Poetry Workshops
It was the beauty of language that brought me to poetry.
I’d like to introduce you, too.
Where do we begin to write our own poetry?
And how?
The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians we are God’s poiema, Greek for “a made thing.” Our lives are literally God’s poem – He writes our stories through our daily living, breathing & walking around. But how can we get the poetry of our lives on the page to express our own “made things?”
If you are new to the practice (or have been scribbling in the margins) I can teach you how to think poetically, both reading and writing.
SPEAKING & WORKSHOPS
If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about where to begin with poetic expression, this is the place to start. Over twenty years of classroom teaching has provided the perfect entrance to a workshop approach to help you Make Friends with Poetry.
In 2021, after years of practice and the kindness of fellow faith poets who welcomed me in, I took the leap and released my first book of poetry, Hearts on Pilgrimage: Poems & Prayers. In late Summer of 2023 my second book, Mining the Bright Birds: Poems of Longing for Home was released. Those two experiences showed me the power of connecting through God by writing (and reading!) poetry.
Along the way I’ve learned a lot, by practice first (lots of practice) and by paying attention. Poetry is a way that God not only speaks to us but through us, moving people with our words.
In Making Friends with Poetry Workshops, attendees can expect:
- An introduction and outline of What Poetry Is and What Poetry is Not, covering both the misconceptions and mystery of poetry, as well as what makes a poem “good.”
- Demonstration and practice time to brainstorm ideas and images
- Examples of how to organize ideas and where to begin.
- Poetry prompts, word lists and blank journals will be provided.
- Writing practice and drafting a poem of your own
- An optional reflection and sharing time at the end.
Total event time is approximately two hours
In-person Workshops are FREE for small groups & churches
and open to men & women.
A virtual option will be coming in 2024 and will be fee-based.
Why Learn from Me?
- I’m the author of two books of poetry, Mining the Bright Birds-Poems of Longing for Home (2023) and Hearts on Pilgrimage-Poems and Prayers(2021)
- My Essays and Poetry have appeared in Fathom Magazine, Ekstasis, The Joyful Life print mag, (in)courage, D.S. Martin’s Ephesians Project and more.
- 25 years experience writing online and in print
- Blogger since 2012
- Retired teacher with 20+ years’ classroom experience
- Former freelance editor and writing consultant
- Writing Retreat Leader
- Online writing community founder “Glory Writers” (on hiatus)
SPEAKING & Workshops
In 2021, after years of practice and the kindness of fellow faith poets who welcomed me in, I took the leap and released my first book of poetry.
In late Fall of 2023 my second book, Mining the Bright Birds: Poems of Longing for Home was released. Those two experiences showed me the power of connecting through God by writing (and reading!) poetry.
Along the way I’ve learned a lot–that writing poetry is a way that God speaks to us and through us.
If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about tiptoeing into the creative space of poetic expression, MAKING FRIENDS WITH POETRY is the place to begin.
In Making Friends with Poetry Workshops, attendees can expect:
- An introduction and outline of What Poetry Is and What Poetry is Not, covering both the misconceptions and mystery of poetry, as well as what makes a poem “good.”
- Demonstration and practice time to brainstorm ideas and images
- Examples of how to organize ideas and where to begin.
- Poetry prompts, word lists and blank journals will be provided.
- Writing practice and drafting a poem of your own
- An optional reflection and sharing time at the end.
Total event time is approximately two hours
Workshops are FREE at this time and open to men & women.
Some kind words about my workshops:
“Jody’s class provided a safe place to stretch my poetic muscles.”
“The workshop is a good overall introduction to poetry. I like how Jody develops this workshop based on her personal experience that I think many people can relate to.”
“A nice casual pace with plenty of time to process and create.”
Speaking Topics
Making Friends With Poetry–An non-academic workshop designed to make poetry accessible offering a glimpse into understanding poetry, with an opportunity to draft, craft and write a poem. We’ll discuss how deep listening and paying attention can inspire poems.
“I am From” Workshop–Using a template provided, attendees will translate their life experience into words, tracing their journey to faith and redemption. A sample of my I am From poem can be read HERE.
Color Poems, Centos and Found Poetry–Discover new and fun ways to launch your own poetry using words and ideas that already exist. Inspiration and examples provided.
Workshop Topics
Making Friends With Poetry–-An non-academic workshop designed to make poetry accessible offering a glimpse into understanding poetry, with an opportunity to draft, craft and write a poem. A Zoom option will be coming in 2024 (fee-based).
“I am From” Workshop–Using a template provided, attendees will translate their life experience into words, tracing their journey to faith and redemption. A sample of my I am From poem can be read HERE.
Five Lessons–How to Write Found Poetry, Black out Poetry, Cento Poems, Color Poems & More
Inspiration in Your Inbox
Writing poetry can be a way to deepen your connection with God. To receive my latest reflections & encouragement, simply fill out this form. When you Subscribe you’ll also receive my monthly email, Poetry & Made Things with poems for reflection, writing practices, news about workshops and more!