Segullah: Peculiar Treasure; Priceless Opportunity
By Carol Kostakos Petranek

New Literary Journal Fosters Creativity, Connection among LDS Women

The scene at McDonald’s Playland was all too familiar: pint-sized sneakers strewn around the shoe caddy, high-pitched squeals from little ketchup-stained mouths, echoes of dull thuds reverberating from tunnels and towers.

It was noontime in Lehi, Utah, on January 4, 2005. Of the several dozen children scrambling through the colorful labyrinths, seven belonged to three mothers huddled at a table littered with Happy Meals. Each mom had one ear on child-alert and one on the intense discussion underway. Kathy Soper, Kylie Turley and Justine Dorton were brainstorming ideas for a new literary journal that could change the lives of women.

Undaunted by the surrounding chaos, they spent an hour in what Justine termed, “punctuated conversation.” Reflecting on that day she pondered, “I’m not sure how much we accomplished, but we firmed our resolve to create something together.”

That “something” evolved into Segullah (http://www.segullah.org/), a journal featuring prose, poetry, and visual art. Segullah, a Hebrew word meaning “peculiar treasure,” was used by the Lord to designate a covenant people set apart from the world (Exodus 19:5). It is a fitting title for this new journal, which is designed “to encourage literary talent, provoke thought and promote greater understanding and faith among Latter-day Saint women.”

Prior to their lunchtime meeting, Kathy, Kylie, and Justine were members of a small writing group dedicated to providing peer feedback and producing booklets of writings to share with family and friends. “There is something self-actualizing about seeing your writing in print,” explained Kylie.

The concept of inviting other interested women to join their writing circle began shortly after their group formed. “We knew that many LDS women write, or want to write,” Kathy said. “We felt it would be a strengthening endeavor for women to share their lives and creativity in an environment supportive to gospel beliefs and values. So, we expanded our group and decided to begin a formal journal for this purpose.”

Getting Started: A Cooperative Effort

Launching Segullah required a cooperative spirit and focused dedication among those involved. There was a website to establish, editorial and advisory boards to recruit, and a non-profit company to organize.

“From the beginning, the three of us knew what we wanted in a general sense, but none of us knew exactly how this publication would evolve,” Kathy recalled. “We just went from one step, one idea, to the next. Each person on our staff has brought unique talents and perspectives that have allowed our vision to unfold.”

A groundswell of support for Segullah emerged as people became aware of the opportunities it presented and sought ways to support its mission. Writers accepted invitations to serve on the editorial board, where they give editorial feedback and guidance to authors during the revision process. Key staff positions such as editors and designers were filled by people drawn to this endeavor. Website designer Johnna Cornett was attracted by the “co-op aspect” of this journal. “I love it when people raise their capacity through group interaction,” she said.

A strong proponent of LDS women writers, Boyd Petersen, BYU and UVSC English professor, cheerfully agreed to serve on the advisory board. “I am convinced we need more literary outlets for faithful Mormons, and I believe that Mormon women have contributed more than Mormon men in producing quality literature. Also, it was a real honor to be the only man asked to be on the board. How could I pass that by?”

Cherry Silver, past president of the Association for Mormon Letters, accepted an invitation to participate on the advisory board “when the founding editors proposed a journal centered on topics chosen to prompt solid thinking and excellent writing.” The Board, she explained, “assists in reviewing the final issue. We read essays in advance of publication and consider both content and style. Are the ideas expressed consistent with beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? Is the writing of high quality? We offer opinions but leave final decisions to the editors.”

Beverly Campbell, noted author and speaker, sponsors Segullah’s annual essay contest, which is named in honor of her daughter, Heather. In an interview published in the debut issue, she explained why she decided to support such a forum:

“It is essential that women have places to dialogue…places to explore their talents and trials, places where it is safe to make passions felt and questions heard. As we come to know others' thoughts and challenges…[and] see others' ways of dealing with those challenges…we gain strength for the journey.”

Who and What are Inside?

The debut issue of Segullah was published in Spring 2005. Titled The Measure of Creation: Our Potential and Progression as Daughters of God, this issue acquainted readers with the journal's mission through writings contributed by members of the editorial staff. The staff will continue to provide a portion of the journal's content. Kathy clarified, “We are contributors as well as editors — we do double-duty because our first love is creative writing. The joy is that with each issue, more and more women can share their insights, stories and talents with our readers.”

While the journal welcomes submissions of prose from a variety of writing genres, including short fiction and drama, the majority of Segullah's pages are devoted to personal essay. Stories of trial and triumph, heartache and healing, disappointment and delight, inspire and uplift the reader as contributors share their life experiences.

Besides submitting essays, there are other ways to contribute. Poetry submissions are encouraged, and the Focus column invites readers to give short responses to a posed topic or question. Opportunities abound for those who enjoy visual art and design. "We have a need for photographs and artwork to support the prose and poetry submitted,” said art director Megan Davies. “We also need designers to help lay out the magazine." 

Committed to publishing high-quality work, the editors are gratified by the contributions they have received thus far.  “Many women have stunning art and stories to share and do so with unique personal style,” said Kylie. Submissions are welcome from writers and artists regardless of their level of experience. “We provide support to women as they develop their confidence and talents,” emphasized prose editor Angela Schultz.

The Value of Creative Efforts

Segullah’s editorial staff understands exactly how important — and demanding — the development of creative talent can be. Johnna expressed the thoughts of many when she said, “It’s hard to improve one’s writing in isolation. Other people reading and responding give me a better idea of what works.”

Citing personal experience, the editors strongly agree. “We found a great sense of accomplishment at working together to improve each others’ abilities,” Justine said. “We hoped this principle would continue to apply if we brought even more women to the table.”

First-time writer Felicia Hanosek initially sat at this table with an essay vastly different from her published work, "How Much is Enough?". “My first draft may well have been titled ‘How to Keep the Sabbath Holy According to Felicia, The Super Spiritual, Organizational Queen,’” she remarked. Comments from friends, family, and fellow staff members led her through a revision process that expanded both her writing skills and her personal perspective. “Composing this narrative taught me that ‘birthing’ an essay is one of life's truisms only understood through personal experience. The self-examination was the hardest, yet most rewarding, part of growth."

This personal growth is exactly what Segullah editors are trying to foster. Kathy explained, “Writing entails deep reflection that enables us to connect the dots between the eternal truths of the gospel and the dynamics of our daily lives.”

The revision process that all good writing requires can sharpen those insights and bring a satisfying sense of accomplishment. “As women submit work to us and go through the editing process, they see their writing become something they did not know was possible,” Justine said.

Cherry Silver has long championed the personal essay as the preeminent form of Latter-day Saint writing. “In essays,” she explained, “we work through our anxieties to discover meaning and growth. Analysis bolsters understanding and hope, leads to affirmation, and strengthens relationships.” The editors believe this emphasis will foster a connection between readers and writers. “We all want to know there is someone else out there who understands what we, as women/sisters/wives/mothers, are going through,” Justine said.

Building a Spiritual Community

Indeed, fostering connectedness among women of faith is an important component of Segullah’s appeal to both staff and readers. As Megan expressed, “While I am excited for the opportunity to use my skills as a designer, I'm even more excited to have found a new way to connect with LDS women who share similar struggles and triumphs in this craziness we call mortality.” For reader Robyn Goodwin, Segullah's personal approach provides a sense of companionship: “I so enjoy the articles that are thought-provoking, yet have such a great feel to them, as to allow me to feel as if I've known each of you for years.”

Boyd Petersen explained this link between connectedness and the sharing of personal narratives: “We learn directly from our lived experiences and vicariously through stories. Direct learning is certainly powerful but often painful. When we read others’ writings, we gain from their experiences. We have a better understanding of how the world works and the ways the gospel may influence our lives. I love reading shared personal stories because I learn new ways to approach events in my own life, and find a broader community of faith.”

Building this community of faith is a central part of Segullah's purpose — and its reach can extend beyond the borders of LDS membership to those of other faiths. Siobhan Davis, a Roman Catholic reader, commented: “Regardless of religious denomination, women share the same struggles of every day life. Keeping our faith in God, keeping in mind the love Jesus Christ has for us, and participating in our Christian communities, we are able to successfully face life's challenges and find peace and joy within our own sacred lives.  Not only did the articles remind me that in our hearts all Christian women are alike, but they also opened my eyes to how seriously LDS women take their responsibilities as Christian women.”  

Segullah’s online presence greatly increases the potential for women worldwide to discover the journal and thus become acquainted with the faithful LDS perspectives featured within. As Angela explained, "There is a great deal of misinformation about our faith on the Internet, and that is also the first place many people who are curious about Mormons look. I love that we have a website where my nonmember friends can read the real life thoughts and stories of faithful Mormon women."

Moving Forward

Segullah’s Fall 2005 issue, Corridors of Change: Exploring Times of Transition and Upheaval, was published in November. Kathy stated, “We’re excited to present this issue, which reveals the challenge and complexity of change, as well as the power of faith to help us through the expected and unexpected passages of life.”  The complete fall issue, including a free .pdf download, will is online at http://www.segullah.org/. Printed issues will also be available for purchase. “Segullah is a literary yet practical journal that people will want to save and turn to again and again,” Kylie explained. “While some may peruse an article of interest online, many will want a permanent copy, especially as we focus thematically on certain areas.”

Submissions are now being accepted for the Spring 2006 issue, Women Proclaiming the Gospel: Highlighting Efforts in Missions, Homes, and Classrooms. The editors look forward to receiving works that reveal the wide spectrum of women's involvement with gospel teaching. “We teach in so many ways and situations: through words and works; as parents, friends and neighbors; in church callings and in full- or part-time missionary service,” Kathy explained. “We invite women from all stages of life to think and write about the significance of such experiences.”

Cherry Silver sees all the makings of a bright future for this publication. “Segullah’s staff have raised a standard for excellence and are operating with a lot of savvy,” she said. “They have developed an inviting, usable website. They offer a reasonable publication schedule. They understand the constraints of time for their prospective writers and of finances for their prospective readers. Most importantly, they are developing a readership attuned to entertaining, challenging, and faithful material. It is a product I gladly recommend to my friends to read and contribute to.”

As Segullah's pool of readers and contributors expands, the staff expects the journal to more fully represent the variety of personalities, backgrounds, and experiences found among LDS women. Segullah can bring, Boyd Petersen reflected, “a world-wide perspective for a world religion.” Such a publication fulfills what Kylie described as “a culturally important work” that may impact future generations. “We are recording a tiny bit of history,” she explained.

Surely, as Segullah fulfills its mission and expands its reach over time, this “peculiar treasure” will continue to be a source of goodness for all who participate. Kathy summarized, “With its dual focus on creativity and spirituality, we believe this journal can, in its own small way, help build the kingdom.”