The Value of Perelandra College Writing Programs

As president of Perelandra College, a non-profit entity, my job description requires me to raise money. As all issues involving money are foreign to my nature, when first this task confronted me, I wondered who should be my role model?

Since I have little data by which to study Christ's fundraising methods, I chose Mother Teresa, who never asked anyone for money. If her kitchen held nothing but corn flakes, dinner was corn flakes. Still, her Missionaries of Charity grew from a simple idea into a vast organization.

Such growth takes resources. God may have sent donors her way, or he may not have needed to. People caring selflessly for the dying and destitute are such heroes rare and beautiful, word gets around.

We at Perelandra College are not such heroes. Teaching and encouraging writers is not so obviously beautiful. Nor do most folks believe our occupation is nearly as worthy of supporting. Most folks don't understand the value of stories.

We read stories because stories grab and hold us. And the stories get inside us. They inform and often come to define us. Many of us are what we read or watch or are told in the form of stories.

Cecil B. DeMille and I agree that the Bible is the greatest story ever told. But since most Bible readers are also lured, captivated and influenced by other stories, we draw major chunks of our worldviews from Harry Potter, Star Wars, mysteries, thrillers, Harlequin romances or chick lit.

Almost every popular story in book or film embodies the culture's values. Suppose the most popular stories didn't program minds and hearts with dubious values but entertained while helping convince people of the radical messages of Jesus, such as: Love without distinction. Act in loving ways even toward business rivals, estranged spouses, swindlers. Serve, as best we can, all who we encounter. Consider, at every point of decision, not just ourselves but all those our decision will affect.

Honest stories with gripping characters can awaken people to the peace and freedom they may find by pursuing Christ's radical ideals. And stories can show us believers how we could live more true to our beliefs.

But honest stories from thoughtful Christians too often don't get published. As a rule, mainstream publishers avoid Christian characters and themes except as stereotypes or innocuous platitudes. Meanwhile, Christian publishers decline to offer stories that might challenge their readers.

With new technologies and media, the business of getting stories into the world is changing. New opportunities to publish are opening. But to use these opportunities to advocate for love, justice and benevolent mercy, we must create unique and honest stories that entertain, enlighten and inspire.

Because I believe in the power of such stories and the potential of Perelandra College to assist those who feel called to create them, I devote my time and money.

Perelandra College is a California 501 C (3) non-profit, tax exempt corporation.

Should you feel inspired, donations can be sent by check or money order to Perelandra College, 8697-C La Mesa Bl., PMB 21, La Mesa, CA 91942 or by Paypal or credit card, using the Donate button below.