SIXTY-NINTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1952
The Sixty-Ninth Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, Pennsylvania, met in the Ebenezer Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 1121-1125 N. Main Street, Bethlehem, Pa., on Tuesday, October 14th, at 10:00 A. M. Conference was opened with the singing of the hymn, “My Jesus I Love Thee.” This was followed by a season of prayer and waiting upon God for Divine direction and blessing upon the Conference. The Chairman, P. T. Stengele, brought a message applicable for the Church in these times and based his remarks on Luke 6:46 and Matthew 5:41.
The observance of the Lord’s Supper and the Practice of the washing of the saints’ feet was a time of blessed fellowship together in the Lord.
The Secretary, T. D. Gehret, appointed the following assistants: Assistant Secretary, N. H. Wolf; Recording Secretaries, Paul E. Baer and Herbert W. Hartman.
The following were enrolled as members of the Conference:
Ministers
Ordained – Paul E. Baer, E. W. Bean, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, R. H. Gehman, T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman, Herbert W. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, W. F. Heffner, W. A. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, F. M. Hottel, W. B. Hottel, J. B. Layne, C. Leslie Miller, C. E. Kirkwood, J. H. Riggall, E. J. Rutman, R. C. Reichenbach, P. T. Stengele, Arthur M. Sprock, D. E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, A. G. Woodring, H. B. Musselman, E. N. Cassel, G. F. Yost, H. K. Kratz, J. B. Henry, E. E. Kublic, E. T. Shick.
Probationers-A. L. Seifert, H. D. Yarrington, Robert W. Smock, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch.
The following Missionaries are members of the Pennsylvania Conference and are being supported by us: C. F. Snyder, Mrs. Phoebe Snyder, H. W. Feldges, Mrs. Grace Whale, Luella Reinhart, Mary A. Miller, Olive Rawn, Mrs. Marcella Rampy, Robert Gordon, Mrs. Francis Gordon, Herbert Dyke, Mrs. Betty Dyke, Merle E. Baer, Mrs. Marjorie H. Baer, Betty Doverspike, Paul Chaponniere, Laird Stengele, Mary Ann Stengele.
Delegates
Allentown District
P. Ward Musselman, Allentown (Bethel)
Bertram Ringler, Reading
Allan F. Smith, Sunbury
George A. John, Shamokin
David H. Fahs, York
S. A. Hackman, Graterford & Harleysville
Roy E. Williams, Mount Carmel
R. S. Weidner, Royersford & Spring City
A. W. Deppe, Nazareth & Northampton
Luther N. Kern, Lehighton & Walnutport
Daniel K. Ziegler, Hatfield
David Gardner, Harrisburg
Charles W. Weaber, Lebanon
George R. Fish, Stroudsburg
Bethlehem District
James R. Cressman, Bethlehem
Paul I. Wentz, Emmaus, Macungie & Zionsville
John B. Harley, Philadelphia
H. H. Bergey, Quakertown
Herbert V. Smith, Easton
H. L. Shelly, Coopersburg, and Allentown (Salem)
Clayton E. Weber, Fleetwood & Blandon
R. Spedden, Chester
Franklin Mead, Scranton
Thomas W. Campbell, Sr., Wissinoming,
E. B. Wright, Jersey City, N. J.
J. R. Weber, Terre Hill
E. J. Dietzman, West Philadelphia
Roger Bowne, Staten Island, N. Y.
John Hendricks, Newark, N. J.
Several delegates were unable to be present at the opening of the Conference but forwarded their excuses for their absence.
Resolved, That we accept the excuses of the delegates who are absent and that upon their arrival they state the reason for their absence and be admitted to the bar.
Resolved, That the first seven pews in 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 during the Conference: Donald T. Kirkwood, Norman R. Weiss, Donald B. Schaeffer, James G. Koch, Earl M. Hosler, Herbert E. Meyers, Richard H. Kline, William L. Wilkinson, Lester L. Dingee.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Reporter and a Timekeeper. He appointed Herbert W. Hartman as Reporter and J. H. Riggall 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 James R. Cressman.
Pastor Herbert W. Hartman and his delegate H. L. Shelly were granted permission to be excused from the afternoon meeting in order to attend a funeral of one of the members of the Coopersburg congregation.
Report of the Committee to arrange a program for the services of Annual Conference.
Tuesday, October 14, 1952 — 10:00 A. M. Address by Chairman P. T. Stengele, followed by the practice of washing of the saints’ feet and the ordinance of Communion for members of the Annual Conference and Home Missionaries.
Tuesday, 7:30 P. M. Meeting of the Annual Conference. Oral reports of the District Superintendents, the Director of Home Missions and President of the Berean Bible School, and Pastors. (Limited to 3 minutes.)
Thursday, October 16, 1952 — 7:30 P. M. Address by District Superintendent P. T. Stengele. Service in charge of District Superintendent T. D. Gehret.
N. H. Wolf,
F. B. Hertzog,
C. Leslie Miller,
Committee.
Resolved, That we have an evening meeting and the minutes of the afternoon meeting shall be read at the Wednesday morning meeting.
Resolved, That the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders consist of the District Superintendents and one member to be appointed by the Chair.
Committees
Committee on Worship: (Appointed at the last Annual Conference): N. H. Wolf, F. B. Hertzog, C. Leslie Miller.
Committee on Communications: H. K. Kratz, G. F. Yost, E. N. Cassel.
Committee on Finance: Paul I. Wentz, P. Ward Musselman, James R. Cressman, Bertram Ringler.
Committee on Examination of Local Conference Records: F. B. Hertzog, W. F. Heffner, J. B. Henry, R. H. Gehman, R. C. Reichenbach, E. W. Bean, D. E. Thomann, E. J. Rutman, W. B. Hottel, John Dunn, J. H. Riggall, W. A. Heffner, A. L. Seifert, George A. John, Roy E. Williams, Allan F. Smith, A. W. Deppe, David H. Fahs, Charles W. Weaber, S. A. Hackman, George R. Fish, John Hendricks, Franklin Mead, J. R. Weber, Roger Bowne, Thomas W. Campbell, Sr., Robert W. Smock, H. D. Yarrington.
Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, C. E. Kirkwood.
Committee on Statistics: J. B. Layne, C. E. Kirkwood, Ernest B. Hartman, Arthur A. Sprock, Willard E. Cassel, J. E. Golla, Jansen E. Hartman.
Committee on Examination of District Superintendents, Local Preachers, Evangelists, Missionaries: W. F. Heffner. N. H. Wolf, R. H. Gehman, E. W. Bean, H. K. Kratz.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
F. B. Hertzog, A. G. Woodring, C. E. Kirkwood, N. H. Wolf, W. W. Hartman.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Ordination: J. B. Layne, C. Leslie Miller, Walter H. Frank, W. W. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman.
Committee on Resolutions: Herbert W. Hartman, R. C. Reichenbach, J. H. Riggall.
Committee on Auditing: F. M. Hottel, H. L. Shelly, Herbert V. Smith, John B. Harley, R. S. Weidner, Daniel K. Ziegler, Luther N. Kern, R. Spedden, H. H. Bergey, E. J. Dietzman, Clayton E. Weber, E. B. Wright, David Gardner.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: R. H. Gehman, E. E. Kublic.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules to the call of the chair no later than 4:00 P. M.
Business was suspended at 11:50 A. M.
SECOND MEETING
Tuesday Afternoon, October 14, 1952
The meeting was opened at 4:00 P. M. with singing.
The roll was called.
The following delegates arrived and were admitted to the Conference Bar: David Gardner, A. W. Deppe and J. R. Weber.
The minutes were read and approved.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle
Outfits:
We have worked under the direction of the District Superintendents and the Board of Directors.
F. B. Hertzog,
E. W. Bean,
J. H. Riggall,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Communications:
We have received a communication from H. B. Musselman, Presiding Elder Emeritus, and recommend that it be read before the Conference.
We have also received a communication from Calvin F. Snyder and Phoebe Snyder, retired Missionaries to Tibet, China. They state that they are well physically and encouraged spiritually. We recommend that these communications be referred to the Committee on Resolutions.
H. K. Kratz,
G. F. Yost,
E. N. Cassel,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on the Examination of District Superintendents, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries:
We beg leave to report that we have examined the District Superintendents, Local Preachers and Missionaries and found them all satisfactory, to the best of our knowledge.
W. F. Heffner, R. H. Gehman,
E. W. Bean, H. K. Kratz.
N. H. Wolf,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records:
We hereby certify that we have examined the Annual Conference Minutes for the session of 1951 and found them correct, with the following exception. On page 24 the time of opening of the Second Meeting should read 3:50 P. M., instead of 5:30 P. M.
We herewith submit two copies corrected and duly certified.
R. H. Gehman,
E. E. Kublic,
Committee
Report of Jansen E. Hartman, Director of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Report of P. T. Stengele, District Superintendent of the Allentown District: (See Reports)
Report of T. D. Gehret, District Superintendent of the Bethlehem District: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and extend the time.
Report of the Board of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Education: (See Reports)
Resolved: That we receive the recommendation of the Board of Home Missions that Lancaster be made a Conference appointment and that this matter be referred to the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 5:15 P. M., with prayer by A. G. Woodring.
THIRD MEETING
Tuesday Evening, October 14, 1952
The meeting was opened at 7:30 P. M. with the congregation joining in singing, “All Hail the Power of Jesus Name.” E. E. Kublic led in prayer.
The church was well filled on this occasion with members and friends from the various churches of the Conference.
All the Pastors in the active work, the District Superintendents, the Director of the Home Missionary Society and the President of the Berean Bible School gave three minute oral reports
These brief yet spicy reports reflected the forward march of the church and the manifest blessing of God. The gains made along various lines of endeavor throughout the Conference have been realized because of the faithful servants of God, the loyal support of the entire constituency, and above all the smile and favor of God Who ever leads us on in triumph.
Adjourned at 9:45 P. M. with prayer by Herbert W. Hartman.
FOURTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 15, 1952
The meeting was opened with singing, “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah,” and prayer by John B. Harley.
The Secretary, T. D. Gehret, read Acts 6:1-7, followed by an exposition on, “Qualifications for Effectual Ministry.”
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Delegates George A. John, Allan F. Smith and Roy E. Williams, having arrived, were seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the Call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: (See Reports)
Report of the Beard of Publication and Printing: (See Reports)
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on the Examination of Local Conference Records:
We have examined all the Local Conference Records and have found them in excellent condition. A few minor errors were found which were corrected by the Pastors concerned.
Two petitions were found, one in the Minute Book of the Royersford, Spring City Circuit as follows:
Resolved: That the Spring City Class petition Annual Conference for permission to grant a limited time of service for our Class Leaders of not more than three consecutive years.
The other petition found in the Minute Book of the Allentown Bethel Local Conference as follows:
Resolved: That the Bethel Local Conference make the following petitions to the Annual Conference:
1. Allentown Bethel Church petitions the Annual Conference to grant us the permission to adopt the following procedure for Local elections:
a. The tenure of office for any officers of the Church and Sunday School shall not be more than five years.
b. A Nominating Committee shall be appointed to make all nominations for Church and Sunday School officers. Such Committee shall consist of one member each of the Board of Trustees, the Sunday School Officers, the Class leaders, the Stewards and, the Building Fund Collectors. Three members shall be elected to this Committee by the third Annual session of the Local Conference. The Pastor shall be Chairman of the Committee.
c. Unless nomination is declined, those whose terms have not expired may be included in the list of nominees. In case of one office, at least two nominees shall be submitted; and in case of five similar offices, at least seven nominations shall be submitted. Any officer whose term has expired shall not be eligible for the same office until the expiration of one year.
d. The Sunday School officers shall be elected at the same time when the other Church officers are elected prior to the last Annual session of the Local Conference.
2. We petition the Annual Conference to appoint a Committee to study and to report at the next Annual Conference on the advisability of changing the name of our Church and revising our Church and Conference government.
3. We petition the Annual Conference to consider the advisability of the appointment by the Conference of an Agenda Committee, such Committee to receive all Local Conference petitions, and provide every congregation with a copy prior to the last Sunday before Annual Conference.
4. We petition the Annual Conference to define the relationship of the Home Board to our Annual Conference, and to clarify the qualifications and conditions necessary for admission to the Home.
F. B. Hertzog, E. J. Rutman, H. D. Yarrington,
W. F. Heffner, J. H. Riggall, A. W. Deppe,
J. B. Henry, W. A. Heffner, S. A. Hackman,
R. H. Gehman, Charles W. Weaber, George R. Fish,
R. C. Reichenbach, Franklin Mead, John A. Hendricks,
E. W. Bean, Robert W. Smock, D. E. Thomann,
W. B. Hottel, Roger S. Bowne, John Dunn,
A. L. Seifert, Thomas W. Campbell, Sr.,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on the Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We have received no applicants for Annual Conference License.
F. B. Hertzog, W. W. Hartman,
A. G. Woodring, N. H. Wolf,
C. E. Kirkwood,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders:
We have examined the traveling elders through their respective delegates. It is with praise to God we inform the Conference that all of our Pastors are devout servants of the Lord, given to prayers and ministry of the Word. Having found them all satisfactory, we recommend they be passed.
T. D. Gehret,
C. E. Kirkwood,
P. T. Stengele,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Ordination:
We have examined H. D. Yarrington and have found that he has satisfactorily met all the requirements of the Discipline and having served one year in the active pastorate, we therefore recommend that he be ordained in the Thursday evening service of this Annual Conference.
J. B. Layne,
C. Leslie Miller,
Walter H. Frank,
W. W. Hartman,
Jansen E. Hartman,
Committee.
Resolved, That we suspend the Rules and adjourn.
Adjourned at 11:55 A. M. with prayer by E. W. Bean.
FIFTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 15, 1952
The meeting was opened with singing, “Come Thou Blessed Saviour” and prayer by E. N. Cassel.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Delegate David H. Fahs, having arrived, was seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That we determine who are the preachers 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 “yea” to the roll call, Paul E. Baer, E. W. Bean, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, R. H. Gehman, T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman, Herbert W. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, W. F. Heffner, W. A. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, F. M. Hottel, W. B. Hottel, J. B. Layne, C. Leslie Miller, C. E. Kirkwood, J. H. Riggall, E. J. Rutman, R. C. Reichenbach, P. T. Stengele, Arthur M. Sprock, D. E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, A. G. Woodring, A. L. Seifert, H. D. Yarrington, Robert W. Smock.
Resolved, That two District Superintendents be elected and that the informal ballot be used in nominating the candidates, the five highest to be candidates and elected according to the Discipline.
The Chair appointed the following as tellers: F. B. Hertzog, Herbert W. Hartman, A. G. Woodring, C. Leslie Miller.
The following were elected District Superintendents for the ensuing year:
T. D. Gehret and P. T. Stengele.
Resolved, That P. T. Stengele be District Superintendent over the Allentown District and T. D. Gehret be District Superintendent over the Bethlehem District.
Resolved, That the delegates of all stations and circuits and the delegates of those missions which have received at least $2,000.00 Steward offerings during the past year; and have through a Local Conference petition to the Annual Conference, expressed their desire to receive no further Home Mission appropriations, shall, with the District Superintendents, constitute the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That this motion be a standing rule to replace the rule on Page 8 under the members of the Annual Conference and beginning with line 15 regarding members of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That Harrisburg shall be recognized as a station and be given a voice on the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That we elect a Home Mission Director.
Jansen E. Hartman was elected Director of the Home Missionary Society.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Home: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Directors: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the Rules and adjourn to meet this evening at 7:00 P. M. and adjourn no later than 9:00 P. M.
Adjourned with prayer by J. B. Henry at 4:00 P. M.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Evening, October 15, 1952
The meeting opened with singing, “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” and prayer by F. M. Hottel.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Menno Youth General Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Conference Treasurer: (See Reports)
Resolved, That a dollar registration fee per tent accompany each order, not refundable, and to be turned over by the registrar to each respective Camp Meeting Committee.
Adjourned at 9:00 o’clock with prayer by G. F. Yost.
SEVENTH MEETING
Thursday Morning, October 16, 1952
The meeting was opened with singing, “There Is a Name I Love to Hear.”
N. H. Wolf read I Timothy Chapter 6 as a Scripture meditation. This was followed by a season of prayer.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
J. B. Henry gave a brief word of greeting to the Conference.
The request of Brother Henry that he be excused from further attendance at the meetings of this Conference was granted.
Adjourned with prayer at 9:30 A. M., by H. K. Kratz.
EIGHTH MEETING
Thursday Afternoon, October 16, 1952
The meeting was opened with singing, “Sweeter as the Years Go By” and prayer by R. Spedden.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and recess.
Business was resumed.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and adopted.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports)
Donald T. Kirkwood and James G. Koch, having received Conference Appointments, were invited into the Conference Bar.
Report of the Committee on Statistics: (See Reports)
Jansen E. Hartman, President of Berean Bible School, gave an oral report of the school.
Resolved, That funds be raised for the Berean Bible School in the following ways:
1. Proclamation of a day in March or April 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., no later than May 1st.
2. A special offering shall be received at the Annual Menno Youth Rallies held at each Camp Meeting.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a committee of two to compile a report of the Conference for the Gospel Banner and the Year Book.
He appointed Paul E. Baer and Herbert W. Hartman.
Resolved, That we proceed to the election of Officers and Boards.
F. B. Hertzog and C. E. Kirkwood were elected Vice District Superintendents.
Resolved, That in case of a vacancy in the office of District Superintendent, the Board of Directors shall determine which of the Vice District Superintendents shall fill the vacancy.
Resolved, That the remaining officers and Boards shall 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 District Superintendents: Paul E. Baer, Herbert W. Hartman, J. E. Golla.
Board of Directors: T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, Jansen E. Hartman, C. Leslie Miller, N. H. Wolf.
Resolved, That the Board of Foreign Missions comprise five ministers and two laymen.
Resolved, That we extend the time indefinitely.
Board of Foreign Missions: T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, J. E. Golla, F. B. Hertzog, C. Leslie Miller, James R. Cressman, Daniel K. Ziegler.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 5:10 P. M., with prayer by E. W. Bean.
NINTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 17, 1952
The meeting was opened with singing, “Come, Thou Blessed Saviour” and prayer by E. E. Kublic.
H. B. Musselman, District Superintendent Emeritus, gave us a Bible message on “The Living God and the Living Word,” and led in prayer.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions be elected by ballot from among the members of the Board of Foreign Missions.
Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions: J. E. Golla.
Resolved, That the Board of Foreign Missions be increased to nine members and that the two additional members be ministers.
The following were elected: Paul E. Baer and Herbert W. Hartman.
Resolved, That the Home Mission Board consist of nine members including the District Superintendents and the Director of Home Missions.
The following were elected: W. W. Hartman, F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, N. H. Wolf, W. B. Hottel, E. W. Bean.
Board of Education: (For three years) W. B. Hottel, J. E. Golla, Francis Gehman, Daniel K. Zeigler.
(For one year) W. A. Heffner.
Board of Trustees of the Home: (For two years) F. B. Hertzog, Herbert W. Hartman, G. F. Yost, E. W. Bean, Paul I. Wentz, H. L. Shelly.
Board of Examiners: C. E. Kirkwood, R. H. Gehman, Paul E. Baer.
Resolved, That two Laymen and one Pastor from each District be elected to the General Menno Youth Committee.
General Menno Youth Committee: D. E. Thomann, W. A. Heffner, Norman Reed, William W. Matz, Phil Nuss, Daniel G. Zeigler.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: President, Arthur W. Deppe; Secretary, Allen S. Weiss; Treasurer, A. L. Wentz.
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 Allen S. Weiss, Secretary, 731 Liberty Street, Allentown, Pa.
The Chair appointed the following Committees:
Board of Publication and Printing: N. H. Wolf, Herbert W. Hartman, C. Leslie Miller.
Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: F. B. Hertzog, E. W. Bean, J. H. Riggall.
Resolved, That the Cafeteria at the Camp Meeting be under the management of the Board of Directors.
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.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Ministerial Convention: (See Reports)
Report of the Sunday School Convention (Allentown District): (See Reports)
Report of the Sunday School Convention (Bethlehem District): See Reports)
Resolved, That a Committee comprising the two District Superintendents, the Chairmen of the three Camp Meeting Committees, the Cafeteria Manager and the Registrar be asked to study the problem of re-arranging the churches on the three divisions of Camp Meetings.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned at 11:58 A. M., with prayer and benediction by J. B. Layne.
TENTH MEETING
Friday Afternoon, October 17, 1952
The meeting was opened with singing, “Draw Me Nearer,” and prayer by George R. Fish.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we recognize Brother J. Harold Sherk as an advisory member of the Conference and ask him to be seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That we excuse David Gardner from further attendance at meetings of this Conference.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Auditing:
We, the following Committee, have examined the accounts of the following: District Superintendents’ Reports, Board of Directors, Home Missionary Report, Director of Home Missions, Benevolent Society (Both Secretary and Treasurer), Board of Publication and Printing, Local Conference Records, The Home, Home Missions, Foreign Missions, Sunday School Conventions, Camp Meeting Accounts (1st, 2nd and 3rd Divisions), General Camp Meeting Committee, Conference Treasurer, Finance Committee, Statistical Report, Ministers’ Retirement Fund, Laymen’s Benevolent Society, Menno Youth Society. These accounts were presented in a creditable and business-like manner. The several errors found, were corrected to the satisfaction of those concerned.
F. M. Hottel, Herbert V. Smith, David Gardner,
H. L. Shelly, Daniel K. Zeigler, Clayton E. Weber,
E. B. Wright, Luther N. Kern, Edward J. Dietzman,
R. S. Weidner, R. Spedden,
H. H. Bergey, John B. Harley,
Committee.
Report of the Committee to Rearrange the Churches on the Camp Meeting Divisions:
First Division
This Division comprises: Allentown (Bethel), Reading, Sunbury, Shamokin, Mount Carmel, Hatfield, Harrisburg, Lebanon, Graterford, Harleysville, Lancaster.
Second Division
This Division comprises: Philadelphia (Salem), York, Spring City, Royersford, Fleetwood, Blandon, Terre Hill, Philadelphia (Wissinoming), Walnutport, Lehighton, Quakertown, Northampton, Nazareth, Stroudsburg and the Home Missionary Society.
Third Division
This Division comprises: Bethlehem, Emmaus, Macungie, Zionsville, Easton, Allentown (Salem), Coopersburg, Scranton, Chester, West Philadelphia, Newark, N. J., Jersey City, N. J., and Staten Island, N. Y.
P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog,
T. D. Gehret, Herbert W. Hartman,
C. Leslie Miller,C. E. Kirkwood,
N. H. Wolf,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions
1. Whereas, We who are convened as members of the Sixty-Ninth Annual Conference have been favored of God to listen to the inspiring reports of our District Superintendent, P. T. Stengele and T. D. Gehret, and
Whereas, These reports vividly portray godly leadership which is so vitally needed today in our efforts for Christ, therefore,
Resolved: That we give to our God our praise and thanksgiving and pledge to them our wholehearted support for the coming year.
2. Whereas, Our Home Mission Director, Jansen E. Hartman, has submitted to this Conference an excellent oral and statistical report of the favor of the Lord and the manifestation of the Holy Spirit upon the labors of the various brethren in our home missions, and
Whereas, The said Jansen E. Hartman has been divinely strengthened and used of God in the administration of the Berean Bible School, therefore,
Resolved: That we thank God for His bountiful blessings and give to our brother our prayerful and financial support.
3. Whereas, God has been gracious in sustaining and keeping all of our Pastors, and
Whereas, The Spirit of God has enabled them to report many evidences of blessing upon their work, therefore,
Resolved: That we praise God for these abundant mercies and accord them our continued support in every way for the honor and praise of God.
4. Whereas, Our hearts have been moved and stirred by the devotion and Christian love of the members and friends of our churches, therefore,
Resolved: That we hereby thank God for everyone of them and joyfully unite with them in God’s great work of calling out a people for His Name.
5. Whereas, H. B. Musselman, has expressed to this body His concern and prayerful interest in the Conference, and
Whereas, His physical strength has permitted him to be present with us, for only one day and address the Conference, therefore,
Resolved: That we appreciate his ministry of intercession in behalf of our Conference and pray God to continue to bless and keep him in His love.
6. Whereas, E. N. Cassel, H. K. Kratz, G. F. Yost, and E. E. Kublic have evinced a continued interest and love of the work of the Lord by their presence at this Conference, therefore,
Resolved: That we ask our God to sustain them and grant unto them a fruitful ministry of prayer and personal witnessing.
7. Whereas, J. B. Henry, now Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, has shown his continued love in fellowshipping with us at this Conference, therefore,
Resolved: That we hereby assure him of our sincere interest in the work to which God has called him and pray God’s best on his labors.
8. Whereas, The Secretary of the Annual Conference, T. D. Gehret, has faithfully and creditably served as Editor of our Year Book, therefore,
Resolved: That we express our appreciation of his excellent work and give to him the sum of fifty dollars ($50.00) from the Conference Fund.
9. Whereas, The Secretary of our Board of Foreign Missions, J. E. Golla, has presented an interesting and an enlightening report for the Year Book, therefore,
Resolved: That he be given twenty-five dollars ($25.00) from the Board of Foreign Missions in token of our appreciation for his labor of love.
10. Whereas, Paul I. Wentz has untiringly and commendably served as Conference Treasurer, therefore,
Resolved: That in grateful appreciation we give him the sum of fifty dollars ($50.00) to be paid out of the Conference Fund.
11. Whereas, The Christian Life Series of Sunday School Literature, published by the Union Gospel Press, continues to be sound and true to the faith, therefore,
Resolved: That we pray that God may continue to sustain and strengthen the consecrated personnel of the United Gospel Press, and further,
Resolved: That as a Conference we recognize Mrs. E. T. Gehman as the agent for these Sunday School supplies and other publications.
12. Whereas: The Lord has seen fit to call Pastor Walter H. Frank to minister under Youth For Christ International in Germany, and
Whereas, Our brother has by his Godly life and ministry in our Conference been instrumental in leading many to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to the building up of the church of Christ, therefore,
Resolved: That we covenant together to uphold him in prayer that God may pour out His fullness of blessing upon him in this portion of God’s vineyard, and further,
Resolved: That a copy of this resolution signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Conference be forwarded to Brother Frank.
13. Whereas, The kind, loving and 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 their church basement, therefore,
Resolved: That we give thanks to God for their bountiful provision and their gracious Christian hospitality, and further,
Resolved: That a copy of this resolution be given to Pastor N. H. Wolf to be read in their Sunday morning service.
Herbert W. Hartman,
R. C. Reichenbach,
J. H. Riggall,
Committee.
Resolved, That we suspend Business to the Call of the Chair.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee to Organize the Allentown District Sunday School Convention.
The Allentown District Sunday School Convention shall be held at York, Pa., May 23, 1953.
Officers of the Convention: Chairman, W. A. Heffner; Secretary, A. L. Seifert; Treasurer, F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Program: W. F. Heffner, A. G. Woodring, C. Leslie Miller, P. T. Stengele.
An offering from each Sunday School on the District shall be brought co the Convention.
We invite the District Superintendent and Pastors of the Bethlehem District to attend the Convention.
Resolved, That the Committee on Program arrange for a display and presentation of promotional ideas at this Convention.
Paul E. Baer, Chairman,
F. M. Hottel, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention.
The Convention shall be held at Salem Church, Philadelphia, Pa., on Memorial Day, May 30, 1953.
The following were elected as Officers of the Convention: Chairman, W. W. Hartman; Secretary, R. C. Reichenbach; Treasurer, W. B. Hottel.
Committee on Program: T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, W. W. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman and C. E. Kirkwood.
Each Superintendent shall bring a free-will offering to the Convention in order to defray the expenses of the Convention.
We invite the Director and the Sunday Schools of the Home Missionary Society to be present.
A hearty invitation is extended to the District Superintendent, Pastors and members of the Allentown District to attend the Convention.
N. H. Wolf, Chairman,
W. B. Hottel, Secretary.
Resolved, That we have three Camp Meetings next summer in Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. First Division, July 4 to 12; Second Division, July 18 to 26; Third Division, August 1 to 9.
Resolved, That the District Superintendents assume the responsibility of the Second Division Camp Meeting alternately each consecutive year.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the First Division Camp Meeting:
This Division comprises Allentown (Bethel), Reading, Sunbury, Shamokin, Mount Carmel, Hatfield, Harrisburg, Graterford, Harleysville, Lancaster, Lebanon.
Place — Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. Date — July 4 to 12, 1953.
Officers: Chairman, C. Leslie Miller; Secretary, A. G. Woodring; Treasurer, F. M. Hottel.
The District Superintendent shall secure the extra help if he and the Committee deem it advisable.
P. T. Stengele, Chairman,
F. M. Hottel, 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, York, Philadelphia (Wissinoming), Lehighton, Walnutport, Quakertown, Northampton, Nazareth, Stroudsburg, and the Home Missionary Society.
Place — Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. Date — July 18-26, 1953.
Officers: Chairman, C. E. Kirkwood; Secretary, Paul E. Baer; Treasurer, J. E. Golla.
The District Superintendent shall secure the extra help if he and the Committee deem it advisable.
An invitation is extended to the Director of Home Missions, and Home Missionary Society to attend the Camp Meeting.
T. D. Gehret, Chairman,
R. C. Reichenbach, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Third Division Camp Meeting:
This Division comprises Bethlehem, Emmaus, Macungie, Zionsville, Easton, Allentown (Salem), Coopersburg, Chester, Scranton, Jersey City, N. J., West Philadelphia, Newark, N. J., and Staten Island, N. Y.
Place — Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. Date — August 1-9, 1953.
Officers: Chairman, N. H. Wolf; Secretary, Herbert W. Hartman; Treasurer, W. W. Hartman.
The District Superintendent shall secure the extra help if he and the Committee deem it advisable.
T. D. Gehret, Chairman,
Arthur M. Sprock, Secretary.
Resolved, That we print 1200 Year Books, to be sold at fifty 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 each congregation to give 25 cents per member according to the membership reported at the 1952 Conference, toward the moving expense 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. This shall be made a standing rule.
Resolved, That the Director of Home Missions shall under all circumstances function in cooperation with the District Superintendents, and in all matters of importance act only by approval of the Board.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
The various Boards reported their organization as follows:
Board of Trustees of the Home: T. D. Gehret, President; F. B. Hertzog, Secretary; H. L. Shelly, 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; Herbert W. Hartman, Secretary.
Board of Examiners: C. E. Kirkwood, 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.
Resolved, That we adjourn to meet at 6:00 P. M.
Adjourned with prayer by E. B. Hartman.
ELEVENTH MEETING
Friday Evening, October 17, 1952
The meeting was opened with singing, “Come Thou Blessed Saviour,” and prayer by Bertram Ringler.
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 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.
Resolved, That we discontinue the practice of having invited Pastors at our Camp Meetings.
Resolved, That all needs for support of missionary work not controlled within the borders of our Home Missionary Board be handled by the Foreign Missionary Board.
Resolved, That we have a Ministerial Convention to be held at Royersford, Pa., on Thursday, April 16, 1953.
The following officers were elected: Chairman, T. D. Gehret; Secretary, E. B. Hartman.
Committee on Program: P. T. Stengele, T. D. Gehret, Paul E. Baer, F. B. Hertzog, J. E. Hartman.
Resolved, That $100.00 be donated from the Annual Conference Fund to the Royersford Congregation.
Resolved, That traveling expenses on official business be 5 cents per mile and 1-1/2 cents per mile for each additional passenger.
Resolved, That no Elder having served in the office of District Superintendent 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.
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene in Bethel Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 526-530 North Eighth Street, Allentown, Pa., on Tuesday, October 13, 1953 at 10:00 A. M.
Resolved, That the following form a Committee on Program for the next Annual Conference: C. Leslie Miller, F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood.
Resolved, That the price of tents shall be $6.00 each per Camp Meeting, plus a dollar additional registration fee per tent each camp, to be paid to the Pastors before the Camp Meeting. The Pastors shall pay tent rents to the officers of the respective Committees no 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 Herbert W. Hartman no 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 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.
The following petitions were granted by the Conference:
Resolved, That the petition of the Spring City Class for permission to grant a limited time of service for our Class Leaders of not more than three years be granted.
Resolved, That the following petitions of the Allentown Bethel Church be granted:
a. The tenure of office for any officer of the Church and Sunday School shall not be more than five years.
b. A Nominating Committee shall be appointed to make all nominations for Church and Sunday School officers. Such Committee shall consist of one member each of the Board of Trustees, the Sunday School officers, the Class Leaders, the Stewards and the Building Fund Collectors. Three members shall be elected to this Committee by the third Annual Session of the Local Conference. The Pastor shall be Chairman of the Committee.
c. Unless nomination is declined, those whose terms have not expired may be included in the list of nominees. In case of one office, at least two nominees shall be submitted; and in case of five similar offices, at least seven nominations shall be submitted. Any officer whose term has expired, shall not be eligible for the same office until the expiration of one year.
d. The Sunday School officers shall be elected at the same time when the other Church officers are elected prior to the last Annual session of the Local Conference.
Resolved, That the Board of Directors be a Committee to study and report at the next Annual Conference on the advisability of changing the name of our Church and revising our Church and Conference government.
Resolved, That the Board of Directors be an Agenda Committee to receive all Local Conference petitions, the Secretary of the Local Conference be responsible to give a copy of the petitions to the District Superintendent at the Local Conference where the petition was passed.
Resolved, That we recognize the Discipline of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania as passed by the 1951 General Conference, and the present Annual Conference rules as the Constitution of this body.
Resolved, That the Director of Home Missions be recognized as a traveling elder and be a member of the Board of Home Missions.
Resolved, That Women’s Missionary Societies that have been or shall be organized in our churches be recognized by and report to the Local Conference.
Resolved, That forms be furnished by the Board of Publication and Printing for the reports to the Local Conference of the Women’s Missionary Societies.
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 District Superintendents and the Delegate to the Annual Conference before the session adjourns, and the ballots shall be kept by the District Superintendent. The results of this vote, shall be kept in confidence by the District Superintendent and the Delegate.
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 the Home Mission Board be authorized to deal with the question relating to the Missions in the Home Missionary Society as to their being further incorporated in the work of the Conference as unorganized works.
Resolved, That P. T. Stengele, T. D. Gehret and C. Leslie Miller investigate the possibilities of the Union Gospel Press publishing a supplement to the Gospel Herald for the providing of an official organ for the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
Whereas, Our Conference differs greatly with the Conferences of the United Missionary Church in doctrine, in organization and in government, and
Whereas, The position of our Conference on:
Our interpretation of the doctrine of holiness;
Our desire to become an independent sending Foreign Mission Board;
Our educational program;
Our plans concerning church government;
Our wish for autonomy in the control of all funds and expenditures; and,
Our desire for proper and fair representation; Conflicts with the principles of the proposed merger, THEREFORE:
Resolved, That we hereby sever all relations with the Conferences of the United Missionary Church, and consider the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania, Inc., a separate and distinct body, and FURTHER:
Resolved, That a report of this action be conveyed by our District Superintendents to the next meeting of the General Executive Committee to be presented by said Committee at the next General Conference.
These resolutions were unanimously adopted.
Adjourned at 10:10 P. M., with prayer by P. T. Stengele, District Superintendent.
Signed:
P. T. Stengele, District Superintendent, Chairman,
T. D. Gehret, District Superintendent, Secretary,
Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer,
Jansen E. Hartman, Director of Home Missions,
F. B. Hertzog, Vice District Superintendent,
C. E. Kirkwood, Vice District Superintendent,
N. H. Wolf, Assistant Secretary,
Paul E. Baer, Recording Secretary,
Herbert W. Hartman, Recording Secretary,
E. W. Bean, A. G. Woodring, Luther N. Kern,
Willard E. Cassel, A. L. Seifert, Daniel K. Zeigler,
John Dunn, H. D. Yarrington, David Gardner,
Walter H. Frank, Robert W. Smock, Charles W. Weaber,
R. H. Gehman, Donald T. Kirkwood, George R. Fish,
J. E. Golla, James G. Koch, James R. Cressman,
Ernest B. Hartman, H. B. Musselman, John B. Harley,
W. W. Hartman, E. N. Cassel, H. H. Bergey,
W. F. Heffner, G. F. Yost, Herbert V. Smith,
W. A. Heffner, H. K. Kratz, H. L. Shelly,
F. B. Hertzog, J. B. Henry, Clayton E. Weber,
F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, R. Spedden,
W. B. Hottel, P. Ward Musselman, Franklin Mead,
J. B. Layne, Bertram Ringler, Thomas W. Campbell, Sr.,
C. Leslie Miller, Allan F. Smith, E. B. Wright,
C. E. Kirkwood, George A. John, J. R. Weber,
J. H. Riggall, David H. Fahs, E. J. Dietzman,
E. J. Rutman, S. A. Hackman, Roger Bowne,
R. C. Reichenbach, Roy E. Williams, John Hendricks.
Arthur M. Sprock, R. S. Weidner,
D. E. Thomann, A. W. Deppe,