FORTY-SEVENTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1930
FIRST MEETING
Thursday Forenoon, October 16, 1930
The Forty-seventh 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 9 a.m., according to announcement, by singing “Jesus Lover of My Soul.” 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 “Precious Promise God Has Given,” the Chairman, H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Allentown District, gave us a very helpful address from Matthew 20:20-28.
The names of the members of the Conference were then enrolled, as follows:
Ministers
Ordained–H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner, B. Bryan Musselman, F. M. Hottel, E. N. Cassel, G. F. Yost, J. G. Shireman, A. G. Woodring, N. H. Wolf, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, J. C. Roth, T. D. Gehret, R. L. Woodring, H. K. Kratz, W. F. Heffner, J. B. Layne, V. H. Reinhart, E. E. Kublic, J. B. Henry, E. H. Musselman, Paul E. Baer, R. W. Dickert, E. T. Shick, R. Bergstresser, J. F. Barrall, O. S. Hillegass, W. B. Musselman and H. W. Feldges.
Probationers–H. W. Hartman, E. George, E. B. Hartman, A. M. Sprock, C. L. Miller, R. H. Gehman, E. W. Bean, M. M. Myers and J. T. Anderson.
Delegates
Allentown District
G. O. Billig, Allentown (Bethel).
Myron H. Gehret, Bethlehem.
W. D. Evert, Philadelphia.
H. N. Rishel, Reading.
Paul I. Wentz, Emaus, Macungie and Zionsville.
H. L. Shelly, Coopersburg and Allentown (Salem).
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.
A. W. Deppe, Northampton and Walnutport.
Paul B. Teel, Nazareth.
A. A. Schaeffer, Lehighton and Weissport.
Easton District
Herbert V. Smith, Easton.
Clarence S. Renn, Shamokin.
Charles L. Hornberger, Mt. Carmel.
George R. Fish, Stroudsburg.
C. B. Brosius, Sunbury.
Edward Getz, Scranton.
Edward J. Dietzman, Wissinoming and West Philadelphia.
P. T. Tarbert, York.
Both Presiding Elders, all the Pastors, all the Delegates and a number of others were present at the opening of the first meeting.
We are remembering at this time W. B. Musselman, of Cleveland, Ohio, and his work, and the Gospel Herald Society, a number of whom were present at this Conference, E. T. Shick and O. S. Hillegass, both of Allentown, Pa., H. W. Feldges, of Colombia, S. A., and Miss Mary A. Miller of the Belgian Congo. Also Mrs. H. W. Feldges, N. M. Cressman and Mrs. N. M. Cressman on furlough.
Also the following, although not members of our Conference, yet are being supported by our Conference:
Chile–Miss Anna LeFevre and Mrs. Nettie Meier.
Africa–E. E. Crist, Mrs. E. E. Crist, E. R. Hess, M. E. Barter, Harry Stam, Mrs. Harry Stam, Joseph Ummel and Paul Ummel.
India–E. R. Carner, Mrs. E. R. Carner, Samuel Kerr and Mrs. Samuel Kerr.
French Indo-China–Wm. C. Cadman, Mrs. Wm. C. Cadman, R. M. Jackson and H. A. Jackson.
Palestine–Miss Mary A. Butterfield.
Special thanksgiving has also been offered up in the morning 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 four pews of the three sections on the west side of the Auditorium constitute the Conference Bar. Also the basement for evening meetings if so desired.
The Secretary appointed his assistants, as follows: Assistant Secretary, B. Bryan Musselman; Recording Secretaries, N. H. Wolf, H. L. Shelly and A. G. Woodring.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Reporter and a Time-keeper. He appointed H. K. Kratz as Reporter and J. B. Henry as Time-keeper.
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: W. G. Gehman, B. Bryan Musselman and H. B. Musselman.
Committee on Communications: R. L. Woodring and H. K. Kratz.
Committee on Finance: F. M. Hottel, H. L. Shelly, G. O. Billig and C. H. Brunner.
Committee on Statistics: E. N. Cassel, J. G. Shireman, J. B. Layne, W. F. Heffner, P. T. Stengele and T. D. Gehret.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: E. E. Kublic and V. H. Reinhart.
Committee on Examination of Quarterly Conference Records: J. C. Roth, H. K. Kratz, E. H. Musselman, Clarence S. Renn, E. E. Kublic, V. H. Reinhart, Paul B. Teel, Herbert V. Smith, C. B. Brosius, A. W. Deppe, Edward Getz, George R. Fish, Charles L. Hornberger and P. T. Tarbert.
Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: C. D. Bean, H. H. Bergey and G. K. H:immelreich.
Committee on Examination of Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries: W. F. Heffner, J. G. Shireman, F. B. Hertzog and J. B. Layne.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: C. H. Brunner, B. Bryan Musselman and F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: B. Bryan Musselman, C. H. Brunner and E. N. Cassel.
Committee on Resolutions: W. G. Gehman, R. L. Woodring and T. D. Gehret.
Committee on Auditing: G. F. Yost, Paul I. Wentz, Myron H. Gehret, J. B. Henry, W. D. Evert, R. R. Fox, Paul E. Baer, A. A. Schaeffer, F. B. Hertzog, H. H. Bergey, C. D. Bean and H. N. Rishel.
Committee on Schedules: W. G. Gehman and F. B. Hertzog.
Resolved, That if it be agreeable to the Chair, he appoint the two Presiding Elders and the Pastor of the Conference Church as the Committee on Worship. He appointed W. G. Gehman, H. B. Musselman and B. Bryan Musselman.
Resolved, That the Committee on Worship arrange the meetings up until and including Saturday evening and that the Sunday Services be arranged for by the Conference.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to 3 o’clock.
Adjourned at 11:55 o’clock with prayer by J. G. Shireman and the benediction by C. H. Brunner.
SECOND MEETING
Thursday Afternoon, October 16, 1930
The Chairman opened the afternoon meeting at 3 o’clock with singing “I Will Guide Thee With Mine Eye” 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 the Examination of Quarterly Conference Records:
We, the Committee on Quarterly Conference Records, beg leave to report that we examined the Quarterly Conference Records and found them in a very good condition.
A few mistakes were found which were corrected in the presence of the Pastors.
J. C. Roth,
H. K. Kratz,
E. H. Musselman,
Clarence S. Renn,
E. E. Kublic,
V. H. Reinhart,
Herbert V. Smith,
C. B. Brosius,
A. W. Deppe,
Edward Getz,
Paul B. Teel,
George R. Fish,
Charles L. Hornberger,
P. T. Tarbert,
Edward J. Dietzman,
Committee.
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. G. Shireman,
F. B. Hertzog,
J. B. Layne,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records:
We have examined the Annual Conference Records of 1929 and found them correct.
E. E. Kublic,
V. H. Reinhart,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Worship:
Thursday evening shall be devoted to the hearing of all the oral reports of the Pastors.
W. G. Gehman,
B. Bryan Musselman,
H. B. Musselman,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders:
We beg leave to report that we have examined all the Traveling Elders through the various delegates and found them all satisfactory, being highly commended for their lives of noble sacrifice, devotion and earnestness in preaching the Word, and fulfilling their various duties connected with the Lord’s service.
C. D. Bean,
H. H. Bergey,
G. K. Himmelreich,
Committee.
Report of the Allentown District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Easton District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Ministerial Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee. (See Reports.)
Report of the Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society. (See Reports.)
Report of the Camp Meeting Equipage Committee. (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions. (See Reports.)
Resolved, That the Presiding Elders submit their reports at this time and submit an oral report this evening.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder of the Allentown District. (See Reports.)
Report of W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder of the Easton District. (See Reports.)
Report of W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, We have listened to the encouraging reports of our Presiding Elders, also the report of the President of the Gospel Herald Society, in which glowing tribute was paid to the cooperation of the Pastors, the loyalty and devotion of the laity, the liberal support of the Home and Foreign Missionary work, therefore be it
Resolved, That we recognize and appreciate their untiring zeal and devotion to the cause of Christ, having been willing to spend and be spent for the welfare and success of the work on every charge, and further be it
Resolved, That we continue to pray unceasingly for their future service in the Lord’s work and that strength may be divinely given them for their many duties and responsibilities.
R. L. Woodring,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
Resolved, That the evening meeting be held in the Auditorium instead of in the basement.
Resolved, That the evening meeting open at 7:30 and the Oral Reports be limited to five minutes.
Resolved, That we defer the reading of the minutes until the morning meeting.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned with prayer by Paul I. Wentz and benediction by W. G. Gehman.
THIRD MEETING
Thursday Evening, October 16, 1930
The evening meeting was opened at 7:30 o’clock with singing “Down at the Cross” and prayer by F. B. Hertzog.
The roll was called.
The pastors submitted their oral reports, followed by the Presiding Elders.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, God through His loving care over us and His tender mercies toward us, manifested in so many ways, has brought us safely through another year, the lives of all the pastors being spared, and,
Whereas, The pastors reported with joy concerning the faithfulness and blessing of God upon them in their work, so that souls have been saved and noticeable spiritual progress made, be it therefore
Resolved, That we hereby express our grateful thanks to our Heavenly Father for His many tokens of grace and love toward us, and that we strive by the Spirit’s power to continue faithfully in the ministry committed to us until He come.
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
Adjourned with prayer and benediction by W. G. Gehman.
FOURTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 17, 1930
The meeting was opened with singing “This is My Story” and prayer by W. D. Evert.
The Chairman read selections from II Corinthians, chapters one and two, and gave us a very helpful address.
The roll was called, after which the minutes of the previous meetings 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 Executive Board. (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing. (See Reports.)
Report of the Conference Treasurer. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Communications:
We have received a communication from W. B. Musselman, Cleveland, Ohio, which we recommend to be read before this body.
R. L. Woodring,
H. K. Kratz,
Committee.
The communication of W. B. Musselman was read and referred to the Committee on Resolutions.
Report of the Committee on Finance. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Worship:
The following shall speak as follows, limited to 20 minutes each:
Friday evening–F. B. Hertzog, Paul E. Baer and P. T. Stengele.
Saturday evening–E. N. Cassel, F. M. Hottel and T. D. Gehret.
W. G. Gehman,
B. Bryan Musselman,
H. B. Musselman,
Committee.
Sunday Services
Resolved, That H. B. Musselman preach the Conference Sermon.
Resolved, That W. G. Gehman preach the afternoon sermon.
Resolved, That C. H. Brunner and B. Bryan Musselman shall preach in the evening.
Resolved, That H. B. Musselman shall have charge of the services on Sunday.
Resolved, That the time of the opening of the Sunday Services be as follows: Morning at 9:30 o’clock; afternoon, 2:15 o’clock, and evening at 7 o’clock.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee of three to compile a report of the Conference and the Sunday Services for the Gospel Banner.
He appointed E. N. Cassel, T. D. Gehret and G. F. Yost.
W. G. Gehman presented W. W. Hartman as applicant for Annual Conference License. The presentation was accepted and referred to the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License.
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. L. Woodring, H. K. Kratz, A. G. Woodring, N. H. Wolf, W. F. Heffner, E. E. Kublic, J. B. Layne, V. H. Reinhart, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret, J. B. Henry, E. H. Musselman, Paul E. Baer, J. F. Barrall, E. T. Shick and O. S. Hillegass.
Conditional–None.
Resolved, That we elect two Presiding Elders.
The Chair appointed the tellers, as follows: G. F. Yost, P. T. Stengele 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.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the call of the Chair no later than 4:15 o’clock.
Adjourned at 11:05 o’clock with prayer by J. C. Roth and the benediction by J. B. Layne.
FIFTH MEETING
Friday Afternoon, October 17, 1930
The meeting was opened at 4:10 o’clock with singing “I’m on the Way” and prayer by W. F. Heffner.
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.) This report and the Conference program were broadcast over station WCBA at 4:45 by Pastor B. Bryan Musselman.
Report of the Committee on Statistics. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
Whereas, W. B. Musselman, Missionary Presiding Elder, of Cleveland, Ohio, sent a communication to this Conference in which he states that he is as usual, well and happy in Spirit while not looking at things seen, but forgetting the things behind and below, and looking at things before and above, and rejoicing greatly, and thanking God for the victory, in giving him love to all and malice toward none. Also trusting that all self-interest be fully abandoned in all deliberations so that in all things Christ may be exalted, being worthy of all power, and being justly called the Prince of Peace, and,
Whereas, We listened with interest to the communication read before the Conference, therefore,
Resolved, That we pray God’s continual favor upon him, his workers and work which he represents, and that they may be blessed with long life and usefulness even unto the coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We recommend that a night letter of greeting be sent to W. B. Musselman which shall be signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Conference.
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We have examined applicant W. W. Hartman and recommend him to the Conference for Annual Conference License.
C. H. Brunner,
B. Bryan Musselman,
F. M. Hottel,
Committee.
Adjourned with prayer by A. G. Woodring and benediction by F. B. Hertzog.
SIXTH MEETING
Saturday Morning, October 18, 1930
The meeting was opened with singing “Come Thou Blessed Saviour” and prayer by F. M. Hottel.
The Chairman read several selections from Phillipians two and three.
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 Auditing:
We, the Committee on Auditing, have examined the following 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, Conference Treasurer and the Report of the Committee on Finance.
All the records were found in an excellent condition.
The minor errors found were corrected in the presence of the parties concerned.
G. F. Yost, W. D. Evert,
Paul I. Wentz, F. B. Hertzog,
Myron H. Gehret, H. H. Bergey,
J. B. Henry, C. D. Bean,
R. R. Fox, H. N. Rishel,
Paul E. Baer, A. A. Schaeffer,
Committee.
Report of the Beneficiary Society. (See Reports.)
Report of the Board of Examiners. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
(A) Whereas, C. H. Brunner, Secretary of the Foreign Mission Board, who has been in constant touch with our representatives on the various Mission fields and has reported at length concerning the work being done, and,
Whereas, The Lord has graciously overruled in the preservation of the lives of all the Missionaries, having enabled them to continue in the spread of the Gospel and the winning of souls, so that much effectual work for God has been done, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise the Lord, who has so faithfully led the Missionaries in this so noble a cause, supplying hitherto strength and grace for service, and further,
Resolved, That we pray God to continue to bless and prosper them in the future.
(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 whole-hearted interest and untiring labor, and further,
Resolved, That we donate $50.00 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 world, and,
Whereas, They consider no labor too great in making this literature the very best possible, both doctrinally and spiritually, and,
Whereas, They print much Gospel literature which is scattered abroad, therefore,
Resolved, That we give hearty 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 appreciate 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 the Lord’s work.
(E) Whereas, the daily papers, the “Allentown Morning Call,” “Chronicle and News” and the “Bethlehem Globe-Times,” have given us such splendid service in publishing the proceedings of the Annual 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 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 respective newspaper offices.
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
The Chair appointed the following Boards and Committees:
Board of Publication and Printing: B. Bryan Musselman, C. H. Brunner and E. N. Cassel.
Committee over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits:
B. Bryan Musselman, F. M. Hottel, G. F. Yost and F. B. Hertzog.
Resolved, That the Lay Delegates who find it necessary be privileged to be absent from further attendance of Conference after the meeting Saturday.
The need of a new hymn book was again emphasized and it was
Resolved, That the Executive Board provide new hymn books.
Resolved, That we proceed with the election of Officers, Boards and Committees.
The following were elected: First Vice-Presiding Elder, B. Bryan Musselman; Second Vice-Presiding Elder, C. H. Brunner.
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 Conference: C. H. Brunner.
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, H. K. Kratz and T. D. Gehret.
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): J. G. Shireman, F. M. Hottel, G. F. Yost, B. Bryan Musselman, H. G. Brunner and C. D. Bean.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: President, Allen M. Gehman; Secretary, G. O. Billig; Treasurer, H. G. Brunner.
The Bethlehem Ebenezer Congregation herewith invites the Annual Conference to Bethlehem for the 1931 meeting.
Myron H. Gehret,
F. M. Hottel.
Resolved, That we accept the invitation of the Bethlehem Ebenezer Congregation and meet in Ebenezer M. B. in C. Church, 1121-1125 North Main Street, October 15, 1931, at 9 a.m.
Resolved, That we hold a Sunday School Convention in each Presiding Elder’s District, and the Presiding Elders, Pastors and Delegates of their respective Districts constitute, a committee to organize for these Conventions.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a chairman in each District to organize for these Sunday School Conventions.
He appointed the following:
Allentown District–C. H. Brunner.
Easton District–J. G. Shireman.
Resolved, That we hold two Camp Meetings on the Allentown District and one on the Easton District.
Resolved, That the Camp Meeting Divisions comprise the congregations as follows:
Bethlehem Division–Bethlehem, Reading, Fleetwood, Blandon, 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.
Easton District–Shamokin, Mount Carmel, Sunbury, Easton, Stroudsburg, Scranton, Wissinoming, West Philadelphia and York, Pa.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn until 2 o’clock.
Adjourned with prayer by V. H. Reinhart and benediction by Paul E. Baer.
SEVENTH MEETING
Saturday Afternoon, October 18, 1930
The afternoon meeting was opened at, 2 o’clock with singing “Down at the Cross” and prayer by R. L. Woodring.
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 to Audit Schedules:
We have examined the Pastors’ Schedules and the Summary Schedules and find them in a neat and clean condition, and correct to the best of our knowledge and belief.
W. G. Gehman,
F. B. Hertzog,
Committee.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Allentown District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Easton District Sunday School Convention. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Allentown Division Camp Meeting of the Allentown District. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Bethlehem Division Camp Meeting of the Allentown District. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Easton District Camp Meeting. (See Reports.)
Report of the Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination:
We beg leave to report that we have interviewed the brethren, H. W. Hartman, E. B. Hartman and E. George who have completed their three years’ Reading Course Examinations creditably and have labored acceptably in the Gospel Herald Society for a number of years. We believe them to be sincere, conscientious and promising young men of good character but owing to the fact that they have not had the opportunity to labor in the church we recommend that their ordination be deferred for the present.
B. Bryan Musselman,
C. H. Brunner,
E. N. Cassel,
Committee.
Resolved, That we hold the Annual Ministerial Convention at Reading on April 16, 1931. All ordained Ministers and Probationers having charge of a work shall be members of this Convention.
The following officers were then elected for this Convention: Chairman, B. Bryan Musselman; Secretary, P. T. Stengele.
Committee on Program: H. B. Musselman, W. G. Gehman and E. N. Cassel.
Resolved, That we print 900 copies of our Year Book for 1930.
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 ask the Board of Foreign Missions to print 2400 copies of the Annual Report of the Board of Foreign Missions.
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 the errors and deceptions of Satan, 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 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 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 we as a Conference recognize W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society, as the agent appointed by the Union Gospel Press to handle their Sunday School supplies and all their other publications.
Resolved, That the Pastors hold the Home Missionary meetings under the direction of the respective Presiding Elders and take the subscriptions some time between New Year and the Camp Meetings.
Whereas, It is one of our standing rules for each Pastor to hold a special service at each appointment, on which occasion the Annual Offering for the poor shall be lifted, and,
Whereas, The Home for our aged is in need of funds, and,
Whereas, The offering for the poor has been very low from year to year, therefore,
Resolved, That our Pastors shall lay especial stress upon this offering, designating it as an offering for The Home and that this offering shall be lifted at a Special Service on or near Thanksgiving Day.
Resolved, That W. G. Gehman, President of the Gospel Herald Society, shall have charge of the general sale of the “Rose of Sharon!’ Hymnal.
Resolved, That we ask the Sunday Schools to remit 25 cents for each Officer and Teacher reported on this year’s schedule to be added to the Conference Fund for Printing of Supplies. This amount to be paid to the Conference Treasurer before next New Year.
Resolved, That the Executive Board, under legal advice, formulate a form of deed for church property that may be acceptable to trust officers and that the Board be privileged to permit congregations to use this form of deed, to submit to the next Annual Conference for consideration.
Resolved, That the management of the Cafeteria at the Mizpah Grove Camp Meetings continue under the direction of the Executive Board.
Resolved, That we extent the time indefinitely.
Adjourned at 5:15 with prayer by J. C. Roth and benediction by E. H. Musselman.
EIGHTH MEETING
Monday Morning, October 20, 1930
This meeting was opened at 9:40 o’clock with singing “O Praise the Lord I’m on the Way” and prayer by J. B. Layne.
The Chairman read selections from I Peter four and five.
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 Resolutions:
Whereas, The Police Department of the city of Allentown, Pa., through the courtesy of the Chief, M. H. Bernhard, and his assistants, have so willingly and cheerfully granted the request in providing traffic officers on Sunday, and,
Whereas, These officers have given most efficient services, therefore,
Resolved, That we as a Conference express our hearty appreciation for the services rendered, and pray God’s blessing upon the said department in their noble work for the safety of the public, and further,
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution, signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Conference, be forwarded by the Pastor, B. Bryan Musselman, to this Department.
W. G. Gehman,
R. L. Woodring,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
Report of the Committee to Compile a Report of the Conference and the Sunday Services for the “Gospel Banner.” (See Reports.)
The various Boards and Committees reported the election of the following officers:
Committee over the Presiding Elders–Chairman, F. M. Hottel; Secretary, H. K. Kratz.
Executive Board–President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, E. N. Cassel.
Board of Foreign Missions–President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner.
Board of Examiners–President, E. N. Cassel; Secretary, H. K. Kratz.
Board of Trustees of The Home–President, H. B. Musselman; Secretary, E. N. Cassel; Assistant Secretary, J. G. Shireman.
Board of Publication and Printing–President, B. Bryan Musselman; Secretary, C. H. Brunner.
Committee over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits–Chairman, B. Bryan Musselman; Secretary, F. M. Hottel.
Beneficiary Society–President, W. G. Gehman; Secretary, F. M. Hottel; Treasurer, B. Bryan Musselman.
Resolved, That H. B. Musselman shall preach the Conference Sermon on Sunday of the next Annual Conference at the morning meeting. W. G. Gehman shall preach in the afternoon. The two Presiding Elders and the Pastor at the Conference Church shall arrange and publish the program for all the evening meetings.
Adjourned with prayer by A. W. Deppe and benediction by V. H. Reinhart.
NINTH MEETING
Monday Afternoon, October 20, 1930
The meeting was opened at 2:05 o’clock with prayer by J. G. Shireman.
The proposition that congregations of 200 or more members shall elect a Board of Trustees of five members, the pastor to be one of the five, was referred to the Executive Board.
Resolved, That a Committee be appointed by the Chair, including himself, to consider by what way and means our young people may be engaged and exercised in more spiritual activity.
The Chair appointed B. Bryan Musselman, E. N. Cassel, W. G. Gehman, C. H. Brunner and H. B. Musselman.
The minutes of the afternoon meeting were read and approved.
Adjourned at 4:05 with prayer by W. G. Gehman, singing “God Be with You Till We Meet Again,” and benediction by H. B. Musselman.
Signed,
H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder, Chairman,
W. G. Gehman, Presiding Elder,
C. H. Brunner, Secretary, Treasurer, Second Vice-Presiding Elder,
B. Bryan Musselman, Assistant Secretary, First Vice-Presiding Elder,
A. G. Woodring, Recording Secretary,
N. H. Wolf, Recording Secretary,
H. L. Shelly, Recording Secretary,
F. M. Hottel, W. D. Evert,
E. N. Cassel, H. N. Rishel,
G. F. Yost, G. O. Billig,
J. G. Shireman, Myron H. Gehret,
F. B. Hertzog, Paul I. Wentz,
P. T. Stengele, Clarence S. Renn,
T. D. Gehret, C. D. Bean,
J. C. Roth, H. H. Bergey,
R. L. Woodring, A. W. Deppe,
H. K. Kratz, G. K. Himmelreich,
W. F. Heffner, R. R. Fox,
J. B. Layne, Herbert V. Smith,
V. H. Reinhart, C. B. Brosius,
E. H. Musselman, A. A. Schaeffer,
E. E. Kublic, Paul B. Teel,
J. B. Henry, George R. Fish,
Paul E. Baer, P. T. Tarbert,
Edward Getz, Charles L. Hornberger,
J. F. Barrall, Edward J. Dietzman.