angela Hunt served as keynote speaker. Past conference keynote speakers include Francine Rivers, Robin Lee Hatcher, Karen Kingsbury, Karen Ball, and James Scott Bell, all popular, best-selling authors in the inspirational market.

Make plans now to join us in Denver for the 2009 conference, September 17-21, 2009.