SIXTY-SEVENTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1950
The Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, Pennsylvania Conference, met for the Sixty-Seventh session in Ebenezer Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 1121-1125 N. Main Street, Bethlehem, Pa.
At the designated time of Tuesday, October 17th at 10 A. M., the Conference opened with singing, “Sitting at the Feet of Jesus.” R. H. Gehman led in prayer.
The Chairman T. Stengele, brought the opening address to the Conference body basing his message on Col. 1:9-14. This was a profitable exhortation which called to mind our privileges in Christ as well as our responsibilities.
The practice of “the Washing of the Saints’ Feet” was observed and was followed by the observance of the Lord’s Supper.
The Secretary, T. D. Gehret, appointed the following assistants: Assistant Secretary, N. H. Wolf; Recording Secretaries, W. H. Frank and Paul E. Baer.
The following were enrolled as members of the Conference:
Ministers
Ordained-P. T. Stengele, T. D. Gehret, F. B. Hertzog, N. H. Wolf, C. L. Miller, C. E. Kirkwood, J. E. Hartman, E. N. Cassel, J. B. Layne, W. H. Frank, H. W. Hartman, Paul E. Baer, A. G. Woodring, F. M. Hottel, W. F. Heffner, G. F. Yost, W. W. Hartman, J. E. Golla, J. B. Henry, R. H. Gehman, E. W. Bean, E. B. Hartman, H. K. Kratz, Willard E. Cassel, A. M. Sprock, R. C. Reichenbach, E. E. Kublic, J. H. Riggall, W. B. Hottel, D. E. Thomann, E. J. Rutman, H. B. Musselman, E. T. Shick, C. F. Snyder, H. W. Feldges.
Probationers-John Dunn, W. A. Heffner, H. D. Yarrington.
Delegates
Allentown District
P. Ward Musselman, Allentown (Bethel)
Bertram Ringler, Reading
Clayton Brosius, Sunbury
Paul H. Miller, Shamokin
David H. Fahs, York
John W. Boehmer, Mount Carmel
R. R. Fox, Royersford & Spring City
S. A. Hackman, Graterford & Harleysville
A. W. Deppe, Nazareth & Northampton
Luther N. Kern, Lehighton & Walnutport
Daniel K. Ziegler, Hatfield
Paul T. Rutman, Harrisburg
Charles W. Weaber, Lebanon
George R. Fish, Stroudsburg
Bethlehem District
E. O. Mann, Bethlehem
Paul I. Wentz, Emmaus, Macungie, Zionsville
John B. Harley, Philadelphia
Herbert V. Smith, Easton
G. L. Baumgartner, Coopersburg, Allentown (Salem)
Clayton E. Weber, Fleetwood and Blandon
R. Spedden, Chester
H. H. Bergey, Quakertown
Edward Judd, Wissinoming
Theodore L. Bleich, Jersey City, N. J.
Harry H. Hill, Scranton
J. R. Weber, Terre Hill
William T. Wild, Staten Island, N. Y.
E. J. Dietzman, West Philadelphia
Fred J. Wagner, Newark, N. J.
Resolved, That the first seven pews to the front and to the right of the Chair constitute the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That the Home Mission workers present during the Conference be advisory members. The following brethren were present: James G. Koch, W. A. Heffner, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, Laird F. Stengele, Samuel S. Smith, Richard H. Kline.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Reporter and a Timekeeper. He appointed J. H. Riggall as Reporter and E. J. Rutman as Timekeeper.
Resolved, That no member be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission by the Chair except the pastor and Delegate of the Bethlehem Congregation, N. H. Wolf and E. O. Mann.
Report of the Committee to arrange a program for the service of Annual Conference:
Tuesday, 10:00 A. M. — Address by Chairman, P. L. Stengele, followed by the practice of washing of the Saints’ feet and the Ordinance of Communion for members of the Annual Conference and Home Missionary Society.
Tuesday, 7:30 p. m. — Meeting of the Annual Conference. Oral reports of the Pastors, (limited to 3 minutes). Oral reports of the Presiding Elders and Director of Home Missions.
Thursday, 7:30 P. M. — Address by Presiding Elder, T. D. Gehret. Service in charge of Presiding Elder, P. T. Stengele.
N. H. Wolf,
C. L. Miller,
F. B. Hertzog,
Committee.
Resolved, That Daniel Ziegler be excused from the session on Wednesday afternoon for a short time in accordance with his request.
Resolved, That the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders consist of the Presiding Elders and one member to be appointed by the Chair.
Committees
Committee on Worship: (Appointed at the last Annual Conference): N. H. Wolf, C. L. Miller, F. B. Hertzog.
Committee on Communications: H. B. Musselman, R. C. Reichenbach, H. K. Kratz.
Committee on Finance: Paul I. Wentz, P. Ward Musselman, E. O Mann, Bertram Ringler.
Committee on Examination of Local Conference Records: F. B. Hertzog, J. B. Henry. R. H. Gehman, W. F. Heffner, R. C. Reichenbach, E. W. Bean, D. E. Thomann, E. J. Rutman, W. B. Hottel, John Dunn, J. H. Riggall, Paul H. Miller, William T. Wild, John W. Boehmer, Clayton Brosius, A. W. Deppe, David H. Fahs, Edward Judd, Charles W. Weaber, S. A. Hackman, George R. Fish, Fred J. Wagner, Harry H. Hill, J. R. Weber.
Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, C. E. Kirkwood.
Committee on Statistics: E. N. Cassel, J. B. Layne, Paul E. Baer, C. E. Kirkwood, E. B. Hartman, A. M. Sprock, W. H. Frank, Willard E. Cassel, J. E. Golla, J. E. Hartman.
Committee on Examination of Presiding Elders, Local Preachers, Evangelists, Missionaries: G. F. Yost, N. H. Wolf, W. F. Heffner, R. H. Gehman.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
F. B. Hertzog, A. G. Woodring, J. E. Golla, Paul E. Baer, C. E. Kirkwood.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Ordination: J. B. Layne, C. L. Miller, W. H. Frank, W. W. Hartman, C. E. Kirkwood.
Committee on Resolutions: H. W. Hartman, A. G. Woodring, D. E. Thomann.
Committee on Auditing: F. M. Hottel, G. L. Baumgartner, Herbert V. Smith, John B. Harley, R. Spedden, H. H. Bergey, R. R. Fox, Daniel K. Ziegler, Paul T. Rutman, Luther N. Kern, E. J. Deitzman, Clayton E. Weber, Theodore L. Bleich.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: H. K. Kratz, E. E. Kublic.
Resolved, That we have an evening meeting and the minutes of the afternoon meeting shall be read at the Wednesday morning meeting.
The following recommendation was presented:
Having had prior endorsement of both the Home Mission Board and the Board of Directors, it is a pleasure to recommend A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, and James G. Koch as applicants for Annual Conference License.
C. E. Kirkwood,
Director of Home Missions.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules to the call of the Chair not later than 3:30 P. M.
Adjourned at 11:58 A. M. with prayer by F. M. Hottel.
SECOND MEETING
Tuesday Afternoon, October 17, 1950
The meeting was opened at 3:25 P. M. with singing, “Since Jesus Came Into My Heart.”
R. R. Fox led in prayer.
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 Laymen’s Benevolent Society: (See Reports)
J. R. Weber, delegate from Terre Hill, arrived and was seated in the Conference Bar.
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on the Examination of Local Conference Records:
We have examined the Local Conference Records and have found them in a good condition. There were a few minor errors found which were corrected by the Pastors concerned.
We recommend that the Committee on Publication and Printing have new summary sheets printed for the Local Conference Minutes with provision for the recording of Menno Youth, Child Evangelism, and Women’s Missionary Society’s finances.
George R. Fish, Clayton Brosius, David H. Fahs, W. B. Hottel, J. B. Henry, R. C. Reichenbach, S. A. Hackman, J. H. Riggall, A. W. Deppe, Charles W. Weaber, Paul H. Miller, Edward Judd, E. W. Bean, E. J. Rutman, William T. Wild, W. F. Heffner, Harry H. Hill, Fred J. Wagner, John W. Boehmer, F. B. Hertzog, R. H. Gehman, D. E. Thomann, John Dunn.
Committee.
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 to the best of our knowledge.
G. F. Yost, W. F. Heffner,
N. H. Wolf, R. H. Gehman.
Committee.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed at 4:45 P. M.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Menno Youth General Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits:
We have worked under the direction of the Presiding Elders and the Board of Directors.
F. B. Hertzog, G. F. Yost,
E. W. Bean, C. L. Miller,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on the Examination of Annual Conference Records:
We hereby certify that we have examined the Annual Conference Minutes for the session of 1949 and found them correct. We herewith submit two copies duly certified.
H. K. Kratz,
E. E. Kublic,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders:
We the Committee to Examine Traveling Elders have done so by interviewing their respective delegates. We have found them men that are highly esteemed and recommend that they be passed as satisfactory.
P. T. Stengele,
T. D. Gehret,
C. E. Kirkwood,
Committee.
Report of P. T. Stengele, Presiding Elder of the Allentown District: (See Reports)
Report of T. D. Gehret, Presiding Elder of the Bethlehem District: (See Reports)
Report of C. E. Kirkwood, Director of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Adjourned at 5:25 P. M. with prayer and benediction by E. W. Bean.
THIRD MEETING
Tuesday Evening, October 17, 1950
The meeting opened at 7:30 P. M., with singing “In the Sweet Bye and Bye.” H. K. Kratz led in prayer.
This service was planned according to the Conference program to be devoted to three-minute oral reports of all the Pastors, the Presiding Elders and the Director of Home Missions.
These reports gave abundant evidence of the leading and blessing of the Lord upon the work throughout the year. The Church was well filled for this service which spoke well for the various churches throughout the Conference in thus manifesting their interest in the progress of the Lord’s work.
The meeting adjourned at 9:40 P. M., with prayer and benediction by T. D. Gehret.
FOURTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 18, 1950
The meeting was opened with singing, “From All That Dwell Below the Skies,” and prayer by E. N. Cassel.
The Conference Secretary, Presiding Elder T. D. Gehret, read I Peter 5:1-7 and gave us a timely exposition on the theme, “Shepherding the Flock of God.”
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Herbert V. Smith arrived last night for the evening meeting and Paul T. Rutman for this morning’s meeting. They were seated in the Conference Bar.
J. Harold Sherk, who is officially connected with the Mennonite Central Committee, being present in Conference session, was recognized and invited to address the Conference body. After a brief word of greeting it was moved and passed that Brother Sherk be recognized as an advisory member and be seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That we determine “who are the preachers who are willing to minister this year according to the direction of the Conference and our Discipline, and what is their number!”
The following ministering brethren responded to the roll call “Yea”: P. T. Stengele, T. D. Gehret, F. B. Hertzog, N. H. Wolf, C. L. Miller, C. E. Kirkwood, J. E. Hartman, E. N. Cassel, J. B. Layne, W. H. Frank, H. W. Hartman, Paul E. Baer, A. G. Woodring, F. M. Hottel, W. F. Heffner, G. F. Yost, W. W. Hartman, J. E. Golla, R. H. Gehman, E. W. Bean, E. B. Hartman, H. K. Kratz, Willard E. Cassel, A. M. Sprock, R. C. Reichenbach, E. E. Kublic, J. H. Riggall, W. B. Hottel, D. E. Thomann, E. J. Rutman, H. B. Musselman. “Nay”: J. B. Henry.
Following the roll call Bro. H. K. Kratz read a paper in which he presented his resignation from the active ministry due to advancing age and physical limitations.
A paper was read by J. B. Henry in which he stated that he had accepted a position with the Africa Inland Mission to labor in the future with that Missionary Society.
Resolved, That a committee on credentials consisting of five, including the Presiding Elders, be appointed by the Chair.
The Chair appointed F. B. Hertzog, C. L. Miller and C. E. Kirkwood.
Whereas, Brother J. B. Henry has made request to be released from the active Pastorate of our church in order to follow the leading of the Lord in accepting this new position, therefore,
Resolved, That the request of J. B. Henry be honored and referred to the Committee on Credentials, as appointed.
Resolved, That two Presiding Elders be elected and that the informal ballot be used in nominating the candidates, the five highest be candidates and elected according to the Discipline.
The Chair appointed the following as tellers: F. B. Hertzog, Paul E. Baer, A. G. Woodring, C. E. Kirkwood and C. L. Miller.
The following were elected Presiding Elders for the ensuing year: T. D. Gehret and P. T. Stengele.
Resolved, That P. T. Stengele be Presiding Elder over the Allentown District and that T. D. Gehret be Presiding Elder over the Bethlehem District.
Resolved, That the two Presiding Elders and a Delegate from each Station and Circuit constitute the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Consideration was given to the recommendation found in the report of the Home Mission Board in reference to the advisability of having the President of the Berean Bible School also serve as Director of the Home Missionary Society.
Resolved, That this matter be tabled and that it become the first order of business in this afternoon’s meeting, after the Reports.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We have examined applicants A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, and James G. Koch, and found them to be godly, consecrated young men, showing evidences of the call of God to the work of the ministry, and therefore,
We recommend that they be granted Annual Conference License.
F. B. Hertzog,
A. G. Woodring,
J. E. Golla,
C. E. Kirkwood,
Paul E. Baer,
Committee.
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the Rules and adjourn.
Adjourned at 11:45 A. M. with prayer by G. F. Yost.
FIFTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 18, 1950
The meeting was opened with singing “I Know Whom I Have Believed,” and prayer by E. E. Kublic.
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 Directors: (See Reports)
Report of the Home: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Publication & Printing: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports)
The matter of giving consideration to the Home Mission Director was taken from the table.
J. E. Hartman was elected as Director of Home Missions.
Resolved, That the Director of the Home Missionary Society be a member of the Board of Home Missions by virtue of his office.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet in an evening meeting at 8:30 P. M.
Adjourned at 3:20 P. M. with prayer by J. E. Golla.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Evening, October 18, 1950
The meeting was opened at 8:30 o’clock with singing “Come Thou Blessed Saviour” and prayer by J. H. Riggall.
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 Credentials:
Whereas, J. B. Henry has felt led of the Lord to accept service under the Africa Inland Mission, therefore,
We recommend that he be placed in the Directory of Ministers as a Local Preacher and be subject to the Easton Local Conference.
P. T. Stengele, C. L. Miller,
T. D. Gehret, C. E. Kirkwood,
F. B. Hertzog,
Committee.
Report of Committee on Examination of Applicants for Ordination:
We have examined Probationer John Dunn and have found that he has satisfactorily met all the requirements of the Discipline and having had more than one year experience in the active pastorate, we therefore recommend that he be ordained during the Thursday evening service.
J. B. Layne,
C. L. Miller,
W. H. Frank,
Resolved, That the Director of Home Missions be recognized as a traveling elder.
Adjourned at 8:35 P. M. with prayer by E. J. Rutman.
SEVENTH MEETING
Thursday Morning, October 19, 1950
The meeting was opened with singing “Trust and Obey” and prayer by W. F. Heffner.
Presiding Elder Emeritus H. B. Musselman brought us an address of encouragement on “Confidence in God in Crisis Times,” Romans 4:21.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed at 11:50 A. M.
Report of the Treasurer: (See Reports)
Adjourned with prayer by Paul E. Baer.
EIGHTH MEETING
Thursday Afternoon, October 19, 1950
The meeting was opened with prayer by W. H. Frank.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed at 2:50 P. M.
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports)
W. A. Heffner and A. L. Seifert, having received appointments in the Conference, were invited into the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a committee of three to compile a report of the Conference for the Gospel Banner and the Year Book.
He appointed Paul E. Baer, H. W. Hartman, and W. H. Frank.
Report of the Committee on Statistics: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
1. Whereas, We the members of the 67th Annual Conference have again been privileged to listen to the inspiring reports of our Presiding Elders, P. T. Stengele and T. D. Gehret, and
Whereas, These reports revealed a Christ-like devotion to their calling which God was pleased to bless in an abundant measure throughout our entire constituency, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for them and give them our whole hearted support in every way as they continue to minister in His Name and for His glory.
2. Whereas, The good hand of the Lord has been upon all of the Pastors permitting them to be present at this Conference and submit glowing reports concerning many victories won for Christ, therefore,
Resolved, That we thank God for permitting us to have a little part in the greatest work in all the world, namely, winning souls for Christ, and preparing a people for His coming.
3. Whereas, Our hearts have been encouraged many times by the prayerful, self- sacrificing spirit of a great host of consecrated members and friends of our Churches, therefore,
Resolved, That we beseech the Lord to reward them for their faithfulness and that we endeavor to serve them with ever increasing devotion to the glory of God.
4. Whereas, The Lord has again spared for another year, the oldest member of our Conference, Presiding Elder Emeritus, H. B. Musselman, and permitted him to bring another inspiring address to this body, therefore,
Resolved, That we hereby appreciate his presence at this Conference and pray that these latter years of his life, may be the most joyous and productive of good to all with whom he has to do.
5. Whereas, H. K. Kratz expressed his desire to retire from active ministry as a Pastor due to various untoward conditions, chiefly physical, that have projected themselves into his life and work the past year, therefore,
Resolved, That we thank God for his many years of faithful and fruitful ministry and sincerely pray that the Lord will make his remaining years an anthem of blessing and enable him to continue that Christ-like disposition that has characterized his years of ministry in our Conference.
6. Whereas, Pastor J. B. Henry informed this body of a request received from the Africa Inland Mission to become associated with them in their home office, and
Whereas, he has decided to accept the invitation after much prayer and serious consideration, and
Whereas, he wishes to remain associated with us as a member of our Conference, therefore,
Resolved, That we grant his request, wishing him only God’s best in his new endeavor for Christ in behalf of the unevangelized of Africa and hereby assure him that we shall always cherish his fellowship in Christ.
7. Whereas, The Secretary of our Annual Conference, T. D. Gehret has continued to serve acceptably as Editor of our Year Book, therefore,
Resolved, That we express our appreciation of his excellent work by donating to him the sum of $50.00 from the Foreign Mission Board.
8. Whereas, The Secretary of our Foreign Missionary Board, J. B. Henry, has by much correspondence with our missionaries secured interesting data to make possible the very interesting report for the Year Book and Regions Beyond, therefore,
Resolved, That we give him $25.00 from the Foreign Mission Board as a token of our appreciation of his excellent services rendered.
9. Whereas, Paul I. Wentz has again most commendably served as Conference Treasurer, personally assuming all expenses incident thereto, therefore,
Resolved, That in grateful appreciation we give him the sum of $50.00 to be paid out of the Conference Fund.
10. Whereas, The Christian Life Series of Sunday School Literature, published by the Union Gospel Press, continues to be Doctrinally sound and enjoys international favor, therefore,
Resolved, That we pray God’s continued favor upon the Publishers, and further,
Resolved, That as a Conference we recognize Mrs. E. T. Gehman as the appointed agent to handle the Sunday School supplies and other publications.
11. Whereas, The congenial pastor, N. H. Wolf and members of the Bethlehem Congregation have so abundantly provided for the temporal entertainment of the Conference Members, having served all the meals in the Church basement, therefore,
Resolved, That we tender them a rising vote of thanks in the Thursday evening meeting with the prayer that God will reward them for their labour of love in Christ.
H. W. Hartman,
A. G. Woodring,
D. E. Thomann,
Committee.
Report of the Board of Education: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we have a few words of oral report to the Conference from the President of Berean Bible School, J. E. Hartman.
Resolved, That the Board of Education be permitted to raise funds for the Bible School in the following ways:
1. Proclamation of April 29, 1951, or within one month from this date, as Berean Bible School Day in the Sunday Schools and Churches at which time offerings shall be received in the Schools and Churches for the purpose of promoting the School. These contributions shall be sent to A. L. Wentz, Treasurer, 221 N. 5th St., Emmaus, Pa., promptly upon receipt of the same.
2. A special offering shall be received at the Annual Menno Youth Rallies held at each Camp Meeting.
Resolved, That the Board of Education furnish the constituency of the church with appropriate publicity material utilizing the mailing list furnished by the Pastors.
Adjourned with prayer and benediction by G. F. Yost.
NINTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 20, 1950
The meeting was opened with a devotional period of prayer and the responsive reading of John 15.
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 Communications:
We are pleased to report that we received communications from Rev. & Mrs. C. F. Snyder and Rev. H. W. Feldges, retired missionaries, who express their thankfulness for the favor of the Lord that has been upon them and for the kindness shown to them by our Conference. We thank God for their fellowship in the Gospel and joyful service for their Lord.
H. B. Musselman,
R. C. Reichenbach,
H. K. Kratz,
Committee.
The request of Pastor A. M. Sprock to be excused from the Conference at 3 o’clock in order to officiate at a funeral was granted.
The question relative to the incorporation of the Berean Bible School was considered and it was,
Resolved, That the Board of Education be authorized to proceed with the incorporation of the Berean Bible School.
Resolved, That we approve the action of the Annual Conference of 1949 in establishing the Berean Bible School and further, the Berean Bible School shall be under the direction of and governed by the Board of Education, consisting of thirteen members, and elected by this body. The two Presiding Elders elected shall be members of the Board by virtue of their office, as well as: C. E. Kirkwood, C. L. Miller, Daniel K. Ziegler, elected until 1952: J. E. Hartman, A. L. Wentz, H. A. Kauffman, elected until 1951. Five additional members shall be elected now as follows: 1 layman for 2 years, one pastor and three laymen for three years.
The following were elected as members of the Board of Education:
Members for Two Years: R. Paul Schaeffer.
Members for Three Years: Walter H. Frank, A. Franklin Campbell, Byron C. Cassel, George Baumgartner, Jr.
Resolved, That the duties of the Board of Education be adopted as follows:
1. They shall be responsible for the Doctrines and Practices of the School. They shall safeguard the Fundamental Doctrines of the Bible as set forth in the Discipline and shall enforce the regulations of the Annual Conference.
2. They shall be responsible for the provision of facilities for the school.
3. They shall be responsible for the execution of all legal transactions relating to the institution.
4. They shall be responsible for all funds received as provided by the Annual Conference.
5. They shall elect the President of the School and define his duties.
6. They shall approve all appointments of teachers, administration officers, and major employees upon the recommendation of the President and Faculty Committee.
7. They shall give a full report of all activities of the School to the Annual Conference each year. They shall also present a prospective budget for the coming year.
8. They shall divide the responsibilities by choosing committees from among their own members, and sub-committees from among non-members of the Board.
9. All members of the Board and Faculty shall sign a doctrinal statement on the fundamental beliefs of the Church annually.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 1 o’clock.
Adjourned at 12:05 P. M. with prayer by H. K. Kratz.
TENTH MEETING
Friday Afternoon, October 20, 1950
The meeting was opened with prayer by Paul H. Miller.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
ELECTIONS
Resolved, That we proceed to the election of Officers and Boards:
The following were elected:
Vice Presiding Elders: F. B. Hertzog and C. E. Kirkwood.
Resolved, That in case of a vacancy in the office of Presiding Elder the Board of Directors shall determine which of the Vice Presiding Elders shall fill the vacancy.
Resolved, That the remaining Officers and Boards be nominated orally and be elected by ballot.
Chairman of Next Annual Conference: P. T. Stengele.
Secretary of Next Annual Conference: T. D. Gehret.
Treasurer of Next Annual Conference: Paul I. Wentz.
Committee Over the Presiding Elders: Paul E. Baer, H. W. Hartman, W. H. Frank.
Board of Directors: T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, E. N. Cassel, C. E. Kirkwood, N. H. Wolf, J. B. Layne.
Board of Foreign Missions: P. T. Stengele, T. D. Gehret, C. L. Miller, N. H. Wolf, F. B. Hertzog, J. E. Golla, J. B. Henry.
Resolved, That the Home Mission Board consist of seven members including the Presiding Elders and the Director of Home Missions.
The following were elected: C. E. Kirkwood, C. L. Miller, W. H. Frank, F. B. Hertzog.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: President, H. G. Brunner; Secretary, C. E. Musselman; Treasurer, A. L. Wentz.
Board of Trustees of the Home: (for Two Years) Paul I. Wentz, Herbert E. Gehman, F. B. Hertzog, E. W. Bean, G. F. Yost, H. W. Hartman.
Board of Examiners: E. N. Cassel, Paul E. Baer, C. E. Kirkwood.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed at 4:30 P. M.
Menno Youth General Committee: J. E. Golla, W. A. Heffner, William Matz, Ernest Hertzog, Henry C. Waltke.
Resolved, That we print 1200 Year Books to be sold at thirty-five cents per copy. Checks shall be made payable to T. D. Gehret, Secretary. The deficit shall be paid out of the Conference Fund.
Resolved, That we ask the Board of Foreign Missions to authorize the Conference Secretary to print 750 copies of the Annual Report of the Board of Foreign Missions.
Resolved, That we ask each congregation to give 25 cents per member according to the membership reported at the 1950 Conference, toward the moving expenses of the Pastors. This amount shall be brought to Ministerial Convention. Checks shall be made payable to the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania. Money received from this source shall be placed in a fund known as a moving fund.
Resolved, That the Moving Fund Offering be listed as offering “D” in the General Rules, under VI-Special Offerings, I-To be Paid at the Ministerial Convention.
Resolved, That on pages 16 and 17 of the 1949 Year Book wherever the name Gospel Herald Society, or Gospel Herald, appears, it shall be changed to Home Missionary Society or Home Missionaries.
The Chair appointed the following Committees:
Board of Publication & Printing: N. H. Wolf, H. W. Hartman, C. L. Miller.
Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: F. B. Hertzog, E. W. Bean, G. F. Yost and C. L. Miller.
Resolved, That the Director of Home Missions shall under all circumstances function in cooperation with the Presiding Elders, and in all matters of importance act only by approval of the Board.
Resolved, That the Director of Home Missions be recognized as a traveling elder.
Resolved, That Women’s Missionary Societies that have been or shall be organized in our churches be recognized by and report to the local conferences.
Adjourned to meet this evening at 6:00 P. M. with prayer by Willard E. Cassel.
ELEVENTH MEETING
Friday Evening, October 20, 1950
The meeting was opened with prayer by E. W. Bean.
The roll was called.
The Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Ministerial Convention: (See Reports)
Report of the Sunday School Convention (Allentown District): (See Reports)
Report of the Sunday School Convention (Bethlehem District): (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Auditing:
We, the Auditing Committee, have examined the accounts of the following: Presiding Elders, Board of Directors, Home Missionary Report, Benevolent Society, Board of Publication and Printing, Local Conference Records, The Home, Home Mission Board, Foreign Mission Board, Sunday School Conventions, Camp Meeting Accounts, General Camp Meeting Committee, Conference Treasurer, Finance Committee, Statistical Report, Menno Youth Treasurer’s Report, Ministers’ Retirement Fund. These accounts were presented in a creditable and business-like manner. The several errors discovered were corrected to the satisfaction of those concerned.
F. M. Hottel, G. L. Baumgartner, Herbert V. Smith, John B. Harley, R. Spedden, H. H. Bergey, R. R. Fox, Daniel K. Ziegler, Paul T. Rutman, Luther N. Kern, E. J. Dietzman, Clayton E. Weber, Theodore E. Bleich,
Committee.
Report of the Beneficiary Society:
The Society met, transacted routine business and elected the following officers: President, F. B. Hertzog; Secretary, F. M. Hottel; Treasurer, A. G. Woodring.
The various boards reported their organization as follows:
Board of Trustees of the Home: T. D. Gehret, President; F. B. Hertzog, Secretary; E. N. Cassel, Assistant Secretary; Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer.
Board of Foreign Missions: T. D. Gehret, President; J. E. Golla, Secretary.
Board of Home Missions: P. T. Stengele, President, C. E. Kirkwood, Secretary.
Board of Publication and Printing: N. H. Wolf, President; H. W. Hartman, Secretary.
Board of Examiners: E. N. Cassel, President; Paul E. Baer, Secretary.
Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: F. B. Hertzog, Chairman; E. W. Bean, Secretary.
Board of Directors: P. T. Stengele, President; T. D. Gehret, Vice-President; F. B. Hertzog, Secretary; E. N. Cassel, Assistant Secretary; Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer.
Resolved, That we have a Ministerial Convention to be held at Royersford, Pa., on Thursday, April 19, 1951.
The following officers were elected: Chairman, C. L. Miller; Secretary, W. A. Heffner. Committee on Program: P. T. Stengele, T. D. Gehret, Paul E. Baer, C. L. Miller.
Resolved, That $50.00 be donated from the Annual Conference Fund to the Royersford Congregation.
Resolved, That we establish a time limit of nine years duration for our Pastors and Presiding Elders and that the plan be retroactive.
Resolved, That no Elder having served in the office of Presiding Elder for nine successive years shall be eligible for re-election for a period of three years.
Resolved, That the Retirement Age of Pastors be established at 72 years, effective at the Annual Conference in the year 1951.
Resolved, That the matter of the continuance of Brother J. B. Henry in the Minister’s Retirement Fund be referred to the Board of Directors for their decision.
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene in the Bethel Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 528 N. 8th Street, Allentown, Pa., on Tuesday, October 9, 1951 at 10:00 A. M.
Resolved, That the following form a Committee on Program for the next Annual Conference: C. L. Miller, Paul E. Baer, C. E. Kirkwood.
Resolved, That the price of tents shall be $6.00 each per Camp Meeting, and the tent rents be paid to the Pastors before the Camp Meeting. The Pastors shall pay the tent rents to the officers of the respective Committees not later than Tuesday of the Camp Meeting together with a list of the names and number of tents.
Resolved, That we have a literature stand at our Camp Meetings.
Resolved, That all tent orders be sent to H. W. Hartman not later than June 1st for the First Division, June 15 for the Second and Third Division Camp Meetings using the order blanks to be provided, and further,
Resolved, That the forms be filled out properly and signed by the person placing the order.
Resolved, That we have two Sunday School Conventions, one on each District.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint Chairmen to organize for the Sunday School Conventions. He appointed Paul E. Baer and N. H. Wolf.
Resolved, That Workers in our Home Missionary Society who are full members shall be recognized as having the status of Local Conference Licensed Workers and shall be listed in the Directory of Ministers.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
Report of the Committee to Organize the Allentown District Sunday School Convention:
The Allentown District Sunday School Convention shall be held at Mizpah Grove, July 4, 1951.
The Officers of the Convention: Chairman, F. M. Hottel; Secretary, J. B. Layne; Treasurer, A. G. Woodring.
Committee on Program: Paul E. Baer, P. T. Stengele, C. L. Miller, F. M. Hottel, Willard E. Cassel.
We invite the Director and the Sunday Schools of the Home Missionary Society to be present.
An offering from each Sunday School on the District shall be brought to the Convention.
We invite the Presiding Elder and Pastors of the Bethlehem District to attend the Convention.
Paul E. Baer, Chairman, E. W. Bean, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention:
The Convention shall be held at Newark, N. J., on May 30, 1951.
The following Officers were elected: Chairman, J. E. Golla; Secretary, W. W. Hartman; Treasurer, E. B. Hartman.
Committee on Program: T. D. Gehret, F. B. Hertzog, W. W. Hartman, A. M. Sprock, J. E. Golla.
Each Superintendent shall receive a liberal offering to defray the expenses of the Convention.
A hearty invitation is extended to the Allentown District to attend the convention.
We invite the Director and the Sunday Schools of the Home Missionary Society to be participating members of the Convention.
N. H. Wolf, Chairman,
J. E. Golla, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the First Division Camp Meeting:
This Division comprises Allentown (Bethel), Reading, York. Sunbury, Shamokin, Mount Carmel, Hatfield, Harrisburg, and Lebanon.
Place — Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. Date — June 30-July 8, 1951.
Officers: Chairman, C. L. Miller; Secretary, A. G. Woodring; Treasurer, F. M. Hottel.
The Presiding Elder shall invite the Preachers and shall secure the extra help if he and the Committee deem it advisable. An invitation is extended to the Director of Home Missions to arrange for a representation to be present at the Camp Meeting.
P. T. Stengele, Chairman,
A. G. Woodring, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Second Division Camp Meeting:
This Division comprises Philadelphia (Salem), Spring City, Royersford, Fleetwood, Blandon, Terre Hill, Philadelphia (Wissinoming), Lehighton, Walnutport, Quakertown, Northampton, Nazareth, Graterford, Harleysville and Stroudsburg.
Place — Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. Date — July 14-22, 1951.
Officers: Chairman, W. H. Frank; Secretary, Paul E. Baer; Treasurer, C. E. Kirkwood.
The Presiding Elder shall invite the Preachers and shall secure the extra help if they and the committee deem it advisable. An invitation is extended to the Director of Home Missions to arrange for a representation to be present at the camp meeting.
T. D. Gehret, Chairman,
W. B. Hottel, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Third Division Camp Meeting:
This Division comprises Bethlehem, Emmaus, Macungie, Zionsville, Easton, Allentown (Salem), Coopersburg, Scranton, Chester, West Philadelphia, Jersey City, Newark, N. J., and Staten Island, N. Y.
Place — Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. Date — July 28th to August 5th, 1951.
Officers: Chairman, N. H. Wolf; Secretary, H. W. Hartman; Treasurer, J. E. Golla.
The Presiding Elder shall invite the preachers and shall secure the extra help if he and the committee deem it advisable.
An invitation is extended to the Director of Home Missions to arrange for a representation to be present at the Camp Meeting.
T. D. Gehret, Chairman,
H. W. Hartman, Secretary.
Resolved, That at the last session of each local conference the members present vote by ballot as to whether they desire a change or not of their Pastor. The ballots shall be tabulated by the Presiding Elder and the delegate to the Annual Conference before the session adjourns, and the ballots shall be held by the Presiding Elder. The results of this vote shall be kept in confidence by the Presiding Elder and the Delegate.
Resolved, That each traveling elder shall be given an opportunity either before or during the Annual Conference of expressing freely to his Presiding Elder his personal desires concerning his location.
Resolved, That the two Presiding Elders shall share the responsibilities of the second camp meeting.
Resolved, That all contributions received for the Laymen’s Benevolent Society shall be paid by check or money order, made payable to A. L. Wentz, Treasurer, and forwarded to C. E. Musselman, Secretary, 1131 North Eighteenth Street, Allentown, Pa.
Resolved, That the Board of Directors be empowered to complete the revision of the General Rules of the Corporation and present them for approval to the next annual conference.
Resolved, That a Committee of three be appointed by the Chair to deal with military problems.
The Chair appointed T. D. Gehret, C. E. Kirkwood, P. T. Stengele.
Resolved, That Fifty Dollars ($50.00) be donated to the Mennonite Central Committee out of the Civilian Public Service Fund.
Resolved, That with the approval of the Presiding Elders, the local congregations be granted permission to observe the practice of the Washing of the Saints’ Feet at a quarterly class meeting rather than at the local conference.
Adjourned at 9:35 P. M. with the singing of “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” prayer by T. D. Gehret and benediction by E. N. Cassel.
Signed:
P. T. Stengele, Presiding Elder, Chairman,
T. D. Gehret, Presiding Elder, Secretary,
Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer,
C. E. Kirkwood, Director of Home Missions,
F. B. Hertzog, Vice Presiding Elder,
A. G. Woodring, Vice Presiding Elder,
N. H. Wolf, Assistant Secretary,
W. H. Frank, Recording Secretary,
Paul E. Baer, Recording Secretary,
H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder Emeritus,
Willard E. Cassel, F. M. Hottel, George R. Fish, J. E. Golla, E. E. Kublic, John Dunn, Clayton Brosius, J. H. Riggall, R. Spedden, Charles W. Weaber, Paul H. Miller, G. L. Baumgartner, Bertram L. Ringler, John W. Boehmer, Harry H. Hill, S. A. Hackman, David H. Fahs, R. R. Fox, H. W. Hartman, J. B. Layne, W. B. Hottel, E. W. Bean, J. E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, Clayton E. Weber, Herbert V. Smith, A. M. Sprock, C. L. Miller, D. E. Thomann, Theodore L. Bleich, E. J. Rutman, Fred J. Wagner, W. F. Heffner, G. F. Yost, R. C. Reichenbach, P. Ward Musselman, John B. Harley, H. H. Bergey, E. B. Hartman, J. R. Weber, H. K. Kratz, Daniel K. Ziegler, J. B. Henry, William T. Wild, A. W. Deppe, Luther N. Kern, W. A. Heffner, Edward Judd, E. O. Mann, E. J. Deitzman, Paul T. Rutman, R. H. Gehman, A. L. Seifert, E. N. Cassel.