BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
X-WR-CALNAME:2026ffw
X-WR-CALDESC:Event Calendar
METHOD:PUBLISH
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
PRODID:-//Sched.com 2026 Festival of Faith and Writing//EN
X-WR-TIMEZONE:UTC
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260415T210000Z
DTEND:20260415T230000Z
SUMMARY:Early Registration
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:REGISTRATION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2fd0d9ac9d6cc3a43c910addf84d98d8
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/2fd0d9ac9d6cc3a43c910addf84d98d8
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T130000Z
DTEND:20260416T150000Z
SUMMARY:Coffee Service
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:COFFEE + SNACK BREAKS
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:91a912c7d4f27ba46f85feac77fcac59
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/91a912c7d4f27ba46f85feac77fcac59
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T130000Z
DTEND:20260416T203000Z
SUMMARY:Exhibit Hall Open
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:EXHIBIT HALL
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Great Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:76140cbe56f52273289386fa4217cb33
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/76140cbe56f52273289386fa4217cb33
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T130000Z
DTEND:20260416T153000Z
SUMMARY:Registration
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:REGISTRATION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:dc4cfad286fd488d0c0f2fcf2125ad10
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/dc4cfad286fd488d0c0f2fcf2125ad10
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T140000Z
DTEND:20260416T150000Z
SUMMARY:Artist Meet & Greet: The Art of Scott Erickson
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:CENTER ART GALLERY
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Center Art Gallery\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:4e0986d46ebf731fd0284a2f2405a0d4
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/4e0986d46ebf731fd0284a2f2405a0d4
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T150000Z
DTEND:20260416T160000Z
SUMMARY:Boxed Lunch pickup (pre-orders only)
DESCRIPTION:Festival attendees who pre-ordered boxed lunches for Thursday may pick up their meals in the Knollcrest Dining Hall between 11am and noon. There is seating inside the dining hall for attendees to eat lunch together. Please note–no outside food or drink is allowed in Knollcrest Dining Hall.&nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:LUNCH
LOCATION:Knollcrest Dining Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5eaa55841bb85040eafb724a5cf06872
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/5eaa55841bb85040eafb724a5cf06872
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T163000Z
DTEND:20260416T173000Z
SUMMARY:Opening Plenary Session - Speaking the Hard Truths
DESCRIPTION:Laurie Halse Anderson explores how historical fiction invites honest conversation about the past and helps us approach hard truths with courage and care.&nbsp\; \n \nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Fieldhouse Lobby \n\n
CATEGORIES:PLENARY SESSION
LOCATION:Van Noord Arena\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ce616b97cafc1fceae85190cefc310db
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/ce616b97cafc1fceae85190cefc310db
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T173000Z
DTEND:20260416T203000Z
SUMMARY:Information Desk Open
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:INFO DESK
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c832dc1051cab35385c039c0a1ce24f7
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/c832dc1051cab35385c039c0a1ce24f7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T183000Z
DTEND:20260416T191500Z
SUMMARY:A Hospitality to Paradox
DESCRIPTION:What does it mean to take our pain and make something out of it? What is the process of turning our grief into a gift? Who is the one who emerges from the community to lead the ceremony? Mixing comedic narrative\, honest storytelling\, and image curation\, artist and author Scott Erickson walks us through the inevitable invitation to become the wounded healer. &nbsp\;\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby &nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:37ea1b7bf6a64d074df211cd47f20ca1
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/37ea1b7bf6a64d074df211cd47f20ca1
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T183000Z
DTEND:20260416T191500Z
SUMMARY:Hope in the Wake of History
DESCRIPTION:Ayana Mathis reflects on the themes of freedom\, idealism\, and disappointment in her fiction\, exploring how hope meets history and how storytelling makes space for both possibility and the truths that challenge it.&nbsp\;\n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex&nbsp\;\n\n
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9549c9e47817c87e2601139f0f5c40b5
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/9549c9e47817c87e2601139f0f5c40b5
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T183000Z
DTEND:20260416T191500Z
SUMMARY:Inside the Issue: The Art and Ethics of Curating Literary Journals
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, Jacob Schepers and Alan Koppschall discuss the craft of shaping a literary journal—from selecting work and nurturing emerging voices to balancing editorial vision with community care.\n\n\n
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f5a7cce2ba5188c551272c3f791a0832
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f5a7cce2ba5188c551272c3f791a0832
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T183000Z
DTEND:20260416T191500Z
SUMMARY:Shaping the Past for Young Minds
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, authors Dana VanderLugt and Kate Albus explore the craft of writing historical fiction for young readers\, reflecting on the interplay of research and imagination\, the power of storytelling to recover the past\, and the ways stories can invite young readers to see themselves within the larger human story.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8d7096a894239c79e1bad20f57af6331
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/8d7096a894239c79e1bad20f57af6331
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T183000Z
DTEND:20260416T191500Z
SUMMARY:The Beauty in Broken Things: Writing Sadness with Grace
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, poets Todd Davis and Kiki Petrosino explore how sorrow can be rendered with clarity\, tenderness\, and artistic precision\, revealing how writing about sadness can open space for truth\, connection\, and unexpected forms of healing. \n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:0f1511efd09a3a2de6a2f29f02a482fb
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/0f1511efd09a3a2de6a2f29f02a482fb
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T183000Z
DTEND:20260416T191500Z
SUMMARY:The Invitation of Desert Literature: Meeting Ourselves and God in Bleak Places
DESCRIPTION:Deserts are often places of God encounter–in Scripture\, literature\, and our hearts. Novelist and Flannery O’Connor Award winner A. Muia discusses the lure of the desert as a space where we come to the edge of ourselves and wait for God. Muia uses published works of desert literature to illustrate how characters (and perhaps we ourselves) find good news\, even in the bleakest of landscapes.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:b5079595b1374f61f5b73508dbec8788
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/b5079595b1374f61f5b73508dbec8788
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T191500Z
DTEND:20260416T194500Z
SUMMARY:Afternoon Snack Break
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:COFFEE + SNACK BREAKS
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby; Prince Conference Center Fireside Room; Spoelhof Atrium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7ca1afe2d966a31bfb28b6ba9c21a89a
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/7ca1afe2d966a31bfb28b6ba9c21a89a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T200000Z
DTEND:20260416T204500Z
SUMMARY:About a Million Blessings a Day
DESCRIPTION:A poetry reading and writing practice is\, by its very nature\, a mindfulness practice. It can become a spiritual practice as well. In the tradition of William Stafford\, poet Carrie Fountain has\, over twenty-five years\, developed an early morning writing and reading ritual that has become a kind of sleight-of-hand prayer practice. Fountain discusses how developing such a habit can\, again and again\, root one in the real world and attune one to the many miracles of the everyday. \n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:6b447bb302b796e9c5ec59c7bcf0a632
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/6b447bb302b796e9c5ec59c7bcf0a632
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T200000Z
DTEND:20260416T204500Z
SUMMARY:AI in the Literary Arts
DESCRIPTION:It can seem our culture is all-in on AI replacing the creative arts. From writing and the visual arts to film production and music\, AI is ascendant. Is AI merely another tool in the artist’s toolbox\, or is it an idol to which we are outsourcing our humanity? Join veteran audiobook narrator (and nerd) Adam Verner in exploring this very timely issue.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c7dc35b5525b63fd37bf809081720120
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/c7dc35b5525b63fd37bf809081720120
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T200000Z
DTEND:20260416T204500Z
SUMMARY:Cultivating Curiosity with Picture Books
DESCRIPTION:Children’s book author Larissa Theule believes that stories shape the&nbsp\;world&nbsp\;one&nbsp\;young reader at a time. She discusses how the art and craft of picture books cultivate children’s curiosity\, prompting them to think critically and engage with life in meaningful\, creative ways.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f71065c86e5a6aba2d3b520447e3d550
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f71065c86e5a6aba2d3b520447e3d550
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T200000Z
DTEND:20260416T204500Z
SUMMARY:Holding Both: Navigating Grief and Hope Together
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, Hillary McBride and J.S. Park explore the tender\, often difficult work of carrying grief and hope at the same time\, inviting us to live honestly without abandoning the possibility of joy.\n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:08ec9788849632c9f5403b664389cd0a
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/08ec9788849632c9f5403b664389cd0a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T200000Z
DTEND:20260416T204500Z
SUMMARY:How the Stories Find Us
DESCRIPTION:Ariel Lawhon never intended to write historical fiction. She was just lucky enough to be paying attention when a great idea found her. Twelve years and six novels later\, she understands that the creative&nbsp\;works&nbsp\;we undertake are the ones meant specifically for us.&nbsp\;Lawhon discusses how faith and observation and&nbsp\;an insatiable&nbsp\;curiosity are the keys to a fulfilling life in the arts.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:84ab0ba11fe89215cfa59fa64179c59a
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/84ab0ba11fe89215cfa59fa64179c59a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T200000Z
DTEND:20260416T204500Z
SUMMARY:Writing in Place
DESCRIPTION:In a world where we are increasingly pressured to write and compete for a global audience\, what does it mean to write and create IN place and FOR place in all its particularities? Opelt&nbsp\;explores how place and embodied community shapes our writing\, and how we\, in turn\, shape place and community with our words.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1591f3e54f1e851743c796c70e6ac613
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/1591f3e54f1e851743c796c70e6ac613
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T213000Z
DTEND:20260416T223000Z
SUMMARY:Evening Plenary Session - The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World
DESCRIPTION:Robin Wall Kimmerer reflects on the ethic of reciprocity at the heart of Indigenous wisdom\, using the serviceberry as a guide. She invites us to rethink value beyond scarcity and competition\, imagining a way of living rooted in gratitude\, interconnectedness\, and mutual care.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Fieldhouse Lobby
CATEGORIES:PLENARY SESSION
LOCATION:Van Noord Arena\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:d9e2ca30fc4e1f04a15401e136b33927
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/d9e2ca30fc4e1f04a15401e136b33927
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T223000Z
DTEND:20260417T000000Z
SUMMARY:Reception: The Art of Scott Erickson
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:CENTER ART GALLERY
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Center Art Gallery\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c95dd1b8c6d30bd61b6f65a4a411d788
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/c95dd1b8c6d30bd61b6f65a4a411d788
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260416T233000Z
DTEND:20260417T010000Z
SUMMARY:Sponsored Reception
DESCRIPTION:Thursday Evening Sponsored Receptions:&nbsp\;\n\n\nThursday\, 7:30-9:00 pm\, Collegeville Institute Alumnx and Friends &nbsp\;\nAll Collegeville Institute alumnx and friends are invited to join us at our Alumnx Reception. Several members from our Collegeville Institute team will be there\, including Aizaiah Yong\, our executive director. Come learn about the latest CI happenings and opportunities\, connect with fellow alums\, and visit with our CI team\, all while enjoying light refreshments.&nbsp\;\nPrince Conference Center\, Board Room &nbsp\;\n\n\n
CATEGORIES:SPONSORED EVENT
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:398b8b61ee0183eb7e5d4e7cca5cb92c
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/398b8b61ee0183eb7e5d4e7cca5cb92c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T000000Z
DTEND:20260417T020000Z
SUMMARY:Film Screening: Leap of Faith
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a screening of Nicholas Ma’s film Leap of Faith followed by a moderated conversation with Ma and Michael Gulker of The Colossian Forum\, exploring the film’s themes and the role of storytelling in nurturing dialogue\, reflection\, and shared understanding.&nbsp\;\nCovenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall&nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:EVENING ACTIVITY
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:42e2c3a14b6659fc78f43c9a3a84ad2d
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/42e2c3a14b6659fc78f43c9a3a84ad2d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T120000Z
DTEND:20260417T123000Z
SUMMARY:Matins with Jess Ray
DESCRIPTION:Join Jess Ray for an early‑morning Matins performance—a 30‑minute gathering of song and quiet attention that invites participants into a grounded\, contemplative start to the Festival day.&nbsp\;\n\n
CATEGORIES:MATINS
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:492db1b75f847506444b986a48561470
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/492db1b75f847506444b986a48561470
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T123000Z
DTEND:20260417T203000Z
SUMMARY:Information Desk Open
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:INFO DESK
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ab19d212f8e4d0a375566378ff31419f
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/ab19d212f8e4d0a375566378ff31419f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T125900Z
DTEND:20260417T203000Z
SUMMARY:Exhibit Hall Open
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:EXHIBIT HALL
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Great Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:40171c706cde4f0f4e5d3dfae3430bed
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/40171c706cde4f0f4e5d3dfae3430bed
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T130000Z
DTEND:20260417T134500Z
SUMMARY:Beyond Nostalgia: The Art of Remembering
DESCRIPTION:How do we write the past without hiding its scars? Dana VanderLugt examines the "middle place” of memory\, reflecting on how to honor history without anesthetizing&nbsp\;it and wrestling with how we might reject simple nostalgia in favor of complex stories that access the grit and grace of the truth. \n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9dd483480e19e1be8df00a2807f50cbf
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/9dd483480e19e1be8df00a2807f50cbf
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T130000Z
DTEND:20260417T134500Z
SUMMARY:Reclaiming Christianity from the Christians: The Witness of Las Casas
DESCRIPTION:In the 16th century\, a former conquistador named Bartolomé de las Casas boldly confronted his fellow Christians and spoke out against colonial violence in the Americas. In this session\, Daniel José Camacho shares about Las Casas’s fascinating life and underappreciated writings that contain crucial lessons about faith and empathy that remain relevant in our own day.\n\n\n
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:4d9e64c25eab3523ccff9a0526e21f5a
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/4d9e64c25eab3523ccff9a0526e21f5a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T130000Z
DTEND:20260417T134500Z
SUMMARY:Scratching the Creative Itch: Art\, Curiosity\, and the Myth of the Renaissance Man
DESCRIPTION:Andrew Peterson explores the joys and perils of a career as a multidisciplinary writer and artist.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby &nbsp\;\n(Please note: This is the only book signing for Andrew Peterson.)\n\n
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2e695812dc51166c1a3ee50c6e36d087
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/2e695812dc51166c1a3ee50c6e36d087
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T130000Z
DTEND:20260417T134500Z
SUMMARY:Seen & Heard: Character\, Authenticity and Connection
DESCRIPTION:In her novel Lookout and memoir Dirt Work: An Education in the Woods\, Christine Byl centers deeply emplaced\, complex characters while resisting stereotypes. In this session\, Byl discusses reading and writing nuanced portrayals of complicated people\, families and communities\, and how stories can both polarize and connect.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:745a2e096dc75e19736fa18063844c22
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/745a2e096dc75e19736fa18063844c22
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T130000Z
DTEND:20260417T134500Z
SUMMARY:Shared Roots: Converging Faiths in Care for the Earth 
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, Robin Wall Kimmerer and Kyle Meyaard-Schaap discuss how distinct spiritual traditions—Indigenous wisdom and Christian climate activism—meet in a common call to love\, protect\, and learn from the earth.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f9bea95c595ac3da8632aea37eddb4e0
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f9bea95c595ac3da8632aea37eddb4e0
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T134500Z
DTEND:20260417T141500Z
SUMMARY:Coffee Break
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:COFFEE + SNACK BREAKS
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby; Prince Conference Center Fireside Room; Spoelhof Atrium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ec61a77318b025592b6a2a95bd4a71ab
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/ec61a77318b025592b6a2a95bd4a71ab
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T143000Z
DTEND:20260417T151500Z
SUMMARY:A Language for Grief: Words for What the Heart Must Speak 
DESCRIPTION:From deathbeds to deliveries at a level 1 trauma center\, J.S. Park noticed a common thread of frustration as he tended to thousands of patients over a decade as a hospital chaplain: Patients and families plagued by&nbsp\;a lack of “grief literacy” due to a pervasive fear of discussing loss. With story\, stats\, metaphor\, and poetry\, Park discusses how we can use words to honor our losses\, and why\, especially now\, we need the language to talk about our collective and communal grief.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8a845bb7dc43653030f189e0c9ea9b20
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/8a845bb7dc43653030f189e0c9ea9b20
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T143000Z
DTEND:20260417T151500Z
SUMMARY:Close Enough to See\, Far Enough to Tell
DESCRIPTION:Eliza Griswold&nbsp\;reflects&nbsp\;on the craft and responsibility of immersive journalism\, considering the delicate balance between getting close to a story and maintaining clear-eyed perspective. She explores how writers navigate trust\, truth\, and the moral stakes of bearing witness in complex human situations.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby 
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:6e3a4817ce499467ee6b76bc841ed5c9
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/6e3a4817ce499467ee6b76bc841ed5c9
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T143000Z
DTEND:20260417T151500Z
SUMMARY:Faith\, Imagination\, and the Marketplace: Writing and Publishing Christian Genre Fiction 
DESCRIPTION:What does it mean to write stories of faith within genres like mystery\, romance\, fantasy\, or science fiction? This panel gathers Christian authors and editors to discuss how imaginative storytelling can illuminate truth\, wrestle with belief\, and reach wide audiences\, and to offer insight into the craft and calling behind contemporary Christian genre fiction.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:78434e24d91eb994084dc2334fc804e9
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/78434e24d91eb994084dc2334fc804e9
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T143000Z
DTEND:20260417T151500Z
SUMMARY:Rewriting the Record: Literature\, Memory\, and the Histories We Inherit
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, Laurie Halse Anderson and Ayana Mathis discuss how literature can illuminate\, challenge\, and reshape historical narratives—especially those marked by racial injustice.They explore storytelling as an act of truthtelling and repair\, revealing how writers help readers&nbsp\;reckon&nbsp\;with the past while imagining more honest\, humane futures. \n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:b0397bc5ecbb8f1a5e34fe1636ee32e7
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/b0397bc5ecbb8f1a5e34fe1636ee32e7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T143000Z
DTEND:20260417T151500Z
SUMMARY:Session Cancelled
DESCRIPTION:Due to unforeseen circumstances\, Tasha Jun will no longer be speaking at the Festival.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:db5bb196b0044076f74fbb5ee27b4410
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/db5bb196b0044076f74fbb5ee27b4410
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T154500Z
DTEND:20260417T163000Z
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Ariel Lawhon
DESCRIPTION:Book signing follows in the Chapel Narthex
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:bd06ffec4c8b82351237abc587843f87
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/bd06ffec4c8b82351237abc587843f87
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T154500Z
DTEND:20260417T163000Z
SUMMARY:As You Please: Writing From a Place of Joy
DESCRIPTION:As writers\, each&nbsp\;of us draws on the well of books that have inspired us to be storytellers. Whether it’s their plots\, their characters\, or their prose that delight us\, these books make up our own personal syllabi. In this session\, Albus serves as your writing cheerleader\, encouraging you to find what makes you tick as a writer and to use it to write from a place of joy. \n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:6b0566966699ebbff052c30771bdf0d0
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/6b0566966699ebbff052c30771bdf0d0
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T154500Z
DTEND:20260417T163000Z
SUMMARY:Holy Hurt
DESCRIPTION:Spiritual trauma can leave lasting wounds—shaping how we trust ourselves\, our bodies\, and the sacred. Dr. Hillary McBride uses psychological theory\, narrative\, and empirical data to explore the impact of high-control belief systems\, the process of deconstruction\, and how agency can open a path toward wholeness\, meaning\, and spirituality wide enough to hold life's complexity.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3ba4b58583ae7a6b593409e752cfad6c
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/3ba4b58583ae7a6b593409e752cfad6c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T154500Z
DTEND:20260417T163000Z
SUMMARY:Religion Reporting in an Era of Distrust
DESCRIPTION:At a time when distrust of institutions and&nbsp\;media runs high\, Religion News Service reporter Kathryn Post shares behind-the-scenes stories of earning trust with her sources\, from conservative Christian "momfluencers" to ex-evangelicals and&nbsp\;survivors of religious abuse. She discusses what she's learned about building relationships and why getting religion right matters in today's newsrooms.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:698c8b61bc37ed38cb21f8325956db55
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/698c8b61bc37ed38cb21f8325956db55
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T154500Z
DTEND:20260417T163000Z
SUMMARY:Spell\, Ceremony\, Miracle: The Literacy Narrative of a Lapsed Catholic
DESCRIPTION:Kiki Petrosino's poems and essays trace the story of her own literacy across complex terrains of text and memory. In this discussion\, she talks about how her grief\, following her grandfather's suicide\, was shaped by her literary explorations of Shakespeare and Dante as well as by the ceremonies of her childhood Catholic faith.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3407e6df839eb64000b362ea33b1450d
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/3407e6df839eb64000b362ea33b1450d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T154500Z
DTEND:20260417T163000Z
SUMMARY:The Power of Parable: Personal Story-telling as a Tool for Advocacy in the Church
DESCRIPTION:As a Palestinian&nbsp\;Episcopal priest\, deeply committed to a Church that fails her own people\, Leyla King grapples with the impact such dissonance has on her faith and her vocation. From that space\, she discusses the power of telling her own family's stories as parables that dismantle systemic and personal defensive structures of the Church to open ears\, hearts\, and minds.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:079275b206ecddec9bff908f5ac8c430
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/079275b206ecddec9bff908f5ac8c430
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T163000Z
DTEND:20260417T183000Z
SUMMARY:Lunch
DESCRIPTION:Boxed Lunches&nbsp\;\nFestival attendees who pre-ordered boxed lunches for Friday may pick up their meals in the Knollcrest Dining Hall between 12:30-2:00 pm. There is seating inside the dining hall for attendees to eat lunch together. Please note–no outside food or drink is allowed in Knollcrest Dining Hall. &nbsp\;&nbsp\;\n\n\nFestival Lunch Circles in the Knollcrest Dining Hall&nbsp\;\nAttendees who pre-registered for a Festival Lunch Circle can also pick up their boxed lunches beginning at 12:30 pm before making their way to their assigned table in the dining hall. Festival Lunch Circles will begin at 1:00 pm in the Knollcrest Dining Hall on Friday and Saturday. Each Circle will have a designated seating area in the dining hall. Please note–no outside food or drink is allowed in Knollcrest Dining Hall. &nbsp\;&nbsp\;\n\n\nOff Campus&nbsp\;\nFind local restaurant recommendations in the Festival app. &nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:LUNCH
LOCATION:On or Off-Campus\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e7dae476dda9f0eaa16821455e5148d0
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/e7dae476dda9f0eaa16821455e5148d0
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T183000Z
DTEND:20260417T191500Z
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Carrie Fountain
DESCRIPTION:Join us in a conversation with Carrie Fountain\, interviewed by Abram VanEngen.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:6f7c84f2fb2b56c1a8300182633bd500
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/6f7c84f2fb2b56c1a8300182633bd500
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T183000Z
DTEND:20260417T191500Z
SUMMARY:Finding Faith in Traditionally Published Children's Books
DESCRIPTION:Karina Yan Glaser\, the New York Times bestselling children’s book author of The Vanderbeeker series and the Newbery Honor-winning The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli\, reflects on how faith informs her work and guides the creation of the characters in her stories. \n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:662d3fbc3a6ed9c8aee045a1f624dcfb
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/662d3fbc3a6ed9c8aee045a1f624dcfb
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T183000Z
DTEND:20260417T191500Z
SUMMARY:How to Pitch Your Nonfiction Book
DESCRIPTION:You have a book inside you that you know will be a gift to readers. But to reach those readers\, you need to persuade the gatekeepers—agents and publishers—to say “yes.” The good news is that when you discover how gatekeepers think\, you can deliver what they want. In this session\, Starbuck will dish about how to craft a strategic pitch that gives gatekeepers every reason to say “yes.”\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:927a11e808d63cd98b452eefe748b023
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/927a11e808d63cd98b452eefe748b023
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T183000Z
DTEND:20260417T191500Z
SUMMARY:Listening for the Lyric
DESCRIPTION:Join a panel of songwriters as they reflect on the creative and spiritual dimensions of their craft. Through conversation about inspiration\, artistry\, and the power of music to express faith and human experience\, this session invites attendees into a deeper appreciation of how songs are made and what they can mean.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby\n(Please note: Andrew Peterson will not be signing books after this session.) 
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f1257451964d3210da8490f4ec0a2e2c
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f1257451964d3210da8490f4ec0a2e2c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T183000Z
DTEND:20260417T191500Z
SUMMARY:Talking To Strangers: How To Ask Better Questions\, Get Better Answers\, and Even Get The Reluctant Haters To Tell You Something Useful
DESCRIPTION:Since we have so many ways to separate us from one another\, the art of the interview has become more important than ever. Dean Nelson has been asking questions as a journalist and as host of the annual Writer's Symposium By The Sea for more than 30 years. In this session\, Nelson shows you how to engage others at a deeper and more profound level. It's more than serendipity and intuition. It's a skill you can learn. &nbsp\;\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3973c32ad68bac4241dc3f0d9bc51fa4
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/3973c32ad68bac4241dc3f0d9bc51fa4
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T183000Z
DTEND:20260417T191500Z
SUMMARY:The Grief and Hope of Conversion
DESCRIPTION:In her memoir We Carry Smoke and Paper\, poet and essayist Melody S. Gee explores the grief and hope of becoming Catholic at age 35. She discusses what is lost and found in religious conversion--what is gained\, let go\, and sometimes resurrected.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:a54298dad32108f8b33e09d5a483d7a3
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/a54298dad32108f8b33e09d5a483d7a3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T191500Z
DTEND:20260417T194500Z
SUMMARY:Afternoon Snack Break
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:COFFEE + SNACK BREAKS
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby; Prince Conference Center Fireside Room; Spoelhof Atrium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1a2801236c691d1931203ad0ffa56a51
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/1a2801236c691d1931203ad0ffa56a51
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T200000Z
DTEND:20260417T204500Z
SUMMARY:Drawing Stories Together: Writers and Illustrators in Creative Partnership
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, Aimee Reid and Larissa Theule discuss the collaborative art of creating children’s picture books\, exploring how writers and illustrators bring a shared story to life. This conversation will touch on communication\, trust\, and the joyful surprises that emerge when visual and written imagination meet\, shaping books that resonate with young readers and their grownups. \n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ef5a36f864db5071997eb154dfea41f9
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/ef5a36f864db5071997eb154dfea41f9
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T200000Z
DTEND:20260417T204500Z
SUMMARY:Finding and Working with a Literary Agent: The Dos\, the Don’ts\, and the Reality
DESCRIPTION:What really happens when writers start looking for a literary agent—and what should they expect if they find one? Drawing on over 20&nbsp\;years in publishing\, including the past decade as an agent at Yates & Yates\, Mike Salisbury offers a candid\, light-hearted look at the dos\, don’ts\, and realities of literary representation.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:0f5dde19090460fed6549d7527a34405
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/0f5dde19090460fed6549d7527a34405
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T200000Z
DTEND:20260417T204500Z
SUMMARY:How to Write Good
DESCRIPTION:Sarah Perry reflects on how her work has considered theological and philosophical ideas of personal and collective moral responsibility\, the influence of her strict Calvinist upbringing\, whether a writer has an ethical duty to their readers\, and to what extent artistic excellence might be considered a moral virtue.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby 
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9e72ecf5cdf41bc64d85be29f7c69e92
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/9e72ecf5cdf41bc64d85be29f7c69e92
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T200000Z
DTEND:20260417T204500Z
SUMMARY:Making and Meaning: The Creative Rhythm of Courage and Reflection
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, artist Scott Erickson and scholar Lanta Davis explore the essential interplay between creating and pausing\, making and discerning\, considering why creative work demands both bold action and thoughtful reflection–and how holding these modes together can deepen our art\, our faith\, and our capacity to see the world with clarity.\n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:050d985c2f0b929c227b62cad73837c2
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/050d985c2f0b929c227b62cad73837c2
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T200000Z
DTEND:20260417T204500Z
SUMMARY:Poetics of the Sacred
DESCRIPTION:How might artistic practices invoke the qualities of prayer? By extension\, is it possible to articulate a poetics of the sacred? In this session\, Patrick Rosal explores his&nbsp\;complex&nbsp\;relationship to prayer\, the sacred\, and a secular artistic practice\, sharing how he was influenced by his relationship with his father\, who was a priest and theologian trained in the Thomist tradition.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:cbe75f292164db22eb302ed6768dfa7a
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/cbe75f292164db22eb302ed6768dfa7a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T200000Z
DTEND:20260417T204500Z
SUMMARY:Reporting Across the Divide
DESCRIPTION:In this moderated conversation\, these seasoned journalists explore the challenges of reporting at the intersection of politics and religion in a polarized era: covering culturewar issues\, writing about people across political and theological divides\, and staying faithful to the principles of their craft while reflecting on how personal worldview shapes their work.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3c7df1c7c581092fdae9f1f80bd91d61
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/3c7df1c7c581092fdae9f1f80bd91d61
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T213000Z
DTEND:20260417T223000Z
SUMMARY:Evening Plenary Session - The Garden Has Faith in You
DESCRIPTION:Ross Gay examines joy\, grief\, faith\, and coexisting with the garden. &nbsp\;\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Fieldhouse Lobby\n(Please note: Ross Gay requests no photos\, videos\, or audio recordings at any time throughout his participation in the Festival.This includes before\, during\, and after sessions\, at book signings\, and in between events. Thank you for honoring this request.) \n\n
CATEGORIES:PLENARY SESSION
LOCATION:Van Noord Arena\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:526931b158db9cd48702e6060105e73f
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/526931b158db9cd48702e6060105e73f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260417T230000Z
DTEND:20260418T013000Z
SUMMARY:Sponsored Receptions
DESCRIPTION:Friday Evening Sponsored Receptions:&nbsp\;\n\nFriday\, 7:00-9:00 pm\, The Plough Read \nWelcoming all current and future readers of Plough to an evening of poetry and essays. Meet editors of the magazine and many of your favorite contributors – and hear them read their best essays and poetry. Light refreshments will be served. \nPrince Conference Center\, Board Room\n \nFriday\, 7:00-9:00 pm\, The Whitworth Writers Workshop \nCome and enjoy high and holy fellowship\, and the re-gathering of friends old and new\, featuring readings by Mischa Willett\, Jen Pollock Michel\, Jessica Gigot\, Callie Feyen\, Shemiah Gonzalez and a host of other worthies for wine and song (broadly defined). \nPrince Conference Center\, Willow Room\n \nFriday\, 7:30-9:30 pm\, The Christian Century \nJoin us for an open mic event for any poet who has published in The Christian Century. Wine and appetizers. If you would like to participate\, please contact poetry@christiancentury.org. \nPrince Conference Center\, Hickory Room
CATEGORIES:SPONSORED EVENT
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Various Venues\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:15942b7673a7353619e3d8fcd7913df8
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/15942b7673a7353619e3d8fcd7913df8
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T000000Z
DTEND:20260418T013000Z
SUMMARY:Jess Ray in Concert
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening concert with Jess Ray and Band\, whose “friendly folk” blends indie pop textures with spiritually rich\, lyric-driven storytelling. Rooted in faith and experience\, her music creates space for reflection\, hope\, and connection through songs exploring devotion and everyday grace.&nbsp\;\n\n\n\n
CATEGORIES:EVENING ACTIVITY
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:843017b213348a3721530629fff2918b
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/843017b213348a3721530629fff2918b
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T120000Z
DTEND:20260418T123000Z
SUMMARY:Matins with Jess Ray
DESCRIPTION:Join Jess Ray for an early‑morning Matins performance—a 30‑minute gathering of song and quiet attention that invites participants into a grounded\, contemplative start to the Festival day.
CATEGORIES:MATINS
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f79ca1365a75f6e619ad91da047fc181
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f79ca1365a75f6e619ad91da047fc181
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T123000Z
DTEND:20260418T203000Z
SUMMARY:Information Desk Open
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:INFO DESK
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:45b045f9011f7596b9e8f98fb0860eab
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/45b045f9011f7596b9e8f98fb0860eab
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T125900Z
DTEND:20260418T203000Z
SUMMARY:Exhibit Hall Open
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:EXHIBIT HALL
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Great Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:0675965e5a6c2ba7b08f5655791c65f3
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/0675965e5a6c2ba7b08f5655791c65f3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T130000Z
DTEND:20260418T134500Z
SUMMARY:Christian Advocacy for the Common Good: Loving Our Neighbors in Public
DESCRIPTION:Advocacy for social justice can be viewed by people of faith as either dangerously radical or pityingly naive. Meyaard-Schaap has spent years pushing Christians to see it differently. By tracing its lineage through Christian history\, he shares how faith-rooted advocacy through storytelling\, writing\, and direct action is more than merely a political act\, but a public act of love for our neighbors.\n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex 
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:34566fd26179acdd46c8775da38179f7
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/34566fd26179acdd46c8775da38179f7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T130000Z
DTEND:20260418T134500Z
SUMMARY:Forms of Joy and Witness: Poetry and Prose in Conversation
DESCRIPTION:In this conversation\, Ross Gay and Patrick Rosal reflect on what they have learned from one another about play\, collaboration\, and attentiveness\, both on and off the page.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby &nbsp\;\n(Please note: Ross Gay requests no photos\, videos\, or audio recordings at any time throughout his participation in the Festival.This includes before\, during\, and after sessions\, at book signings\, and in between events. Thank you for honoring this request.) \n\n
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:004fd648198d03896e24cade8a8f6e13
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/004fd648198d03896e24cade8a8f6e13
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T130000Z
DTEND:20260418T134500Z
SUMMARY:Grace Notes: Tiny Moments that Make Our Stories Sing
DESCRIPTION:Using several examples across the modern landscape of literary fiction\, Bilal explores the power of the instant in storytelling\, attuning us to the littlest details that add sparkle\, beauty and meaning to the works we love. &nbsp\;\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:0f824df3f7d5b1752a230813f38108a5
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/0f824df3f7d5b1752a230813f38108a5
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T130000Z
DTEND:20260418T134500Z
SUMMARY:Playing with Fire: Christian Poets Reflect on Faith and Practice
DESCRIPTION:David Clark and L.S. Klatt discuss the publication journey of their new edited collection Playing with Fire: Christian Poets Reflect on Faith and Practice. In this session\, they talk about the genesis of the project\, the community of writers they cultivated in exploring what a Christian poetics might look like\, and the special challenges and graces they encountered in putting together a theologically diverse collection of essays.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2961ac6d78527fa86943f85e35b5bf3c
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/2961ac6d78527fa86943f85e35b5bf3c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T130000Z
DTEND:20260418T134500Z
SUMMARY:Stained Glass and Sticky Hands: Writing Faithfully for Children in Our Holy and Messy World
DESCRIPTION:Children are born into a world of both stunning sunsets and dropped ice cream cones. Our words and our presence can model what it means to live with an awareness of God’s goodness alongside the bumpy realities of skinned knees and playground politics. Reid encourages and equips us to contemplate the power of words infused with grace and truth and always grounded in hope.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:071fd67b05b4039a77737596354d0be5
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/071fd67b05b4039a77737596354d0be5
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T130000Z
DTEND:20260418T134500Z
SUMMARY:The Art of Fashioning the Soul
DESCRIPTION:We become what we behold.&nbsp\;The imagination shapes how we see the world and our place within it. So how might we intentionally form the imagination to become the type of people we want to become? Lanta Davis introduces “the art of fashioning the soul\,” a historic Christian practice that trains the imagination as part of spiritual formation. \n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:306fa411c414516343426f5205d3efcb
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/306fa411c414516343426f5205d3efcb
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T134500Z
DTEND:20260418T141500Z
SUMMARY:Coffee Break
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:COFFEE + SNACK BREAKS
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby; Prince Conference Center Fireside Room; Spoelhof Atrium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f116d8e8dd498f6835ae5800276413d2
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f116d8e8dd498f6835ae5800276413d2
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T143000Z
DTEND:20260418T151500Z
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Barbara Brown Taylor
DESCRIPTION:A conversation with Barbara Brown Taylor\, interviewed by Calvin University Pastor Rev. Mary S. Hulst.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5b2f1d81b778e53ba97ffdf41cf9e7cf
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/5b2f1d81b778e53ba97ffdf41cf9e7cf
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T143000Z
DTEND:20260418T151500Z
SUMMARY:Acts of Translation\, Acts of Justice
DESCRIPTION:What does it mean to do justice to a text as a translator? What does it mean to do justice in the world? This talk will explore the attention\, responsibility\, and respect that this work calls us to. &nbsp\;\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Atrium
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Gezon Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:99326764eb91542804b3c37803660609
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/99326764eb91542804b3c37803660609
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T143000Z
DTEND:20260418T151500Z
SUMMARY:Lightning Rod Poetry & Tuning Fork Poetics
DESCRIPTION:Jacob Schepers writes\, writes about\, and edits avant-garde and experimental poetry. In this talk\, he discusses pushing the boundaries of poetic practice and what formal\, thematic\, and philosophical considerations may inform such decisions. He suggests writers and readers alike may benefit from testing riskier and uglier creative practices beyond typical "shock value" alone.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9fc4d0a23f1e887ea17a408b30da50ba
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/9fc4d0a23f1e887ea17a408b30da50ba
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T143000Z
DTEND:20260418T151500Z
SUMMARY:Listening Across Distance
DESCRIPTION:In an era of division\, how do we meaningfully talk—and truly listen—to people we don’t agree with? Drawing from years of reporting and firsthand encounters\, Astead Herndon reflects on how curiosity\, dignity\, and empathy open doors across disagreement\, and explores what it means to listen without yielding truth\, build trust where none seems possible\, and reimagine how dialogue can shape healthier communities.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:bbc665b8ef08a215a78adc3f7d68b270
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/bbc665b8ef08a215a78adc3f7d68b270
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T143000Z
DTEND:20260418T151500Z
SUMMARY:Rituals\, Mentors\, Priorities and Joy: the Ingredients of My Comics Career
DESCRIPTION:The 2024 publication of Timid\, Todd's semi-autobiographical\, middle-grade graphic novel\, fulfilled a dream he had since he was 8. He will share his 40-year journey to book-length publication\, which included development of daily rituals\, timely encouragement from people who believed&nbsp\;in his&nbsp\;work\, making writing a priority in his everyday life\, and approaching the craft of writing with joy.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:855c8dcdb9c693198949cf2fd32f299e
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/855c8dcdb9c693198949cf2fd32f299e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T143000Z
DTEND:20260418T151500Z
SUMMARY:Writer Websites That Dazzle Publishers
DESCRIPTION:When an agent or publisher receives your&nbsp\;pitch\, you know what they do? They Google you! Today your writer website is your business card and there is a degree to which it legitimizes you as a professional communicator. Your site can be simple\,&nbsp\;but it does need to be doing its job. Impress gatekeepers by offering a site that gives them every reason to say “yes.” \n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3d8956d19a2b559d7f29dd7c7fbb3a74
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/3d8956d19a2b559d7f29dd7c7fbb3a74
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T154500Z
DTEND:20260418T163000Z
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Leyla K. King
DESCRIPTION:In this interview\, Leyla K. King explores the layered\, often tender work of telling a life shaped by multiple cultures\, identities\, and spiritual landscapes. \n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3f7c763029e914d8b71796d7adfdf26d
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/3f7c763029e914d8b71796d7adfdf26d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T154500Z
DTEND:20260418T163000Z
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Neal Shusterman
DESCRIPTION:A Conversation with Neal Shusterman\, interviewed by Dean Nelson.&nbsp\;\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:13640ea5bfd558cf559f7f65c56b750c
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/13640ea5bfd558cf559f7f65c56b750c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T154500Z
DTEND:20260418T163000Z
SUMMARY:Faith\, Family\, Football: Eli Cranor on the Dark Side of the American Dream
DESCRIPTION:In small-town America\, football is more than just a&nbsp\;game—it's a religion\, a family legacy\, and a path to salvation. But beneath the&nbsp\;bright lights of "Friday Night Lights"&nbsp\;lies a&nbsp\;world of desperation\, corruption\, and violence. Award-winning author and former professional quarterback Eli Cranor dissects the powerful themes that fuel his acclaimed Southern noir novels.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:915b7ca591db3cbe59841bd3c30633f7
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/915b7ca591db3cbe59841bd3c30633f7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T154500Z
DTEND:20260418T163000Z
SUMMARY:From Manuscript to Marketplace
DESCRIPTION:In this session\, marketing professionals discuss how books find their readers in a crowded landscape\, exploring strategies\, trends\, and challenges unique to faith-related publishing. This panel offers practical insight into audience engagement\,&nbsp\;platform&nbsp\;building\, and the creative collaboration that helps bring books into the world.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:d8fea28e96482341f78649fc3f885034
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/d8fea28e96482341f78649fc3f885034
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T154500Z
DTEND:20260418T163000Z
SUMMARY:The Art of Poetry and the Gift of Attention
DESCRIPTION:Abram Van Engen has been reaching a wide range of listeners for the past five years with his popular podcast Poetry For All and his book Word Made Fresh: An Invitation to Poetry for the Church. He explores poetry as a gift of attention\, and he explains why this gift might be worth our time\, including how to sift poems and take them up in ways that deepen our spiritual lives.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e2eaa31cda4a8f6ed89db6f6608406ea
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/e2eaa31cda4a8f6ed89db6f6608406ea
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T163000Z
DTEND:20260418T183000Z
SUMMARY:Lunch
DESCRIPTION:Boxed Lunches&nbsp\;\nFestival attendees who pre-ordered boxed lunches for Saturday may pick up their meals in the Knollcrest Dining Hall between 12:30-2:00 pm. There is seating inside the dining hall for attendees to eat lunch together. Please note–no outside food or drink is allowed in Knollcrest Dining Hall. &nbsp\;&nbsp\;\n&nbsp\;\nFestival Lunch Circles in the Knollcrest Dining Hall&nbsp\;\nAttendees who pre-registered for a Festival Lunch Circle can also pick up their boxed lunches beginning at 12:30 pm before making their way to their assigned table in the dining hall. Festival Lunch Circles will begin at 1:00 pm in the Knollcrest Dining Hall on Friday and Saturday. Each Circle will have a designated seating area in the dining hall. Please note–no outside food or drink is allowed in Knollcrest Dining Hall. &nbsp\;&nbsp\;\n&nbsp\;\nOff Campus&nbsp\;\nFind local restaurant recommendations in the Festival app. &nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:LUNCH
LOCATION:On or Off-Campus\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f88e86c77e59fc9b6113690e5706c29b
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f88e86c77e59fc9b6113690e5706c29b
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T183000Z
DTEND:20260418T191500Z
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Sarah Perry
DESCRIPTION:A Conversation with Sarah Perry\, interviewed by Jennifer L. Holberg\, CCFW Director.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:4b3506a489b9d4659d28a4807c8ac066
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/4b3506a489b9d4659d28a4807c8ac066
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T183000Z
DTEND:20260418T191500Z
SUMMARY:A Conversation with Terumi Echols
DESCRIPTION:A Conversation with Terumi Echols\,&nbsp\;Interviewed by Scott Hoezee\, Center for Excellence in Preaching.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:59372160991d59b2f79ce11cceae741c
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/59372160991d59b2f79ce11cceae741c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T183000Z
DTEND:20260418T191500Z
SUMMARY:Families We Know\, Families We Imagine: Writing Identity for Young Readers
DESCRIPTION:Karina Yan Glaser and Jonathan Todd explore how stories for children can honor the richness of family and identity. In this conversation\, they'll discuss crafting characters kids can see themselves in\, portraying complex home lives with honesty and warmth\, and creating narratives that help young readers feel recognized\, included\, and deeply at home.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:fc414d58dec954a8943564eb9f626049
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/fc414d58dec954a8943564eb9f626049
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T183000Z
DTEND:20260418T191500Z
SUMMARY:The Grace of Wild Things: Finding a Language for Praise and Lamentation
DESCRIPTION:As the son of a veterinarian and the grandson of poor Appalachian farmers\, Todd Davis searches for wildness in forests and remote streams. At root is his deep belief that we are kin to all species\, not just humankind\, and that as kin\, we have a responsibility to care&nbsp\;for one another. Rooted in praise and lamentation\, Davis’s poems seek to situate our small role in the whole of creation.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:b30f858c8c9bd46f6f48c0dc71a8f7de
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/b30f858c8c9bd46f6f48c0dc71a8f7de
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T183000Z
DTEND:20260418T191500Z
SUMMARY:Witnessing What’s There: Writing Attention in a Wounded World
DESCRIPTION:Daniel José Camacho and Alejandra Oliva explore writing as an act of paying attention—especially in places marked by structural suffering. In this conversation\, they consider how faithful witnessing becomes a moral and spiritual practice\, inviting writers to see clearly\, name truthfully\, and cultivate a gaze that honors both human dignity and the possibility of repair.\n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:bf63cbdb268004964be401a9f8c1b002
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/bf63cbdb268004964be401a9f8c1b002
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T191500Z
DTEND:20260418T194500Z
SUMMARY:Afternoon Snack Break
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:COFFEE + SNACK BREAKS
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby; Prince Conference Center Fireside Room; Spoelhof Atrium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:b6162a10a048a7667e224da1eb992657
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/b6162a10a048a7667e224da1eb992657
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T200000Z
DTEND:20260418T204500Z
SUMMARY:Audiobooks for Authors
DESCRIPTION:Why should authors push for their work in audio? How does the selling of audio rights work with established publishers? How can an indie-published author hire a narrator and create their own audiobook? Join Adam Verner\, a veteran narrator\, for a deep dive into the world of audio and the importance of the spoken word.
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Willow Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2d4a8c73f78bf4c7d645a452a65a36eb
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/2d4a8c73f78bf4c7d645a452a65a36eb
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T200000Z
DTEND:20260418T204500Z
SUMMARY:In the Spirit of Others' Words
DESCRIPTION:As editor and executive director of 32 Poems for the past 15 years\, George David Clark curates and champions his favorite contemporary poems. He discusses the balance of humility and hubris required of active editors\, the development of long-term artistic partnerships\, editorial creativity\, and the spirit of collaboration.\n\nBook signing follows in the Prince Conference Center\, Fireside Room
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Prince Conference Center\, Board Room\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c625ae595bf8c20db282c942939392ab
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/c625ae595bf8c20db282c942939392ab
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T200000Z
DTEND:20260418T204500Z
SUMMARY:Place and Landscape as Character
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, A. Muia\, Christine Byl\, and Eli Cranor explore how landscape shapes story—becoming not just backdrop but an active\, breathing presence. They&nbsp\;consider writing rooted in place\, the ethics of depicting land and community\, and how attentive engagement with the physical world deepens narrative voice\, character\, and meaning.\n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Recital Hall\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:39e77b2ccc9caaf4fdc593dd7b424ac9
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/39e77b2ccc9caaf4fdc593dd7b424ac9
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T200000Z
DTEND:20260418T204500Z
SUMMARY:Rethinking Dystopia
DESCRIPTION:In this session\, novelist Neal Shusterman explores how to use dystopian literature to break down\, dissect\, and rebuild the current world through the lens of writing. How can writers not only stir up the space\, but give readers something to aspire to rather than fear? \n\nBook signing follows in the Covenant Fine Arts Center Lobby
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Covenant Fine Arts Center\, Auditorium\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2f0a77c0302665f63af79d0f54e29c88
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/2f0a77c0302665f63af79d0f54e29c88
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T200000Z
DTEND:20260418T204500Z
SUMMARY:Sacred Traces: Writing the Texture of Religious Experience
DESCRIPTION:In conversation\, Aaliyah Bilal and Melody Gee explore how writers draw from lived religious experience—its rituals\, questions\, inheritances\, and contradictions—to craft resonant stories.\n\nBook signing follows in the Chapel Narthex
CATEGORIES:CONCURRENT SESSION
LOCATION:Chapel\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:64d416f8e419c584e1948b9a55088bd7
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/64d416f8e419c584e1948b9a55088bd7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260424T204109Z
DTSTART:20260418T213000Z
DTEND:20260418T223000Z
SUMMARY:Closing Plenary Session - Coming Down to Earth: The Embodied Word
DESCRIPTION:Has the language of faith ever been so stressed? Words that once carried weight have been underfed\, sidelined\, and meanly used amid an overload of competing voices. No wonder it’s hard to win a hearing from people who are careful of their hearts. In this closing plenary talk\, Barbara Brown Taylor considers how to bring the words that matter down to earth.\n\nBook signing follows in the Spoelhof Fieldhouse Lobby
CATEGORIES:PLENARY SESSION
LOCATION:Van Noord Arena\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f0b0e609e1f5ff79e137a4e0afa80bc2
URL:http://2026ffw.sched.com/event/f0b0e609e1f5ff79e137a4e0afa80bc2
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR