Lois E. Olena
dba Keystrokes
Writing
Editing
Consulting
Editing
Consulting
Doing Business as Keystrokes
Let Me Help Your Writing Shine!
In my ongoing academic contexts, the opportunity to help writers continued to expand on various editing and consulting projects. My role as a doctoral project coordinator provided many years of experience in developmental editing/coaching—helping writers look at their big picture in order to shape ideas, clarify purpose, provide structure, and strategize for project completion.
Thus, I bring to my craft years of ministry, leadership, and academic experience.
My rate is currently $35/hr. See the "Reviews" tab to hear from just a few of my satisfied clients!
Why Edit?
Write so others want to read what you say!
Take that extra step to have your work edited so…
- the clarity of the work matches your intention,
- the conciseness of the work produces an efficient text,
- the content of the work encourages reader engagement,
- the text and formatting are technically correct,
- the piece has flow and cohesiveness, and
- a set of fresh eyes can provide important feedback!
Doing Business as Keystrokes
Editing and Consulting Services
For over thirty years, I have provided quality editing and consulting services to satisfied clients:
- memoirs
- student papers, theses, and dissertations
- articles
- popular publications
- turning dissertations into books
- academic publications
What are the different types of editing?
- Developmental/Conceptual Editing
- Evaluation/Manuscript Critique/Structural Editing
- Content/Substantive/Full Editing
- Line/Stylistic/Comprehensive Editing
- Copy Editing (of finished manuscript)
- Proofreading (of finished proof)
Our Clients & Reviews
Need your book or dissertation edited?
Here are a few reviews from satisfied clients whose books and doctoral dissertations I have edited.
(To purchase books, click on the book cover.)
I want to commend to you the top professional editing work of Dr. Lois Olena. The volume Voices Loud and Clear had multiple authors, many whose first language is not English. She edited their essays to give ‘full voice’ to their top-quality Pentecostal scholarship. In addition, our publisher was from the UK, which added another layer of complexity to an already challenging project. If you need the professional skills of a knowledgeable editor, Dr. Olena is certainly a wise choice. The value-added benefit you will receive while working with Dr. Olena is that she has personal care and concern for each author—an intangible that will brighten your writing project.
Byron D. Klaus
Co-editor, Voices Loud and Clearhttps://www.pentecostalsummit.org/
Dr. Lois Olena is an editorial genius. She has her ear to both the heart of God and the pulse of the writer. Her editorial work on ENOUGH: 40th Anniversary Commemorative Edition, the history of the National Black Fellowship of the Assemblies of God, helped to make the book a tool of inspiration and empowerment for readers to break barriers and achieve their personal best for the glory of God.
Bishop Walter Harvey
President, National Black Fellowship of the Assemblies of GodDr. Olena was amazing as an editor! I am thankful for her attention to detail with Turabian and SBL, refining language, and helping provide the clarity needed to meet the requirements of my committee members.
Christain Marie Teachout
Ph.D. in Biblical Interpretation & TheologyAssemblies of God Theological Seminary
Adjunct Professor
Dr. Olena was my editor for my doctoral dissertation. This is the level of editing she is capable of. So, when I wrote my first book, I relied on her expertise, professional knowledge, and easy-to-work-with manner to once again to guided me thorough the arduous publishing process. I highly recommend Dr. Olena for whatever your publishing needs! She will make you a better writer!
Gail Johnsen, D.Min.
Pastor of Spiritual FormationPasco, WA
I highly recommend the services from Dr. Lois Olena. Without her meticulous help with my book, I would not have been able to finish this project. Lois is a top-level editing professional. She understands the publishing world and how to move a project through each step from beginning to finished. Along the way, there were moments where I felt overwhelmed by the magnitude of the work. Lois was a steady voice encouraging me to keep going. She helped me believe that people need to be inspired by my book. I am so thankful I chose to hire Lois to consult and edit my project.
Phil Rasmussen, D.Min.
Vice President – Church Relations & Campus Ministry, Northwest UniversityDr. Olena is a one-of-a-kind editor who treated my work like her own. Her insights not only gave me confidence in what I turned in but helped sharpen my skills as a writer and gave me more confidence in myself. She is a gift to the writing community and someone I would recommend emphatically.
Jonathan Jensen
D.Min. Assemblies of God Theological SeminaryExecutive Pastor, Chapelhill Church (Douglasville, GA)
I have worked with multiple editors, and my experience with Lois has been the best. She is thorough, challenging in a way that brings out the best in my writing, and so encouraging. Her turnaround time is amazing, and she is easy to work with. If you are looking for someone who is trustworthy, knowledgeable, and who walks in excellence, then seek no longer. You won’t be disappointed!
Kristi Lemley, D.Min.
Founder and President, Living in the Light Ministries; Evangelist; Owner/Counselor at CalmWaters Counseling.Also edited: Broken and Transformed (coming October 2021)
Working with Dr. Lois Olena was a delight. Carefully and kindly, she navigated me through the process of writing and preparing my doctoral thesis. I realized that an editor is an invaluable part of the learning process, and her expertise was obvious at every point of the journey. I feel thankful for her keen eye and empathetic heart. My writing efforts were supported and challenged in equal measure, and I look back on the process with gratitude. Dr. Olena has my wholehearted endorsement for those needing editorial services.
Susan Comiskey
D.Min. Assemblies of God Theological SeminaryArea of Study: Missionary Marriages: Effective Ministry Marriage Practice
Dean of Students and Resident Faculty
Asia Theological Centre, Singapore.
I am delighted to endorse Dr. Lois Olena as a meticulous editor and proofreader. She is thorough at correcting grammar, spellings, punctuation, and style. If you are looking to publish a book, article or proofread a document, look no further than Dr. Lois Olena.
Dr. Clifton R. Clarke
Senior Pastor and ProfessorAlso edited: Better Together, Mended Hearts, Called to Ministry, and Unbroken: Finding Healing for Your Brokenness.
Drs. Lois and Doug Olena will help you shape, polish and present your next writing project so that it makes the maximum impact on readers. They are easy to work with and reasonably priced. Their aid in my latest book was invaluable. I will partner with them in the future...so should you.
Scott Camp
Evangelist/Educator/Author, www.scottcamp.orgCover by Doug Olena
In the meticulous world of doctoral projects, an editor's skill is the anchor of successful communication. Having had the privilege to work with Dr. Lois on my doctoral project, I can attest to the unparalleled expertise she brings to the table. Her unwavering commitment to deadlines was a godsend. Despite the intricacies of the content, she never wavered, ensuring every edit was completed promptly, allowing my project to remain on track. What set Dr. Lois apart for me, was her scholarly oversight. Her profound understanding of the academic and biblical landscape and keen eye for detail elevated my work to academic excellence. But perhaps most invaluable was her continual encouragement. Scholarly pursuits can be isolating and daunting, but with Dr. Olena’s unwavering support and faith in my doctoral project, I felt strengthened at every step. I wholeheartedly endorse Dr. Lois and urge any scholar seeking editing services to engage with her. You'll be embracing not just her expertise but also a partnership that truly champions your academic aspirations.
Angelia Waite
D.Min. The King's UniversityAuthor, Diverse Leadership in The Foursquare Church: What Would Aimee Say?
Speaker, AngeliaWaite.org
I highly commend Dr. Lois Olena as a professional editor to anyone needing an experienced editor with an eye for detail and the academic background needed to prepare academic works for publication. In particular, her knowledge and expertise in Pentecostal history was extremely valuable to the editing process for my book, Pentecost in Tulsa. You can trust your work to the capable hands of Dr. Olena.
Dr. Daniel Isgrigg
Assistant Professor and Director, Holy Spirit Research Center, Oral Roberts UniversityIt is my pleasure to endorse the editing services of Dr. Lois Olena. I have known Dr. Olena for many years and found her knowledge, experience, and skills in editing exceptional. Dr. Olena’s keen insight and attention to detail will assist any writer to become a better, more effective writer as she elevates your work to the highest quality. She is proficient, competent, and professional. Her expertise in editing and formatting are invaluable.
Dr. James W. Wickham
Lead Pastor, Church Planter,and Author, Living Word Community ChurchLois is a remarkable editor whose excellent skills helped me to complete my doctoral project. Her communication process was smooth, and the reviews of my work provided me with detailed feedback that was timely, inciteful, and creative. I appreciate all she does to help people succeed at writing and publishing and feel very thankful for Lois. I highly recommend her services!
Allison Freeny
D.Min. in Pentecostal Ministry Leadership, Assemblies of God Theological SeminaryEditing is an art. This creativity and human evaluation are chiefly a hidden effort routinely noticed only if sub-par. Dr. Lois Olena is an author and editing practitioner at the top of the game—from book publishing, journalistic manuscripts, periodicals, scholarly and academic work and more. She’s skillfully artistic and stellar with the art of text, grammar, composition, and punctuation. She’s edited more than once for me, and there’s none better!
Dr. Joseph S. Girdler
Superintendent, Kentucky District of the Assemblies of God USASee more books at joegirdler.com
Editing is an art. This creativity and human evaluation are chiefly a hidden effort routinely noticed only if sub-par. Dr. Lois Olena is an author and editing practitioner at the top of the game—from book publishing, journalistic manuscripts, periodicals, scholarly and academic work and more. She’s skillfully artistic and stellar with the art of text, grammar, composition, and punctuation. She’s edited more than once for me, and there’s none better!
Dr. Joseph S. Girdler
Superintendent, Kentucky District of the Assemblies of God USASee more books at joegirdler.com
I worked with Lois Olena as a contributing author to Children of the Calling: Essays in honor of Stanley M. Burgess and Ruth V. Burgess. She was prompt, timely, and conscientious in her editing of the entire volume. It was a pleasure to work with her on the volume!
Charles Puskas
Adjunct Professor of Ethics, North Central University (Minneapolis. MN)Author of Hardness of Heart in Biblical Literature
“Apostolic Advice: 1 Corinthians 7 as Deliberative Rhetoric” (chapter in Children of the Calling)
Lois brings a level of skill, knowledge, and experience to her editing services. As a writer, she was a great partner, bringing a level of clarity and eliminating the unknowns in the process of completing my book. She was not only an editor but a coach and friend. I would highly recommend her.
Bishop Darnell K. Williams, Sr., D.Min.
Senior Pastor, One ChurchExecutive Presbyter, General Council of the Assemblies of God
Vice President, National Black Fellowship
Dr. Lois Olena is intelligent, articulate, and professional. Her help in editing and preparing my manuscript for publication was heaven-sent, and I am so thankful for her investment in my project. I was repeatedly impressed by her quick turnaround times, clear communication, and attention to detail. She took time to learn about my dream for the book then walked with me through every step of the journey. Lois not only demonstrated literary knowledge and biblical competency, but she also remains culturally relevant. These key factors kept my book practical and engaging for my readers. I am excited to work with Lois again on future projects.
Dr. Jason Fullerton
Assistant Pastor, First Assembly of GodMuskogee, Oklahoma
Dr. Lois is by far the most qualified expert I know in writing and editing. I truly learned the value, art, and craft of communication via the written word from her. If you want the best, Dr. Lois is your person!
Dr. Ava Kate Oleson
When I was a doctoral student, Dr. Olena served as my project coordinator; her encouragement, skills, and competence resulted in an excellent doctoral project. When she edited my book, Audacious Prayers, her expertise as an editor and biblical scholar helped turn my dream into reality. She works speedily and diligently to meet agreed-upon deadlines, offering worthy advice to move things in the right direction. She is a joy to work with, and it is my absolute delight and privilege to recommend her editing services to any writer.
Dr. Albert (ABK) Appiah
Pastor, Renewal Christian CenterBowie, Maryland
Dr. Lois Olena did an excellent job editing my doctoral project and my latest book, Seeing the Whole Elephant. Lois is not only an excellent editor, but also is a great encouragement and resource in getting a project done. She has a strong background in biblical education which further gives her a unique ability to help a Christian author think through details in their content.
Nick Robertson
Director of the Antioch InitiativeMy dissertation is about leadership development and discipleship methodologies in Cambodian churches. Dr. Olena did an amazing job editing my dissertation. It was a joy working with her throughout the entire process. I highly recommend her for editing.
Joshua J. Lovelace
PhD in Intercultural Studies, Columbia International UniversityAssemblies of God missionary to Cambodia and Missionary in Residence at Evangel University
Dr. Lois Olena has done a masterful job in editing my work, The Joseph Journey. She was timely, professional, and fees were wonderfully priced for the quality of work she produced. Her scholarly background equips her to be more than just a grammatical editor. She gave great advice on content and flow. She also offered multiple suggestions that went far beyond punctuation and grammar. Any book I may write in the future will certainly be edited by Dr. Lois Olena.
Dr. Scott Holmes
Superintendant of the Louisiana Network Ministry of the AGI am extremely thankful for the editorial experience I had with Dr. Lois Olena. Not only did she provide professional editing and formatting, but she also walked me through the process so I could fully understand everything she was doing. This helped me to feel fully involved with knowing what was happening as well as get a better understanding of how the process works of getting a book fully edited to completion.
Pastor Kevin Richelieu
Executive Pastor of Creative ArtsChristian Life Center, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
I am so pleased with Lois' editorial work. Her editorial comments and corrections proved so insightful and invaluable. I always trusted that she knew what I intended to say while also making sure I said it right. Her attention to every word, to footnotes, and her professionalism went above and beyond! The publisher accepted my manuscript “as is” with no concern with my style and grammar. I could not have done this book without Lois! I feel truly grateful.
Rodolfo Galvan Estrada III, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of the New TestamentVanguard University
Dr. Lois Olena came highly recommended to me by a dear friend and mentor, Dr. Gail Johnsen, author of All There, How Attentiveness Shapes Authentic Leadership. Lois was able to kindly and expertly take my manuscript and bring it to life. Her skills in editing and formatting, along with her knowledge of the publishing world helped me to navigate an otherwise overwhelming new-to-me arena. One of the most significant benefits of using Lois as an editor is her knowledge of faith and biblical principles; it makes me confident that my book is accurate in every possible way. I feel very grateful to have had this opportunity to work with her.
Melisa Turner
Blossom MinistriesI am so thankful for Dr. Lois Olena's expertise in editing Getting Along: The Church's Quest for Unity in a Polarized World. She had great intuition and insight about how to restructure my D.Min. project into a book that addresses the interests of a wider audience. Not only is she technically qualified, but she is also a great encourager with a wonderful sense of humor. For me, that was an essential component in the editing process. She will make you both a better writer and help you have more fun while doing it!
Stephen Pecota
Church Planter and Missionary to Europe, RetiredA better editor than Lois Olena cannot be found. She’s a tribute to her craft.
Trevor Grizzle, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament, Oral Roberts UniversityAs a lead pastor and author of the book, Fostering Jesus, I want to thank Lois Olena for an outstanding job of editing my original manuscript. I interviewed many editors and felt strongly that Lois was the most qualified and best fit for my project. She understands what it takes, has been down the publishing road before, and works hard to produce a final product in line with the vision of the project. I felt very impressed with the quality and detail of her work—clearly a gifting and calling from God on her life. I plan to contact her again for future projects.
Bob Griffith, D.Min.
Lead Pastor Christ Chapel Church, Christ Chapel AcademyLois did tremendous work editing my first book. She was quick, thorough, and easy to communicate with throughout the process. I highly recommend her!
Adam Rodrigues
Attorney at Adam Rodrigues LawLet's Get In Touch
About
Editor (1988 – present)
Freelance editor since 1988
Editor of AGTS' e-journal, Encounter: Journal for Pentecostal Ministry (2008 to 2012)
Educator (2003-2019)
D.Min. in Pentecostal Leadership, Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
M.A. in Jewish Studies, Gratz College
B.S. in Bible, University of Valley Forge
Taught courses in Jewish Studies, Theology, Bible, Practical Theology, and Writing at Evangel University, AGTS, The King’s University, and abroad in India, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, the Bahamas, and Kenya
D.Min. Project Coordinator and Associate Professor of Practical Theology and Jewish Studies, Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, Springfield, MO
Ministry Leader
Refugee Ministry (since 2017)
Pentecostal Justice Coalition partner (since 2020)
Executive Director of the Society for Pentecostal Studies (2011-2016) and Four-Year Presidential Term (Since 2022)
Jewish Ministry (2003-2006)
Children’s Pastor (2000-2002)
Metro Urban Ministries Director (1996-2000)
Credentialed Assemblies of God Minister (1995-2025)
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About (Cont.)
Writer
Books
- Stanley M. Horton: Shaper of Pentecostal Theology
- Children of the Calling: Essays in Honor of Stanley M. Burgess and Ruth Vassar Burgess
- Women in Pentecostal and Charismatic Ministry: Informing a Dialogue on Gender, Church, and Ministry, volume 21 of the Brill series, Global Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies
- “I Was a Stranger and You Took Me In:” Pentecostal Responses to the Refugee Crisis (author/editor; forthcoming 2015)
Book Chapters
- “I'm Sorry my Brother.” In Forgiveness, Reconciliation, and Restoration: Multidisciplinary Studies from a Pentecostal Perspective
- “From Paralysis to Action: Robert Harrison and the Assemblies of God.” In We’ve Come This Far: Reflections on the Pentecostal Tradition and Racial Reconciliation. (Revised and Updated PDF, January 2024).
- But These are Written: Essays on Johannine Literature in Honor of Professor Benny C. Aker
- Following Jesus 24/7: Your Call to Work and Mission.
Holocaust Curricula (Chapter 4: Classical and Christian Antisemitism)
Holocaust Poetry
Judaica Poetry
Personal
Lois and her husband, Doug, have been married since 1980. They have grown children, two dogs (Daisy and Sophie), two cats from a local rescue named Liam and Leo, and dozens of nameless wild birds and squirrels Lois feeds daily.
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