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.