I run a church website.  I would like to know the basics of how I can
have the website run from a computer at the church.  Mostly, just
basic information I can get on what kind of computer, software and
connection.  I realize this is a 5 dollar question, so I am just
looking for a 5 dollar answer to help get me in the right direction.

Running your own web server can be viewed as a major commitment on
your part. There are certain necessities one must have, as well a few
things you should have in order to successfully host your own site.

Here is a table, listing the advantages and disadvantages of running
your own web server
http://www.uoregon.edu/~jqj/inter-pub/servers/server-Why.html

Having weighed your options, if your still set on running your own web
server the first thing you will need, of course, is a computer.
Depending on how simple or complex you want your web site to be, your
hardware needs will vary. However, if your site is going to be fairly
small scale, you can do just fine with any of the newer models being
offered today. And if your traffic isn't too heavy, even some of the
older pc's would work too.
As for software, your choices are going to be based on your needs,
your budget, and your IT experience. Your going to have to choose an
operating system, generally this will be either from the Windows
family of operating systems, or if your fairly expereinced, or feeling
adventurous, you might try one of the many free Linux operating
systems. As for server software, once again, you can choose from a
Windows product, or you can opt for something like Apache software
(http://www.apache.org/). Not only is Apache free, but it will run on
Windows as well as Linux OS's.

http://www.w3.org/Servers.html has quite an extensive list of other
web server software.

Next you will need a dedicated connection to the internet, and a
static ip address.
The most cost effective way for you to do this would be either through
a cable modem connection, or through DSL.

You will also need protection. Some use firewall software programs,
while others use hardware routers with firewall protection. For
example, the set up in my home has a seperate computer who's sole
purpose is to act as both a router and a firewall. It's a nice option,
but unless your up to learning ip tables, a software firewall might be
best for you.

I understand that you currently have a site for your church. You
didn't mention if it was a sub-domain with another site, or if you
already have a domain name, but if not, you will need to register one.
If you need to, you can register a domain name at:
http://register.com/

Another thing to think about is back up power in case of a electrical
outage. A UPS will switch your web server to battery backup during a
breif power outage.
http://www.barcodediscounters.com/ups-backup-systems.html

That is just the basics. However your set up can be as simple or as
complex as you desire. But this should be enough to give you an idea
of what you need.

Some helpfull links on running your own web server:

DSL/Cable Webserver (http://www.dslwebserver.com/) offers
information on how to set up and maintain your own web server through
a cable or dsl connection.
 
The DIY (Do it Yourself) Tutorial on running a web server
http://www.diywebserver.com/gettingstarted.html

Best of luck!
chellphill-ga

More information than I had hoped for!  Thank you!

Are you sure that running your own server is the best way to go?
There are many web hosting companies about, charging on a monthly
basis, that will provide everything you need.
I think that option might be less expensive (money AND time) and
probably result in your website being on a faster connection to the
net than anything you can get 'at home'.

As a former ISP owner, I would agree with chellphill's opening
statement and westie's comment.  Really, truly, you do not want
to host your own site.

Does not make any sense monetarily, timewise, etc. as hosting
it elsewhere is less costly, etc.  As this is a church site,
(that is, nonprofit) you might be able to get a local hosting
service to host the site for no charge as well.

If it's "chalking it up to experience" you are looking for, you can
run your own server on another company's network. (You run the server,
do all software updates, install your own programs, and keep the
security updated.) This company offers servers, with no support,
asides from hardware failures etc...

RackShack
http://www.rackshack.net

I run with them. It's a workout, but well worth the effort.

SgtCory

Thanks everyone for comments so far.  This has been a really fun
project for me.  The site is http://fbcrc.net  What I really wanted
was to be able to have (for the most part) unlimited space and also
member login areas where church members can login and view the church
directory.  I am using Microsoft front page which is probably
considered a "cheater program" since web design can simply consist of
html code.

Well, the "unlimited space" desire is one thing, though
some hosting companies have affordable deals that provide
substantial storage space.  Your other desire of having
member login areas can be (relatively) easily be done as
it appears you are hosting with EsoSoft, and they state
you should have:

- Your Own CGI Bin
- PHP4 and MySQL
- SSI and Miva Support

So you have the perfect opportunity to get your feet wet
by (for the time being) setting up a login area for your
members.  Just this task alone will give you a quick idea
of the trials and tribulations of managing some of the
"back room" operations of a website.