FORTY THIRD ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1926
FIRST MEETING
Thursday Forenoon, October 14, 1926
The Forty-third Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ of Pennsylvania convened in Bethel M. B. in C. Church, 526-530 North Eighth Street, Allentown, Pa.
The first meeting was opened at 8 a.m., according to announcement, by singing “All the Way the Lord is Leading Me.” 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 this conference year, 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.
After singing “I Need Thee Every Hour,” the Chairman, H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Bethlehem District, read the thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians, followed by a very needful and helpful message.
The names of the members of the Conference were then enrolled as follows:
MINISTERS
Ordained–H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, B. Bryan Musselman, F. M. Hottel, G. F. Yost, C. H. Brunner, J. C. Roth, A. G. Woodring, N. H. Wolf, E. N. Cassel, H. K. Kratz, R. L. Woodring, O. S. Hillegass, W. F. Heffner, J. G. Shireman, J. B. Layne, R. W. Dickert, E. E. Kublic, V. H. Reinhart, R. Bergstresser, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret and J. F. Barrall.
Probationers–Paul E. Baer, J. B. Henry, P. S. Taylor and C. G. Hartzell.
DELEGATES
G. O. Billig, Allentown-Bethel.
M. L. Musselman, Bethlehem.
Paul I. Wentz, Emaus, Macungie and Zionsville.
W. D. Evert, Philadelphia.
H. N. Rishel, Reading.
G. K. Himmelreich, Fleetwood, Blandon and Terre Hill.
R. R. Fox, Royersford and Spring City.
C. D. Bean, Graterford and Harleysville.
Edward T. Semmel, Northampton and Walnutport.
H. L. Shelly, Allentown-Salem and Coopersburg.
H. H. Bergey, Quakertown and Hatfield.
Paul H. Miller, Shamokin.
Charles W. Teel, Easton.
C. B. Brosius, Sunbury.
E. Godshall, Nazareth.
George R. Fish, Stroudsburg.
John F. Thomas, Lehighton and Weissport.
Moses Snyder, Mt. Carmel.
Charles W. Decker, Scranton.
S. Geremia, Wissinoming.
Allen M. Gehman, Conference Treasurer.
We are also remembering W. B. Musselman, of Cleveland, Ohio, and his work; the Gospel Herald Society, a number of whom were present at this conference; also E. T. Shick, of Allentown, Pa.; M. P. Zook and Mrs. M. P. Zook, of Chile; C. F. Snyder and Mrs. C. F. Snyder, of China; H. W. Feldges and Mrs. H. W. Feldges, of Ecuador; and N. M. Cressman and Mrs. N. M. Cressman, of Paris, preparing for French Indo-China, who are engaged in Home and Foreign Missionary work along various lines.
Also the following, although not members of our Conference, yet are being supported by our Conference.
Western China-W. N. Ruhl and Miss Anna Haupberg.
Chile-Miss Anna LeFevre and Mrs. Nettie Meier.
Africa-E. E. Crist, Mrs. E. E. Crist, E. R. Hess, M. E. Barter, W. P. Darling, H. L. Pierson, Harry Stam, Mrs. Harry Stam, Joseph Ummel and Paul Ummel.
India-E. R. Carner, Mrs. E. R. Carner, Samuel Kerr and Mrs. Samuel Kerr.
Annam-Wm. C. Cadman, Mrs. Wm. C. Cadman, R. M. Jackson and H. A. Jackson.
Palestine-E. O. Jago and Miss Mary A. Butterfield.–32 in all.
Special thanksgiving has also been offered up in the 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 first five pews of the three sections to the left of the Chair, constitute the Conference Bar. Also the basement for evening meetings.
The Secretary appointed his assistants, as follows: Assistant Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman; Recording Secretaries, A. G. Woodring and N. H. Wolf.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Reporter and a Timekeeper.
He appointed H. K. Kratz 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 B. Bryan Musselman and G. O. Billig, the Pastor and Delegate of the Allentown Congregation.
COMMITTEES
The following committees were then appointed by the Chair and approved by the Conference:
Committee on Worship: B. Bryan Musselman and G. O. Billig.
Committee on Communications: R. L. Woodring and H. K. Kratz.
Committee on Finance: F. M. Hottel, H. L. Shelly, G. O. Billig and Allen M. Gehman.
Committee on Statistics: E. N. Cassel, J. G. Shireman, J. B. Layne, W. F. Heffner and P. T. Stengele.
Committee on Examination of Quarterly Conference Records: J. C. Roth, E. E. Kublic, H. K. Kratz, V. H. Reinhart, John F. Thomas, C. B. Brosius, Charles W. Teel, Paul H. Miller, Edward T. Semmel, H. N. Rishel, Charles W. Decker, R. W. Dickert, Moses Snyder, George R. Fish and S. Geremia.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: R. W. Dickert and R. Bergstresser.
Committee on Examination of Travelling Elders: H. H. Bergey, C. D. Bean and G. K. Himmelreich.
Committee on Examination of Presiding Elders, Local Preachers,
Evangelists and Missionaries: W. F. Heffner, J. B. Layne and J. G. Shireman.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: B. Bryan Musselman, C. H. Brunner and F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: C. H. Brunner, E. N. Cassel and B. Bryan Musselman.
Committee on Resolutions: W. G. Gehman, R. L. Woodring and J. B. Layne.
Committee on Auditing: G. F. Yost, H. L. Shelly, M. L. Musselman, T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, W. D. Evert, R. R. Fox, E. Godshall, F. B. Hertzog, H. H. Bergey, Paul I. Wentz and R. Bergstresser.
Committee on Schedules: W. G. Gehman and F. B. Hertzog.
Resolved, That the Pastors be limited to ten minutes in submitting their oral reports.
Resolved, That we adjourn to the call of the Chair, not later than half past one this afternoon.
Adjourned at 9:25 o’clock with prayer by C. B. Brosius and benediction by T. D. Gehret.
SECOND MEETING
Thursday Afternoon, October 14, 1926
The Chair opened the afternoon meeting with singing “Blessed Assurance” and prayer by J. F. Barrall.
The roll was called, after which the minutes of the forenoon 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 in a satisfactory condition.
W. F. Heffner,
J. B. Layne,
J. G. Shireman,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records:
We beg leave to report that we have examined the Annual Conference Records of 1925 and have found a few omissions and mistakes, which will be corrected by the Secretary.
R. W. Dickert,
R. Bergstresser,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on the Examination of Quarterly Conference Records:
We, the Committee on the Examination of Quarterly Conference Records, beg leave to report that we have examined the Quarterly Conference Records and found them in good condition.
A few slight mistakes were found, which were corrected in the presence of the Pastors.
J. C. Roth,
E. E. Kublic,
H. K. Kratz,
V. H. Reinhart,
John F. Thomas,
C. B. Brosius,
Charles W. Teel,
Paul H. Miller,
Edward T. Semmel,
H. N. Rishel,
Charles W. Decker,
R. W. Dickert,
Moses Snyder,
George R. Fish,
S. Geremia,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Travelling Elders:
We beg leave to report that we have examined all the Travelling Elders through the various Delegates and found them all satisfactory, being earnestly engaged in preaching the Word and in fulfilling their various duties connected with the Lord’s service.
H. H. Bergey,
C. D. Bean,
G. K. Himmelreich,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Worship:
J. B. Henry, H. W. Hartman and Paul E. Baer shall speak this evening for about twenty minutes each.
B. Bryan Musselman,
G. O. Billig,
Committee.
The Pastors now began to submit their oral reports.
The oral reports of the Pastors were concluded.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Bethlehem District. (See Reports.)
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.)
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, The Lord has spared the Pastors during this conference year, enabling all to be present and report of the many who were saved through the preaching of God’s Word, and many who were definitely healed of bodily diseases, while others were brought into closer fellowship with the Lord. Noticeable progress has been made on all lines, through the Lord and a united and devoted laity, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for all His past readings, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God to preserve and keep our Ministry true and Spirit-filled, so much the more as we see the Day approaching.
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,
J. B. Layne,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, The Lord has again spared both of our Presiding Elders to this Conference, who were enabled to report the work of their respective Districts, expressing progress, especially along spiritual lines, the President of the Gospel Herald Society also reporting the activities of their work on similar lines, and
Whereas, Their reports were words of inspiration and praise relative to the laity, the pastors, the Home and Foreign Missionary work, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for our faithful leaders, and pledge our support and prayers for them, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God to continue in making our leaders, men, such who are needed in these last days, in the promotion of the Lord’s Cause.
R. L. Woodring,
J. B. Layne,
Committee.
Resolved, That we adjourn to meet this evening at 7:45 o’clock and adjourn not later than 10 o’clock.
Adjourned at 5:10 o’clock with prayer by Paul I. Wentz and benediction by W. G. Gehman.
THIRD MEETING
Thursday Evening, October 14, 1926
The evening meeting was opened at 7:45 o’clock with 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 Board of Trustees of the Home. (See Reports.)
Report of the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Mount Carmel District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing. (See Reports.)
Report of the Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Annual Ministerial Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Conference Treasurer. (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society. (See Reports.)
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee. (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Examiners on the Reading Course. (See Reports.)
Report of the Executive Board. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Finance. (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions. (See Reports.)
Report of the Beneficiary Society. (See Reports.)
Whereas, P. S. Taylor and C. G. Hartzell have left the work, therefore,
Resolved, That we drop their names from the roll.
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, B. Bryan Musselman, F. M. Hottel, J. G. Shireman, E. N. Cassel, J. C. Roth, G. F. Yost, R. W. Dickert, R. L. Woodring, H. K. Kratz, A. G. Woodring, N. H. Wolf, W. F. Heffner, E. E. Kublic, J. B. Layne, V. H. Reinhart, R. Bergstresser, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret and J. F. Barrall.
Conditional-None.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet tomorrow morning at 9 o’clock.
Adjourned with prayer by G. F. Yost and the benediction by the Chairman.
FOURTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 15, 1926
The meeting was opened with singing “Wonderful Story of Love,” and prayer by H. N. Rishel.
The Chairman read parts of the first chapter of Joshua and the last chapter of Matthew, followed by some very helpful remarks.
The roll was called, all being present. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Formulate Methods for Class Records and Subscriptions. (See Reports.)
Resolved, That we elect two Presiding Elders.
The Chair appointed the tellers as follows: G. F. Yost, R. L. Woodring and J. B. Layne.
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, and 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 a delegate from each station and circuit constitute the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
The following report was read, as follows:
Report of the Committee on Worship:
The brethren P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog and N. H. Wolf shall speak on Friday evening for twenty minutes each.
On Saturday evening, W. F. Heffner and J. B. Layne shall speak for fifteen minutes each and M. P. Zook shall speak for thirty minutes.
SUNDAY SERVICES
The Sunday morning service shall open with a short song service at 9:30 o’clock, after which the Chairman, Presiding Elder H. B. Musselman, shall preach the Conference Sermon.
At 2:15 p.m., after a short service of song, Presiding Elder W. G. Gehman shall preach.
The evening service shall open at 7 o’clock with a stirring service of song. This service will be broadcast by Radio. The Conference Secretary, C. H. Brunner, shall speak.
All the services throughout the day shall be directed and in charge of the Chairman, Presiding Elder H. B. Musselman.
B. Bryan Musselman,
G. O. Billig,
Committee.
Resolved, That we adopt the report of the Committee on Worship with the exception of the hour of the evening service, and further,
Resolved, That a regular Radio service take place at 7 o’clock, at which the Pastor, B. Bryan Musselman, shall speak, after which the Conference Secretary, C. H. Brunner, shall give a short address.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to permit the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee to meet.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 o’clock with prayer by E. N. Cassel and benediction by E. E. Kublic.
FIFTH MEETING
Friday Afternoon, October 15, 1926
The afternoon meeting was opened by singing “The Ark is Coming Up the Road” and prayer by H. H. Bergey.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee. (See Reports.)
Resolved, That we grant the request of Delegate E. Godshall and excuse him from attendance on Saturday.
Resolved, That we proceed with the election of Officers, Boards and Committees.
The following were elected: Vice-Presiding Elders: C. H. Brunner and B. Bryan Musselman.
Resolved, That B. Bryan Musselman shall be First Vice-Presiding Elder and C. H. Brunner shall be Second Vice-Presiding Elder.
Resolved, That W. B. Musselman be recognized as Missionary Presiding Elder Ex-Officio.
Resolved, That the other officers be nominated and elected by ballot. The following were elected:
Chairman of the Next Annual Conference: H. B. Musselman.
Secretary of the Next Annual Conference: C. H. Brunner.
Treasurer of the Next Annual Conference: Allen M. Gehman.
Committee over the Presiding Elders: F. M. Hottel, G. F. Yost and H. K. Kratz.
Executive Board: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, E. N. Cassel and B. Bryan Musselman.
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, B. Bryan Musselman and F. M. Hottel.
Board of Trustees of The Home (For two years): R. L. Woodring, J. G. Shireman, F. M. Hottel, B. Bryan Musselman, A. A. Wismer and H. G. Brunner.
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, B. Bryan Musselman and G. F. Yost.
Board of Publication and Printing: C. H. Brunner, B. Bryan Musselman and A. G. Woodring.
Resolved, That we hold a Sunday School Convention in each Presiding Elder’s District.
Resolved, That the Presiding Elders, Pastors and Delegates constitute a Committee to organize for these Sunday School Conventions.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Chairman in each District to organize for these Sunday School Conventions.
He appointed the following:
Bethlehem District–C. H. Brunner.
Shamokin District–J. G. Shireman.
Resolved, That we hold two Camp Meetings on the Bethlehem District and one on the Shamokin District.
Resolved, That the Camp Meeting Divisions of the Districts remain the same as last year.
The Divisions shall comprise the congregations as follows:
Bethlehem Division–Bethlehem, Reading, Fleetwood, Blandon and Terre-Hill, Royersford, Spring City, Quakertown, Nazareth, Walnutport, Northampton, Lehighton and Weissport.
Allentown Division–Allentown (Bethel), Allentown (Salem), Philadelphia, Emaus, Macungie, Zionsville, Coopersburg, Graterford and Harleysville.
Shamokin District–Shamokin, Mount Carmel, Sunbury, Easton, Stroudsburg, Scranton and Wissinoming.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed at 4:55 o’clock.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
Resolved, That the two Camp Meetings of the Bethlehem District be held in Mizpah Grove, the Bethlehem Division from July 2-10, and the Allentown Division from August 20-28. The Camp Meeting of the Shamokin District shall be held in Edgewood Grove, Shamokin, Pa., from July 23-31.
The Camp Meeting Divisions reported the election of their officers as follows:
Bethlehem Division–Chairman, F. M. Hottel; Secretary, A. G. Woodring; Treasurer, E. N. Cassel.
Allentown Division–Chairman, B. Bryan Musselman; Secretary, C.H. Brunner; Treasurer, G. F. Yost.
Shamokin District–Chairman, J. G. Shireman; Secretary, P. T. Stengele; Treasurer, R. W. Dickert.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Shamokin District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
The various Boards and Committees reported the election of the following officers:
Executive Board–President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, E. N. Cassel.
Board of Foreign Missions–President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner.
Committee over the Presiding Elders–Chairman, F. M. Hottel; Secretary, H. K. Kratz.
Committee over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits–Chairman, B. Bryan Musselman; Secretary, F. M. Hottel.
Board of Publication and Printing–President, B. Bryan Musselman; Secretary, A. G. Woodring.
Board of Trustees of The Home–President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, R. L. Woodring; Assistant Secretary, J. G. Shireman.
Board of Examiners–President, E. N. Cassel; Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules to meet tomorrow morning at 9 o’clock.
Adjourned at 5:10 with prayer by M. P. Zook and the benediction by E. N. Cassel.
SIXTH MEETING
Saturday Morning, October 16, 1926
This meeting was opened with prayer by F. B. Hertzog.
The Chairman read the fourth chapter of Second Corinthians, followed with a short, helpful exhortation.
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 the Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We beg leave to report that no applicants were referred to us.
B. Bryan Musselman,
C. H. Brunner,
F.M. Hottel,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Ordination:
We wish to report that no candidates were referred to us.
C. H. Brunner, B. Bryan Musselman,
E. N. Cassel, Committee.
Whereas, N. M. Cressman and wife were publicly and informally ordained as foreign missionaries by the laying on of the hands of the members of the Board of Foreign Missions at the Mizpah Grove Camp Meeting, therefore,
Resolved, That we do not consider this act as a matter of ordination by the Annual Conference.
Resolved, That W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder of the Shamokin District, hold all the Home Missionary meetings throughout the Conference between New Year and Camp Meetings, and take the subscriptions with the assistance of the respective Pastors.
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 to 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 schedule accordingly. When they sell through members on their charge, allowing them a certain commission, the Pastor 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 practice to do any wholesale literature business by employing agents.
Resolved, That the Church property at Hereford be in charge of the Board of Trustees of Macungie, Pa.
Resolved, That all contributions received by the Laymen’s Benevolent Society shall be paid by check or money-order, made payable to H. G. Brunner, Treasurer, Zionsville, Pa., and forwarded to the Secretary, G. O. Billig, 941 Liberty Street, Allentown, Pa.
Resolved, That the price of the Annual Year Book be fifty cents, and in case of a deficit this shall be provided for out of the Conference Fund.
Resolved, That we print 1000 copies of our Year Book for 1926.
Resolved, That we ask the Board of Foreign Missions to print 2000 copies of the Annual Report of the Board of Foreign Missions.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed by the Chair to compile a report of the Conference and the Sunday Services for the “Gospel Banner.” He appointed F. M. Hottel, J. B. Layne and J. C. Roth.
Ministerial Conventions
Resolved, That we hold a Ministerial Convention sometime during the middle of the year, at Philadelphia, Pa. 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 C. H. Brunner as the third man on this committee, and announced April 13, 1927, as the date of the Convention.
All ordained Ministers and 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 the Annual Ministerial Convention on the day prior to the next Annual Conference and at the same place.
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene in Ebenezer M. B. in C. Church, 1123-1127 North Main Street, Bethlehem, Pa., at 8 a.m., October 13, 1927.
The following officers were then elected:
Annual Ministerial Convention—
Chairman, C. H. Brunner; Secretary, T. D. Gehret.
Committee on Program, H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman and F. M. Hottel.
Semi-Annual Ministerial Convention—
Chairman, B. Bryan Musselman; Secretary, P. T. Stengele.
Committee on Program (previously appointed), H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman and C. H. Brunner.
Resolved, That the Lay Delegates who find it necessary be priviledged to be absent from further attendance of Conference after the meeting on Saturday.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
Whereas, A number of our Sunday Schools have expressed the need of a Sunday School hymn book for general Sunday School use, therefore,
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a committee of three to investigate the advisability of compiling such a book and act under the direction of the Executive Board.
The Chair appointed C. H. Brunner, B. Bryan Musselman and F. M. Hottel.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
(a) Whereas, C. H. Brunner, Secretary of the Foreign Mission Board, who is in constant correspondence with our Foreign Missionaries on the various fields, has reported in detail about the work of the Lord, and,
Whereas, The Lord spared the lives of all our Missionaries, giving them many souls, preserving their health and strength, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for His readings in the past and pray God to continue to bless our Missionaries, so that they may be further used of God in gathering many more into the fold.
(b) Whereas, C. H. Brunner, the Editor of our Annual Year Book and Secretary of the Annual Conference, has with his many duties secured many valuable facts of interest and arranged matter for the press throughout the entire year, therefore,
Resolved, That we highly appreciate his untiring labors, and further,
Resolved, That we donate him $35.00 out of the Annual Conference Fund as a slight token of Appreciation for his services thus rendered.
(c) Whereas, The Union Gospel Press, of Cleveland, Ohio, has published the Christian Life Series of Sunday School Literature, which has won its way into many Sunday Schools throughout the States, Canada and Foreign Countries, and,
Whereas, They consider no labor too great in making these Quarterlies the nicest mechanically and the best spiritually, doctrinally and dispensationally of any Sunday School Literature we know of, which are used throughout our Conference, and,
Whereas, They print and publish tons upon tons of Gospel literature which is scattered abroad, therefore,
Resolved, That we express our heartiest thanks to God for His readings and heartily pledge our prayers and support otherwise and continue to pray God’s choicest blessings upon them that their courage, health and strength fail not and that our fellowship in the Word and Work of the Lord may increase more and more until the Lord’s return.
(d) Whereas, The Pastor, B. Bryan Musselman, and the members of the Allentown Class have so abundantly provided for the entertainment of the Annual Conference members and friends of the work, all meals being served in the basement of the Church, therefore,
Resolved, That we recognize their devotedness to the Lord, His servants and His work, and further,
Resolved, That we tender them a rising vote of thanks and unitedly pray God’s blessing upon them for usefulness in God’s Cause.
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,
J. B. Layne
Committee
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 1:30 p.m.
Adjourned at 11:40 o’clock with prayer by George R. Fish and the benediction by R. L. Woodring.
A letter from W. B. Musselman, of Cleveland, Ohio, President of the Gospel Worker Society, written to the Chairman, was read before the Conference. He reports a blessed and prosperous year. He reports a glorious baptismal service held a few weeks ago. Thirty-three were immersed in Lake Erie, among whom was a man of 80, a woman of 79 and a number in the sixties. “The radiant faces of all showed a glory beyond what we had ever experienced, especially considering the circumstances. Rents of halls as high as $100, $150 and $450 per month were raised with ease without exception.”
They publish twenty-six periodicals entered as second class matter. Fully 80% showed a quarterly increase. Relative to the Sunday School business end they report nothing but encouraging facts. The Sunday School papers are a marvel. They are holding their own in Missionary, Colporteur and Publishing work and report that they are stronger than ever for the work of the Master.
SEVENTH MEETING
Saturday Afternoon, October 16, 1926
This meeting was opened with singing “Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine” and prayer by J. G. Shireman.
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 Statistics: (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Communications:
We have received no communications, therefore we have nothing to report.
R. L. Woodring,
H. K. Kratz,
Committee.
Report of Committee to Audit Schedules:
We have examined the Pastors’ schedules and summary schedules and declare them to be correct to the best of our knowledge and belief.
W. G. Gehman,
F. B. Hertzog,
Committee.
Resolved, That the Committee on Sunday School Supplies be continued. The Committee consists of E. N. Cassel, B. Bryan Musselman, F. M. Hottel, J. C. Roth and C. H. Brunner.
Adjourned at 3:25 o’clock with prayer by W. D. Evert and benediction by E. N. Cassel.
EIGHTH MEETING
Monday Morning, October 18, 1926
This meeting was opened with singing, “Amen, Hallelujah,” and prayer by E. E. Kublic. The Chairman read the second chapter of Second Timothy.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of Committee on Auditing:
We, the Committee on Auditing, have examined the following financial accounts: Presiding Elders’ Reports, Benevolent Society, Camp Meetings, Sunday School Conventions, Board of Publication and Printing, Quarterly Conference Records, The Home, Executive Board, Foreign and Home Missions, Gospel Herald Society and Report of the Committee on Finance.
All of these records and accounts were found to be in a satisfactory condition. Several minor errors were found which were corrected in the presence of the parties interested.
We commend the use of the new Quarterly Conference Minute Books as a step in the right direction, and with a little care in the arrangement of details, should make a very satisfactory, permanent Quarterly Conference record.
G. F. Yost,
H. L. Shelly,
M. L. Musselman,
T. D. Gehret,
P. T. Stengele,
W. D. Evert,
R. R. Fox,
E. Godshall,
F. B. Hertzog,
H. H. Bergey,
Paul I. Wentz,
R. Bergstresser.
Committee.
Report of the Committee to Compile a Report of the Conference and the Sunday Services for the “Gospel Banner.” (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, The daily papers, the “Allentown Morning Call” and the “Chronicle and News,” have given us such splendid service in the proceedings of the Ministerial Convention and of the Conference, and
Whereas, Their Correspondents have so courteously co-operated with our Conference Reporter, therefore,
Resolved, That we express our appreciation of their services, and pray God’s blessing and favor upon them, and further,
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Conference and be forwarded by Pastor B. Bryan Musselman to the “Allentown Morning Call” and the “Chronicle and News” office, respectively.
W. G. Gehman, J. B. Layne,
R. L. Woodring, Committee.
Report of the Announcement of the Board of Examiners. (See Reports.)
Resolved, That when money is received on any Charge for rent of buildings it shall not be entered on the schedule as offerings.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, The Department of Public Safety of the City of Allentown, Pa., through the Chief of Police, M. H. Bernhard, has so freely granted the request to provide traffic officers on Sunday, and,
Whereas, These traffic officers gave very courteous and satisfactory service during the day, therefore,
Resolved, That we, the Annual Conference, express our hearty appreciation of this ready response and cheerful and faithful service and pray the blessings of God Almighty upon this Department, its Chief and his assistants in their tedious service for the safety of humanity, and further,
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be conveyed to the Department by B. Bryan Musselman, the Pastor of the local congregation.
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,
J. B. Layne,
Committee.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
Resolved., That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the call of the Chair.
Adjourned with prayer and benediction by E. N. Cassel.
NINTH MEETING
Monday Afternoon, October 18, 1926
This meeting was opened at 12:55 o’clock by singing and prayer by Paul H. Miller.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Executive Board:
We have considered the matter of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society and the incorporation of the Annual Conference, but have come to no definite conclusion and ask to be privileged to further consider these matters.
H. B. Musselman, E. N. Cassel,
C. H. Brunner, B. Bryan Musselman,
W. G. Gehman, Board.
Adjourned at 1:20 o’clock with prayer and benediction by the Chairman, H. B. Musselman.
Signed,
H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder, Chairman,
W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder,
C. H. Brunner, Secretary, Second Vice-Presiding Elder,
B. Bryan Musselman, Assistant Secretary, First Vice-Presiding Elder,
A. G. Woodring, Recording Secretary,
N. H. Wolf, Recording Secretary,
Allen M. Gehman, Treasurer,
F. M. Hottel,
E. N. Cassel,
G. P. Yost,
J. G. Shireman,
J. C. Roth,
R. L. Woodring,
R.W. Dickert,
H. K. Kratz,
W. F. Heffner,
E. E. Kublic,
J. B. Layne,
F. B. Hertzog,
V. H. Reinhart,
P. T. Stengele,
T. D. Gehret,
R. Bergstresser,
J. F. Barrall,
Charles W. Decker,
E. D. Evert,
G. O. Billig,
M. L. Musselman,
H. N. Rishel,
Paul I. Wentz,
Paul H. Miller,
John F. Thomas,
G. K. Himmelreich,
E. Godshall,
C. B. Brosius,
Edward T. Semmel,
R. R. Fox,
H. H. Bergey,
Moses Snyder,
C. D. Bean,
H. L. Shelly,
George R. Fish,
Charles W. Teel,
S. Geremia.