CFCW Conference

Join us June 4, 5, and 6th, 2026, with Keynote speaker James C. Magruder

James C. Magruder is an award-winning advertising copywriter and executive speechwriter who enjoyed a rewarding marketing career before writing novels and essays full-time.

A popular blogger, he has had articles published in Writer’s Digest, HomeLife, The Writer, and is published in eleven Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Often referred to as "The Reflective Writer," Magruder strives to write thematic essays and contemporary Christian fiction that will encourage readers to reflect on the most meaningful moments in life—before they slip by.

He is the author of The Glimpse and the award-winning "love-after-loss, victory-over-grief" novel The Desert Between Us. Learn more at www.jamesmagruder.com

Our Vision Statement:

We welcome writers of all levels who want to learn more about the craft of writing for publication. We are committed to sharing Biblical truths in our quest to encourage writing that glorifies God.

Nick and Mary Portzen, Coordinators

Nick and Mary have served as co-coordinators of the conference since 2022, along with the help of a team of volunteers. Mary is an award-winning author of seven books and hundreds of articles and essays under the name Mary Potter Kenyon. A former librarian, newspaper reporter, and program coordinator for a spirituality center, Mary founded an annual grief retreat and writer's conference in Dubuque, Iowa. After nearly ten years of widowhood, Mary met the man God had asked her to pray for three years earlier. They were married six weeks later in August 2021. Nick is a veteran and former business owner. With years of experience in cooking and catering, Nick provides the meals during our event. Nick and Mary are co-authors of Soul Mates: Path to a Praying Partnership, 2025.

Make sure to click Submit and look for a verification email. Payment can be made by check written out to Cedar Falls Christian Writers Conference and mailed to: Mary Portzen, 439 North Division, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613. PayPal to email: cfcwconference@gmail.com

A limited amount of overnight lodging is available in the Retreat Center for $50 a night. Contact Mary at cfcwconference@gmail.com for availability. Cabins on the ground are also available. Contact the Riverview office to arrange for a cabin. 319-268-0787 or Office@riverviewministries.com

Riverview Conference Center

439 N Division St., Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613

(319) 268-0787

Contact Nick and Mary at cfcwconference@gmail.com

439 North Division St. Cedar Falls, IA 50613

(563) 235-9408