Ward and Stake Histories¶

Overview¶

Ward and stake histories are now created through the Unit History tool in Church systems. This tool allows members to write and share inspiring stories about faith-promoting experiences, service, and spiritual growth. These stories become part of your ward's permanent historical record and help build faith for current and future generations.

The Process: Create, Approve, and Share¶

Writing and sharing faith-promoting stories is designed to be simple and accessible:

1. Create - Write about meaningful experiences and spiritual moments
2. Approve - Submit for review by appropriate leaders
3. Share - Publish stories for ward members and future generations

Using the Unit History Tool¶

Accessing My Stories¶

The Unit History tool organizes your stories through several tabs:

• Invites - Stories others have asked you to write (shows red badge for pending items)
• Drafts - Stories you're currently writing
• Submitted - Stories awaiting approval
• Published - Stories that have been approved and shared
• Returned - Stories sent back for revisions

Story Guidelines¶

What to Write About¶

Focus on capturing real experiences in an authentic, conversational way. Write about anything meaningful that demonstrates faith in action:

• The goodness of God - Miracles, blessings, answered prayers
• Bringing people closer to Christ - Conversion stories, spiritual experiences
• Temple and family history work - Ordinances, discoveries, sacred experiences
• Missionary and ministering efforts - Baptisms, service, teaching moments
• Acts of service - Community help, humanitarian work
• Strengthening the youth - Seminary, camps, spiritual growth

Connecting People to Stories¶

• Tag individuals mentioned using the "People Mentioned in the Story" feature
• Include ward organizations (quorums, classes, etc.) when relevant
• Focus on both individual and group experiences - both are valuable

What to Avoid¶

The Unit History tool is not for storing administrative records like meeting minutes or quarterly reports. Its purpose is to build faith in Jesus Christ.

Prohibited Content¶

Never include:

• Personal confidential information without explicit permission
• Reports of confessions or Church membership councils
• Information from private Church settings (leadership meetings)
• Specific personal health information
• Individual financial information
• Church financial details, donations, or welfare assistance
• Temple interior details, rites, ceremonies, or clothing
• Information violating data privacy laws (addresses, phone numbers, full birth dates, etc.)
• Materials created by others without permission
• AI-generated content

Getting Started¶

Finding Story Ideas¶

• Reflect on the year - What faith-promoting experiences touched your heart?
• Talk to ward members - Ask about their spiritual experiences
• Review ward activities - Look for meaningful moments in service, teaching, ordinances
• Listen for the Spirit - Pay attention to promptings about what to record

Writing Tips¶

• Be authentic - Write in a natural, conversational style
• Focus on Christ - Show how experiences bring people closer to the Savior
• Include details - Dates, names (with permission), specific circumstances
• Keep it positive - Emphasize learning, growth, and spiritual blessings

Approval Process¶

• Submit stories through the Unit History tool
• Approvers review for appropriateness and sensitivity
• Revisions may be requested if needed
• Approved stories are published and become part of ward history

Resources¶

• Church Handbook - Chapter 33.6: Ward and Stake Annual History
• Unit History Tool - Access through Church account
• Local Unit History Content Submission Agreement - Updated 2023-09-25

Transition from Annual Reports¶

If you have questions about the new process or need help accessing the Unit History tool, contact your ward clerk or stake clerk.