Since the publication of her 2004 book, Ann's husband Will died of kidney cancer. I understand she's become an inspirational speaker.

i love ann's writing as well. i am sorry to hear of the loss of her husband. i'm sorry to see that she has virtually disappeared from the christian book scene. having confessed problems with prescription drug addiction i'm praying she is doing well. having written to her as a young teen i have always loved the fact that she wrote me back twice to encourage me... i would hope she would reach out to her readers (through a website?) to know how much she is missed and loved.

I, too, was a huge fan of Ann's back in the late 70's and early 80's! It took many, many years for me to come to it, but I finally became one of those people who "sing little songs" to people - something she did and shared in her books that I found so frighteningly and wonderfully intriguing about her and the way she shared Jesus. What an influence she had on me...

Yes--I was a big fan too and thought of her this morning. I came across this website which is Ann speaking at a Women's retreat. She shares her recent story with the same authenticity I loved in her so long ago. She's gone through some tough times and is still loving Jesus with her whole heart.

I too have wondered, whatever happened to Ann Kiemel. I loved reading her books and like her, I had a hard time conceiving a child. Her books encouraged me through our hard time. A month after adopting our first child, Ann spoke at a nearby church. Meeting her and having her pray for my husband, myself and our little girl was a real blessing.

She was the same Ann in real life as she was in her books.

I am sure no other author impacted my confidence in Jesus as she-in the pages of her books. In fact I will be using a quote of hers tomorrow where I am a guest speaker at a professional womens conference. I would like to know how to connect with her?

I too send my sympathy as I am learning of her husband. I am sure she rejoices in knowing he is where he belongs-the awesome destiny for all God's children-at home with the Father. I also want to encourage her to find her voice again.

Anne had a powerful impact on me when I discovered her books for the first time in my mid 20's. I read at least 8 of her books.

Guess what? She will be a panelist on Focus on the Family on June 11, 2007.

http://listen.family.org/daily/A000000488.cfm

If you miss the live 2-day broadcast, you can listen to it online at http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/Focus_on_the_Family

Have a great week.

Howard

----

The broadcast info follows.

Thriving in a Single-Parent Family

The goal of today's broadcast, says Dr. Dobson, is to put an arm around single parents, letting them know that Focus on the Family is here to help. If you or someone you know is a single parent, you won't want to miss this program filled with advice and encouragement. Tune in as psychologist and bestselling author Kevin Leman offers practical help from his book Single Parenting That Works: Six Keys to Raising Happy, Healthy Children in Single-Parent Homes. Joining the conversation are single parents Ann Kiemel, a popular speaker and author, and Scott Welch, a producer for the Focus on the Family broadcast.

"[God] put a new song in my heart and put me on a strong place to stand, and that's where I've been ever since [becoming a single parent]."

- Scott Welch

I would add myself those above who expressed their appreciation for Ann. I was so blessed and encouraged to hear Ann speak years ago in Seattle, moved and motivated by her inspiration regarding how each of us needs to simply do what we can for the Lord. Through previous attempts to find out about Ann over the years, I have sympathized with the struggles she has gone through in her life; struggles many in America can relate to. As evident from the comments of others, the words she spoke some 30 years ago remain with many of us, and continue to be a source of encouragement.

I personally feel America desperately needs to hear such a message again today more than ever. I ask those here to join me in attempting to contact Ann to flood her with encouragment and requests to once again get her message out.

Does anyone know of a way to contact Ann, simply to express our mutual encouragement to her? I have found a few websites that have information about her, but so far have had no success finding her website or a way we might attempt to send a word of encouragement.

In Him,

john

John--

Thanks for your comments. You mentioned that "America desperately lneeds to hear such a message again." The thing is, to me, Ann's message was her lifestyle, and that was the magic of her books--it wasn't preaching about what we need to do, but stories of a person actually doing it. Not admonitions to go change our world, but glimpses of a person actually changing her world.

I suspect that the Ann of today is a different person--a good person with good stuff to say, but not the one who captivated me two decades ago. And I shouldn't expect her to be that person.

Steve

Thanks for your comments Steve. I agree with you that the Anne Kiemel of today is probably not the same person she was two; actually three, decades, ago. That is exactly why I'd like to hear from her today. As I mentioned in my previous post, I am aware of some of the difficulties Ann has gone through; difficuites many in our culture share. I would love to hear how those experiences have tempered her view of life and faith. I suspect, from what little I've read and heard from her recently, she remains a strong voice of one who has overcome adversity and still maintains a joyful attitude of faith; perhaps deeper, matured and tested. Because I believe in the validity of what she stood, and, as you pointed out, lived for 30 years ago, I hope her life today would validate the truth and purity of the words she spoke so long ago. Perhaps that's naive or overly optimistic of me, but that optimism within me is what always resonated with Ann.

In Him,

john

Thanks for all the special comments about Ann Kiemel. I have thought about her many times through the years and prayed for her. I have also wondered whatever happened to her.

I was listening to Focus on the Family last week and was surprised and thrilled to hear her voice and her heart once again. She has gone through the fire in the last few years but I could sense her wonderful faith in the Lord. I wrote Focus on Family and asked about a website and they said they could not give me one but would pass on my email to her. I do hope that she will respond so I can thank her for her ministry in my life and encourage her to write again.

I had the privilege of hearing her speak several times and each time she was so very real and caring with each person. In the summer of 1983, I heard her speak at Camp Tadmor in Oregon. I had just found out my 16-year old daughter was pregnant so I was hurting much. I passed a note to someone to give to Ann and she responded to me with encouraging words in a postcard and corresponded with me for several years after that. I have kept each card. Her book on Open Adoption was very special as my 2nd daughter was pregnant at 19 and chose to give her baby up and chose open adoption.

I too would love to have Ann write again of the journey she has been on with the Lord and how He has sustained her. I would hope that she will somehow come across this website and be encouraged by all the love shared about her. I am sure it would bring her to tears of joy.

As I was writing this, I checked to see if I could find the cards Ann had written and the Lord let me find them right away! As I have read through them, they brought tears to my eyes with lot of memories. I had written to Ann when my daughter was on drugs and alcohol. Ann responded with "my prayers are with you and your daughter. i care. i love you both. i know Jesus does. i'd love to drop * a note. would you encourage her to write me? i'd feel so much better to be able to respond to her...to what she writes. but know that i stand beside you. each morning as you wake seek Him before anything else...give Him the day with all its fear and dreams. as you do this, day by day, He will begin to work out the questions. it won't always be easy, but Jesus will be with you. there will be a sunrise. i love you. i care about you. i believe Jesus and love and you can do anything! never give up."

Ann's notes during times of crisis and uncertainty really encouraged me and kept me going with the Lord many times.

Thanks again for sharing about Ann and how much she has meant to each of you.

For His Glory,

donna :-) Prov. 3:5-6

I am a 47 year old, CHRISTIAN married, mother of two adopted sons. I am a recovering alcoholic. As a young teen, I went to Garden Grove, CA to hear Ann speak. I remember her brother Fred was there. She then came to our smaller church and stayed in the home of some family friends. She was living in Boston at the time and I was in awe of her approachability. Even through her accomplishments, her message was genuine and from God. I had her books and have thought back often about "loving someone to Jesus."

I am currently living through the most agonizing time of my life (even in the pits of alcoholism, this seems worse). Today, I prayed God would show me something, tell me what I needed to hear. I came across the recordings from May, 2004 at a women's conference. The first two sessions, were my story. I am listening to the third session now. The lighter story (house fire) helped me realize God is in charge, I need to look to Him.

My younger (14) year old son has been accused of molesting a young neighbor boy. Our son is not a perfect child, but after gathering the facts, we believe he is innocent. It has been nearly a year and he cannot live at home. He has not had a trial and we don't know how this will turn out. My husband has to live in an apartment away from home with him. Financially, this has been a huge burden (legal, medical, living expenses). Our older son is affected. I just needed to say, today... God gave me this gift.

I see that Ann (who I encountered as a girl) is trusting God through everything. I never would have imagined she might have lived the same experiences in her own life. I have gained some relief today and insight. I will continue to pray for this kind of intervention in my heart.

I would love to know how to contact Ann. I attend a large church in a very wonderful community. We could really benefit as hurting Christians by hearing from Ann. Thank you and God Bless, Janine

In searching for a website where one might contact Ann, I ran across Ann listed on a website that appears to represent various Christian performing artists and speakers: thinkbigusa.com. If this site does in fact represent Ann, perhaps one might be able to send a word of encouragement to Ann through them.

In Him,

john

my niece said she found some beautiful, encouraging messages online about me. and i have just read them, in awe and humility of the love and support. i thank all of you. yes, i married. i have four children (my last has just graduated high school. my husband died and our oldest was l5,with 3 younger. i decided that it would be a real mistake to try and help touch the world for Jesus, and not be present for my children. BUT, i am loving my neighborhood EVERY day. i wish i had time to tell all of you about all of those around me.

now, i am praying that God will allow me to possibly write and speak again since my youngest is now graduated (i have the sweetest boys! they are EVERYTHING to me!).

please, never forget that life is NOT about me, but ALL about Jesus. my books are simple, as my message still today. they have only touched your lives because Jesus put His hand on me. He did it all. He is my Star. my Joy. my morning sky and my afternoon Promise. and i am SO PROUD to speak the name of Jesus wherever i am.

with much love to all of you! ann

On New Years Day, 1991, I heard Ann on Focus on the Family, and her testimony/story inspired me to return to the Lord with all my heart. I've been walking with the Lord for the past 16 years, and I have never turned back. All because Ann was faithful to what God called her to do. I, too, wrote to her at one point and she wrote back and I treasured it. I, too, sing little songs to people--whenever the Lord inspires me to do so. I often remember Ann's words from tnat original talk I heard from her, "with a dream in your heart, and a giant God, and love, you can change your world. Never, never, never give up." Those words come to me so often. I caught the June "Focus" broadcast, but came in in the middle of it and upon hearing her voice, was sure that it was her, and at the end of the broadcast, learned that it was indeed her. I have wondered so many times over the years where and how she was. I will look her up when we all get to heaven and have her over to my mansion for coffee!!! May God bless her, because He used her to permanently impact my life!

I found an Ann Kiemel bookmark in an old Bible and it made me wonder what had become of her. I did a search and found this site, reading everyone's comments. We all sound so similar in our remembrances of her ministry. I found the following site which has her messages from a conference several years ago. I have listened to the first two and they tell much of what happened in the last fifteen years. You might like to listen, too.

I went to college with Ann and she was such an inspiration to me even then. In hers and my travels, I heard her speak in NY, FL and CA. I was thrilled to read her update and anxious for her to re-enter the scene. I read her books over and over and over and over --- Love you, Ann.

This past weekend, while repainting our living room, I went through all the books in the bookcase to determine which ones to keep and which to pass on. I came across my copy of "i love the word impossible" which Ann signed for me while speaking at the church where I grew up, First Baptist Church of Temple City (California.) I recalled how Ann inspired me, a young, impressionable junior high student, and how awed I was by the fact that "church speaker and leader" would spend time talking with me. Thirty years has gone by so quickly and I was curious about Ann. I see from this site that she has had her share of challenges. I hope to see her back on the speaking circuit again, taking what God has shown her in her life and through her, continuing to touch people's lives for Him. I am certain she can illustrate how time and experience reveal an even more powerful God to a world that needs Him more desperately than ever. Take care, Ann. Hope to see you someday soon!-P.S. By the way, your book is one that stayed in the bookcase! :-)

I just read "Seduced by Success" in record time. I had purchased the book back in June, but through a series of mishaps I opened the book Tuesday night and had finished it by Wednesday at noon. I do pray that Ann is well (her 4 boys and Jan and Fred). I wonder if she is still living in Central Calif. I happened back to this site to read the comments and was VERY touched to read a response from Ann. She continues to bless my heart. I look forward to more books, and speaking engagements. I would love for her to visit our church. Interestingly, the most recent post was from someone who attended the same church I did. It was the same time I remember Ann (Temple City). I am sure our families probably knew each other. I would like to say Hi to Susan (do you remember the Bolton's?) I was older at the time, but it was fun to see her note! God Bless... looking forward to hearing from Ann.

I have to add to these incredible words you all have shared about Ann Kiemel. I, too, was impacted greatly by Ann's books as a young teen in the late 70's/early 80's. Her simple, sure faith, and ability to look eagerly for ways to show the love of Jesus, made me believe that, no matter how simple or troubled my life was, I could make a difference with God's help. A year or so ago I rediscovered Ann's books, and was blessed anew by her sparkling faith ("like silver softly shining").

I am saddened but not surprised that Satan attacked this wonderful woman of God through the struggles she has encountered in the last several years. I pray that God will again lift up her head, and use her as a channel of ministry to give hope to the many of us who have failed colossally, but long to be restored and renewed by the Lord.

Ann, if you read this, thank you so much for giving hope to an often hopeless teenage girl, and for inspiring anew a woman who has walked through much failure, yet lived to see God, amazingly, use her again.

In Christ alone,

Mary Anne

I heard Ann back at college in 1976.She was our special speaker at Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester New York. I remember how different she was from other speakers. She was a true inspiration to me. Sorry to hear of her loss. God bless you Ann! We love you and miss you. Virginia

Dear Ann,

I also read your books back in the 70's and benefitted greatly from your sharing of the faith! I now share your books with women in our local county jail. I have been reading a chapter each week to the women from "Yes". They truly resonate with what you write. And what you share opens up their hearts to talk about their faith and lack thereof. I understand that you have been through tough times. We would all love to hear from you again, perhaps in a new book. God bless you and strengthen you as a parent and as a person. God uses the tough times to refine us, as you know. I have been there!

Trudy Schmalz

I was a flight attendant in the '80's and lived in Boston. I met Ann through a friend. I had several meals with her, played a little raquetball and shared several cabs with her. I can honestly say she sang to the cab driver and told him she loved him and God loved him. It blew me away! I have not met anyone like her since.

I've checked the web for years to see if I could find out what happened to Ann. Her early books inspired me but Seduced by Success was life-changing. Thank you, Ann.

Cathy

I was just looking for her online today and came across this site. I recently picked up her book "I Gave God Time" because I will be getting married in a few weeks. It has made me cry a bit because I'm not marrying a Christian man (I know, I know . . . ). I love the man I'm marrying.

I didn't realize that her husband had died. That makes me so sad. I work in a bookstore and was looking on our computer system for any recent books she had written and found that her most recent book is self-published. I was surprised by that and wanted to see if anything else came up on, say, Amazon.com.

Anyway, it was nice to come across this site.

Pam

I am brazilian, I find out a book 'YES" in the library and I loved it. I would like to know, Who is Ann Kiemel? I don't find out neither site about her. I find out that site and I know some informations. I also want to know how do to acquire other her books. Do you can me help? Thanks!!!

I heard Ann speak at a Florida open-air festival in 1979. I was so touched by her authenticity and passion for Jesus that I raised money to have her speak at my Florida college. It was a tough crowd but she shared the Gospel and greatly encouraged several of my classmates. She gave me a beautiful diamond and saphire ring she'd gotten in Israel. For 30+ years it has reminded me of the dreams God planted in my heart through Ann. I echo what she said to me...Always, always Alleluia. Ann, I love you back. Mary

I came across Ann Kiemels book in 1992 here in Nigeria. I read the book titled It is incredible! Since then i fell in love with such a wonderful woman that God has blessed this generation with. I gave the same copy of that old book to my daughter to read. I therefore decided to search for her on the net and i discovered all that she has gone through.

Well i believe that the divine strength in her will make her bounce back. Please Ann, my daughter also wants to draw strength from you just as I did.

I remember reading Ann's book "this is a story about God" back in 2000 when my husband was in remission from brain cancer. (He later passed away in 2001 at 38 years of age).

There were two paragraphs that had a profound impact on us. The first was "...like ships passing in the night, we are all placed, divinely, like chess pieces on a world-sized board in hosptitals,..." It was comforting for us to know that God had a plan for our lives even though we didn't know what was ahead. The second paragraph was " God allows towering obstacles to be tossed across our paths so His integrity and strength and miraculous wonders can shine...God brings us to the end of all our human resources so He can quietly take over and cast out the mediocrity and deceptiveness in our thinking."

I am thankful that Ann (from her posting) has had strength from her faith in the Lord even through such tough times and struggles that she has faced. Life is hard, but God is good. Thank you Ann, for your books, you heart for the Lord is inspiring. My husband sent you his testimony through your publishing company ( his name was Paul Stel). I wonder if you ever got it. He wanted to thank you for your inspiring words that helped us.

I, too, devoured Ann's writings while in my 20's. Now in my 40's and the mother of 6 I would love to hear from her again. Tina

I think by speaking on this site, I may in fact be the first person under 25 to do so! Which would make sense since most of Ann's books were we written before I was born (1986..I know..I know)

Well its so amazing to see that Ann was actually on this site, and one day before my birthday during the same summer that I discovered her! Her books and writings REALLY have changed my life.

To answer the question of where to find her stuff, you have to order it from used book stores online, thats the only way! I discovered Ann by picking up one of her books (It's Incredible) in a thrift store. All the audio links from this site, I cannot get to work (I'm young but EVEN young people have trouble with the internet) Oh well...

Ann,

I hope that you continue to read these posts because I have wanted to send my encouragement to you multiple times in the course of my 27 years of being a Christian. I continue to purchase and give your books to others, knowing that the pure reflection of our Lord that you provide will be as inspirational to them as it has been for me. I hope some day our paths meet in person so that I can thank you face-to-face. I have raised my children on the simple message of Jesus that you are able to communicate - thank you. Though your tesimonies are "incredible," it is the relationship with Jesus that they reflect that I am most enamoured by. God bless you, as you have so many! Thank you again. If you ever are in the Oklahoma area, please contact cfamily07@cox.net

Ann,

If you read this, I want you to know that I am writing in reference to my daughter, who is named after you! At a conference, you actually autographed "God's Little Dreamer" for me to give to her when she grew up, and it is now one of her favorite books. Because you autographed it, she says you wrote it just for her!

We adopted our daughter when she was 6 months old, because God inspired me through your adoption stories! She is now 9 years old and quickly tells others that she is named after you. As she grows up, I will give her all your books to read. Already she has a deep love for Jesus, and I know your books will inspire her like they have so greatly inspired me. And by the way, I have sung "God loves you, and I love you..." to all of my children their whole lives!

Hi Ann. I don’t know if you ever read this, but I would love to hear from you. I was your oldest child’s first grade teacher who has never forgotten you and your family. I have remarried (16 this Valentines Day) and have two children with Bob…Christian (15) and Molly MacKenzie (13). She goes by “Kenzie.”

You don’t know how many times I have prayed for you over the years and wanted to just see you and have a cup of tea with you and pray and visit…to share our lives. Well…I miss you.

How are those boys (young men) doing? If you can believe this, our family just got a computer six months ago. I have been homeschooling for 6 years but now they are back in private school. I have had serious health problems, but will be subbing at the Christian school next year. I do the Moms-in-Touch group…great ministry to be involved in.

Take good care of yourself, and if you read this, tell Taylor hello for me. And I would love to hear from you. God’s timing is always perfect!!

Your sis in Christ,

Jodi Montoya

Dear Ann,

I have been a fan of yours since the early 80's, having discovered your books in a Christian bookstore. You have been an inspiration to me for many, many years, a fellow Christian who has had her share of ups and downs. God Bless You!

Susan Dodson

Ann, You don't remember me...I helped you get on a plane in the Seattle airport! It was 1979,you had been one of the Speakers at "Jesus Northwest"! My Pastor then, took you to the ariport. I was working in the Calvery Dinning room, there at the airport, at the time! I helped carry your luggage to the plane. You were in a hurry, but still took the time to hug me and bless me with love for Jesus!

I too, am a out going Christian who loves to share all my testimonies of what He has done in my life in good times and not so good, but still giving Him the glory! I am still out to change my world for the Lord! Married for 27 years and 5 children and now a grandparent to a darlling baby girl name Emma (my daughter-in-law was adopted too)!

I can see the Lord has been faithful to you the years we did not know where you were!!! I thank God for you everytime I think of you! If your ever in Alaska...please stay with us!

Love, Deborah Maxwell

P.S. Before moving to Alaska 03 our victory home sold to adoption ministry,named "Kingdom Kids" in Spokane..I am saying this cause I knew your children were adopted also and you lived close to Spokane!

Wow. There were a lot of us, huh? I, too, was SO deeply impacted by Ann's life. I must have been in 6th grade when our small church "bookstore" (collection - about 20 books) sold an Ann Kiemel book. I devoured it. I read everything of Ann's I could get my hands on. She was so real and so full of Jesus.

I remember when she came to Anchorage in 1985 (I think it was). I, along with every other person in the packed auditorium, was speechless and you really could have heard a pin drop. We all just ate up such an authentic, transparent story of how Jesus would use someone who availed themselves to Him. I think it was so encouraging because it was everyday interactions Ann shared.

I remember crying out to the Lord in the middle of my college years and saying: "God, I want to have the kind of relationship with you that Ann has, but I don't know how to get it." Let me assure you, He was so faithful to lead me to Himself. I often look back at that prayer and marvel at how He took it seriously and He's answered (and answering!) it. Ann stirred in me a holy passion for Jesus.

Ann, if you ever come back on this site, Thank You. I would love for you to start a blog....

For some reason I thought of Ann Kiemel today, as I also read her books & tried to keep up with her life. In fact, when I worked in the accounting dept. of a large hospital, everyone I worked with read one of her books I was reading at the time. They all liked it. Thanks for all the info about her.

I happened on this website today while at work (a misspelling of a word). I read everyone's comments and it brought back such memories from my youth.

In the early 70's Ann was my youth director at a church in Long Beach. I had grown up in the church and had dedicated my life to the Lord at age 8. But it wasn't until Ann came that I experienced the excitement of having a relationship with the Lord Jesus. Her simple stories of her experiences really impacted my life.

A friend and I started a neighborhood Bible study and she came every week to my home to lead it. We experienced great faith-building in those years which has lasted me a lifetime. I now work with teens at Community Bible Study and love it. I often think of Ann's style of just loving and sharing Jesus so simply. Ann, I love you dearly and thank you for the impact you made on my life! God is so good!

Dearest Ann,

I just reread my copy of "I Gave God Time" you signed right before I ran Boston '84. My wife of 13yrs died 3/27/02 so for 6+yrs I've been raising Josh & Joey as a "MAD" (a single dad who's also forced into trying to be mom). They were 7 & 4.

My 2nd book is set for release on 5/5/08 but it's been available for 2 wks now from PublishAmerica.com. It's title is "A Runner's Journal: To Boston & Beyond", includes 3 yrs of my almost daily entries '81-'84, plus 1 yr of entries leading up to my run of the aborted Chicago Marathon last Oct.

My 1st book "One Thing: Simple Poems for a Complex World" is at that website, too.

Please contact me soon! I love you as a brother in Jesus and will pray He encourage you as He has me.

Will Hostetler

I am very excited to find this site, as I have wondered for many years what happened to Ann Kiemel. I love her books. The principles have challenged me every day of my life since I found them as a teenager in NZ. I love her life. I want to change my world every day in the simple ways she spoke about....the people we meet... the life of Jesus we share with them.

Be encouraged dear Ann. Your life and words have really made a difference to thousands. Thank you for being so honest with us. I feel we know you. I wish your books could be re-published for our children and granchildren. Visit us down in Australia. Keep writing and speaking.

Marion Liao

just reread "i'm running to win", ann's book re: marathon training & the race of life. once again stirred my heart in an amazing way. had to read it again in prep for the boston marathon in 13 days!

Dearest Ann....and all others!

I became author and speaker in the early 80's...largely due to the influence of Ann Kiemel. However, when God did not bring a mate... as he did for ann (she was just a few years older)....I felt jealous and envious of Ann.....I was temporarily questioning god.

However.....the Lord Jesus clearly had a dream for me! A dream I never ordered, dreamed of...or expected. One I (thought) I did not want.

In my 40's I became a registered nurse and became a humanitarian relief nurse around the world (including Mother Theresa's hospital in India).....further I became a hospice nurse.

I continue to write! And speak. And now sing! I am currently writing songs and singing.

I did not marry but I have the privilege of nurturing, mentoring and encouraging many, many people--the next generation--

What a thrill. What fulfillment...

Of a dream.

My message? My song? He is a God who can be trusted...a God who will give you dreams you would never dream.

I would love to hear from you all...including Ann.

Warmest love,

Kaaren Witte, RN

Author/journalist

Kaarenwitte@aol.com

Ann

You and I wrote back in my college days too. and then when we worked with youth...remember the t-shirt I sent to you inspired by your work that we had made for all our youth group... I flew to hear you once in Charlotte nc just before I married in 1994. Now my daughters (red-haired girls in a set of tripletts) are reading your books. I, too, have become a speaker and we share much in common, I think. I have sung to many people and found this site tonight again and am reminded of those happy days of your influence. I am so sorry about will and share the thoughts of others on this site that we would love to know how you are doing. My website is www.hisimageministries.org where you can see our family...6 children...I think of Will every time I eat stove top stuffing. I miss him too even though we never met...I am in the midst of mothering and try to do as little as possible outside that...want to be there for the children...I really would love to connect with you again, Ann. Just to encourage you....especially in the area of suffering...Do many one-woman shows on the lives of my heroines of the faith and having studied Amy Carmichael to present that one. I commend her work to you wholeheartedly...love to you anne and I pray you get this and we can reconnect.

I sincerely appreciate you and would love so much to see you again somehow...

shelley hendry

bedford va

This is for Ann and each of you others who have known and continue to love her. Ann, you ministered to me after the death of my husband and before you lost yours. My son, Nathan, sat with two of your sons when you spoke at a women's conference just weeks before Will passed away. Nathan will be graduating from Point Loma Nazarene University next week and then on to UC San Francisco school of medicine in the fall--single parents can know some very special victories.

I am finishing my first year in the master's of library and information science online program at San Jose State University and am the librarian at California Christian College in Fresno, CA. Your simple messages of Jesus and honest sharing of your struggles inspired me and countless others to "tell the truth" of our experiences.

I would love to hear from you and share again. May God be very real to you in continuing days of uncertainty.

Nan Singh

nanhillsingh@yahoo.com

Oh thank you for preparing this site.

"I just want to share a song with you."

And here is my song for all of you.

How those books and tapes spoke to me. They helped get me through some tough times when I was ready to give up on the church.

"Let me share Jesus with you."

That got me through a seminary program. And reaffirmed my belief that people (other than the frozen chosen really did want to find God and have a relationship with God.

In fact I was searching today (Wednesday) in sermon prep for a bit of her writing from a tape I remembered; as I want to deliver this sermon with a start "Ala Ann" about people and what healing of relationships they need. The first with God and then with others around them.

Thank You Ann!, for your writings and their influence upon me and countless others.

Dear friends of Ann Kiemel,

I am so grateful for this web sight!

I too was SO TOUCHED BY Ann's writings as a teen that recently while in CA I looked her up and went to lunch and told her how much she impacted my life as a young girl. IT WAS AMAZING TO FINALLY MEET HER! She is a widow now and raising her four college age boys.

I recently found out that while on vacation, someone broke into her home and took everything!!!

Would anyone want to bless her by helping financially? I keep up with her and we have become dear friends.

PLEASE HELP ME BLESS HER BY GIVING BACK AND ENCOURAGEING HER!

IT WOULD BLESS HER SOCKS OFF!!!

pLEASE SEND THIS TO EVERY ONE YOU KNOW!!!!

If you would like ANN'S E MAIL OR MAILING ADDRESS, PLEASE E MAIL ME .I WILL GIVE IT TO YOU.

PLEASE HELP ME GIVE BACK TO HER AS SHE HAS GIVEN TO US!!!

LOVE TO YOU ALL,

BLAIR Collins

Richmond Va

Dear precious friends,

I, too, have stayed in contact with Ann over the years since I was in my late teens/early 20s. I do write her but do not have an email addy. I was just writing her when I checked back to this site..I will be glad to help her out.

Thanks Blair for letting us know about what happened to her. This is a way the body of Christ can come together and help our sister. I don't see a way to email you back, Blair, to get the email addy. It's okay if I don't get it as I just will snail mail her as usual. :)

I still love the art of writing an actual letter for the mail box. Ann found a home for a friend of mine's baby many years ago...For that, I'm forever grateful as he's turned into such a wonderful young man and has had quite a wonderful life. Ann was so loving to my friend after she gave her baby up and we all met in Orlando and Ann ministered to my friend in a way only she can do. Ann has touched so many lives, including mine. Wouldn't it be fun to get her to a conference for all of us again to hear her and even her sister Jan, who is also so precious.

Those of us who experienced Ann from the beginning - what wonderful memories we have. It was a special time, a different time, and she was such a breath of fresh air in my life and others. So precious to see the next generation coming along and falling in love with her books and Ann all over again. The timeless message of Jesus Christ and what one person can do in their neighborhood. I treasure the memories and all we were taught.

God bless you all.

Blair's email is:

blairlcollins@aol.com

Blair's email is:

blairlcollins@aol.com

blair sent me the info. on this site. i am so humbled to read all

your loving, amazing words. i am

so glad you saw Jesus. and that you have shared Him with the world.

today, i still believe utterly in

sharing Jesus with my neighborhood.

i speak the name of Jesus every day

to someone. yes! i have built a

bond with the lady next door. everyone at my grocery store. the

bank. i haven't told most here

that i am a writer. they know me as

a single mother of four, very nice

sons... and, every day, i look for

ways to love people to Jesus. to

love them. to speak His name. no

one...who passes my way..do i just

ignore. a warm smile. a touch on

the arm. i had my blood drawn,and

a little, hispanic boy with a beau-

tiful young mother was in the room

next to me, sobbing.."no, mommy!!"

as i started to walk out the door,

i unzipped my purse, and saw a $5,

and went back to this tear-stained

face, and put it in his hand, and

told him he was very brave. "thank

you." i was so happy i thought to

do that. an ordinary friday in an

ordinary city on a hard day. i was

trying to be Jesus. it is not hard.

God gives me every idea. every natural response. my children's

friends. i stepped away from the

public arena because my husband

was so ill (died 7 yrs. ago), and my children were so vulnerable and

i didn't want to not give them everythiing i could to prepare them

for life. i pray all of you will

not forget HOW MUCH the world needs

Jesus. it is NOT complicated. it is not preachy. it is seeing everyone around us with the eyes of

God. i love all of you. maybe, now

that my youngest has become a fire-fighter for the air force, and all

of my children are on their way (snd they are THE WORLD to me!), i

will write again. i became addicted to pain pills because i think i was unraveling in trying to

be perfect enough and good enough. it has become a gift. 12yrs. of recovery. when God healed my core, it was never again

about me...but all about HIM. i still run...sometimes 12-14 miles..

when one of my children calls with no money...or another who feels so

alone..because it helps me work through all my anxiety. with so much love, ann kiemel anderson

With Ann's permission, here is her contact info.

Ann Kiemel Anderson
2429 E. Orangeburg
Modesto CA.95355

Ann's e mail...
Annkiemel@yahoo.com

read most of her books, wish her well

What an answer to prayer! For so many years I've often wondered about Ann, and wish I could get in touch with her. I have been led by the Precious Holy Spirit back to her books so often when I find myself in turmoil....especially when battling with unforgiveness.

Her love for JESUS reminds me that I am truly NOTHING without HIM. She reminds me that though I go through the fire, I do not have to be consumed by it, but rather, I can allow myself to be purified by it to be a usable vessel for my LORD. May HE satisfy you with long life. Much Love,

Nesta

I am so amazed as I had not thought of Ann in years until tonght when I was taking a bath and I suddenly remembered what an inspiration she and her writinig was to me. I am sure I ditched her books while cleaning and I now wonder if they are still in print. I need them.

Diane

Going through my boxes of "TREASURES", I ran across a wonderful book by Ann that she had given to me when we both spoke at an adoption fundraiser in Orlando, for Shepherd Care Ministries.

Little did I know how much our lives would parallel. We also adopted 2 children, and God blessed us with 2 biological children. My beloved husband also passed away last year from cancer, and I too have 3 still at home.

I have always been in love with Jesus since the first time I heard how much He loved me. He truly has

carried and sustained me and I know he has a plan for me, just as he does for our friend and fellow sojourner, Ann. Thank you Lord for bringing my dear sister to mind today, may you bless her beyond measure, just as she has blessed me.

When I was in high school in the late 70's I accepted Christ. One of the things that influenced me the most as a young Christian was Ann's books. It really showed me it was all about God's love, not how good I was as a person.

As I matured, her books did too. More layers of who Ann is reached more layers of me. She opened herself to millions, so how could I not open myself up to God? I still work at being open and honest with Him. I've found it's more of a lifestyle than an event.

Ann, You and your family have always been in my prayers. God has special plans for you every day, I can hardly wait to see what comes next.

In the 1970's and serving God in Germany with Youth with a Mission and the Ameriican Military, I read Ann's book "I'm out to change my world." It spoke to me so much I went on to buy "I love the world impossible" and '"Its Incredible" and treasured these books. They gave me the desire to more like Ann, more like Jesus, in a way I could related to.

I'm now retired and live in a restirement home and have started to look through my many books, and here I found my 'treasures' and excited to be able to re-read the way God moved in her life. She has always had a special place in my heart all these years.

Blessings.Barry

I have been searching for Ann's speaking schedule and found your post. I miss hearing her and reading her books. I am a single mom raising my son and would love to have her write about her experiences raising her boys after her husband died.

I wish her the best and hope to hear from her soon!

Hi, I am from a small country in Eastern Europe. I have got married half year ago when I was 36. I am an independent woman by my nature and it was very difficult for me to accept any limitations. I thought often, that my marriage is a big mistake. I love my husband very much but it is so difficult to accept him.

Then I got Ann Kiemel’s book "I Gave God Time." I discovered our feelings are alike in some ways. I am sure, God gave this book to encourage me. Now I have ordered some other Ann’s books, and looking forward to get them.

I wish to Ann a lot of gladness, courage and God’s wisdoms to encourage other people all over the world. Thank you.

a friend found 'first love' and i have read this.... years ago in 1977 i was given "I'm out to change my world" after the birth of my first child.. i read all her books after that and loved them. i have picked up the books every now and then over the years... such good reminders to be Jesus to all we meet as we go thru life.... thank you Ann for writing !!! I feel blessed to have the connection again...

Twenty years ago I was a new Christian and had just broken up with my boyfriend because he did not share my faith in Jesus. I bought Ann's book, "I Gave God Time" and devoured it and all of Ann's other books. Her books gave me inspiration to begin to truly live for Christ and to desire only His will and plan for me. I determined I would wait for God's choice of a husband even if it meant none. I can never thank her enough.

Ten years later I was priviledged to serve the Lord overseas as a missionary for a couple years. My 1st year I was so lonely I decided I needed a husband and struggled with singleness for many years after this. This robbed me of much joy in the last 10 years. Though I had much angst, I never took the choice back from God...until this past Autumn when I began to rebel and take back what I had once given to the Lord.

At New Years I met a good Christian man, we became engaged in the summer, and for the past month I have been plagued with doubts if this man is God's choice for me or my will. I have taken a retreat weekend this Labor Day and God has revealed much and brought me to much repentance. Please pray for me and my fiance' if you are reading this. I really do just want to serve Jesus, His way in His will, like I did in my 20's after reading Ann's books.

I am blessed to find this site and so many people who love Ann and her message of loving God and loving others at the end of my weekend seeking God. God has brought so many of us through our broken lives. Ann, and all of you, are still such and encouragement to me.

i read one of her book, i'm running to win. i borrowed it from a friend.

very inspiring!!!!!!!!!

im looking for a copy of that book, too.

****

i want to know more about her...

how can i hve a copy or list of her other books? hope i could look for one and i could get the chance to buy from a bookstore here in the Philippines.

You can go to Amazon.com and just type in Ann's name in the book section (Ann Kiemel Anderson and so many of her books will come up. I'm Running to Win is in there.

She's so incredible and she will always point you to Jesus.

God bless.

I was given ann's book Im out to change my world two years ago by my youth pastor. i have read it over and over and over.

I am living in my sorority house this year and it is so overwhelming and intimidating to look around and see my sisters who are lost and broken and who need Jesus so much. It is so good to be encouraged by stories that share how the gospel - God's love story - has gone forth and changed people's lives! thank you, ann, for your encouragement. praise God that He works in such big and crazy ways!

(pamela - i am praying for you).

Wow, I got tired of reading all of these comments after a while--we love ANN!!!! :)

I too googled "Ann Kiemel Anderson" in hopes of getting her contact information and finding an address to write to her.

She has impacted and blessed my life SOO so much. I wondered if Ann ever shaved her head? I know that's a weird question to ask but does anyone know?? I think I saw a picture of her on one of her book covers with short hair--....?

I just read 'I love the word Impossible' and 'I gave God time'. Both gave me so much courage and inspiration - at 27 I feel old to not be married, (esp in my community where many are married by 22) and yet I know for sure that the Lord is calling me to wait on Him and TRUST. He has the perfect man at the perfect time.

'Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord', as the song goes...

Blessings to you, Ann, for your courage to share your heart. It gives other people permission to do the same.

Thank you!!

Today as I was sitting here - I like so many before me decided to plug in Ann Kimmell Anderson. I have read everything I could get my hands on as well.

Many years ago when I was frustrated because I too was single in a married world; I wondered if God had forgotten about me. I then came to know Anne's book of I Gave God Time.

I can not begin to tell you what a comfort it was! I realized then that it was perfectly fine to be single and to wait upon the Lord! It was staying in the center of HIS perfect will; encouraged by Anne's writings that I could give God time.

I met a wonderful man and married - I was 37 then. John was 52. We have shared so much of life together and minister to many couples both young and old. For so many who question where God is taking them - I share Anne's writings and tell stories of her life, her love and how God can make a difference in all our lives.

Today, I continue to counsel singles and newly divorced and reccommend to them Anne's book of I gave God time. My pages are dog eared from sharing it - but it is the touch and encouragement that so many need!!

May God richly bless her and hers for what she so selflessly has shared with me and many many others. God used Anne to touch our lives may we continue to do HIS work of sharing smiles, cookies and songs with children young and old until HE calls us home in our final journey.

Thank you Anne!!

just a couple of comments. i came in contact with ann kiemel anderson's writings years ago through friends at a local Nazarene church here in town. little did i know then, how much her writings would be a help to me. my marriage dissolved, and the dark days settled in. i began to read her books quite a bit-books like"i love the word impossible," "yes," and others. i even wrote to her on a couple of occasions, and received such warm, understanding letters in reply! i am now retired from work, and every so often, i think of the girl who loved God so much, and dared to be real and vulnerable. so, anne, whereever you are, thanks, and keep on keeping on for Christ! it's worth it!

george

I am Ann Kiemel's friend and pastor. I helped her bury her husband and my wife and I have been in constant contact as she has successfully raised four sons -alone. While having lunch with her a few Sundays ago she indicated that she took 14 years off to raise her boys and is now ready for public ministry.

I won't use your blog for advertisement without your permission, but I would like to let your readers know where she soon can be found. She will have a blog site and will be writing and speaking. She is presently writing a book and her material comes from her experiences over the past 14 years.

Please, if you are interested, I can give you the web site where she can in a matter of days, interact again with her readers: those for whom she still has great affection.

Ann was a true inspiration in my life as a teenager. This past week our pastor gave a sermon on reclaiming the passion of Christ again in our lives. It isn't a coincidence that Ann's testimony came rising up into memories about Ann's refreshing way of thinking, her zest for Christ, and her plain verse that gave all the glory to Jesus.

Thanks everyone for rekindling all those memories.

I wrote in last night, but when I tried to preview it, my screen froze up. So I am not sure. But I just wanted to say that I really will never forget ANN. She made all the difference in my life. I was single and torn between the world and Jesus. I thought marriage was an end all and be all sort of a deal. When I met Ann through her books, I changed and began to discover God's true purpose for my life. I opened a coffee house under the leadership of my pastor. I was a school teacher and I began to see my profession as a calling and not just a job. I saw amazing victories and terrible defeats, but all in all, because God used Ann in my life, I believe many lives were touched and changed. Ann is a humble person, and she always gives God the glory. I met Ann in Charlotte, NC at a conference that Garr Memorial church sponsored. I was not supposed to go to the speaker's table but I did. Ann stood up as I began to almost treat her like a rock star. As she signed my book, she wrote the scripture that I can't quote, but it was something like this,it is not I who live but Christ who lives in me. It struck down deep in my heart that she wanted to lead me to Christ and not to herself. I faxed a letter to Focus on the family also. I asked Ann if I could buy some of here books or her tapes. She said that she did not have a single copy of her books, but she sent me a picture of she and her son. Now I think I know why. All of her furniture was stolen. She never mentioned it. She made my life so much better because of her willingness to love Jesus out loud. I will never forget her as long as I live. I pray she continues to write and speak. God has placed a wonderful treasure inside of her and I thank him every day.

I am asking all of you to please help me get her tapes again. I bought them so many times and gave them away, and finally they got away from me. I need them so badly. Please help me get them again.My e:mail address is cmachner@gmail.com.

You misused the word "wherefore." It doesn't mean WHERE. It means WHY.

Ann Kiemel inspired many in my days of youth. I remember as a 17 yr old I was determined to go to her 2 day conference held at the Glass Cathedral Church. Took the greyhound bus alone, slept at a church member/host's home. Will never forget her, very captivating and charasmatic personality. I ran into her at a grocery store in Clovis, Ca where she resided...early 2000's? I did not have the courage to stop her and talk to her. She also spoke at Evangel Home, a wonderful ministry and halfway home for destitute women. She had books and tapes available at that speaking engagement. Also, she had one of her sons who accompanied her. She gave her testimony of how she was wrapped up (addicted, she called it) in "performing" in order to feel acceptance and worth. She tied this in with her new found faith in Christ today. She's got a great gift to reach people.

Ann Kiemel's blog is up. You can meet her at Heritagebuilbers.com - click on Heritage Blogs, then on Ann Kiemel. She will be posting weekly and responding to comments left on her page. All are invited there - she is anxious for your company.

Oops, sorry, that should be Heritagebuilders.com. Click the link for heritage blogs, then Ann Kiemel.

took time today to read all of the comments here. what memories it stirred in my soul. i, too, was introduced to ann's books back in high school in the mid 70's. they stirred a longing in my soul to let my life shine for jesus just like ann was doing. i'm so glad for all the comments here, and that i finally can reconnect with ann through her blog. now i'll have to go searching through some of my bookshelves and see if i still have her books. if not, i think i'll get to looking for them online. they were such an encouragement.

i came looking for info on her today, through back to the bible's devotional series by elisabeth elliot.....

Hallelujah!!!!! I too have long wondered about Ann. How I love Google!!! It's the BEST search engine! I was sooooo glad to find this website and read ALL the comments and also find out about Ann's blog. I will surely hit that blog!

I was so impacted by her "YES" to Jesus in different areas of her life, but particularly in regard to marriage. I would often hold her up as a role model to singles who are anxious to find a mate. Ann, I love your book "YES." I hope to get more copies of it to give to singles.

I hope to read more on you, and to see you write more books! God BLESS you!

Ofelia

Ann now has her own blog at: http://heritagebuilders-kiemel.blogspot.com

Hi Janine, I saw your old post here in reference to Ann Kiemel and read your challenging story. I am an adult adoptee and for 13 years have mentored adult adoptees, birth parents and adoptive parents in adoption support groups I facilitate in Chicagoland. Praying for your sons today. I hope to publish a small newsletter or magazine in the near future as an outreach to adult adoptees. Blessings and prayers! Jody Moreen
Ann has a presence now on Facebook and a Blog with Heritage Keepers. Some of her earlier books will be launched this summer!!!! YEAH!