Rubrics/Tips
Faith story rubrics
What to include:
- Story needs an arc: before, then after; how did God show up/work in my life? Who was I before? Who am I now because of this? Have a solid “landing” for your story.
- Story must be true.
- Story should show vulnerability.
- What are the stakes? Why does this matter?
- Details can paint a vivid picture. Try picturing them in your mind to flesh them out and allow the listener to feel as if they were there.
- A story is different from an anecdote. A story is deeper.
Structuring the story.
- There are many ways to do this:
- Chronological
- Flashback
- Recall
- A smaller story to carry the weight of a larger story
- Choosing a unique lens
In forming your story, try this:
- Outline the plot
- Think about the scenes: summaries & reflections
- Find the buried treasure: a small detail that you mention at the beginning and bring back later at the end can give rich meaning.
Timing:
Keep your story to about 10-20 minutes. If it’s much shorter, try to mine it for more detail. If it’s much longer, ask a friend to help you figure out what you can cut.
For more information about how to craft a story, read the excellent How to Tell a Story: The Essential Guide to Memorable Storytelling from the Moth, edited by M. Bowles, C. Burnes, J. Hixson, S. A. Jenness, and K. Tellers, New York, Crown, 2022.