THIRTY FOURTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1917
FIRST MEETING.
THURSDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 11, 1917
The Thirty-fourth Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ of Pennsylvania convened in Bethel Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, on Gordon Street, Allentown, Pa.
The first meeting was opened at eight-twenty A. M., October eleventh, nineteen hundred and seventeen, by singing, “Blessed assurance, Jesus Is Mine,” followed by a season of praise and thanksgiving to God for His gracious leadings during the year as well as a number of earnest fervent prayers for His blessing upon the officers and members of the Conference and for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all our business transactions.
The Chairman, Presiding Elder H. B. Musselman, read the thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians and made a very earnest, practical and appropriate address concerning the importance of exemplary ministerial character and deportment.
The following members were then enrolled:
MINISTERS
Ordained: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, W. B. Musselman, Wm. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel. F. M. Hottel J. G. Shireman, R. L. Woodring, W. J. Fretz, J. F. Barrall, H. K. Kratz, J. C. Roth, E. T. Shick, B. Bryan Musselman, H. A. Kauffman, O. S. Hillegass, G. F. Yost, R. Bergstresser, E. E. Kublic, W. W. Zimmerman, V. H. Reinhart, C. F. Snyder and P. J. Musselman.
Probationers: R. W. Dickert, J. B. Layne, N. H. Wolf and L. D. Wesner.
All of these were present at the opening of the first meeting except W. B. Musselman, Cleveland, O., C. F. Snyder, of China, and Probationer L. D. Wesner.
DELEGATES
H. S. Jones, Bethlehem.
G. O. Billig, Allentown.
S. W. Heiser, Reading.
S. S. Geil, Philadelphia.
O. C. Kistler, South Allentown.
S. H. Lichtenthaler, Easton.
J. H. Bruch, Stroudsburg.
G. K. Himmelreich, Fleetwood, Blandon and Terre Hill.
Herbert E. Gehman, Coopersburg and Springtown.
Allen M. Gehman. Emaus and Macungie.
M. E. Brownback, Royersford and Spring City.
H. B. Shelly, Zionsville.
C. D. Bean, Graterford and Harleysville.
H. H. Bergey, Quakertown and Hatfield.
W. D. Everett, Mt. Carmel.
R. S. Anderson, Shamokin.
C. E. Eroh, Lehighton and Weissport.
William H. Bender, Nazareth and Plainfield.
O. B. Bartholomew, Northampton.
H. E. Gackenbach, Walnutport.
All the Delegates were present. The Conference members thus number forty-six, all of whom were present except the two above mentioned.
We shall also not forget to mention our absent Foreign Missionaries who are members of our Church, namely: M. P. Zook, Mrs. M. P. Zook, H. W. Feldges, Mrs. H. W. Feldges, C. F. Snyder, Mrs. C. F. Snyder, V. G. Plymire. Mrs. Kate Weiss and Miss Grace I. Harkless. Also Miss Anna Le Fevre, Wm. Christie, W. N. Ruhl, C. H. Miller, E. E. Crist, Mrs. E. E. Crist, E. R. Hess, M. B. Fuller, S. P. Hamilton, Manuel Gomez, Innocencio Gomez, Dionisio Oyarzun and Ignacio Riveros, although not members of our Church, yet are supported by our Conference. We shall also remember our Missionary Presiding Elder, the Gospel Worker Society and the Gospel Herald Society as well as our members at home who have stood by us so nobly during the past year.
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: Assistant Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman; Recording Secretary, H. A. Kauffman.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Timekeeper and a Reporter.
He appointed W. J. Fretz as Reporter and V. H. Reinhart as Timekeeper.
Resolved, That no member be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission by the Chair except C. H. Brunner and G. O. Billig.
COMMITTEES
The following committees were then appointed by the Chair and approved by the Conference:
Committee on Worship: C. H. Brunner and G. O. Billig.
Committee on Communications: R. L. Woodring and J. C. Roth.
Committee on Finance: J. F. Barrall, G. O. Billig and Allen M. Gehman.
Committee on Statistics of the Schedules: J. G. Shireman, W. S. Hottel and E. N. Cassel.
Committee on Examination of Quarterly Conference Records: W. J. Fretz, R. L. Woodring, E. T. Shick, W. W. Zimmerman, V. H. Reinhart, C. E. Eroh, H. B. Shelly, C. D. Bean, J. H. Bruch, M. E. Brownback, William H. Bender, O. B. Bartholomew and R. S. Anderson.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: E. E. Kublic and R. Bergstresser.
Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: Wm. Gehman, H. H. Bergey and G. K. Himmelreich.
Committee on Examination of Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries: E. T. Shick, G. F. Yost and 0. S. Hillegass.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: C. H. Brunner, W. S. Hottel and W. G. Gehman.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: E. N. Cassel, C. H. Brunner and F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Resolutions: W. S. Hottel, W. G. Gehman and R. L. Woodring.
Auditing Committee: F. M. Hottel, H. S. Jones, Herbert E. Gehman, O. C. Kistler. G. F. Yost, R. W. Dickert. S. W. Heiser, S. H. Lichtenthaler, H. E. Gackenback, S. S. Geil, W. D. Evert and P. J. Musselman.
Committee to Audit Schedules: W. G. Gehman, H. K. Kratz and J. C. Roth.
Resolved, That we now hear the oral reports of the Pastors.
Resolved, That the time allowed for the oral report of each Pastor be limited to ten minutes.
After hearing a number of the Pastors’ Oral Reports, Brother Wm. L. De Groff, of Philadelphia, representing the Africa Inland Mission, was introduced to the Conference and was granted a few minutes’ time to the reviewing of that work of faith and prayer.
The following reports were then read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Worship:
Resolved, That J. B. Layne preach this evening at 7:30, followed by Wm. F. Heff’ner, both members of the Gospel Herald Society.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
G. O. Billig.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, We have been privileged to listen to a brief report of the Lord’s doings in answer to prayer, in the work of the African Inland Mission, through the Deputational worker of said Mission, W. L. De Groff, and,
Whereas, The Lord, through prayer and without a direct appeal for money, has sent in thousands of dollars so that they were enabled to support their missionaries and sent forth eighty
missionaries during the past year, therefore,
Resolved, That we listened with pleasure to the report of the Lord’s faithfulness in answer to prayer and that we continue with the brother in prayer for the evangelization of that part of the world to which this mission is called.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Adjourned to the call of the Chair with prayer by R. L. Woodring
.
SECOND MEETING
THURSDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 11, 1917
The afternoon meeting was opened at 3:30 by singing “In the Cross”’ and prayer by W. J. Fretz.
The roll was called with all present after which the minutes of the forenoon meeting were read and approved with corrections.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports.)
Report of the Annual Ministerial Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Beneficiary Society: (See Reports.)
Report of the Camp-Meeting Equipage Committee: (See Reports.)
Reports 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 Trustees of the Orphanage and Home: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing: (See Reports.)
Report of the Hymn Book Committee: (See Reports.)
Report of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: (See Reports.)
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports.)
Report of the Executive Board: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and extend the time indefinitely.
Resolved, That we have a private meeting in the basement at the call of the Chair.
Report of the Committee to Examine Annual Conference Records:
We have examined the Annual Conference Records and found them all correct.
Committee:
E. E. Kublic,
R. Bergstresser.
Report of the Committee to Examine Quarterly Conference Records:
We beg leave to report that we have examined all the Quarterly Conference Records and found them all correct except the following:
South Allentown Record, no mention is made of the Presiding Elder speaking on the Duties of the Officers in the first quarter.
Coopersburg and Springtown Record and Lehighton and Weissport Record no amount given of the valuation of Church property.
We also find that Bethlehem Quarterly Conference recommends Brother A. G. Woodring for Annual Conference License.
Committee:
W. J. Fretz, O. B. Bartholomew,
R. L. Woodring, R. S. Anderson,
E. T. Shick, William H. Bender,
V. H. Reinhart, M. E. Brownback,
W. W. Zimmerman, C. E. Eroh,
C. D. Bean, H. B. Shelly,
J. H. Bruch.
Report of the Committee to Examine Traveling Elders:
We beg leave to report that we have examined all the Traveling Elders through their Delegates and found them all satisfactory.
Committee:
William Gehman,
H. H. Bergey,
G. K. Himmelreich.
W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society, recommended W. F. Heffner, Gospel Herald, to this Annual Conference as an Applicant for Annual Conference License.
Adjourned at 5:15 P. M. with prayer by O. C. Kistler and benediction by W. G. Gehman.
THIRD MEETING
THURSDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 11, 1917
This meeting was opened at 7:45 P. M. in the basement of the Church with prayer by J. C. Roth.
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 Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Examine Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries:
We have examined the Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries and found them all satisfactory except L. D. Wesner, who having left the work to which he was appointed by his respective leader; therefore we recommend that his name be dropped from the roll.
Committee:
E. T. Shick,
G. F. Yost,
O. S. Hillegass.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, We were privileged to listen to a very interesting and encouraging report of the Lord’s work as carried on by our beloved Missionaries in the various “Regions Beyond,” describing explicitly and in detail the leadings of God through the labors and sacrifices of our Missionaries, and
Whereas, The Lord has so wonderfully blessed the Missionaries in spreading the Word of Truth resulting in the salvation and baptism of quite a number of souls, and,
Whereas, Our Missionaries have been preserved remarkable in physical health and strength and in the unity of the Spirit and in faith and courage, and,
Whereas, Our Foreign Mission Board has added three more Missionaries to their already large force of workers, whose support they have pledged for the ensuing year, therefore,
Resolved, That we earnestly unite in thanking the Lord for past favors and pray God to continue His blessings upon the Missionaries and their work, so they may prosper under God,
physically and spiritually.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of the Annual Conference Treasurer: (See Reports.)
Report of the Special Session of Conference: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That the Committee on the War question continue indefinitely as follows: H. B. Musselman, C. H. Brunner, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel and W. S. Hottel.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
A. Relative to the Sunday School Secretary’s Record.
Resolved, That the Annual Conference furnish a book for the Secretary of each Sunday School in which an account of collections and expenditures shall be properly recorded, which book shall be submitted to each Quarterly Conference by the Superintendent for Auditing. This system to begin as soon after the Annual Conference as convenient.
B. Relative to the Eastern Gospel Banner list.
Resolved, That we recommend each Pastor to furnish his respective Presiding Elder with a complete list of subscribers to the “Eastern Gospel Banner,” on his charge as soon after Annual Conference as convenient and no later than December 11, 1917.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,.
Adjourned at 10:15 P. M. with prayer by H. S. Jones and benediction by C. H. Brunner.
FOURTH MEETING
FRIDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 12, 1917
The fourth meeting opened at 8:00 o’clock Friday morning by singing,”Blest Be the Tie that Binds.” The Chairman, H. B. Musselman, read a Scripture lesson from Philippians 4:8-13, and prayer was offered by E. E. Kublic.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following report was read and accepted.
Report of the Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention: (See Reports. )
The Pastors continued to submit their oral reports.
The oral reports of the Pastors as well as the brethren, Wm. Gehman and P. J. Musselman, were concluded.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
(A) Relative to Father Gehman:
WHEREAS, Our aged brother, Father William Gehman, has again been spared to be in our midst at this Conference, and,
WHEREAS, He has been so remarkably preserved in health and vigor, both physically and mentally, so that he can yet take an active part in the various services, both in his home church and at Camp-Meetings and other gatherings, and,
WHEREAS, He still takes a deep interest in the work of the Lord, in all its various phases, and is always willing to assist in whatever way possible, to advance the cause of Christ, therefore,
Resolved, That we enjoy his presence among us, and also highly appreciate his deep and sincere interest manifested in the work of the Lord, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God to continue His gracious blessings upon him, and to keep him in His love waiting for the return of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
(B) Relative to the reports of the Pastors:
WHEREAS, We have learned through the reports of the different Pastors, of many souls having been saved, many having been baptized and added to the Church, and the various offerings
having been large and in most instances increased considerably over the previous year, and
WHEREAS, The Pastors on both districts are deeply interested in the work of the Lord, devoting their time and energies to the spread of the Truth, the salvation of souls, the strengthening of the believers and the advancement of God`s work in general, therefore,
Resolved, That we unitedly and heartily praise God for the blessings bestowed, making possible all these glorious victories, and further,
Resolved, That we earnestly pray God to bless the different Pastors, to keep them free from all worldly entanglements, to still more deepen their devotion to Christ, and to use them more mightily in His service to His glory, than ever in the past.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee to draw up an article relative to the address of Father Wm. Gehman, for the newspapers.
The Chair appointed the following: W. S. Hottel, W. J. Fretz and C. H. Brunner.
Resolved, That the Presiding Elders be not limited in time for their reports.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Oral, Statistical and Financial Report of H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Bethlehem District: (See Reports.)
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.)
WHEREAS, W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society offered the Class and work of the Gospel Herald Society Mission at Sunbury to this Conference, it was
Resolved, That we accept them.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and extend the time indefinitely.
The following report of the Committee on Resolutions was read and adopted:
WHEREAS, We were privileged to listen to the Reports of our Presiding Elders and the President of the Gospel Herald Society bringing before the Conference a most comprehensive view of the work of the Lord throughout the entire Conference and the Gospel Herald Society, and,
WHEREAS, They reported noted progress in the work throughout, many souls having been saved on the various charges and missions. The Church edified, the Ministry united, devoted and loyal, therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate their sincere devotions to the work of the Lord. Their honesty, frankness, and their able and efficient leadership as well as their faithful oversight of the work throughout, and further,
Resolved, That we unitedly pray God to bless them physically, intellectually and spiritually, enabling them to go forward in this noble work for the Lord and to make them still greater instruments of blessing to the Lord’s cause and people while “He” tarries.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
R. L. Woodring.
The applicants for Annual Conference license, A. G. Woodring, of Bethlehem, Pa., and W. F. Heffner, leader of the Gospel Herald Mission, at Washington, N. J., who had been recommended to this Annual Conference, now gave the nature of their call and were recommended to the Committee on applicants.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Worship:
F. M. Hottel shall preach this evening followed by E. E. Kublic.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
G. O. Billig.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the call of the Chair.
Adjourned with prayer by R. W. Dickert and the benediction by J. C. Roth.
FIFTH MEETING
FRIDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 12, 1917
This meeting was opened by singing “In the Cross,” and prayer by E. T. Shick.
The roll was called and the minutes were read and approved.
The Report of the following committee was read and adopted:
Committee to Examine Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We have examined the Applicants W. F. Heffner and A. G. Woodring and found them satisfactory and recommend that they be granted Annual Conference License.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Resolved, That we proceed to the election of officers. The roll was called for unconditional and conditional ministers with the following results:
Unconditional: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, Wm. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel, F. M. Hottel, J. G. Shireman, R. L. Woodring, W. J. Fretz, J. F. Barrall, H. K. Kratz. J. C. Roth, B. Bryan Musselman, E. T. Shick, O. S. Hillegass, G. F. Yost, R. Bergstresser, E. E. Kublic, W. W. Zimmerman, V. H. Reinhart, H. A. Kauffman, P. J. Musselman, R. W. Dickert, J. B. Layne, A. G. Woodring and W. F. Heffner.
Absent: C. F. Snyder and W. B. Musselman.
Conditional: None.
The Chair appointed F. M. Hottel, G. F. Yost and H. K. Kratz as tellers.
Resolved, That we have two Presiding Elders.
The following 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.
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, E. N. Cassel and J. G. Shireman.
Board of Foreign Missions: H. B. Musselman, C. H. Brunner, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel and W. S. Hottel.
Board of Trustees of the Orphanage and Home: (For two years) H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel, C. H. Brunner, Allen M. Gehman and H. S. Jones.
Editorial Committee on the Sunday School Lessons: Editor in chief, W. S. Hottel.
Committee : H. B. Musselman, C. H. Brunner, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel and W. S. Hottel.
Board of Examiners: W. G. Gehman. E. N. Cassel and W. S. Hottel.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: President, Allen M. Gehman; Secretary, G. O. Billig; Treasurer, H. G. Brunner.
The following committees were appointed by the Chairman and approved by the Conference:
Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage: F. M. Hottel, E. T. Shick, J. C. Roth and Allen M. Gehman.
Board of Publication and Printing: R. L. Woodring, C. H. Brunner and B. Bryan Musselman.
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 first Vice Presiding Elder and W. S. Hottel shall be second Vice Presiding Elder.
Resolved, That the two Presiding Elders and the Delegates from the Stations and Circuits constitute the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee meet between the close of the afternoon meeting and the opening of the morning meeting.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee of three to compile a report of the Conference, for publication in the Eastern Gospel Banner and also a report of the Sunday Services.
He appointed H. A. Kauffman, H. K. Kratz and E. N Cassel.
Resolved, That we hold a Ministerial Convention sometime 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 we hold a Sunday School Convention in each Presiding Elder’s District.
Resolved, That the Presiding Elders, Pastors and Delegates of each District constitute a Committee to arrange for these conventions.
Resolved, That all contributions received for the Laymen’s Benevolent Society shall be paid 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 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 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.
The Report of the Committee on Worship was read and adopted as follows:
R. L. Woodring shall preach Saturday evening followed by W. J. Fretz. On Sunday the services shall be held in Odd Fellows’ Hall, Ninth Street near Turner, opened by a short song service at 9:15 A. M., after which H. B. Musselman, Chairman of the Annual Conference shall preach the Conference Sermon.
The afternoon service shall open at 2 o’clock when W. G. Gehman shall preach. The evening service shall open with a song service at 7:15 after which W. S. Hottel shall preach.
The Services on Sunday shall be in charge of the Chairman of the Annual Conference.
Committee:
C. H. Brunner,
G. O. Billig,
Resolved, That we ask the Publisher to raise the price of the Eastern Gospel Banner from $1.25 to $1.50 if paid in advance and from $1.50 to $2.00 if not paid in advance.
The Delegates, Allen M. Gehman and G. K. Himmelreich, upon their request, were excused from the meetings on Saturday on account of special business.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned with prayer by C. E. Eroh and benediction by C. H. Brunner.
SIXTH MEETING
SATURDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 13, 1917
This meeting was opened by singing, “Follow, Follow, I will follow Jesus.” The Chairman, H. B. Musselman, read a Scripture lesson from Romans 8:28-39, after which W. G. Gehman offered prayer.
The roll was called with all present except Allen M. Gehman and G. K. Himmelreich. The minutes were read and approved.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
A. Relative to the Editor of the Conference Journal.
WHEREAS, C. H. Brunner, the Editor of the Conference Journal, has a great amount of hard labor in arranging the matter for the Journal, getting it printed and forwarded to the different Pastors, and,
WHEREAS, He devotes much time and thought to gather facts of interest and practical use, making it most practical, helpful and useful, therefore,
Resolved, That we heartily appreciate his valuable services thus rendered, and his manifold and untiring labor bestowed and further,
Resolved, That we donate him ten dollars out of the Annual Conference Fund.
B. Relative to the Secretary of the Annual Conference.
WHEREAS, The Secretary of the Annual Conference, C. H. Brunner, has many burdens and responsibilities, as well as a great deal of hard labor and thought, and,
WHEREAS, The duties of the office demand much of his time at the Session of the Annual Conference, as well as afterward in recording the minutes, and during the entire year in attending to numerous matters pressing upon him as a consequence of his office, therefore,
Resolved, That we sincerely appreciate his tireless services and faithful discharge of all his various duties, and further,
Resolved, That we donate him twenty-five dollars out of the Conference Fund as a slight token of his services thus rendered.
C. Relative to the Delegates to the Annual Conference.
WHEREAS, The different delegates have taken a deep interest in the various deliberations of the Conference, having been wide awake, alive and active, therefore:
Resolved, That we highly appreciate the interest of the different delegates in the work of the Lord, and pray God to bless them abundantly and to make them a great blessing to the work in their respective Classes, and further,
Resolved, That we heartily encourage the different Classes to continue to elect as delegates from time to time, such men as are loyal to God and the work in general, as well as wide awake, useful and diligent.
D. Relative to the Secretaries of Conventions.
Resolved, That hereafter we lift no offerings for the Secretary of the respective Sunday School, Annual and Semi-Annual Ministerial Conventions, but give a donation of two dollars on each occasion out of the treasury of the Sunday School Convention and out of the collections for expenses for the Ministerial Convention.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
The following Boards and Committees announced the election of their Officers:
Board of Foreign Missions: President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner.
Executive Board: President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner.
Board of Trustees of the Orphanage and Home: President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, R. L. Woodring; Assistant Secretary, J. G. Shireman.
Board of Managers: H. B. Musselman, E. N. Cassel and Allen M. Gehman.
Editorial Committee on the Sunday School Lessons: Chairman, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner.
Board of Examiners: President, W. G. Gehman; Secretary, E. N. Cassel.
Committee over the Presiding Elders: Chairman, E. N. Cassel; Secretary, F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage: Chairman, F. M. Hottel; Secretary, E. T. Shick.
Board of Publication and Printing: President, R. L. Woodring; Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman.
The Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee was read and adopted: (See Reports.)
The Brethren A. G. Woodring and J. B. Layne were received into the Conference bar.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair.
Business was suspended at 8:45.
Business was resumed at 10:55.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Statistics: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Mt. Carmel District Sunday School Convention: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene at Reading, Pa., Thursday, October 10, 1918.
Resolved, That the next Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention convene at Emaus, Pa., on April 11, 1918. The Committee on Program shall consist of H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman and J. C. Roth.
The following Officers were elected:
Officers for the next Annual Ministerial Convention: Chairman, J. G. Shireman; Secretary, H. K. Kratz.
Committee on Program: Chairman, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, W. J. Fretz, W. G. Gehman.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and extend the time indefinitely.
Officers for the next Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention: Chairman, R. L. Woodring; Secretary, H. A. Kauffman.
Resolved, That W. G. Gehman. President of the Gospel Herald Society shall have charge of the general sale of the “Rose of Sharon” hymnal in the future, and further,
Resolved, That we recommend that no Pastor shall make it a practice to do any wholesale literature business by employing agents.
The Reports of the following Committees were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee to Audit Schedules:
We have audited the different Pastors’ Schedules and the summary of Schedules and hereby certify that they exhibit the true statement of the affairs of the Conference to our best knowledge and belief.
Committee:
W. G. Gehman,
H. K. Kratz,
J. C. Roth.
Report of the Auditing Committee:
We have examined the following financial accounts, Quarterly Conference records, Orphanage and Home, Equipment Fund, Executive Board, Camp Meetings, Sunday School Conventions, Annual Conference Fund, Benevolent Society, Foreign and Home Mission, Hymn Book Committee, Presiding Elders, Gospel Herald Society, Board of Publication and Printing and the Report of the Committee on Finance and do hereby certify that the foregoing reflect the true statement of affairs of the Conference to our best knowledge and belief.
Committee:
F. M. Hottel,
H. S. Jones,
G. F. Yost,
S. H. Lichtenthaler,
H. E. Gackenback,
S. S. Geil,
O. C. Kistler,
R. W. Dickert,
S. W. Heiser,
P. J. Musselman,
Herbert E. Gehman,
W. D. Evert.
Resolved, That the same Committee on Hymn books be re-elected, namely H. B. Musselman, J. F. Barrall, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel and C. H. Brunner.
WHEREAS, Several of the Delegates have desired to be excused from further attendance of this Conference after Sunday evening on account of pressing business, therefore,
Resolved, That their request be granted.
Adjourned with prayer by S.W. Heiser and the Benediction by the Chairman.
SEVENTH MEETING.
SATURDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 13, 1917
This meeting was opened at 1:30 by singing, “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” and prayer by O. B. Bartholomew.
The roll was called with all present except Allen M. Gehman and G. K. Himmelreich who were absent by permission. The minutes were read and adopted.
The following Committee reported the election of officers:
Hymnbook Committee: Chairman, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner; Treasurer, W. G. Gehman.
Beneficiary Society: President, W. G. Gehman; Secretary, F. M. Hottel.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
WHEREAS, The Pastor, C. H. Brunner, the members of the Allentown class and friends of the work have spared no time, labor and expense in providing for our entertainment, furnishing us with everything needful for our physical comfort, and,
WHEREAS, They have received us most cordially and entertained us most royally during the Session of the Annual Conference, therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate their kindness and love shown to us as well as their fellowship in the truth, and further,
Resolved, That we manifest our appreciation by a rising vote of thanks and unitedly pray God’s blessing upon both Pastor and people so they may prosper in all the will of God.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Resolved, That we donate to the Secretary of the Annual Ministerial Convention the sum of two dollars as had been decided for such occasions.
Resolved, That we have 850 Conference Journals printed to be sold at twenty-five cents apiece.
Rev. B. F. Bohner, Ex-Presiding Elder of the Evangelical Association, was introduced to the Conference.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned at 2:45 with prayer by E. E. Kublic and benediction by the Chairman.
EIGHTH MEETING
MONDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 15, 1917
This meeting was opened at 8 A. M. by singing “Blessed be the Name of the Lord,” after which the Chairman read a Scripture lesson from 2 Timothy 4:1-8, and prayer was offered by Wm. Gehman.
The roll was called and the minutes were read and approved.
The Reports of the following Committees were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
A. Relative to the place of the Sunday Services:
WHEREAS, The Independent Order Odd Fellows have given us the rental of their spacious and commodious Auditorium and basement and ante rooms, on 9th Street near Turner, in which we held the Sunday Services of this Annual Conference Session and,
WHEREAS, They have given us every possible convenience, enabling us to accommodate the large number of people gathered for the services very acceptably, therefore
Resolved, That we highly appreciate their favor shown by renting us the aforesaid Hall and kindly express our thanks for the same by sending them a copy of this resolution signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Annual Conference.
B. Relative to the spreading of literature:
WHEREAS, We realize the value and importance of spreading good, wholesome, sound literature in these last days when false doctrines are being widely circulated through the pulpit, stage and the printed page, and thereby the untaught in the truth are being ensnared by error and Satan’s deceptive seductions, therefore,
Resolved, That we urge all our Pastors to spread as much Gospel Literature as possible and thereby help spread the truth, and further,
Resolved, That whenever Pastors sell literature for which they receive the retail price, the same shall be reported on the Schedules accordingly. When they sell through their members on their charge allowing them a certain commission the Pastors shall report only the net proceeds, and further,
Resolved, That whatever literature sold, the amount of the price of which has already entered into the accounts, such as the “Christian Life Missionary,” etc., the same shall not be reported by the Pastor on the Schedule.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination :
We wish to report that there were no candidates for ordination presented.
Committee:
E. N. Cassel,
C. H. Brunner,
F. M. Hottel.
Report of the Committee to Compile a Report of the Conference for the Eastern Gospel Banner as well as the Sunday Services: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That the money in the Treasury of the Beneficiary Society be turned into the Annual Conference Treasury, and that the words “The Beneficiary Society,” be added to paragraph three under ”Boards and Committees,” in the Journal page five.
Resolved, That a copy of the Report of the Committee to compile a report of the Conference be sent to the Editor of the Gospel Banner.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair.
Business was suspended at 10 A. M.
Business was resumed at 11:15 A. M.
Missionary Presiding Elder W. B. Musselman arrived and made a short address.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the Call of the Chair.
Adjourned with prayer by W. B. Musselman and benediction by the Chairman.
NINTH MEETING
MONDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 15, 1917
This meeting was opened at 1:25 P. M. by singing “Blessed Assurance,” and prayer by J. H. Bruch.
The roll was called after which the minutes were read and approved.
Resolved, That the Annual Trustee Report submitted to the last Quarterly Conference of the Conference year shall contain an actual summary statement of the receipts and expenditures of the respective Church properties separately and a general summary of the different separate summaries, which general summary shall constitute the Quarterly Conference Summary Report. It shall also contain a statement of the Financial Status of each respective property which shall be recorded in the Trustee Book and Quarterly Conference Records.
Missionary Presiding Elder W. B. Musselman continued to address the Conference along several interesting lines.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
WHEREAS, W. B. Musselman, Missionary Presiding Elder and President of the Gospel Worker Society, has given us a very interesting report of the work of the Gospel Worker Society, emphasizing the manner in which the Lord has blessed and prospered the work of the Society at the headquarters, in the different missions, publishing tons of tracts and religious periodicals and doing colportage work in general, and,
WHEREAS, The Lord has blessed the workers temporally spiritually, using them in the salvation and baptism of many souls in the different missions especially in Detroit where recently forty-one souls were baptized, and,
WHEREAS, We, as a Conference, are in hearty fellowship with the work of the Gospel Worker Society, rejoicing with them in all their victories and sympathizing with them in all their tests, trials and adversities, therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate the spirit of sacrifice and devotion, both of W. B. Musselman and the Gospel Workers in so earnestly and zealously spreading the truth by preaching in the open air and missions and by publishing and spreading good literature such as the “Gospel Herald” and the “Christian Life Series of Sunday School Supplies,” and further,
Resolved, That we pray God’s richest blessing upon the President, the Society and upon their work, and further,
Resolved, That we continue our hearty support both by prayer and offerings, and still further,
Resolved, That we pledge our support in securing as many new subscribers to the “Gospel Herald” as possible, and also by urging our Sunday Schools to distribute the “Christian Life Missionary” real freely.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R: L. Woodring.
Resolved, That C. H. Brunner shall be re-elected Editor of the Eastern Gospel Banner for the ensuing year.
The following were re-elected Associate Editors: W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel, H. K. Kratz, E. E. Kublic, H. A. Kauffman, J. G. Shireman and B. Bryan Musselman.
Resolved, That we encourage all our Pastors to write original articles for the Eastern Gospel Banner. All articles by the Associate Editors and Pastors shall be sent to the Editor.
The following report of the Committee on Resolutions was read and adopted.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
(A) Relative to Eastern Gospel Banner:
WHEREAS, The Union Gospel Printing Co. of Cleveland, Ohio, has been publishing the “Eastern Gospel Banner” at quite a sacrifice of time, labor and expense, and,
WHEREAS, They have given us such a splendid, clean and neatly gotten up paper at such a reasonable price, thus enabling us to spread the truth among our constituency and so to advance the work of the Lord, therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate their self-sacrifice, labor of love and untiring services in this matter, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God’s blessing upon them and their work in an abundant measure, and further,
Resolved, That we pledge them our hearty support and likewise do our utmost to swell the list of subscribers to the ”Eastern Gospel Banner.”
(B) Relative to the Union Gospel Printing Company:
WHEREAS, The Union Gospel Printing Company` of Cleveland, Ohio, through W. B. Musselman, has offered to C. H. Brunner, Editor of the “Eastern Gospel Banner,” a certain percentage of the money received through subscription as a token of appreciation for his services, and,
WHEREAS, C. H. Brunner, Editor of the Eastern Gospel Banner, has absolutely refused to accept the same, expressing himself as desirous to give his services in this sphere of work free of charge, therefore,
Resolved, That we appreciate the sacrifice of time and talent so freely and cheerfully given to us and the Eastern Gospel Banner family by our Editor, and further,
Resolved, That we as a Conference continually offer our services free of charge to the Union Gospel Printing Company in connection with the Eastern Gospel Banner, and further,
Resolved, That we again thank the Lord for such an unselfish Publishing Company of religious literature as the Union Gospel Printing Company of Cleveland, Ohio.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
The following resolution was presented to the Conference and adopted:
WHEREAS, The Union Gospel Printing Company is now cooperating with the Pennsylvania Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ in the publishing of the Eastern Gospel Banner as a Church Organ, and the Christian Life Series of Sunday School Quarterlies, therefore,
Resolved, That in case said Annual Conference ever wishes to publish their own Church Organ and Sunday School Quarterlies the said Union Gospel Printing Company will gladly surrender to the said Annual Conference the good will, including mailing lists of said Eastern Gospel Banner and Sunday School Quarterlies without remuneration at any time on ninety days’ notice.
Resolved, That the Editorial Committee serve as a Committee to act in the interest of this Sunday School Literature in behalf of the Pennsylvania Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ in case of emergencies or when called upon by the Union Gospel Printing Company.
All questions arising relative to the publishing of the Eastern Gospel Banner shall be referred to the Executive Board of the Pennsylvania Conference.
Resolved, That the Secretary send a copy of the Conference Journal to the Publisher of the Eastern Gospel Banner, the Editor of the Gospel Banner and the Secretaries of the various Annual Conferences and ask for an exchange.
Adjourned at 3:46 P. M. with prayer and benediction by the Chairman, H. B. Musselman. Signed:
H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder, Chairman,
W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder,
W. B. Musselman, Missionary Presiding Elder,
C. H. Brunner, Secretary, First Vice Presiding Elder,
W. S. Hottel, Second Vice Presiding Elder,
B. Bryan Musselman, Assistant Secretary,
H. A. Kauffman, Recording Secretary,
Allen M. Gehman, Treasurer,
William Gehman,
E. N. Cassel,
F. M. Hottel,
J. G. Shireman,
R. L. Woodring,
W. J. Fretz,
H. K. Kratz,
J. F. Barrall,
J. C. Roth,
E. T. Shick,
O. S. Hillegass,
G. F. Yost,
R. Bergstresser,
E. E. Kublic,
W. W. Zimmerman,
V. H. Reinhart,
R. W. Dickert,
A. G. Woodring,
J. B. Layne,
P. J. Musselman,
H. E. Gackenback,
O. B. Bartholomew,
H. B. Shelly,
M. E. Brownback,
Chas. E. Eroh,
G. K. Himmelreich,
J. H. Bruch,
G. O. Billig,
H. S. Jones,
O. C. Kistler,
S. S. Geil,
S. H. Lichtenthaler,
Herbert E. Gehman,
C. D. Bean,
R. S. Anderson,
William H. Bender,
H. H. Bergey,
S. W. Heiser,
W. D. Evert.