Report of the Historical Committee

                  The big story of the Historical Committee in the past year is the sale of our newest publication, The Bible Fellowship Church, authored by Harold P. Shelly. Last year was a time of decision and uncertainty. Many decisions were made about how many books to print and whether we could afford the cost. We were facing the risks then. Would people really be interested in reading the book? Would they pay what we need to meet our expenses? We can say with some relief that all has gone pretty much as anticipated. To date, approximately 550 books have been distributed. People who have read the book have expressed real appreciation. We are also happy to report that our printing costs were covered through the sales of the book.

                  The Committee has begun to look ahead again to future projects. Because most of the work done by the Committee requires a great commitment of time, we proceed slowly. The Committee is moving toward preparation of curriculum for a study that will examine our doctrinal statements in the light of our history. The Committee has talked about preparing a video for the churches which can be used in new member classes to tell the story of our church to those who are joining us. The Committee is looking to publish more material that will help to preserve our sense of roots.

                  We are glad to report that the Historical Society of the Bible Fellowship Church is continuing and will celebrate its tenth anniversary this year. While technically a separate entity, the Historical Society has worked closely with the Historical Committee. The Society has put together a fine collection of studies done by its speakers and will make them available at a later time.

                  The Historical Committee offers its resources to those churches who are celebrating anniversaries. We encourage churches to promote their histories in their community. To celebrate your history is much more than an irrelevant trip into nostalgia land. It is an opportunity to show the depth of your commitment to your community.

The Historical Committee: Bright N. Heist, Chairman; Richard E. Taylor, Secretary (Archivist); Ralph D. Cole, Treasurer, Willard E. Cassel, Harold P. Shelly, Daniel G. Ziegler