DETAILS FOR WRITING LCUMC 2024 ADVENT DEVOTIONALS

  This year’s devotional series is designed to “follow the lead” of Pastor Peter’s sermon series study based on the book by Daniel Darling, The Characters of Christmas. Darling offers a fresh perspective on traditional Advent characters, encouraging readers to reflect not only on familiar figures like the innkeeper, Mary, and Joseph, but also on less expected ones like Tamar and Rahab. Why are these figures included in the Christmas story? Darling skillfully guides us through thought-provoking reflections and deeper meditations on these surprising characters.

As an author, you’re free to follow these prompts or take a different direction, as inspired by the Holy Spirit. We simply ask that your devotional relates to the theme for the week and day. You are not required to purchase the book, though we think you’ll enjoy Darling’s unique approach to Advent. Barb McGaffey and Richard Prather have compiled notes from the book to aid you in writing your devotional. These notes will be sent via email after your request is confirmed.

A sign-up sheet (with publication dates, scripture references, and devotional topics) is available via the button below. Please fill out the form with your name, email, phone, and other details. Note any additional topics you’re willing to cover in Column I (“I will write this devotional if needed”). To ensure broad participation, please enter your 1st choice in Column E (Name) and list additional topics in Column I. If multiple people select the same devotional, priority will be given to the person who chose it as their 1st Request. Be sure to include your email to help the editor coordinate with you. Our editors will confirm your assignment and dates for the devotional(s) you will write.

A Sign-Up sheet for the devotionals (with Publication Dates, Scripture References and Devotional Topics) is available through the button below.  Please fill the spreadsheet out fully with Name, Email, Phone, and other details.  Note any additional topics you’re willing to cover in Column I (I will write this devotional if needed) for the devotional you would also like to write.

DEADLINES: In order to have sufficient time to prepare the devotional for publication, submissions of text documents must be received three days prior to the listed publication date. For those with videos, we request 7 days prior to publication to allow for recording and editing.  Editorial requests or a confirmation of acceptance will be sent via email on the day of submission.

WORD COUNT:  The devotional (not counting Scripture or prayer) will be edited to contain 100-400 words. 

THANK YOU for considering authorship in the 2024 Advent Devotionals at LCUMC. The Christian Formation Team appreciates your willingness to share your faith and your excitement with the congregation and community of League City.