THIRTY-SIXTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1919
FIRST MEETING.
THURSDAY FORENOON, OCTOBER 16, 1919
The Thirty-sixth Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ of Pennsylvania convened in the M. B. in C. Church on Tenth Street near Oley Street, Reading, Pa. October 16, 1919.
The first meeting was opened at 8 A. M. according to announcement, by singing, “Take the Name of Jesus With You.” This was followed by a season of prayer during which the Lord touched our hearts. This was a time of thankfulness and praise to the Lord for His gracious help during the past year and prayer for His guidance during this conference session, and for the blessing of God upon the officers and members of the Conference as well as upon our beloved lay members of the various congregations at home who have stood by the Pastors and the Conference so nobly during the past year.
The Chairman. H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Bethlehem District, then read the Thirteenth Chapter of Paul’s first epistle to the Corinthians followed by a very needful and helpful message.
The following members were then enrolled:
MINISTERS
Ordained: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, W. B. Musselman. C. H. Brunner, W. S. Hottel. E. N. Cassel, F. M. Hottel, J. G. Shireman, B. Bryan Musselman, E. T. Schick, R. L. Woodring, J. C. Roth, H. K. Kratz, J. F. Barrall, O. S. Hillegass, G. F. Yost, R. Bergstresser, E. E. Kublic, V. H. Reinhart, W. W. Zimmerman, M. P. Zook, C. F. Snyder, and H. W. Feldges.
Probationers: R. W. Dickert, J. B. Layne, A. G. Woodring, W. F. Heffner and N. H. Wolf.
All these were present from the first meeting except Musselman. E. T. Shick, C. F. Snyder and H. W. Feldges.
DELEGATES
H. S. Jones, Bethlehem.
G. O. Billig, Allentown.
S. W. Heiser, Reading.
S. S. Geil, Philadelphia.
O. C. Kistler, South, Allentown.
Allen M. Gehman, Emaus and Macungie.
H. L. Shelley, Coopersburg and Springtown.
S. H. Lichtenthaler, Easton.
J. H. Bruch, Stroudsburg.
R. R. Fox, Royersford and Spring City.
G. K. Himmelreich, Fleetwood, Blandon and Terre Hill.
H. H. Bergey, Quakertown and Hatfield.
C. D. Bean, Graterford and Harleysville.
Moses Snyder, Mount Carmel.
David M. Taylor, Zionsville.
R. S. Anderson, Shamokin.
C. E. Eroh, Lehighton and Weissport.
Charles F. Lilly, Nazareth and Plainfield.
Edward T. Semmel, Northampton and Walnutport.
C. B. Brosius, Sunbury.
The Conference members thus number forty-eight.
We are very glad to have Brother M. P. Zook, Superintendent of our Missions in Chile, South America, with us at this Conference during his furlough, the first one he had after almost fourteen years of service.
We are also remembering our Foreign Missionaries who are members of our Conference, namely: Mrs. M. P. Zook, H. W. Feldges, Mrs. H. W. Feldges, C. F. Snyder, Mrs. C. F. Snyder, and Mrs. Kate Weiss. Also 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, Dionisio Oyarzun, Innocencio Gomez and Ignacio Riveros, although not members of our Church, yet are supported by our Conference, also E. O. Jago and Miss Mary A. Butterfield of Jerusalem, who have also been supported through our Foreign Mission Board during the last year.
We also continually remember our Missionary Presiding Elder, Brother W. B. Musselman, the Gospel Worker Society and the Gospel Herald Society.
Special thanksgiving has also been offered up in this morning’s devotion for the noble company of believers whom the Lord has given us and special prayers were offered in their behalf.
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 evening private meetings, constitute the Conference Bar.
The secretary appointed his assistants as follows: Assistant Secretaries, B. Bryan Musselman, and N. H. Wolf; Recording Secretary, A. G. Woodring.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Timekeeper and Reporter.
He appointed H. K. Kratz as Reporter and W. W. Zimmerman as Timekeeper.
Resolved, That no member be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission by the Chair except B. Bryan Musselman and S. W. Heiser.
COMMITTEES
The following committees were then appointed by the Chair and approved by the Conference:
Committee on Worship: S. W. Heiser and B. Bryan Musselman.
Committee on Communication: R. L. Woodring and J. C. Roth.
Committee on Finance: J. F. Barrall, G. O. Billig and Allen M. Gehman.
Committee on Statistics: (of Schedules) E. N. Cassel, W. S. Hottel, J. G Shireman and A. G. Woodring.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: E. E:. Kublic and R. Bergstresser.
Committee on Examination of Quarterly Conference Records: J. C. Roth, W. W. Zimmerman, V. H. Reinhart, C. E. Eroh, C. B. Brosius, R. R. Fox, Moses Snyder, R. S. Anderson, N. H. Wolf, E. E. Kublic, S. W. Heiser, Edward T. Semmel, and David M. Taylor.
Committee on the Examination of Traveling Elders: H. H. Bergey, C. D. Bean and G. K. Himmelreich.
Committee on Examination of Presiding Elders: Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries: G. F. Yost, H. K. Kratz and O. S. Hillegass.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Annual Conference License: B. Bryan Musselman, E. N. Cassel and C. H. Brunner.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: F. M. Hottel, C. H. Brunner and W. G. Gehman.
Committee on Resolutions: W. S. Hottel, W. G. Gehman and R. L. Woodring.
Committee on Auditing: F. M. Hottel, H. S. Jones, H. L. Shelly, G. F. Yost, W. F. Heffner, H. H. Bergey, J. B. Layne, S. S. Geil, S. H. Lichtenthaler, O. C. Kistler, Chas. F. Lilly and J. H. Bruch.
Committee to Audit Schedules: H. K. Kratz, W. G. Gehman and R. W. Dickert.
Resolved, That the Pastors be limited to ten minutes in submitting their oral reports.
The Pastors now began to submit their Oral Reports.
After a number had reported, it was
Resolved, That we suspend the Rules and adjourn to call of the Chair not later than 3:30 P. M.
Adjourned at 11:25 with prayer by R. L. Woodring and benediction by the Secretary.
SECOND MEETING
THURSDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 16, 1919
The Chair opened the afternoon service with singing “Nearer My God to Thee,” and prayer by C. E. Eroh.
The roll was called after which the minutes of the forenoon meeting were read and approved.
The reports of the following Committees were read and accepted:
Report of the Committee to Examine Quarterly Conference Records:
We beg leave to report that we have examined all Quarterly Conference Records and find them all correct except the following:
No summary in the Annual Report of the Board of Trustees of Mt. Carmel, Stroudsburg and Fleetwood.
No mention of Presiding Elder speaking on the Duties Officers and no mention of revision of class records, at Zionsville.
Committee:
J. C. Roth Moses Snyder,
S. W. Heiser, R. S. Anderson,
W. W. Zimmerman,N. H. Wolf,
V. H. Reinhart, E. E. Kublic,
C. E. Eroh, Edward T. Semmel,
C. B. Brosius, David M. Taylor,
R. R. Fox.
Report of the Committee on Examination. of Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries:
We beg leave to report that we have examined the Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries, and found them all satisfactory and devoted to the Lord’s work.
Committee:
G. F. Yost,
H. K. Kratz,
O. S. Hillegass.
Report of the Committee to Examine the Annual Conference Records:
We have examined the Annual Conference Records of 1918 and found them all correct with the exception of a slight error in a date made by the last Annual Conference which was corrected.
Committee:
E. E. Kublic,
R. Bergstresser.
Report of the Committee on Worship:
Brother M. M. Myers shall preach this evening, followed by W. K. Ruth.
Committee:
B. Bryan Musselman,
S. W. Heiser.
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 satisfactory.
Committee:
H. H. Bergey,
C. D. Bean,
G. K. Himmelreich,
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing: (See Reports.)
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp-Meeting Committee: (See Reports.)
Report of the Camp Meeting Equipage Committee: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That we have a private meeting in the basement of the church this evening opening at 7:30.
The Oral Reports of the Pastors were now resumed.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
Adjourned at 5:05, with prayer by Moses Snyder, and the benediction by R. L. Woodring.
THIRD MEETING
THURSDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 16, 1919
The evening meeting was opened at 7.30 with prayer by W. S. Hottel.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Worship:
Friday evening there shall be two thirty-minute addresses. R. Bergstresser shall speak first, followed by W. F. Heffner.
Saturday evening a Missionary Address shall be made by M. P. Zook, of Chile, South America.
Committee:
B. Bryan Musselman, S. W. Heiser.
Report of Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, Pastor E. T. Shick who had been stationed the last Annual Conference to the Gratersford and Harleysville charge, was physically disabled during the conference year and could not any further serve his charge, and
Whereas, This circumstance made the change of a number of Pastors needful in order to the furtherance of the work, the Presiding Elders agreed and made the needful changes, therefore,
Resolved, That we are sorry for the condition of Pastor E. T. Shick, as well as for his absence from this Annual Conference, but humbly bow to Divine Providence, knowing that all things work together for good to them that love God, who are the called according to His purpose, and further
Resolved, That we unitedly agree that the action in the change of Pastors by the Presiding Elder was most wise and proper under the circumstances, and further
Resolved, That we pray God’s richest blessings upon our dear brother and co-worker in his affliction, as well as upon his beloved helpmeet and family, so that they may be able to fully trust God where they may not be able to trace all the winding paths of Providence and that He may be able work out all the purposes in His own heart.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of the Sunday School Convention of the Bethel District: (See Reports.)
Report of the Mount Carmel District Sunday School Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Orphanage and Home: (See Reports.)
Report of the Executive Board: (See Reports.)
Report of the Annual Ministerial Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, R. W. Dickert, J. B. Layne and N. H. Wolf have successfully passed the Reading Course examination, therefore
Resolved, That they be referred to the Committee on Ordination.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society recommended W. K. Ruth, of York, Pa., and M. M. Myers, Philadelphia, Pa., Gospel Heralds, to this Annual Conference as applicants for Annual Conference License.
Resolved, That we hear the nature of the call of the Applicants for Annual Conference License, M. M. Myers and W. K. Ruth.
These brethren gave their experience before the Conference after which it was
Resolved, That these two brethren be referred to the Committee on Applicants for Annual Conference License.
Adjourned at 10:25 with prayer by R. L. Woodring.
FOURTH MEETING
FRIDAY MORNING, OCTOBER 17, 1919
This meeting was opened at 8 o’clock by singing and prayer by H. H. Bergey, after which the Chairman read a part of the fifteenth chapter of Romans.
The roll was called and the minutes were read and approved.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee to Examine Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We have examined the Applicants, W. K. Ruth and M. M. Myers, and recommend that they be received on three years’ probation.
Respectfully submitted,
Committee:
B. Bryan Musselman,
E. N. Cassel,
C. H. Brunner.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
(a) Whereas, We have been receiving such encouraging reports of the Lord’s work through C. H. Brunner, Secretary of the Foreign Missionary Board, now carried on most successfully by our beloved, devoted and consecrated Missionaries on the various Mission fields, defining the leadings of the Lord through the labors and sacrifices of our Missionaries, and,
Whereas, The Lord has again most signally blessed the Missionaries while speaking the Truth of God’s Word, souls having been saved and baptized, and
Whereas, The lives of all of our Missionaries have been graciously spared and preserved, perfect harmony and unity prevailing among them, therefore
Resolved, That we earnestly unite in praising God for the past favors, and pray God’s blessing upon our Missionaries spiritually and physically for future usefulness, so much the more as we see the Day approaching.
(b) Whereas, C. H. Brunner, the Editor of the Conference Journal, has a great amount of 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, and
Whereas, C. H. Brunner is also the Secretary of the Annual Conference and has many burdens and responsibilities, as well as a great deal of labor and thought, and
Whereas, The duties of his office demand much of his time at the session of the Annual Conference in recording the minutes, as well as afterward and during the entire year in attending numerous matters pressing upon him as a consequence of his office, therefore
Resolved, That we sincerely appreciate his tireless and valuable services in the faithful discharge of all his various duties and further,
Resolved, That we donate him thirty-five dollars out of the Annual Conference Fund as a slight token of appreciation of his services thus rendered.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of the Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention: (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: (See Reports.)
Report of the Annual Conference Treasurer: (See Reports.)
The Oral Report of the Pastors were concluded.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, We were privileged to listen to the encouraging reports of the various Pastors concerning the workings of the Lord on the different fields throughout the Conference, telling of many signal victories won, souls having been saved and baptized and added unto the Church, the believers having been edified, and the missionary spirit having been still further increased, therefore,
Resolved, That we unitedly and heartily praise God for the many blessings bestowed, the many victories made possible and the gracious leading of the Holy Spirit throughout, and further,
Resolved, That we earnestly pray God to continue His richest blessings, both upon the Pastors and the work, so that the Pastors may be kept strong physically and mentally, well as morally and spiritually, and, that the work of the Lord may go forth unhindered and may blessedly prosper until Jesus comes.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder of the Mount Carmel District: (See Reports.)
Report of W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society: (See Reports.)
Report of H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Bethlehem District: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, We were favored with the privilege of listening to the interesting Reports of our Presiding Elders and of the President of the Gospel Herald Society, in which were given us a comprehensive survey of the work of the Lord in general throughout the entire Conference as well as in the Gospel Herald Society, and
Whereas, They reported the work in a good, healthy condition throughout, as well as prosperous and growing, the Ministry united and devoted and willing to be used of God with a willing spirit, therefore,
Resolved, That we most heartily appreciate the devotion, earnestness and self-sacrifice of our worthy leaders, as well their conscientious frankness, able leadership and their general oversight of the work, and further,
Resolved, That we more earnestly pray for them, and a God to bless and keep them physically, intellectually a spiritually as well as to use them more mightily in the advancement of the cause of Christ in future days, if our Lord be pleased to tarry.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, Elder M. P. Zook, the faithful and sacrificing leader and Chairman of the Missionary Work of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Chili, South America, who is home on furlough, is in our midst and gave us a very interesting report of the work in this great and needy field, and,
Whereas, We highly appreciate the earnest labors and the cheerful sacrifice of our dear brother, therefore,
Resolved, That we pray God’s richest blessings upon him, both physically and spiritually, so that he may be preserved physically in vigor and strength and spiritually in the love and power of God, to the end that he may be much used of God in the work of saving souls and the edification of the saints in the “regions beyond,” as well as in leading forth the great work committed to his trust.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of the Committee on Worship:
Sunday Services
H. B. Musselman shall preach the Conference Sermon on Sunday morning at 9:45 o’clock.
W. G. Gehman shall preach the Ordination Sermon at 2:15 P. M
In the evening the following shall give twenty-minute addresses: A. G. Woodring, Walnutport, Pa.; R. W. Dickert, Graterford, Pa., and W. S. Hottel, Bethlehem, Pa.
All the services during the day shall be in charge of Chairman of the Annual Conference.
Committee:
B. Bryan Musselman,
S. W. Heiser.
Report of the Beneficiary Society: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That we proceed to the election of officers.
Resolved, That the Secretary call the Roll for Conditional and Unconditional Ministers. The following was the result:
Unconditional: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel, F. M. Hottel, J. G. Shireman, R. L. Woodring, B. Bryan Musselman, H. K. Kratz, J. F. Barrall, J. C. Roth, 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, W. F. Heffner, N. H. Wolf and M. P. Zook.
Absent: E. T. Shick, W. B. Musselman, C. F. Snyder and H. W. Feldges.
Conditional: None.
Resolved, That we elect two Presiding Elders.
The Chair appointed tellers as follows: F. M. Hottel, G. F. Yost and J. F. Barrall.
The following were elected Presiding Elders for the ensuing year: H. B. Musselman and W. G. Gehman.
Resolved, That H. B. Musselman shall be Presiding Elder over the District comprising the greater part of the Church, W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder over the District comprising the balance of the Church and the Gospel Herald Society.
Resolved, That the two Presiding Elders, and the Delegates from the Stations and Circuits constitute the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the of the Chair and that the Stationing Committee sit at this time.
Adjourned with prayer by Charles F. Lilly and the benediction by J. C. Roth.
FIFTH MEETING
FRIDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 17, 1919
The meeting was opened by singing, “I’ll Go Where You Want Me To Go” and prayer by J. C. Roth.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following Reports were read and adopted.
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports.)
Report of the Sunday School Lesson Committee: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That we continue the election of Officers, Boards and Committees. The following were elected:
Vice Presiding Elders: C. H. Brunner and W. S. Hottel.
Resolved, That C. H. Brunner shall be First Vice Presiding Elder and W. S. Hottel be Second Vice Presiding Elder.
Resolved, That the other officers be nominated and elected by ballot.
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, F. M. Hottel and J. G. Shireman.
Executive Board: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, E. N. Cassel and J. G. Shireman.
Board of Examiners: E. N. Cassel, B. Bryan Musselman and H. K. Kratz.
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:
Trustees for two years: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel, C. H. Brunner, Allen M. Gehman and H. S. Jones.
Trustee for one year in place of E. T. Shick: F. M. Hottel.
Editorial Staff on the “Eastern Gospel Banner”:
Editor: C. H. Brunner
Associate Editors: E. N. Cassel, W. S. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, H. K. Kratz, B. Bryan Musselman, F. M. Hottel and J. G. Shireman.
Resolved, That we suspend the Rules and extend the time indefinitely.
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.
Hymn Book Committee: H. B. Musselman, C. H. Brunner, W. G. Gehman, E. N. Cassel and J. F. Barrall.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: President, Allen M. Gehman; Secretary, G. O. Billig; Treasurer, H. G. Brunner.
The Chair now appointed the following Standing Committees:
Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage: F. M. Hottel, J. C. Roth, B. Bryan Musselman and G. F. Yost.
Board of Publication and Printing: C. H. Brunner, B. Bryan Musselman and A. G. Woodring.
Resolved, That section E on page 11, Special Laws and Resolutions, be expunged and on Page 5 under Boards and Committees, second paragraph, the word President shall be substituted for the word Chairman at the end of line three.
An article entitled “The Eastern Gospel Banner” was read and ordered inserted in the Journal under “Reports.”
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
A. Whereas, Pastor C. H. Brunner, Editor of the Eastern Gospel Banner has again so ably and acceptably edited the Eastern Gospel Banner during the past year, having cheerfully given much time, labor, and talent to this project, so that we are privileged to have a splendid paper to offer to our increasing constituency, therefore,
Resolved, That we as a Conference heartily appreciate his noble, self-sacrificing services, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God’s richest blessings upon so that he may be preserved in good health and physical spiritual vigor, thus being enabled to continue his service this capacity with great joy and manifold blessings.
B. 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.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, W. S. Hottel, Editor of the Christian Life Series of Sunday School Quarterlies has again, during the past year devoted much of his most valuable time in editing these valuable, and most helpful supplies on spiritual, doctrinal and dispensational lines, and,
Whereas, Many Sunday Schools during the last year have been added to the already long list of Sunday Schools using these supplies, and
Whereas, Great blessings have been brought to our Sunday Schools throughout the Conference during the year, using these supplies, and,
Whereas, Brother W. S. Hottel has again been re-elected to the editing of the Quarterlies, therefore,
Resolved, That we heartily appreciate his devotion and sacrifice on this line of work, and pray that God may sustain and use him during the coming year.
Committee:
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Adjourned at 5:30 with prayer by S. S. Geil and the benediction by the Chairman.
SIXTH MEETING
SATURDAY MORNING, OCTOBER 19, 1919
This meeting was opened at 8 o’clock by singing, “What A Friend We Have in Jesus,” and prayer by G. O. Billig, after which the Chairman read a portion of the fifth chapter of the First Epistle of Peter.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the preceding meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Auditing Committee:
We, the undersigned, auditors, beg leave to report, that 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 Missions, Home Missions, Hymn Book Committee, Presiding Elders, Gospel Herald Society, Board of Publication and Printing and the Report of the Committee on Finance.
We have found the books and accounts in a very good condition, with the exception of a few errors which have corrected.
We therefore certify that the foregoing reflect the true statement of affairs of the Conference to our best knowledge and belief.
Committee:
F. S. Hottel,
H. S. Jones,
W. F. Heffner,
Charles F. Lilly,
H. L. Shelly,
J. H. Bruch,
H. H. Bergey,
S. S. Geil,
S. H. Lichtenthaler,
J. B. Layne,
O. C. Kistler,
G. F. Yost.
Report of the Committee on the Statistics of the Schedules: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Ordination:
We beg leave to report that we have examined the brethren, R. W. Dickert and J. B. Layne and found them satisfactory and wish to recommend them to this Conference for Ordination on Sunday.
We have also examined Brother N. H. Wolf and found that he had been doing very creditable work in the Gospel Herald Society for a number of years but as he did not have the opportunity approve himself to the acknowledgement of the Conference, we therefore recommend that his ordination be postponed for the present.
Committee:
F. M. Hottel,
C. H. Brunner,
W. G. Gehman.
Resolved, That we encourage all our Pastors to write original articles for the “Eastern Gospel Banner.” All articles by the Associate Editors, reports and articles by the Pastors shall be sent to the Editor.
Resolved, That we recommend the various Pastors to rewrite the names on the Class Records just before they come to the Annual conference.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee to devise the best plan to keep the Class Records. The Chair appointed E. N. Cassel, W. G. Gehman, W. S. Hottel, J. C. Roth, J. F. Barrall, C. H. Brunner and B. Bryan Musselman.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee of three to compile a report of the Conference and the Sunday Services for the “Eastern Gospel Banner.” The Chair appointed R. L. Woodring, C. H. Brunner and E. N. Cassel.
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 the Annual Conference as convenient and no later than December 1, 1919.
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, President of the Gospel Herald Society, shall have charge of the general sale of the “Rose of Sharon” Hymnal.
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 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 is 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, and further,
Resolved, That we recommend that no Pastor shall make it a practise to do any wholesale literature business by employing agents.
Resolved, That all contributions received for the Lay men’s Benevolent Society shall be paid by checks or money order, made payable to the Treasurer, H. G. Brunner, Zionsville, Pa., forwarded to the Secretary, G. O. Billig, 941 Liberty Street, Allentown, Pa.
CONVENTIONS, ETC.
Resolved, That we lift no offerings for the Secretary of the respective Sunday School Conventions, and Annual and Semi-Annual Ministerial Conventions, but give him 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 respectively.
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 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.
The Presiding Elders appointed H. K. Kratz as the third man of this Committee.
All ordained ministers or probationers having charge of a work shall be present. A hearty invitation shall be extended to the Ministers’ Wives and families.
Resolved, That we have another Ministerial Convention on the day prior to the next Annual Conference, and at the same place.
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 organize for these Sunday School Conventions.
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene in the M. B. in C. Church, Corner Main and Durham Streets, Bethlehem. Pa., at 8 A. M. September 23, 1920.
Resolved, That the next Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention convene in the M. B. in C. Church, Royersford. Pa.
The committee announced April 14, 1920, as the date of this Convention.
The following officers were now elected:
Annual Ministerial Convention:
Chairman, W. G. Gehman.
Secretary, R. L. Woodring.
Committee on Program: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman and W. S. Hottel.
Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention:
Chairman, E. N. Cassel.
Secretary, N. H. Wolf.
Committee on Program appointed previously: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman and H. K. Kratz.
Resolved, That we suspend business to organize for the Sunday School Conventions.
Business was resumed at 11:25 A. M.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
The following Committees reported:
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.)
Report of the Board of Examiners: Studies for 1920. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Communication:
We, the Committee on Communication, beg leave to report that we have read the letter received from our Missionary Presiding Elder, W. B. Musselman, and recommend it to be read to the Conference.
Committee:
R. L. Woodring,
J. C. Roth.
Adjourned at 11:35 with prayer by G. F. Yost and the benediction by M. P. Zook.
SEVENTH MEETING
SATURDAY AFTERNOON, OCTOBER 18, 1919
This meeting was opened at one o’clock by singing ”I Need Thee Every Hour,” and prayer by R. R. Fox.
The Report of the Committee to Audit Schedules was read and adopted as follows:
We have audited the different Pastors’ schedules and the summary of schedules and hereby certify them to declare the true statements of the affairs of the Conference to the best of our knowledge and belief.
Committee:
H. K. Kratz,
R. W. Dickert,
W. G. Gehman.
A Communication from our beloved and esteemed Missionary Presiding Elder, W. B. Musselman, was read by the Secretary and referred to the Committee on Resolutions.
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 sent us a very interesting report of the work of the Gospel Worker Society,
stating the marvellous leadings of the Lord during the past year in the salvation of souls, the edification of believers, and the spread of the Truth, as well as in preserving the workers in health
and strength, and blessing the work all around, and,
Whereas, In this report he also informs us of the rich blessings of God upon the work of publishing Gospel literature, so that they have been enabled to produce and put out more Gospel
literature the past year, than ever before, and,
Whereas, The Union Gospel Printing Co., of Cleveland, Ohio, prints and publishes so much good, Scriptural literature, such as books, magazines, papers and tracts, as well as the “Eastern Gospel Banner,” and a complete line of Sunday School literature, sparing no time, thought, labor and money, as well as making a great deal of sacrifice in this great and noble work,
and,
Whereas, We, as a Conference, are in hearty and full fellowship with the work of the Gospel Worker Society and the Union Gospel Printing Co., in spirit and mutual love sharing all their tests, successes and victories, as well as with all their blessed progress in the spread of the Truth and the healthy growth of the subscription lists of their splendid periodicals, therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate the spirit of sacrifice and devotion, both of our beloved Brother W. B. Musselman and the Gospel Workers, in so whole-heartedly and enthusiastically devoting their time, talents and energies to the spread of the Truth in every possible way, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God’s richest blessing upon the President, the Society and all their earnest efforts, and further,
Resolved, That we continue our hearty support both by prayers and offerings, and still further,
Resolved, That we unitedly pledge ourselves to secure as many new subscribers to the various publications, such as the “Gospel Herald,” the “Christian Life Missionary,” and the “Eastern Gospel Banner,” as well as to interest as many as possible in the “Christian Life Series” of Sunday School literature and also sell as many “Daily Food” wall rolls as possible.
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 Allen M. Gehman.
Editorial Committee on the Sunday School Lessons: Chairman, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner.
Board of Examiners: President, E. N. Cassel; Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman.
Committee over the Presiding Elders: Chairman, E. N. Cassel; Secretary, F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage: Chairman, F. M. Hottel; Secretary, J. C. Roth.
Board of Publication and Printing: President, C. H. Brunner; Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman.
Beneficiary Society: President, W. G. Gehman; Secretary, F. M. Hottel.
Hymn Book Committee: Chairman, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner; Treasurer, W. G. Gehman.
Upon request the brethren S. W. Heiser and J. H. Bruch, were excused from attendance on Monday.
Adjourned at 3:20 P. M., with prayer by W. S. Hottel, and the benediction by R. L. Woodring.
EIGHTH MEETING
MONDAY MORNING, OCTOBER 20, 1919
This meeting was opened at 8 o’clock by singing, “Follow, Follow, I Will Follow Jesus,” and prayer by W. F. Heffner.
The Chairman read II Peter, 1:1-12.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Conference suspended business for a short time to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed at 8:50, after which the following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
A. Whereas, The Pastor, B. Bryan Musselman, and the members of the Reading Congregation with the many friends of the work have spared neither time, labor nor expense in providing for, and entertaining the Annual Conference members, refreshments being served in the basement of their Church, seeing to it that nothing was left undone in providing the very best of everything needful for our physical comfort, therefore,
Resolved, That we, as an Annual Conference, highly appreciate such true devotion to the Lord and His work and the hospitality shown us, with mutual fellowship in the Lord.
Therefore, further,
Resolved, That we tender them a rising vote of thanks and unitedly pray God’s highest blessing upon them and their work.
B. Resolved, That the Secretary send a copy of the Conference Journal to the Publisher of the “Eastern Gospel Banner” and the Editor of the “Gospel Banner,” and to C. L. Hunter,
Mgr. Eastern Clergy Bureau. Also to the Secretaries of the various Annual Conferences and ask for an exchange.
Resolved, That we ask the Pastors to bring their Benevolent Society Remittance Record books along to the Annual Conference.
Resolved, That this Conference elect a Reference Committee relative to Compulsory Military Training.
C. Whereas, The Independent Order of Odd Fellows’ Hall Association of this City have so kindly favored the Mennonite Brethren in Christ with the rental of their splendid and spacious hall, with its fine auditorium and well-arranged banqueting hall, for their use, wherein to hold the Sunday services and to entertain the many attendants at the services, and
Whereas, Mr. Lutz, the janitor and his wife have been so courteous in rendering much valuable assistance to the members of the Reading Class in the entertainment of the large number of people present, Therefore,
Resolved, That we heartily appreciate the kindness of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows’ Hall Association, thus shown us, and further,
Resolved, That we also most heartily appreciate the courtesy shown us by Mr. and Mrs. Lutz, in the much valuable service rendered, and further,
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the said Association as well as to Mr. and Mrs. Lutz, signed by the Chairman and Secretary.
Committee:
W. S. Hottel,
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring.
Report of` the Committee to Devise a Plan for Church Records:
We beg leave to report that we have taken the matter into consideration but have not arrived at any definite conclusion, and ask the Chairman to appoint a committee with power to act and report at the next Annual Conference.
Committee:
E. N. Cassel,
W. G. Gehman,
W. S. Hottel,
J. C. Roth,
J. F. Barrall,
C. H. Brunner,
B. Bryan Musselman.
The chair appointed the following committee: W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, W. S. Hottel, E. N. Cassel, B. Bryan Musselman and J. C. Roth.
Resolved, That the Chairman of the Annual Conference be added to this Committee.
Conference elected the following as a Reference Committee on Compulsory Military Training: H. B. Musselman, C. H. Brunner, E. N. Cassel, W. G. Gehman and W. S. Hottel.
The Report of the Committee on the Conference Report and Sunday Services was read and adopted: (See Reports.)
Resolved, That we print 975 Journals and will sell them at 50 cents this year.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
Resolved, That we ask the Board of Foreign Missions to print 600 copies of the Annual Report of the Board of Foreign Missions.
Conference adjourned at 11:40 A.m., with prayer and benediction by the Chairman.
H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder, Chairman,
W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder,
C. H. Brunner, Secretary, First Vice Presiding Elder
W. S. Hottel, Second Vice Presiding Elder,
B. Bryan Musselman, Assistant Secretary,
J. B. Layne, Assistant Secretary,
A. G. Woodring, Recording Secretary,
Allen M. Gehman, Treasurer,
E. N. Cassel,
F. M. Hottel,
R. L. Woodring,
H. K. Kratz,
J. G. Shireman,
J. C. Roth,
J. F. Barrall,
E. E. Kublic,
R. W. Dickert,
G. F. Yost,
R. Bergstresser,
O. S. Hillegass,
W. G. Woodring,
W. F. Heffner,
V. H. Reinhart,
W. W. Zimmerman,
N. H. Wolf,
S. W. Heiser,
J. H. Bruch,
Charles F. Lilly,
H. S. Jones,
G. O. Billig,
S. S. Geil,
O. C. Kistler,
H. L. Shelly,
R. R. Fox,
R. S. Anderson,
H. H. Bergey,
G. K. Himmelreich,
C. E. Eroh,
Moses Snyder,
David M. Taylor,
Edward T. Semmel,
C. D. Bean,
S. H. Lichtenthaler,
C. B. Brosius.