This guide to various types of church-operated preschool programs discusses needs and purposes of congregation, child and community, describes different types of programs, and provides lists of printed resources and organizations which can help congregations establish or improve their early childhood education efforts. Resource suggestions and lists of materials are presented for each type of program described (Sunday programs, weekday programs, and other services). Sunday programs include Sunday school classes (from age 3) and the church nursery. Weekday programs include the nursery school (daily or less often), parent cooperative, kindergarten, weekday school (a short, weekly session), and day care center. Other types of services, described briefly, are: the drop-in early childhood center, the playgroup, the materials center, and types of federal and state programs available for church sponsorship. The role of religion in the early childhood education program is discussed, and parent education and participation are emphasized. Guidelines are given for: program organization, administration and staffing, physical setup and supplies, transportation, and financing and budgeting. A list of general references on early childhood education and lists of professional journals, organizations and publishers are included at the end of the volume. (BF)