After long experimentation with various methods for filing sermon material, I have found one that is satisfactory. And after having tested it for two years, I am still of the same opinion. I pass on the idea that it may possibly help other workers to solve this problem that perplexed me so long.
The plan is simple, and therein doubtless lies the secret of its real value. The file consists of a set of clasp envelopes of heavyweight paper, size 61/2 x 91/2 inches, with an end opening such as is commonly used for mailing purposes. The flap is turned inside, and the title of the subject material it is to hold is placed on the front in the upper left-hand corner. These envelopes are arranged alphabetically, according to titles, in a desk drawer that is ten inches deep. I now am using 162 of these envelopes, which make a row eighteen inches long. I always carry an extra supply, so as to be ready for new subjects that I may wish to include in the file.
There is an envelope for practically every doctrinal subject, as well as for many sermons on practical subjects. Besides these, I have found it most convenient to keep material for other things besides sermons and Bible studies. So I have in this file, envelopes for the following subjects: Astronomy, Advertising Material, Atheism, Blackboard Suggestions, Calendar Reform, Camp Meeting Materials, Biblical Chronology, Church School, Church Bulletins, and the like. I also have one for each of the seven churches over which I have supervision.
It surprised me to find how convenient this system proved to be. I can now lay my hands on material in a few seconds when otherwise it might consume considerable time, and even then perhaps I might not be able to locate it. Material may be quickly filed, as there are no holes to punch, nor other loss of time. Simply locate the proper envelope, and drop the material These—envelopes will
great deal of material. The size of the envelope will take a sheet of typewriter paper folded once. The system is especially handy for filing newspaper or magazine clippings. It is very satisfactory to file everything pertaining to one subject in one envelope,—notes, clippings, illustrations, etc. Then when you wish to prepare a sermon on that subject, all your material is there together, and can be easily segregated and corralled.
