THIRTY-FIRST ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1914
FIRST MEETING
THURSDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 15, 1914
The Thirty-first Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ of Pennsylvania convened in Ebenezer Church, Bethlehem, Pa., opening at eight o’clock in the morning of October 15, 1914.
The first meeting was opened by singing “Nearer My God to Thee,” followed by a season of prayer for the blessing of God upon the officers and members of this Conference, as well as for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all the business transactions of this session. A number of the brethren led in earnest prayer on this occasion.
After singing, “I Will Guide Thee With Mine Eye,” the Chairman, H. B. Musselman, read a portion of the second chapter of Paul’s Epistle to the Philippians and made a very earnest and profitable address concerning the importance of the business before this body.
The following members were then enrolled:
MINISTERS
Ordained: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, W. B. Musselman, Wm. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, E. N. Cassel, W. S. Hottel, F. M. Hottel, J. G. Shireman, J. F. Barrall, R. L. Woodring, E. T. Shick, W. J. Fretz. H. K. Kratz, J. C. Roth, R. Bergstresser, O. S. Hillegass, E. E. Kublic, M. W. Ettinger, O. F. Yost, W. W. Zimmerman, V. H. Reinhart, H. L. Weiss, C. F. Snyder and P. J. Musselman.
All of these were present at the opening of the first meeting except W. B. Musselman, Cleveland, O. ; H. L. Weiss, Victoria, Chile; C. F. Snyder, Taochow, Kansu Province, China, and P. J. Musselman, Philadelphia.
Probationer: B. Bryan Musselman.
DELEGATES
H. L. Musselman, Bethlehem; G. O. Billig, Allentown; Herbert E. Gehman, Coopersburg; S. W. Heiser, Reading (Alternate); C. W. Teel, Easton; S. S. Geil, Philadelphia; O. C. Kistler, South Allentown; Maurice E. Brownback, Royersford; G. K. Himmelreich, Blandon; Chas. F. Lilly, Nazareth; A. A. Wismer, Graterford; A. A. Schaeffer, Lehighton; Morris E. Stickler, Zionsville; H. H. Bergey, Quakertown; Allen M. Gehman, Macungie; John G. Weiss, Stroudsburg; J. C. Freeze, Mt. Carmel (Alternate); C. E. Neff, Walnutport; J. M. Oplinger, Siegfrieds.
All the Delegates were present. The Conference members thus number forty-five, all of whom are present with the exception of those mentioned above.
We shall also remember our absent Foreign Missionaries who are members of our Church: H. L. Weiss, Mrs. R. L. Weiss, M. P. Zook, Mrs. M. P. Zook, H. W. Feldges, Mrs. H. W. Feldges, C. F. Snyder and Mrs. C. F. Snyder. Also V. G. Plymire, who expects to sail for China shortly, as well as all our other Missionaries who are supported by our Church. Also our Missionary Presiding Elder and the Gospel Worker Society and the Gospel Herald Society.
Resolved, That the seats to the right and to the left of the Chair, and the first three pews throughout the church, and the basement for private meetings constitute the Conference Bar.
The Secretary appointed his Assistants as follows:
Recording Secretary, H. K. Kratz.
Statistical Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman.
Financial Secretary, J. F. Barrall.
The appointment was sustained.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Reporter and a Time-keeper. He appointed W. J. Fretz and E. E. Kublic, respectively.
Resolved, That no member shall be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission by the Chair, except C. H. Brunner and H. L. Musselman.
The following committees were then appointed by the Chair and approved by the Conference:
Committee on Worship: C. H. Brunner and H. L. Musselman.
Committee on. Communications: R. L. Woodring and W. G. Gehman.
Committee on Finance: J. F. Barrall. G. O. Billig and Allen M. Gehman.
Committee to Examine the Statistics of the Schedules: E. N. Cassel, W. S. Hottel and G. F. Yost.
Committee on Examination of Quarterly Conference Records: W. J. Fretz, R. L. Woodring, E. E. Kublic, M. W. Ettinger, W. W. Zimmerman, Maurice E. Brownback, E. T. Shick, R. H. Bergey, Charles F. Lilly, J. M. Oplinger, C. W. Teel, and J. C. Freeze.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: J. C. Roth and R. Bergstresser.
Committee on Examination of Travelling Elders: William Gehman, A. A. Wismer, and G. K. Himmelreich.
Committee on Examination of Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists andMissionaries: E. T. Shick, O. S. Hillegass, and H. K. Kratz.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: C. H. Brunner, E. N. Cassel and F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner and J. G. Shireman.
Committee on Resolutions: W. S. Hottel, W. G. Gehman and E. N. Cassel.
Auditing Committee: J. G. Shireman, G. F. Yost, V. H. Reinhart, Herbert E. Gehman, A. A. Schaeffer, Morris E. Stickler, O. C. Kistler, S. S. Geil, H. L. Musselman, C. E. Neff, John G. Weiss and S. W. Heiser.
Committee to Audit Schedules: F. M. Hottel and W. G. Gehman.
Resolved, That in case the Committee on the Examination of the Statistics of the Schedules finds any Schedules incorrect, they shall correct them in the presence of the Pastor and specify the errors in their report.
Resolved, That the time allowed for the oral report of each Pastor be limited to ten minutes.
The rest of the forenoon meeting was devoted to hearing the oral reports of the Pastors.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the call of the Chair.
Adjourned with prayer by R. L. Woodring.
SECOND MEETING
THURSDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 15, 1914
The afternoon meeting was opened at 3:20 by singing ”Glory to His Name” and prayer by R. Bergstresser.
The roll was called, after which the minutes of the forenoon meeting were read and approved.
The oral reports of the Pastors were continued.
Resolved, That we have a meeting in the basement this evening at the call of the Chair.
Report of the Committee on Worship: Resolved, That H. A. Kauffman shall preach this evening, followed by L. D. Wesner.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
H. L. Musselman.
Adjourned with prayer by W. J. Fretz.
THIRD MEETING
THURSDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 15, 1914
This meeting was opened at 9:10 P.M. with prayer by E. T. Shick.
The roll was called with all present.
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries: We have examined the Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries and found them all satisfactory.
Committee:
E. T. Shick,
H. K. Kratz.
O. S. Hillegass.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Quarterly Conference Records: We beg leave to report that we have examined all the Quarterly Conference Records and found them correct, except in the Nazareth and Plainfield, Bethlehem and Coopersburg Records, no mention of passing of Officers in the Fourth Quarter. Northampton Record, no mention of the election of Secretary; no mention of the appointing of Auditors; no enrollment of Officers in First, Second and Third Quarters. Walnutport Record, no mention of the election of a Secretary in the First Quarter. Zionsville Record, no mention of the valuation of Church property in the Fourth Quarter. Graterford and Harleysville. and Stroudsburg Records, no mention of the election of Delegates and Alternate Delegates in Summary.
Committee:
W. J. Fretz,
R. L. Woodring,
E. E. Kublic,
M. W. Ettinger,
W. W. Zimmerman,
E. T. Shick,
H. H. Bergey,
Charles F. Lilly,
J. M. Oplinger,
C. W. Teel.
J. C. Freeze.
Report of the Committee on Auditing Schedules: We audited the Schedules and found them all correct except Emaus and Macungie, Nazareth and Plainfield, Northampton, Philadelphia, Bethlehem and Walnutport, which we corrected.
Committee:
F. M. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman.
Report of the Committee to Examine Statistics on Schedules: We have examined the Schedules and found mistakes in all of them except those of Spring City and Royersford, Zionsville, Coopersburg and Springtown, which we corrected.
Committee:
E. N. Cassel,
W. S. Hottel,
G. F. Yost.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: We, the Committee to examine the Annual Conference Records, beg leave to submit the following report: We have read the Conference Minutes of the last Conference and found them correct with the following exceptions: We find the Resolution in reference to the Secretary asking the Publishers of the Gospel Banner and Gospel Herald to send a copy of the mailing list of the subscribers to the Pastors on their charges, in twice, on page 180 and on page 199. We also find the word “Session” in place of “Meeting” on page 201 and on page 241. We also find on page 230, in the Report of the Board of Examiners that the studies are for 1913 and should be for 1913 and l914. All of which we respectfully submit.
Committee:
J. C. Roth,
R. Bergstresser.
Report of the Committee on Communications: In his letter to the Chairman of the Annual Conference, W. B. Musselman, M. P. E., Cleveland, Ohio, writes that if it is at all possible, he will come one day to Conference. If not, he will send some kind of a report. He expresses his thankfulness to the Conference. P. J. Musselman reports with pleasure that he is still in the service of the Lord with a cordial attitude toward all of our Conference members, trusting God for all things, endeavoring to be of service for God in his little corner. F. L. Zimmerman, delegate-elect of Mt. Carmel, begs to be excused for absence on account of sickness in the family and prays God to overrule and bless the Conference.
Committee:
R. L. Woodring,
W. G. Gehman.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: We have examined all the Traveling Elders through their delegates and found them all satisfactory.
Committee:
William Gehman.
G. K. Himmelreich,
A. A. Wismer.
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Orphanage and Home. (See Reports.)
Adjourned with prayer by J. C. Roth.
FOURTH MEETING
FRIDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 16, 1914
The meeting was opened by singing “I Am So Glad That Jesus Loves Me,” and prayer by J. M. Oplinger.
The Chairman read the forty-sixth Psalm and made a few appropriate remarks.
The roll was called, and the minutes were read and approved with corrections.
The oral reports of the Pastors were concluded.
The following Reports were then read and adopted:
Oral, Statistical and Financial Report of W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder of the Mt. Carmel District: (See Reports.)
Oral, Statistical and Financial Report of W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society: (See Reports.)
Oral, Statistical and Financial Report of H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Bethlehem District: (See Reports.)
Report of Committee on Resolutions: Having listened to the Reports of our Presiding Elders and the President of the Gospel Herald Society with eager interest, and having through the reports been made acquainted with the gracious leadings of God throughout the entire Conference and Gospel Herald district, as well as of the many and rich blessings bestowed upon every phase of the work, so that many were saved, the members on the various charges are spiritual and loyal and the ministry is blessedly united; therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate their faithful services, their untiring devotion to the work, their honesty and fair-mindedness in the general oversight of the work as well as their self-sacrifice, thus proving a great blessing to us as ministers individually and to the work in general and, further
Resolved, That we unitedly pray God’s richest blessing upon them, enabling them physically, intellectually and spiritually to continue in their blessed work for God, so that, through their labors and instrumentality many souls may be saved, the work under their charge may prosper and they personally may enjoy the favor of God in a gracious manner.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
E. N. Cassel.
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage: (See Reports. )
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: (See Reports.)
Report of the Beneficiary Society: (See Reports.)
Report of the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Mt. Carmel District Sunday School Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports.)
Report of the Executive Board: (See Reports.)
Report of the Treasurer of the Home Missions Fund: (See Reports. )
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Publications and Printing: (See Reports. )
Report of the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference Licenses: Whereas, No applicants were recommended to the Annual Conference, therefore we have no report to make.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
E. N. Cassel,
F. M. Hottel.
Adjourned with prayer by O. C. Kistler.
FIFTH MEETING
FRIDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 16, 1914
This meeting was opened by singing ”I Am On the Way,” and prayer by C. W. Teel.
The roll was called, and the minutes were read and approved.
The following Reports were now read and adopted:
Report of the Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Annual Ministerial Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Ordination: There being no candidates for Ordination, the Committee has no report to give.
Committee:
W. G. Gehman,
C. H. Brunner,
J. G. Shireman.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee on Statistics.
The Chair appointed W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel and W. S. Hottel.
Resolved, That we proceed to the election of officers. The roll was called for unconditional and conditional ministers, with the following result:
Unconditional: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, William Gehman, C. H. Brunner, W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel, F. M. Hottel, J. G. Shireman, W. J. Fretz, R. L. Woodring, J. F. Barrall, E. T. Shick, B. Bryan Musselman, J. C. Roth, R. Bergstresser, H. K. Kratz, O. S. Hillegass, E. E. Kublic, G. F. Yost, M. W. Ettinger, V. H. Reinhart and W. W. Zimmerman.
Conditional: None.
The Chair appointed J. F. Barrall and F. M. Hottel, as tellers.
Resolved, That we have two Presiding Elders.
The following officers were elected for the ensuing year:
Presiding Elders: H. B. Musselman and W. G. Gehman.
Vice-Presiding Elders: C. H. Brunner and W. S. Hottel.
Resolved, That the rest of the officers shall be elected by nomination and ballot unless otherwise specified.
Missionary Presiding Elder: W. B. Musselman.
Chairman of the Next Annual Conference: H. B. Musselman.
Secretary of the Next Annual Conference: C. H. Brunner.
Treasurer of the Annual Conference: Allen M. Gehman.
Committee over the Presiding Elders: E. N. Cassel, J. G. Shireman and F. M. Hottel.
Executive Board: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, J. G. Shireman and E. N. Cassel.
Board of Foreign Missions: H. B. Musselman, C. H. Brunner, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel and Allen M. Gehman.
Board of Trustees of the Orphanage and Home: (For two years) W. S. Hottel, J. G. Shireman, E. T. Shick, R. L. Woodring, A. A. Wismer and H. G. Brunner.
Board of Examiners: W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel and E. T. Shick.
Board of Publication and Printing: (Appointed by the Chair.) J. C. Roth, R. L. Woodring and C. H. Brunner.
Committee over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: (Appointed by the Chair.) E. N. Cassel, F. M. Hottel, J. F. Barrall and Allen M. Gehman.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: President, Allen M. Gehman; Secretary, G. O. Billig; Treasurer, H. G. Brunner.
Resolved, That H. B. Musselman shall be Presiding Elder over the district comprising part of the Church, and W. G. Gehman Presiding Elder over the district comprising the balance of the
Church and the Gospel Herald Society.
Resolved, That C. H. Brunner shall be Vice-Presiding Elder under H. B. Musselman, and W. S. Hottel shall be Vice-Presiding Elder under W. G. Gehman.
Resolved, That the two Presiding Elders and the Delegates from the Stations and Circuits constitute the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That we resolve ourselves into a Committee of the Whole to discuss matters relative to Foreign Missionary Work.
Report of the Committee of the Whole:
Matter relative to Foreign Missionary work was taken up. H. B. Musselman, President of the Board of Foreign Missions explained the conditions of the support of our Foreign Missionaries. The Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions, C. H. Brunner read a letter from Gerard Bailley of Caracas, Venezuela, South America. This letter stated the sorrowful fact that our brother Fred. R. Bullen has died of fever, and we pray God that He will keep our hearts centered upon Him and thrust other laborers into the vineyard. This Committee recommends this Conference to hand this letter to the Committee on Resolutions.
W. G. Gehman, Chairman,
H. K. Kratz, Secretary.
Report of the Committee on Worship:
R. Bergstresser shall preach this evening followed by W. J. Fretz.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
H. L. Musselman.
WHEREAS, The Board of Foreign Missions has so faithfully and devotedly served in this capacity during the past, having thereby been occasioned to face many responsible problems in reference to this great, much needed and responsible work, and
WHEREAS, They have so wisely and faithfully executed matters relative to this responsible work, therefore,
Resolved, That we as a Conference highly appreciate the noble Work done by our Board of Foreign Missions, and encourage them in the continuance of their fidelity in the execution of these their responsible duties, praying God to bless them with the needed strength, wisdom and foresight, so as to be fully enabled to face every problem confronting them so that this blessed work of the Lord may go on unabated.
Resolved, That the Secretary be permitted to be absent tomorrow forenoon long enough to hold the funeral of one of his members.
Resolved, That the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee meet between the close of the afternoon meeting and the opening of the morning meeting.
Adjourned with prayer by J. C. Freeze.
SIXTH MEETING
SATURDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 17, 1914
This meeting was opened by singing “Follow, Follow, I Will Follow Jesus.” The Chairman read a part of the fourth chapter of Paul’s second Epistle to the Corinthians, after which W. G. Gehman led in prayer.
The roll was called and the minutes were read and approved.
The following Reports were read and adopted.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
WHEREAS, Our worthy Secretary has multitudinous cares and responsibilities pressing upon him due to the work connected with the Secretaryship, not only during the various meetings of the Conference session but also in recording the minutes, as well as constant labor throughout the year in attending to the various matters which devolve upon him on account of the office; and,
WHEREAS, His duties involve much tiresome labor and mental strain, demanding hours of time, therefore,
Resolved, That we at this time give him a real, liberal and voluntary offering, as a token of thankfulness and appreciation for his hard labor and much untiring toil.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
E. N. Cassel.
This offering was now taken which amounted to $21.50. (Thanks. )
Report of the Committee on. Resolutions:
WHEREAS, The Board of Foreign Mission has favored us with a very detailed and interesting report of the work of our Missionaries in the “Regions Beyond” and,
WHEREAS, We have learned through the reports of the Missionaries in the “Gospel Banner” how the Lord has again blest the work in the various Mission Stations, so that souls have been added to the number of believers, and those already saved have become more established in the word and service of the Lord, and,
WHEREAS, The Lord has most marvelously spared the lives of our Thibetan Missionaries from the brigands led by the famous “White Wolf” though their homes were destroyed, and,
WHEREAS, Our South American Missionaries have had various tests financially and otherwise and yet have been blessedly victorious, therefore,
Resolved, That we enjoy these reports and unitedly praise God for the wonderful deliverances and continued presence and blessing of our Lord, and,
WHEREAS, Gerard Bailley, of the Hebron Home Training Institute for Native Workers of Caracas, Venezuela, S. A., has informed us by letter of the falling out of the ranks of one of our Missionaries, by death, caused by fever, of Fred. R. Bullen, taking from the ranks of our Missionaries a faithful, loyal and useful fellow-laborer in the Gospel, occasioning deep sorrow of heart to the Missionaries still on the field, as well as causing a vacancy in the ranks of the Missionaries, therefore,
Resolved, That we humbly bow in submission to Him who knoweth and ordereth all things well and pray that He may in due time awake others to go forth and fill the breach in the ranks of the laborers.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
E. N. Cassel.
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Examiners: Studies for 1914 and 1915. (See Reports.)
Business was suspended to the call of the Chair. After a little while the Chair called the Conference to order and business was resumed.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee of three to compile a report of the Conference, for publication in the Gospel Banner and also a report of the Sunday Services. He appointed C. H. Brunner, E. N. Cassel and J. G. Shireman.
Resolved, That we hold a Ministerial Convention some time in the middle of the year, for one day.
The Presiding Elders, and one whom they shall appoint, shall constitute a committee to arrange a program and set the date.
All ordained ministers or probationers having charge of a work shall be present. A hearty invitation shall also be extended to the Ministers’ wives and families.
Resolved, That we have another Ministerial Convention on the day prior to and at the same place of the next Annual Conference.
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene at Royersford, Pa., at 8 A.M., on the second Thursday of October, 1915.
Resolved, That we hold a Sunday School Convention, in each Presiding Elder’s District.
Resolved, That the Pastors and Delegates of each District constitute a Committee to arrange for these conventions.
Resolved, That we now elect the officers for the two Ministerial Conventions and the Committee for the Annual Ministerial Convention.
Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention: Chairman, J. G. Shireman; Secretary, H. K. Kratz.
Committee on Program: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman and W. J. Fretz.
Annual Ministerial Convention: Chairman, W. G. Gehman; Secretary, W. J. Fretz.
Committee on Program: Chairman, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, W. G. Gehman; C. H. Brunner.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair. After a little while, business was resumed, at the call of the Chair, and the following resolution was presented.
Resolved, That we suspend the rule of adjournment at 11:30 A.M., and resolve ourselves into a Committee of the Whole to consider the matter regarding certain Trust Funds. The Chair appointed W. G. Gehman, Chairman of this Committee.
Report of the Committee of the Whole:
The Committee rose and reported progress.
Committee:
W. G. Gehman, Chairman.
H. K. Kratz, Secretary.
The following Boards and Committees reported the Election of their officers.
Executive Board: President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner; Treasurer, W. G. Gehman.
Board of Foreign Missions: President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner; Treasurer, Allen M. Gehman.
Board of Trustees of the Orphanage and Home: President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, W. S. Hottel; Treasurer, C. H. Brunner.
Board of Managers of the Orphanage and Home: H. B. Musselman; E. N. Cassel and Allen M. Gehman.
Board of Publication and Printing: President, J. C. Roth; Secretary, R. L. Woodring; Treasurer, C. H. Brunner.
Board of Examiners: President, W. S. Hottel; Secretary, E. N. Cassel; Treasurer, E. T. Shick.
Committee over the Presiding Elders: Chairman, E. N. Cassel; Secretary, J. G. Shireman.
Committee over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: Chairman, E. N. Cassel; Secretary, F. M. Hottel; Treasurer, J. F. Barrall.
Beneficiary Society: President, W. G. Gehman; Secretary, F. M. Hottel; Treasurer, J. F. Barrall.
Home Mission Fund: Secretary, J. F. Barrall; Treasurer, Allen M. Gehman.
Adjourned with prayer by H. B. Musselman.
SEVENTH MEETING.
SATURDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 17, 1914
The meeting was opened by singing ”I Will Guide Thee with Mine Eye,” and prayer by A. A. Schaeffer. The roll was called, and the minutes were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention for 1915: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Mt. Carmel District Sunday School Convention for 1915: (See Reports.)
Committee on Resolutions:
WHEREAS, The Pastor and Members of the Bethlehem Class have received us so cordially and entertained us so royally, providing for our every bodily needs during the Session of the Annual Conference, therefore,
Resolved, That, we manifest our grateful appreciation of their liberal hospitality and warm-hearted fellowship in this noble work, by a rising vote of thanks.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
E. N. Cassel.
Report of the Committee on Communications: W. B. Musselman, of Cleveland, Ohio, Missionary Presiding Elder again writes and kindly asks pardon for absence from this Session of Conference, as this is always their busy season and apparently more especially so this year. He sincerely thanks the Conference for their generosity and patience in the past on this line. In conclusion, he states that the Gospel Worker Society unite in thanking the Pennsylvania Conference for their voluntary and liberal support in the past by their prayers and otherwise. He includes a report to this Conference which we recommend Conference to read.
Committee:
R. L. Woodring,
W. G. Gehman.
Report of the Committee on Worship:
Resolved, That E. N. Cassel preach this evening followed by B. Bryan Musselman. On Sunday the services shall be held in the High School auditorium. The morning Service shall open with a short song service at 9:30, after which H. B. Musselman, Chairman of the Annual Conference shall preach. The afternoon Service shall open at 2:15, and at 2:30, W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder of the Mt. Carmel District shall preach.
The evening service shall open with a song service at 7 o’clock, after which W. S. Hottel shall preach. All the services during the day shall be in charge of the Chairman of the Annual Conference.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
H. L. Musselman.
The matter relative to the Mission money from the Philadelphia Station that has been deposited in the Germantown Avenue Bank which since closed doors for business, was discussed and it was decided that the Pastor W. J. Fretz in whose name the money was deposited should not be held responsible, but sign a due bill for the amount in favor of our Conference Treasurer, and pay it over providing he receives it. A due bill properly signed by W. J. Fretz was presented and accepted by Conference, and handed to the Treasurer.
Resolved, That W. G. Gehman shall draw up a resolution defining the membership of the Sunday School the way he has stated it to us.
Resolved, That this motion be laid on the table.
Resolved, That all contributions received for the Benevolent Society shall be by check or money order, made payable to the Treasurer, H. G. Brunner, Zionsville Pa.. and forwarded to the Secretary, G. O. Billig, 941 Liberty Street, Allentown, Pa.
Resolved, That the Executive Board elected at this Conference shall be, hereby, duly authorized and empowered to formulate or elect a board according to the requirements of the law in case the election of the present Executive Board is illegal.
Resolved, That all the receipts from the sale of Church Property where there is no class, shall be turned over to the Executive Board.
Resolved, That the President of the “Gospel Herald Society” shall purchase no lot or property for Church purposes without first consulting the Executive Board and securing its consent.
Resolved, That money received for “Mizpah Grove” during the year shall be paid to the Executive Board as received, in the usual way.
Resolved, That in case a church or parsonage will be built or purchased during the year, a photograph of the same shall be taken and a cut inserted in the Conference Journal of next year.
Resolved, That the Church property at Erwinna be in charge of the Board of Trustees of Easton, Pa., and that the Church property at Hereford be under the control of the Board of Trustees of Macungie.
Resolved, That W. G. Gehman, the Presiding Elder of the Mt. Carmel District, hold all the Home Missionary meetings throughout the Conference, between New Year and the Camp Meetings, and take the subscriptions with the assistance of the respective pastors.
Resolved, That the Secretary ask the publishers of the “Gospel Herald” and “Gospel Banner” to furnish each pastor with a copy of the mailing list of the subscribers in his charge through the Presiding Elders.
Resolved, That we print 650 Conference Journals, to be sold at 25 cents each. Any expenses in connection with the printing of the Journals, not covered by the receipts for the same, shall he paid out of the Annual Conference Fund, or any balance from the sale of them shall be paid into said fund.
Resolved, That each Pastor shall record the number of “Children Dedicated” and his offerings for the Annual Conference Delegate, and other offerings on his Schedule in the same order, and place as stated in the report of the Statistical Secretary in the Journal.
Committee on Resolutions:
(a) Relative to the Missionary Presiding Elder and Gospel Workers:
WHEREAS, W. B. Musselman, Missionary Presiding Elder and President of the Gospel Worker Society, has sent us a very interesting report of the work of the Gospel Worker Society, which bespeaks much blessing from the Lord, so that many and blessed victories have been realized in their work for the Lord, and,
WHEREAS, We as a Conference have a real heart interest in the work of the Gospel Worker Society sharing their burdens as well as their joys, therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate the self-sacrificing, untiring devotion and earnest labor for the Lord of W. B. Musselman and the Gospel Workers in the spread of the truth, in spreading good literature, in holding open air services as well as preaching in halls in their Missions, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God’s richest blessings upon, him and upon the Gospel Workers, as well as upon their work, and that we continue our support both by prayer and offerings and, further,
Resolved, That we likewise heartily press the matter of securing new subscribers to the “Gospel Herald” and also urge all our Sunday Schools to introduce the “Gospel Messenger,” and to distribute them still more freely.
(b) Relative to Delegates.
WHEREAS, The various Classes have sent to this Conference noble, self-sacrificing spiritual men as delegates who have a deep concern in the work of the Lord, manifesting their interest in the work in general, having proved themselves worthy of the honor and responsibility, therefore,
Resolved, That we as a Conference highly appreciate the selection of such men and enjoy their fellowship while in Conference.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
E. N. Cassel.
Resolved, That the next Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention convene in Reading, Pa., on April 7, 1915. The two Presiding Elders and the Pastor W. J. Fretz shall constitute the Committee on Program.
Resolved, That our two Presiding Elders be granted leave of absence from the service this evening.
Adjourned with prayer by C. H. Brunner.
EIGHTH MEETING
MONDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 19, 1914
This meeting was opened by singing “Down at The Cross Where My Savior Died,” and prayer by E. E. Kublic. The Chairman read part of the fourth chapter of Ephesians, and
made a few comments.
The roll was called, and the minutes were read and approved.
The Report of the Auditing Committee was read and referred back to the Committee. This report was read again and adopted as follows:
We beg to submit the following report:
We have audited the following accounts: Quarterly Conference Records, Orphanage and Home, Equipment Fund, Executive Board, Camp Meetings, Sunday School Conventions, Annual Conference Fund, Beneficiary Society, Benevolent Society, Foreign and Home Missions, Presiding Elders, Gospel Herald Society, Board of Publication, Committee on Finance and Annual Conference Records.
We found all correct with the following exceptions: In the Benevolent Society books of Lehighton the total reads $26.50 and should be $26.00, Bethlehem had $202.00 and should have been $201.50, and Allentown had $163.50 and should have been $163.00. Northampton Records: Gospel Workers Collections, page 9, reads $2.13 and should be $3.13. Northampton Records, Trustees account on page 14. In Trustees Report the Grand Total reads $449.01 and should be $455.01. Secretary’s Camp Meeting accounts, Mt. Carmel District: The Treasurer’s receipts read $723.89. The Secretary’s account shows .05 less than the amount paid out, but the totals are the same. In the Treasurer’s Camp Meeting account of the Mt. Carmel District, the total reads $723.89, which amount is correct, but the total if added correctly amounts to only $723.09, which means that .80 are not recorded, .20 of which was an error in transferring from the order into Treasurer’s book, and .60 paid out without an order, and not accounted from the Treasurer’s account.
In the Quarterly Conference Records: Emaus Record of the Third Quarterly Conference, page 15: the rent collections read $21.00, and should be $16.00. Walnutport Record, page 2: in the Steward’s collections, the total reads $27.10, and should be $27.30. Page 6, Steward’s collection, total reads $31.65, and should be $41.65. Page 9, Steward’s collection the total reads $38.50 and should be $38.60. In the Nazareth Record, the rent collections on page 37 are $29.05, and should be $28.95. In the Nazareth Summary account of the third quarter the rent should be $28.95 instead of $29.05, and the total should read $85.15 instead of $85.25. Stroudsburg Records: In the Trustees report page 95 the collection during the year reads $153.80 and should be $153.90, and the balance reads $21.70 and should be $21.80. Summary however is correct. In the Orphanage and Home, Secretary’s account, an error of .20 in forwarding the amount. This error, however does not affect the sum total.
Committee:
J. G. Shireman,
G. F. Yost,
V. H. Reinhart,
A. A. Schaffer,
S. S. Geil,
S. W. Heiser,
C. E. Neff,
Morris E. Stickler,
O. C. Kistler,
John G. Weiss,
H. L. Musselman,
Herbert E. Gehman.
Resolved, That whenever a member of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society dies, the Pastor shall return the membership book to the Secretary. (Standing Rule.)
Resolved, That the Treasurer of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society shall acknowledge to the various Pastors any amount he has received from them for this fund. (Standing Rule.)
Resolved, That the Laymen’s Benevolent Society get blanks and receipt cards printed through the Board of Publication and Printing.
The following reports were read and adopted:
REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE
Report of the Committee to Compile a Report of the Conference for Publication in the Gospel Banner, as well as of the Sunday Services.
The thirty-first Session of the Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ, of Pennsylvania, convened in Ebenezer Church, on Laurel Street, Bethlehem, Pa., Oct. 15, 1914, at 8 A.M.
The Ministers and Delegates were all present at the first meeting. The Reports of the Pastors and the two Presiding Elders showed that there was a marked increase in Spirituality as well as numerically throughout the entire Church.
In every Mission and on every Charge, from the least to the largest, a marked success was realized. During the year, 247 were Baptized and 185 were received into the Church fellowship, making a net increase in the membership of 81. A substantial and commodious church was built at Stroudsburg, Pa., and a Parsonage at Quakertown, Pa.
The Ministry was never better united and are obedient and loyal to God and the Presiding Elders. The laity is loyal, devoted, self-sacrificing and united. The straight Bible truth is preached and loved by young and old. They are living for Jesus whom they expect soon to appear.
The various offerings were large, in many of them a marked increase was again realized. The total offerings for Home Missions for the year were $7761.99, and for Foreign Missions in the Church and Sunday School the amount was $6949.88. The total offerings throughout the Church for the year were $73921.76.
H. B. Musselman and W. G. Gehman were elected Presiding Elders and assigned to the same Districts as last year. C. H. Brunner and W. S. Hottel were elected Vice-Presiding Elders.
The following changes of Pastors were made: F. M. Hottel to Philadelphia; E. T. Shick to Graterford; M. W. Ettinger to Quakertown; H. K. Kratz to Coopersburg; E. N. Cassel to S. Allentown; C. H. Brunner to Allentown; W. S. Hottel to Bethlehem; W. J. Fretz to Reading; R. L. Woodring to Easton; R. Bergstresser to Nazareth; J. G. Shireman to Stroudsburg; V. H. Reinhart to Walnutport; W. W. Zimmerman to Northampton, and the rest went back to their former fields of labor.
The Conference throughout was harmonious; love and peace prevailed. Our venerable Father William Gehman, who is now nearly 88 years of age, was again present, and manifested as deep and unabated interest in the deliberation of the Conference as ever. Father Gehman rejoices as much as any one to see the work of the Lord progress.
The “Gospel Messenger” has been a very beneficial medium both in our Sunday School and Church Work throughout. This paper should have a wide circulation throughout the various Conferences of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church. A large number of the Colportage Edition of the ”Gospel Herald” are sold weekly in the Churches and Missions throughout the Conferences.
SUNDAY SERVICES
All the services on Sunday were held in the High School Auditorium which has a seating capacity of over seven hundred which was well filled throughout the entire day. Members from nearly every Appointment were present at these Services. The Forenoon Services opened at 9:30 A.M. with a Song Service after which Presiding Elder H. B. Musselman of the Bethlehem District preached the Conference Sermon, basing his remarks on Matt. 24:41-45. The sermon was a clear definite and positive exposition of the call, duty and work of the Christian Ministry.
It was a forceful and pungent presentation of the truths that bear weightily upon the success of the pastors, and will bear fruit in the lives of those that heard it. The Afternoon Service opened at 2:15 P.M., with a Song Service after which W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder of the Mt. Carmel District, preached a sermon on I Sam. 18:1, and I Sam. 20:30-31. This discourse was fraught with Bible and full of practical truths and spiritual advice; and no doubt will have an effect upon the hearers for good to the glory of God.
The Evening Services opened at 7 P.M., with a Song Service, after which W. S. Hottel, the newly appointed Pastor preached a very inspiring sermon, basing his remarks on Mark 6:45- 52. The sermon was full of practical and dispensational truth, presented in a very forceful manner and brought inspiration to all that heard it. The quartettes and choruses rendered a number of excellent, inspiring and spiritual selections which were heartily enjoyed: and greeted with shouts of praise. The services, we are certain, will not soon be forgotten, and have proved a rich and glorious blessing to the different ones in attendance as well as to the work throughout the entire Conference. This Conference, without a doubt, goes down in history as one of the best and most blessed we ever had.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
E. N. Cassel,
J. G. Shireman.
The Summary Report of the Statistical Secretary was read and adopted.
Report of the Committee to Audit the Schedules: We audited the Pastor’s Summary Statistical Report and found it correct except in the Grand Total of “Present Valuation of Church Property,” which records $186,200, and should be $188,200.
The amount collected for Mizpah Grove Camp Meeting in the Bethlehem District, was not brought down into the column of Totals, otherwise the report is in excellent and commendable condition.
Committee:
F. M. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
WHEREAS, Our aged Brother, William Gehman, has again been present during the entire Session of this Annual Conference and manifesting a keen interest in all the transactions of the Conference, even though all the deliberations were in the English language, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for sparing him for so many years of service and usefulness and for his earnest and whole-hearted interest in the work of the Lord as advanced by the Conference, as well as on his own home charge, and further,
Resolved, That we enjoy his presence and hearty co-operation with us in the work of the Lord and unitedly pray God to bless him, preserving him in mental and spiritual vigor, causing him to be faithful in every good word and work.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
E. N. Cassel.
Report of the Committee on Statistics:
We have examined the Sunday School Convention Reports and found them correct. We have checked up the Report of the Statistical Secretary from the Grand Totals of the Pastor’s Summary Statistical Report and find it all correct, except in transposing the item “Present Valuation of Church Property.” The Report has it $186,200, and should be $188,200.
Committee:
W. G. Gehman,
E. N. Cassel,
W. S. Hottel.
The matter relative to the defining of the Membership of the Sunday Schools was now lifted off the table, and the following resolution adopted:
Resolved, That the Pastor, by virtue of his office, shall be counted as an officer of the Sunday School. The number of officers and teachers of the Sunday School shall be determined by the number of offices and not only by the number of persons holding the offices.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair. Business was suspended until after dinner, when it was resumed and the following resolution was passed.
SPECIAL RESOLUTION
Adopted by the Pennsylvania Conference
Relative to remarks made concerning certain articles which have appeared in the Gospel Banner from time to time during the past, be it
Resolved, That the Pennsylvania Conference wishes to put itself on record unanimously as standing for the personal, pre-millenial, imminent coming of the Lord. In view of this fact this Conference stands for a clear cut separation on a Scriptural basis from all the popular modern reform movements whether religious, political or moral. While we admit and keenly realize that there are a great many prominent evils existing and operating in the world and all around us we hold that according to the Scriptures God’s plan is to save an elect people and prepare them for His coming, through faith in Jesus Christ alone, and not through reformation, prohibition, or the educational institutions of the present day, which, with a very few exceptions are strongly inclined towards higher criticism, agnosticism, materialism and infidelity.
This Conference believes in a Divine call of God to the Ministry. We believe that the Scriptural and essential qualifications to this call are soundness in conversion, completeness in consecration, being filled with the Holy Spirit, having a love and burden for souls.
We believe that a thorough application and devotion to the prayerful study of God’s word in accordance with Paul’s exhortations to Timothy is of infinitely greater value in the making of an efficient minister and a successful instrument in the hands of God to carry on His work, than an elaborate college education.
We believe that when a man abides in faithfulness in the divine call, he will find so much work to do all around himself, that he will never find time to engage in any occupation or trade or profession with the purpose of financial gain.
Resolved, That a type-written copy of the above be handed to the Chairman of the Annual Conference,
Resolved, That the old Quarterly Conference Records and Class Records that are not needed be sent to the Secretary of the Annual Conference to be preserved at the discretion of the Executive Board, who shall have charge of these records. These books shall be sent to the Secretary during the second week of November next.
SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Matter relative to Sunday School supplies was now taken up. The following resolutions were passed by the undersigned, the Presiding Elders and Pastors of the Pennsylvania Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ, assembled together at the Allentown Division Camp Meeting, at Mizpah Grove, on August 21, 1914.
Resolved, That we as a Conference are in favor that the Union Gospel Printing Company publish Sunday School Supplies as follows, if they can see their way clear.
Scholars’ Quarterlies of two pages per lesson.
Teachers’ Quarterlies of four pages per lesson.
We recommend that the prices shall not be higher than those of the “Light and Life” series.
Resolved, That we elect a Publishing Committee of five which shall furnish the copy for the lessons. This Committee was then elected as follows:
Chairman, H. B. Musselman; W. G. Gehman, W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel and C. H. Brunner.
H. B. Musselman, P. E.; W. G. Gehman, P. E.; E. N. Cassel, W. S. Hottel, C. H. Brunner, F. M. Hottel, E. T. Shick, J. G. Shireman, R. L. Woodring, W. J. Fretz, H. K. Kratz, J. C. Roth, J. F. Barrall, B. Bryan Musselman, R. Bergstresser, O. S. Hillegass, E. E. Kublic.
On September 21, this Committee met at the residence of Pastor W. S. Hottel, at Allentown, and made definite arrangements, that W. S. Hottel should write these lessons, and that C. H. Brunner should write one column for each lesson in the Teachers’ Quarterlies.
Resolved, That we ask all our Sunday Schools to get all their supplies from the Union Gospel Printing Co., also that they order them not later than November 1st.
Adjourned at 1:45 P.M., with prayer by William Gehman, and singing ”God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” and Benediction by the Chairman, H. B. Musselman.
(Signed.)
H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder, Chairman,
W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder,
C. H. Brunner, Secretary, Vice-Presiding Elder,
Allen M. Gehman, Treasurer,
W. S. Hottel, Vice-Presiding Elder,
H. K. Kratz, Recording Secretary,
B. Bryan Musselman, Statistical Secretary,
J. F. Barrall, Financial Secretary,
G. F. Yost,
J. C. Roth,
J. G. Shireman,
E. E. Kublic,
V. H. Reinhart,
F. M. Hottel,
W. W. Zimmerman,
R. Bergstresser,
R. L. Woodring,
E. T. Shick,
E. N. Cassel,
W. J. Fretz,
O. S. Hillegass,
M. W. Ettinger,
William Gehman,
A. A. Wismer,
G. K. Himmelreich,
S. S. Geil,
M. C. Brownback,
Charles F. Lilly,
Morris E. Stickler,
A. A. Schaffer,
J. C. Freeze,
G. O. Billig,
John C. Weiss,
H. H. Bergey,
S. W. Reiser,
Herbert E. Gehman,
C. W. Teel,
J. M. Oplinger,
C. E. Neff,
O. C. Kistler,
H. L. Musselman.