It was one more newspaper headline touting abortion that pushed me beyond frustration to the point of finally doing something. I wanted to present a biblical viewpoint, to reach this secular audience with Gods truth and to let my voice be heard. So I decided to write a letter to the editor of the newspaper.

Having never done such a thing before, I wasnt sure how to start. So, I visited my local library. After studying the editorial pages of newspapers, I went home, flipped on the computer and drafted my letter. I printed four copiessending one to each of the major newspapers in my area. Within a couple of weeks, three of the four printed my letter.

I learned that through a letter to the editor of a newspaper or magazine, Christians can present biblical viewpoints to a secular audience. Statistics show that between 60 and 80 percent of newspaper readers read letters to the editor. With such a wide audience, the evangelism opportunities are mind-boggling.

Here are some tips for writing an evangelistic letter and ways to improve the chances of getting it printed:

1. Pray first. Ask God to guide what you say, whether

to use scripture verses and which ones, and where you send the letter.

2. Stay within the word limit the paper will print. Check the editorial page for instructions or count the words in printed letters for a general guideline.

3. Study sample letters in your target publication to see how other writers made their points. How did they organize their thoughts? State their opinions? Call for action?

4. Focus on one issue per letter. For related or separate issues, write other letters.

5. Be respectful and polite. You dont need to scream from the pageyou already have your readers attention.

6. Dont be intimidated. Conservative or biblical views may be controversial, but editors publish controversial letters.

7. Be evangelistic. Your letter is an opportunity to tell what church you attend. As a Christian, it is entirely appropriate to say that your convictions come from your heart. A scripture or a reference to a sermon are legitimate resources for backing up your opinion. Be forthright in saying that you are presenting the Christian worldview and that readers can learn about the Source of your faithJesusby visiting your church. Writing about Him in an opinion letter to a newspaper is your right as a citizen, if you choose to use that avenue for your personal communication.

8. Allow your letter to sit for a day. Then re-read and edit it when you are less emotional. Remember that presenting the Christian worldview in a secular publication requires a cool head and rational thinking.

9. If your letter isnt printed, keep trying. Even if its not printed, your letter has reached an audience because editors, and probably others, have read it. Be assured, God can use it for His glory.

10. Pray again. Ask God to use your letter to affect lives and to glorify Himself. Pray also for the editors and their publications.

Dianne E. Butts is a writer living in Limon, Colorado.