Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am an ordained United Methodist pastor, mom, grandmother and author.  I came to know the Lord when I was 40 and heard God's call into the ministry shortly after that.  I take great joy in looking for God's footprints in everyday life and sharing as much of my experience, as possible, with others.  I am always pleased to hear the stories of others, assisting and helping them to see God right there with them.  I live in a little country cottage in a small community near Houston, Texas, where I enjoy the peacefulness of country living while also being close to the conveniences and excitement of the big city. My three children are grown and married and have blessed me with three grandchildren who are busy with sports, school and all that life offers the youth of today.  I aspire to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle in the midst of serving as a full-time pastor of an active congregation, as well as, adding a couple new books each year, as I am enabled by God.  

Describe your book ‘Walking In The Light’ in 30 words or less. 

This book is filled with inspirational messages designed to help us see God in everyday life, including: Finding Community, Receiving Boldness, Success in Relationships, Overcoming Worry and Finding Peace.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

I think the most difficult part of writing a book is holding oneself accountable to the discipline of writing.  I, personally, need to have a structured plan, saying: "Okay, I will carve out this day and this time to write each week," otherwise that precious time could easily be pushed aside for other activities, which seem to be more important at that time.

What books have had the greatest influence on you?

Of course, I would have to say that the Bible has had the most influence on me.  When I think of the Old and New Testament writers, I am inspired to write.  Can you imagine what it would be like today if the biblical writers didn't take the time to put "pen to paper," or more appropriately, "ink to papyrus," saying, I will get to that later after doing these more important tasks? The stories of God's people, throughout the centuries, offer deep spiritual enrichment and wisdom, even for us today.  It's like looking through a keyhole of time, where we are able to see the miraculous ways God works in and with those who will trust Him.     

Briefly share with us what you do to market your book?

Professionally, I am first a pastor, speaker, preacher, teacher and then a writer.  I market my books though several avenues including: 

The church website (http://www.chappellhillumc.org/newpages/SpiritTalk.htm), 

facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Spirit-Talk/106421226096370), 

My podcasts (http://spirittalkpodcast.podomatic.com/), 

The Pastors' Blog (http://pjbehrens.blogspot.com/), 

Youtube videos (http://www.youtube.com/user/pjbehrens1), 

WomensRadio (http://www.womensradio.com/articles/Grace-to-You/8935.html), 

filedby (http://www.filedby.com/author/rev_paula_j_behrens/5013560/works/)

twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/@pjbehrens), 

Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Walking-Light-Spirit-Talk-1/dp/1456479911/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpi_2), 

Cokesbury Bookstore (http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=988707), 

Public book Signings - Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (05/29-06/01/2011) in Houston, TX, 

Freado (http://www.freado.com/users/27436/Rev-Paula-J-Behrens), 

and through personal marketing and word of mouth.

How do you spend your time when you are not writing?

Oh my, I am on call 24/7 as a pastor, first of all.  So, I have all the administrative, spiritual and leadership duties which goes along with being a pastor.  I am in the pulpit on Sundays, teach Bible studies during the week and occasionally speak and/or pray at other events when invited to do so.  I always begin my day with a devotional, prayer time and scripture reading, just to get my priorities right.  I hope to spend some time riding my bicycle, walking and enjoying the beautiful scenery that surrounds my home.  I am also very serious when it comes to taking my Sabbath day of rest each week, my vacation time, as well as, ten days of spiritual retreat time, annually.  I know that it is important to take care of myself emotionally, physically and spiritually, so that I will be better equipped to fulfill the call that has been placed on my life.

What are you working on next?

Currently, I am working on the eighth book of the "Spirit Talk" collection, titled: "The Desert Shall Rejoice."