Create CONTRIBUTING.md

Author: dmsmith

CONTRIBUTING.md

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+# Contributing to JSword
+
+Thank you for your interest in contributing to the JSword project! This document outlines the process and guidelines for contributing code, documentation, or other improvements.
+
+## How Work Has Been Done
+
+- Contributions have historically come via pull requests (PRs) to the main repository.
+- Issues are used to track bugs, feature requests, and ongoing work.
+- Code reviews are performed by project maintainers before merging.
+- The project aims for stability and backwards compatibility.
+
+## Getting Started
+
+1. **Fork the Repository**
+
+   Create your own fork of [crosswire/jsword](https://github.com/crosswire/jsword), then clone it to your local machine.
+
+2. **Create a Branch**
+
+   Work on your contribution in a new branch, named descriptively (e.g., `fix-verse-range-bug` or `feature-chinese-support`).
+
+3. **Code Style**
+
+   - Follow the existing code style and conventions.
+   - Include Javadoc comments for public classes and methods.
+   - Write clear, concise commit messages.
+
+4. **Testing**
+
+   - Add or update tests to verify your change.
+   - Ensure all tests pass before submitting a PR.
+
+5. **Documentation**
+
+   - Update documentation as needed.
+   - If you add a new feature, document its usage and behavior.
+
+## Submitting Changes
+
+1. **Open a Pull Request**
+
+   - Go to your fork and open a PR against `crosswire/jsword:master`.
+   - Reference related issues in your PR description, if applicable.
+   - Explain your changes and why they are needed.
+
+2. **Respond to Feedback**
+
+   - Project maintainers may request changes or clarifications.
+   - Be responsive and update your PR as needed.
+
+3. **Merging**
+
+   - Only maintainers can merge PRs.
+   - PRs will be merged after approval and passing tests.
+
+## Reporting Issues
+
+- Use [GitHub Issues](https://github.com/crosswire/jsword/issues) to report bugs or request features.
+- Provide as much detail as possible, including steps to reproduce, expected behavior, and relevant logs.
+
+
+## Licensing
+
+- By contributing, you agree that your contributions will be licensed under the project's [license](LICENSE) and copyright by CrossWire Bible Society.
+
+## Questions
+
+If you have questions or need help, open an issue or join the discussion.
+
+---
+
+Happy coding, and thank you for helping improve jsword!