How to Write a Church History

Writing a Church History

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Compiling a church history is an excellent way to preserve a church' s history and is also a great fundraiser. You can make the history as long or as short as you want. Some churches hire professionals to compile and write their histories, while others select volunteers from the congregation. Ask your church or a church near you if they have plans to write or update their church history.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Computer
Access to the church' s archives
Contacts at the church
Friendly attitude

Step1

Write the introduction. Introduce the key people in the church today and acknowledge those people who were instrumental in helping you to compile and put together the church' s history. Lay out in this section why you are writing the history of the church.

Step2

Take photographs. In the next chapter, add photographs of the church from past to present. Talk about the setting of the church building and its different locations over the years.

Step3

Add to the next section a list of former and current pastors. Also, add lists of former and current youth pastors, choir members, board members and other key groups in the church.

Step4

Include the action. What major events have affected the church over the years? Write about any natural disasters that happened. Talk about key people who have come and gone from the church and had a major impact on the life of the church.

Step5

Talk about how the church has interacted with the community over the years. Include fundraisers, social events, and other events that have included the surrounding community.

Step6

Think ahead. Finally, write about the church' s plans for the future. Are they planning to add a wing or break ground on a new chapel? You get the idea. Wrap up the book with a positive outlook on the future.

Tips & Warnings

Consider selling the book in the community as a fundraiser.
Let everyone in the congregation and community know you are writing the history.
Get people involved! They will love to help!
Don't forget to get permissions. You can't add living people's photos and information to the book without their written permission.