More than 200 writers attended this year’s OC Christian Writers Conference 2011, held Friday evening and Saturday, April 29-30 at Mariners Church in Irvine. As always, the venue’s goal was something for everyone.

The Friday night discussion panel returned for its second appearance and was well-received, thanks largely to its being on the same campus . Writer Jeanne Pallos called it her favorite part of the event, “including all the speakers and workshop leaders.”

Here’s how the evening worked, according to Jeanne: “Attendees had submitted questions before the discussion time. John DeSimone, the conference director, read one question at a time, and directed it to the appropriate speaker. Other speakers then added their suggestions, opinions, experiences, or input. I found this the most helpful part of the conference.

“I loved the spontaneous and informal discussions. I especially appreciated Kathi Macias‘s endorsement about self-editing. All the speakers were relaxed, open, and transparent in their sharing. Friday night was a great addition to the conference.”

Saturday’s keynote speakers and workshops represented a well-rounded opportunity to learn, from the basics to the emerging markets and trends.

Writer Judi MacLean of Trabuco Canyon attended workshops on the business of writing with Kathi Macias—her word for it: “excellent”—as well as on the writing craft with Vinita Wright, short story fiction with John Fox, and Fox’s blogging workshop as well.

“Every part of the two days already has made such a difference in my writing goals, namely, I now have writing goals.,” Judi says. “Being with fellow writers is so inspiring and reminds me that simply by association, I can walk and talk the life of a writer. I learned so much about discipline and my joyful obligation to my Creator in thanks for the gift of words given to me.”

Children’s writer Deanna Barnes enjoyed learning from author Nancy Sanders, who “helped me understand the “rule of three” in intricate detail. John Fox rekindled my interest in the advantages of blogging.” And to prove she is ready to put shoe leather to her learning, Deanna added, “This week, I reserved a domain name as my first step in that direction. Lauren Yoho, in her discussion of current preteen challenges, inspired me with this quote: ‘We have the story these kids need to hear.’”

Well said, Lauren. In Deuteronomy 6, Moses tells the Israelites that the only way the next generation will learn his ways is if we sit them down and tell them his stories—at home, on the road, at bedtime, and when we get up. Whether you’re writing for children, adults, or just for fun—remember that you have the stories that others need to hear.