SEVENTIETH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1953
The Seventieth Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, of Pennsylvania, met in the Bethel Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 526-530 North Eighth Street, Allentown, Pa., on Tuesday, October 13 at 10:00 A. M. The session was opened with singing, “Sweet Hour of Prayer.” The Chairman P. T. Stengele, read Luke 18:1-8 and made appropriate remarks. This was followed by a season of definite prayer and supplication in which the will of God was sought for His guidance and blessing upon the entire Conference.
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, 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. D. Yarrington, H. B. Musselman, E. N. Cassel, G. F. Yost, E. E. Kublic, J. B. Henry, E. T. Shick.
Probationers-A. L. Seifert, Donald T. Kirkwood, Robert W. Smock, James G. Koch.
The following Missionaries are members of the Pennsylvania Conference and are being supported by us: C. F. Snyder, Mrs. C. F. Snyder, Mrs. Grace Whale, Luella Reinhart, Olive Rawn, Mary A. Miller, Robert Rampy, Mrs. Marcella Rampy, Robert Gordon, Mrs. Frances Gordon, Herbert C. Dyke, Mrs. Betty Dyke, Merle Baer, Mrs. Marjorie Baer, Walter H. Frank, Mrs. Ethel Frank, Laird Stengele, Mrs. Mary Ann Stengele, Paul Chaponniere, Betty Doverspike, Grace Yost.
Delegates
Allentown District
Warren Taylor, Allentown (Bethel)
Bertram L. Ringler, Reading
Allan F. Smith, Sunbury
T. LaMarn Manney, Shamokin
David H. Fahs, York
S. A. Hackman, Graterford and Harleysville
Monroe A. Keisher, Mount Carmel
R. S. Weidner, Royersford and Spring City
A. W. Deppe, Nazareth and Northampton
J. D. Kreiss, Lehighton and Walnutport
Daniel K. Ziegler, Hatfield
David Gardner, Harrisburg
Frank L. Herb, Sr., Lebanon
George R. Fish, Stroudsburg
Parke E. Rankin, Lancaster,
Bethlehem District
Paul H. Cressman, Bethlehem
Paul I. Wentz, Emmaus, Macungie and Zionsville
H. H. Bergey, Quakertown
John B. Harley, Philadelphia
R. Spedden, Chester
Herbert V. Smith, Easton
H. L. Shelly, Coopersburg and Allentown (Salem)
Clayton E. Weber, Fleetwood and Blandon
Franklin Mead, Scranton
Edward W. Judd, Wissinoming
Theodore L. Bleich, Jersey City, N. J.
J. R. Weber, Terre Hill
E. J. Dietzman, West Philadelphia
Ralph D. Cole, Staten Island, N. Y.
John F. Long, Newark, N. J.
Resolved, That we accept the excuses of the Pastor and the delegates who are absent and that upon their arrival they state the reason for their absence and be admitted to the Conference bar.
Resolved, That Alternate Delegate J. D. Kreiss be recognized as the delegate from Lehighton and Walnutport, in place of delegate Ernest Bauer who was unable to attend.
Resolved, That the Home Mission workers present during the Conference be advisory members. The following brethren were present during the Conference: Earl M. Hosler, William L. Wilkinson, Lester W. Dingee, Donald B. Schaeffer, LeRoy S. Heller, Norman R. Weiss, Raymond E. Arnold, Russell T. Allen, Frank L. Herb, Jr., and Reynold D. Gardner.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Reporter and a Timekeeper. He appointed Herbert W. Hartman as Reporter, and James G. Koch 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 Allentown congregation, C. Leslie Miller and Warren Taylor, respectively.
Report of the Committee to Arrange a Program for the Services of Annual Conference:
Tuesday, October, 13, 1953 — 10:00 A. M. (Prayer Hour). A period of prayer and supplication in charge of the Chairman P. T. Stengele.
Tuesday, October 13, 1953 — 7:30 P. M. Meeting of the Annual Conference. Oral reports of the District Superintendents, the Director of Home Missions and the President of the Berean Bible School, and Pastors. (Limited to 3 minutes.)
Thursday, October 15, 1953 — 7:30 P. M. Address by District Superintendent T. D. Gehret. Service in charge of District Superintendent P. T. Stengele.
Friday, October 16, 1953 — 9:00 A. M. Feet washing and Communion Service under the direction of the Chairman.
C. Leslie Miller,
F. B. Hertzog,
C. E. Kirkwood,
Committee.
Resolved, That we have an evening meeting, omitting the roll call. The minutes of the afternoon meeting shall be read in 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 Communications: H. B. Musselman, G. F. Yost, E. E. Kublic.
Committee on Finance: Paul I. Wentz, Warren Taylor, Paul H. Cressman, Bertram L. Ringler.
Committee on Examination of Local Conference Records: F. B. Hertzog, W. F. Heffner, J. B. Henry, H. D. Yarrington, R. C. Reichenbach, E. W. Bean, D. E. Thomann, E. J. Rutman, W. B. Hottel, John Dunn, W. A. Heffner, Robert W. Smock, A. L. Seifert, T. LaMarn Manney, James G. Koch, Monroe A. Kreisher, Allan F. Smith, A. W. Deppe, David H. Fahs, Frank L. Herb, Sr., S. A. Hackman, George R. Fish, John F. Long, Franklin Mead, J. R. Weber, Edward W. Judd, Herbert V. Smith, J. H. Riggall.
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 M. Sprock, J. E. Golla, Willard E. Cassel, Jansen E. Hartman, Donald T. Kirkwood.
Committee on Examination of the District Superintendents, Local Preachers, Evangelists, Missionaries: W. F. Heffner, N. H. Wolf, R. H. Gehman, E. W. Bean, A. G. Woodring.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: F. B. Hertzog, A. G. Woodring, Herbert W. Hartman, C. E. Kirkwood, W. W. Hartman.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Ordination: C. E. Kirkwood, C. Leslie Miller, Jansen E. Hartman, F. B. Hertzog, F. M. Hottel.
Committee on Resolution: Herbert W. Hartman, J. H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert.
Committee on Auditing: F. M. Hottel, H. L. Shelly, John B. Harley, R. S. Weidner, Daniel K. Ziegler, R. Spedden, H. H. Bergey, E. J. Dietzman, Clayton E. Weber, David Gardner, Theodore L. Bleich, J. D. Kreiss, Ralph D. Cole, Parke E. Rankin.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records: R. H. Gehman, W. A. Heffner.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules to the call of the chair no later than 4:00 P. M.
Business was suspended at 11:40 A. M.
SECOND MEETING
Tuesday Afternoon, October 13, 1953
The meeting was opened at 4:00 P. M. with singing “Come, Thou Blessed Saviour,” and the calling of the roll.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports)
Resolved, That Earl M. Hosler and William L. Wilkinson be referred to the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License.
Report of the Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits:
We have worked tinder 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 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, E. W. Bean,
R. H. Gehman, A. G. Woodring,
N. H. Wolf,
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 1952 and found them correct except as follows:
1. On page 21, in the Committee on Statistics, the name “Arthur “A.” Sprock should read Arthur “M.” Sprock.
2. On page 28, Eighth Meeting, sixth line, the word “adopted” should read “Approved,”
3. On page 39, line 26, the word “relations” should be “relationship,” and the word “conferences” should be “conference.”
We herewith submit two copies corrected and duly certified.
R. H. Gehman,
W. A. Heffner,
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)
Report of the Board of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Adjourned with prayer by H. B. Musselman.
THIRD MEETING
Tuesday Evening, October 13, 1953
The meeting opened at 7:30 P. M., with F. M. Hottel leading the song service. E. E. Kublic led in prayer.
All the active Pastors, the District Superintendents, the Director of Home Missions and the President of Berean Bible School gave their oral reports.
This meeting was well attended by members and friends from the various churches of the Conference. Their presence gave evidence of their interest in the work and their love for the Lord’s servants.
The noteworthy gains along all lines of endeavor, reflect the loyal support of our constituents, the faithful service by devoted men of God, and above all the favor of God Who always leads us in triumph and gives the victory.
The meeting closed at 10:00 P. M., with prayer and benediction by A. Woodring.
FOURTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 14, 1953
The meeting was opened with singing, “He Leadeth Me,” and player by F. Yost.
The First Psalm was quoted by all and the Secretary, T. D. Gehret, gave us a helpful exhortation, emphasizing the “Art of Meditation on the Word of God.”
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meetings were read and approved.
J. B. Henry, Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, addressed the Conference body, telling of his joy in the Lord and relating something concerning the blessing of the Lord upon the mission work.
J. Harold Sherk, Executive Secretary of the Peace Section, Mennonite Central Committee, was present in the meeting and brought a few words of greeting to the Conference body.
Resolved, That we suspend business to the call of the chair.
Business was resumed.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 1:00 P. M.
Adjourned with prayer by Bertram L. Ringler.
FIFTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 14, 1953
The meeting was opened with singing, “My Faith Looks Up to Thee,” and prayer by A. L. Seifert.
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 Education: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Layman’s Benevolent Society: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing: (See Reports)
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on the Examination of Traveling Elders:
We have again examined the Traveling Elders through their respective delegates. It is with profound pleasure we report that they are examples to the Church in Word, conversation, love and spirit, in faith and in purity.
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 Candidates for Ordination:
We have examined Robert W. Smock, A. L. Seifert and James G. Koch, and have found that they have satisfactorily met all the requirements of the Discipline, and having served their probationary period under Annual Conference License, we therefore recommend that they be ordained in the Thursday evening service of this Annual Conference.
C. E. Kirkwood,
C. Leslie Miller,
F. B. Hertzog,
Jansen E. Hartman,
F. M. Hottel,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Candidates for Annual Conference License:
We have met and examined the brethren, Earl M. Hosier and William L. Wilkinson and have found them to be sincere and godly young men and believe them to be called of God to the Christian ministry.
We therefore recommend that they be granted Annual Conference license.
F. B. Hertzog,
A. G. Woodring,
C. E. Kirkwood,
Herbert W. Hartman,
W. W. Hartman.
Committee.
Report of the Committee on 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.
The following petitions were found:
1. In the Ebenezer M. B. in C. Church of Bethlehem Local Conference minute book:
Resolved, That the Ebenezer M. B. in C. Church of Bethlehem, Penna., petitions the Annual Conference to grant us the permission to adopt the following procedure for Local Conference elections:
The tenure of office for any elected officer of the Church and Sunday School shall not be more than five years. Any elected officer whose term has expired shall not be eligible for the same office until the expiration of one year.
2. In the Local Conference minute book of the Salem M. B. in C. Church of Allentown:
Resolved, That all officers of the Salem M. B. in C. Church and Sunday School, with the exception of the Board of Trustees of the Church, and the Treasurer of the Sunday School, be limited to five consecutive years of office, said officers being ineligible for re-election for a period of one year.
3. In the Local Conference minute book of Bethel M. B. in C. Church of Allentown:
(A) That we, the members of Bethel M. B. in C. Church of Allentown, Penna., petition the 1953 Annual Conference to establish the policy of proportional representation in sending delegates to the Annual Conference; the proportion being equivalent to one delegate for the first 150 members of a Church, and an additional delegate for each additional 200 members of said church.
(B) That we, the members of Bethel Church of Allentown, Penna., petition the 1953 Annual Conference to establish the policy of fair representation of pastors and laymen on all major boards and Committees now existent, and those to be established in the future. Members of the Boards and Committees shall be chosen by majority vote of the members of the Annual Conference, but need not be delegates of said Conference.
(C) That we petition the Annual Conference to grant Bethel M. B. in C. Church the privilege of recognizing the Advisory Board, consisting of all elected Church and Sunday School officers, as an official Board under the direction of and answerable to the Local Conference.
(D) Bethel M. B. in C. Church petitions the Annual Conference to permit Bethel M. B. in C. Church the right of electing Trustees at the same meeting at which they elect the other Church and Sunday School officers.
F. B. Hertzog, W. A. Heffner, S. A. Hackman,
W. F. Heffner, Robert W. Smock, George R. Fish,
J. B. Henry, A. L. Seifert, John F. Long,
H. D. Yarrington, T. LaMarn Manney, Franklin Mead,
R. C. Reichenbach, James G. Koch, J. R. Weber,
E. W. Bean, Monroe A. Kreisher, Edward W. Judd,
D. E. Thomann, Allan F. Smith, Herbert V. Smith,
E. J. Rutman, A. W. Deppe, J. H. Riggall,
W. B. Hottel, David H. Fahs,
John Dunn, Frank L. Herb. Sr.,
Committee.
Resolved, That we determine who are the preachers willing to minister the coming 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, H. D. Yarrington, A. L. Seifert, Donald T. Kirkwood, Robert W. Smock, James G. Koch.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the chair.
Business was resumed.
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 and C. Leslie Miller.
The following were elected District Superintendents for the ensuing year: T. D. Gehret and F. B. Hertzog.
Resolved, That F. B. Hertzog be District Superintendent over the Allentown District and T. D. Gehret be District Superintendent over the Bethlehem District.
Resolved, That, we recess to the call of the chair.
Business was resumed.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 this evening and adjourn no later than 9 o’clock.
Adjourned with prayer by E. W. Bean.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Evening, October 14, 1953
The meeting was opened at 6:30 P. M., with singing, “Since Jesus Came Into My Heart” and prayer by George R. Fish.
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 Home: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Directors: (See Reports)
Report of the Menno Youth General Committee: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we elect a Home Mission Director.
Jansen E. Hartman was elected Director of the Home Missionary Society.
Adjourned with prayer by C. E. Kirkwood.
SEVENTH MEETING
Thursday Morning, October 15, 1953
The meeting was opened with singing, “Lead Me to Calvary” and prayer by J. H. Riggall. H. B. Musselman, District Superintendent Emeritus, gave us an address on “The Faithfulness of God.” (Philippians 4:19).
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 Committee on Finance: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the Rules and recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed with singing, “My Jesus I Love Thee” and prayer by G. F. Yost.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports)
Resolved, That a Committee be appointed by the Secretary to study means of raising finances to provide homes for the District Superintendents. This Committee will bring recommendations to this body before adjournment.
The following were appointed: Jansen E. Hartman, C. E. Kirkwood, Paul H. Cressman, Warren Taylor.
Earl M. Hosler, having received a Conference appointment, was invited into the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That we proceed to the election of Officers and Boards.
C. E. Kirkwood and Herbert W. Hartman 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 the Next Annual Conference: F. B. Hertzog.
Secretary of the Next Annual Conference: N. H. Wolf.
Treasurer of the Next Annual Conference: Paul I. Wentz.
Committee Over the District Superintendents: W. F. Heffner, P. T. Stengele, R. H. Gehman.
Board of Directors: F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret, C. E. Kirkwood, P. T. Stengele, Jansen E. Hartman. N. H. Wolf, Herbert W. Hartman.
Resolved, That the Board of Foreign Missions comprise five ministers and two laymen.
Board of Foreign Missions: T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, J. E. Golla, C. Leslie Miller, James R. Cressman, Daniel K. Ziegler.
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.
Board of Home Missions: F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret, Jansen E. Hartman, C. E. Kirkwood, P. T. Stengele, Paul H. Cressman, Clayton E. Weber.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and extend the time.
Adjourned at 5:05 P. M. with prayer by Ernest B. Hartman.
EIGHTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 16, 1953
The meeting was opened with singing “More Like the Master,” and prayer by J. B. Henry.
The Chairman P. T. Stengele, read the Scripture from John 13:2-17 and exhorted us to remember and seek to practice the commands of our Lord Jesus.
The practice of Saints’ Feet Washing was observed and followed by the Ordinance of Communion. This was a blessed time of fellowship together in the Lord.
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 have received a communication from Brother C. F. Snyder, retired Missionary to Tibet, China. He states that they are both well and trusting in the Lord.
We recommend that this communication be referred to the Committee on Resolutions.
H. B. Musselman, E. E. Kublic,
G. F. Yost,
Committee.
Report of the Conference Treasurer: (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. Checks for these contributions shall be sent and made payable to A. L. Wentz, Treasurer, 221 N. 5th St., Emmaus, Pa., no later than May 1.
2. A special offering shall be received at the Annual Menno Youth Rallies at each Camp Meeting.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee of two to compile a report of the Conference for the Gospel Herald and the Year Book.
He appointed Paul E. Baer and Willard E. Cassel.
Resolved, That we proceed to the election of Boards and Committee.
Board of Education: (For three years) P. T. Stengele, Byron C. Cassel, R. Paul Schaeffer, J. R. Weber.
Resolved, That the District Superintendents be members of the Board of Education by virtue of their office.
Board of Trustees of the Home: (For two years) T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele, W. W. Hartman, W. A. Heffner, Timothy H. Gehman, George W. Krigor.
Resolved, That we suspend the Rules and extend the time.
Resolved, That a Committee, comprised of the Board of Directors, three additional ministers and three laymen be elected to study means of setting up and possibly securing a suitable site with adequate facilities for the holding of Bible Conferences, Youth weeks, Missionary weeks each summer, and for other needs that may arise. The following were elected: F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret, C. E. Kirkwood, P. T. Stengele, Jansen E. Hartman, N. H. Wolf, Herbert W. Hartman, C. Leslie Miller, W. A. Heffner, J. E. Golla, Paul I. Wentz, Daniel K. Ziegler, Kermit K. Gehman.
Adjourned at 12:10 P. M., with prayer by J. H. Riggall.
NINTH MEETING
Friday Afternoon, October 16, 1953
The meeting was opened with singing, “Wonderful Story of Love,” and prayer by E. E. Kublic.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That if the property at Henryville, or one comparable to it, be available for purchase and should the elected Committee agree that it is suitable as an M. B. in C. Conference site, that the Board of Directors be authorized to negotiate for its purchase and also be authorized to lease building sites, secure loans, float a bond issue or take any steps deemed essential to finance the purchase.
Resolved, That should the Board of Directors successfully negotiate for the purchase of the Henryville site or any other suitable Bible Conference site, that they be authorized to sell the Mizpah Grove property at such time as they deem advisable and advantageous.
Luella Reinhart, missionary on furlough from Africa, brought a brief testimony as to the goodness of the Lord and her joy in His service.
The following Boards and Committees were elected:
Resolved, That two laymen and one Pastor from each District and the District Superintendents, by virtue of their office, be members of the General Menno Youth Committee.
General Menno Youth Committee: F. E. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret, D. E. Thomann, W. A. Heffner, William W. Matz, Paul I. Wentz, Jr., Phil Nuss, Ernest Y. Ziegler.
Board of Examiners: C. E. Kirkwood, R. H. Gehman, Paul E. Baer.
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 by 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, J.H. Riggall.
Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: E. W. Dean, D. E. Thomann, W. W. Hartman.
Resolved, That we recommend that the fund for publishing our Church paper be handled by the Board of Publication and Printing.
Resolved, That the Board of Publication and Printing assign to each Pastor definite dates for submitting reports to the Editor of the Gospel Herald Supplement.
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 the Home Mission Stations of Finesville, N. J., Paradise, Pa., Roxborough, Phila., Pa., participate in the Allentown District Sunday School Convention and the Home Mission Stations of South Bethlehem, Pa., Binghamton, N. Y., Glendale, L.I., N. Y., and Trenton, N. J.. participate in the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention.
Resolved, That the Conference elect an Editor for the “Gospel Herald” Supplement. T. D. Gehret was elected.
Resolved, That we elect a Circulation Manager for the “Gospel Herald.” Willard E. Cassel was elected.
Resolved, That we approve the Constitution of the Foreign Mission Board and authorize them to operate according to its policies.
Resolved, That we, adjourn to meet at 6:00 P. M.
TENTH MEETING
Friday Evening, October 16, 1953
The meeting was opened with prayer by S. A. Hackman.
The roll was called.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
1. Whereas, We the members of the Seventieth Annual Conference have again been privileged to listen to the inspiring reports of our District Superintendents, 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 pray that God’s richest blessing shall be upon them in every way as they continue to minister in His Name and for His glory.
2. Whereas Our Home Mission Director, Jansen E. Hartman, has submitted to this body a splendid oral and statistical report of the blessing of God and moving of the Holy Spirit upon the efforts of the various brethren in their endeavors for Christ, and
Whereas, the said Jansen E. Hartman has been sustained and used of God in the efficient Presidential administration of the Berean Bible School, therefore
Resolved, That we rejoice together in these manifestations of God’s faithfulness and give him our continued prayerful and financial support.
3. Whereas, the faithfulness of our God has again been manifest in the preservation of all our Pastors, and
Whereas, These Pastors have been divinely enabled to report many evidences of progress in the work both spiritually and numerically, therefore
Resolved, That we in gratitude to our Lord pledge our support of them in every way for the glory of God.
4. Whereas, Our hearts have been cheered many times by the devotion and Christian sacrifice of a great host of members and friends of all our Churches, therefore
Resolved, That we hereby thank God for His blessings upon them and that by the grace of God we strive to prove worthy of our high calling and serve them to the best of our ability.
5. Whereas, District Superintendent Emeritus H. B. Musselman, together with retired Pastors G. F. Yost and E. E. Kublic, have evidenced a continued interest and love of the work of the Lord by participating in the sessions of this Conference, and
Whereas, These brethren have by godly example, and a zealous passion for souls been instrumental in leading many to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, and blessed the lives of countless others, therefore
Resolved, That we hereby express our appreciation of their fellowship in the Gospel and pray that God may continue to make their lives a blessing to many.
6. Whereas, H. K. Kratz, our esteemed colleague in the ministry for many years, has received his heavenly summons after some years of illness, therefore
Resolved, That we hereby extend our condolences to Sister Kratz, and beseech our ever-sympathetic Lord to sustain her, and further
Resolved. That a suitable Obituary shall appear in this issue of the Year Book.
7. Whereas, J. B. Henry, now Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, has manifested Christian love for us by his presence at this Conference, therefore
Resolved, That we pray God’s richest blessings upon his labors for Christ in behalf of Africa, and hereby assure him that we shall always cherish his fellowship in Christ.
8. 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 for his excellent work by donating to him the sum of fifty dollars ($50.00) from the Conference Fund.
9. Whereas, The Secretary of our Foreign Missionary Board, J. E. Golla, has by correspondence with our missionaries secured interesting data to make possible a very informative report for the Year Book, therefore
Resolved, That we give him fifty dollars ($50.00) from the Foreign Missionary Board as a token of our appreciation.
10. Whereas, Paul I. Wentz has again most 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 Scripturally sound, and fulfills a great need in the dissemination of the truth as it is in Christ, therefore
Resolved, That we pray God’s continued blessing upon the publisher, and further
Resolved, That as a Conference we recognize Mrs. E. T. Gehman as the appointed agent to handle their Sunday School supplies and other publications.
12. Whereas, This Conference has received a communication from Rev. and Mrs. C. F. Snyder informing us that they are both well and trusting in the Lord, therefore
Resolved, That we authorize our Secretary to let them know that we sincerely appreciate their remembrance of us, and that we still cherish the fellowship we have had in the Gospel and earnestly trust that God will sustain and use them to His glory for many years to come.
13. Whereas, The efficient Pastor, C. Leslie Miller, and members of the Allentown Congregation have so abundantly provided for the temporal entertainment of the Conference members, having served all meals in the Church basement, therefore
Resolved, That we hereby express our profound gratitude for their most generous hospitality and delegate our Secretary to provide Pastor Miller with a copy of this resolution to be read by him in next Sunday morning’s service.
14. Whereas, Our esteemed co-worker in the Ministry, E. N. Cassel, has for physical reasons, been unable to be present at this Conference, therefore
Resolved, That we request the Pastor, W. W. Hartman, to assure him that we missed his presence and that we shall continue to pray for him that the blessing of the Lord which maketh rich may be his portion ever.
Herbert W. Hartman,
J. H. Riggall,
A. L. Seifert,
Committee.
Report Relative to the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Edition of the Gospel Herald:
Annual Conference of last year appointed C. Leslie Miller and P. T. Stengele to investigate the possibilities of having the Union Gospel Press publish a supplement to the Gospel Herald, for the providing of an official organ for the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
The brethren presented this matter to the Union Gospel Press and favorable consideration was given to the request. Official action was taken by them and it was agreed that the Union Gospel Press would print a four page supplement for us without making any charge for this service.
The Board of Directors appreciated this offer and unanimously accepted it. T. D. Gehret was appointed as Editor and C. Leslie Miller as Circulation Manager.
The first edition of the Gospel Herald, featuring news of our Mennonite Brethren in Christ Churches, appeared March 7, 1953 and has appeared weekly since.
T. D. Gehret,
C. Leslie Miller,
Report of the Committee to Organize the Allentown District Sunday School Convention:
A Sunday School clinique of the Allentown District shall be held at the Lehigh Valley Dairy auditorium, North Seventh Street, Allentown, Pa.
Date and time are to be announced later.
The Committee on Program and Arrangements elected were: F. B. Hertzog, W. A. Heffner, P. T. Stengele, C. Leslie Miller.
Officers of the Clinique are: C. Leslie Miller, Chairman; J. H. Riggall, Secretary; F. M. Hottel, Treasurer.
An offering from each Sunday School on the District shall be brought to the Clinique.
We invite the District Superintendent and Pastors of the Bethlehem District to attend this Clinique.
A buffet supper will be served at a nominal charge to those making reservations.
Paul E. Baer, Chairman,
J. H. Riggall, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize the Bethlehem District Sunday School Convention:
The Convention shall be held in the Grace M. B. in C. Church, Chester, Pa., on Memorial Day, May 31, 1954.
The following officers shall serve: Chairman, J. E. Golla; Secretary, Donald T. Kirkwood; Treasurer, A. G. Woodring.
Committee on Program: T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, Willard E. Cassel, Superintendent of the Host Church, and James R. Cressman.
Each Superintendent shall bring an offering of 10 cents per Sunday School member as report at the Convention.
A hearty invitation is extended to the District Superintendent, Pastors and members of the Allentown District to attend the Convention.
N. H. Wolf, Chairman,
Willard E. Cassel, Secretary,
Committee.
Resolved, That we have three Camp Meetings next summer in Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. First Division, July 3 to 11; Second Division, July 17 to 25; Third Division, July 31 to August 8.
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 and Lebanon.
Place: Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa. Date — July 3 to 11, 1954.
Officers: Chairman, C. Leslie Miller; Secretary, W. A. Heffner; Treasurer, F. M. Hottel.
The District Superintendent shall secure the extra help if he and the Committee deem it advisable.
F. B. Hertzog, Chairman,
Ernest B. Hartman, 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 17-25, 1954.
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.
F. B. Hertzog, Chairman,
R. C. Reichenbach, Secretary,
Committee.
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: July 31 to August 8.
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,
D. E. Thomann, Secretary,
Committee.
Resolved, That a dollar ($1.00) registration fee per tent accompany each order, not refundable, and to be turned over by the registrar to each respective Camp Meeting Committee.
Resolved, That we print 1200 year books, to be sold at fifty cents (.50) per copy. Checks shall be made payable to T. D. Gehret, Secretary. The deficit shall be paid out of the Conference Fund.
Resolved, That the Director of Home Missions shall under all circumstances function in co-operation with the District Superintendents, and in all matters of importance act only by approval of the Board.
The various Boards reported their organization as follows:
Board of Trustees of the Home: T. D. Gehret, President; Herbert W. Hartman, Secretary; Howard 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: Paul E. Baer, President; R. H. Gehman, Secretary.
Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: E. W. Bean, Chairman, D. E. Thomann, Secretary.
Board of Directors: F. B. Hertzog, President; T. D. Gehret, Vice President; C. E. Kirkwood, Secretary; Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer.
Resolved, That we have a Ministerial Convention to be held in Philadelphia (Salem), Pa., on Thursday, April 22, 1954.
The following officers were elected: Chairman, Herbert W. Hartman; Secretary, H. D. Yarrington.
Committee on Program: F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla.
Resolved, That $125.00 be donated from Annual Conference Fund to the Philadelphia (Salem), 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 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 the Retirement Age of Pastors be established at 72 years, and this shall be a Standing Rule.
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene in the Ebenezer Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 1121-1125 North Main Street, Bethlehem, Pa., on Tuesday, October 12, 1954 at 10:00 A. M.
Resolved, That the following form a Committee on Program for the next Annual Conference: N. H. Wolf, C. E. Kirkwood, P. T. Stengele.
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 Meeting 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.
Resolved, That we recess to the Call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
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 there be elected a Committee of 7 ministers and 3 laymen, outside the Board of Directors, to study the Government of our Conference.
All work of this Committee is to be cleared through the Board of Directors before being presented to the next Annual Conference.
Willard E. Cassel,
W. A. Heffner,
J. E. Golla,
Donald T. Kirkwood,
C. Leslie Miller,
J. H. Riggall,
R. C. Reichenbach,
A. L. Wentz,
R. Paul Schaeffer,
Daniel K. Zeigler.
Resolved, That Willard E. Cassel be temporary Chairman of this Committee.
Report of the Committee on Statistics: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Auditing:
We, the following Committee, have examined the accounts of the following:
District Superintendents Reports, The 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, Sunday School Conventions, Camp Meeting Accounts (1st, 2nd and 3rd Divisions), General Camp Meeting Committee, Conference Treasurer (report and accounts), Finance Committee, Statistical Report, Berean Bible School (both Secretary and Treasurer), Ministers’ Retirement Fund, Laymen’s Benevolent Society, Menno Youth Society.
These records of the Conference were found in a satisfactory condition and indicated much care in their preparation. The several errors found were corrected in the presence of those concerned.
F. M. Hottel, H. H. Bergey,
H. L. Shelly, R. S. Weidner,
Edw. J. Dietzman, Clayton E. Weber,
Parke E. Rankin, David Gardner,
J. D. Kreiss, Daniel K. Ziegler,
R. Spedden, John B. Harley,
Theodore L. Bleich, Ralph D. Cole,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on District Superintendent Residences:
Resolved, That the Conference purchase a residence for use as a parsonage by the District Superintendent of the Allentown District. The selection and site are to be chosen by the Board of Directors and they shall provide finances.
Resolved, That an offering be received in a Sunday service by each Pastor and sent to C. E. Kirkwood, Secretary of the Board of Directors by April 1, 1954. All checks should be made payable to the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pa.
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania, has been requested by the Officers of the Corporation to take appropriate action providing for the transfer of title to real estate presently held by the Trustees of the M. B. C. Home, also known as Mennonite Brethren in Christ Orphanage and Home, and as the Home Farm, located at Center Valley, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, to the MENNONITE BRETHREN IN CHRIST CHURCH OF PENNSYLVANIA, a Corporation, and
WHEREAS, the Annual Conference favors the granting of said request,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED that the Annual Conference hereby approves and authorizes said transfer of title and, with the limits of its delegated powers, directs the said Trustees to execute, acknowledge and deliver to the Corporation a deed of conveyance of the premises aforesaid.
RESOLUTION
BE IT AND IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED that the officers of the MENNONITE BRETHREN IN CHRIST CHURCH OF PENNSYLVANIA, a Corporation, request the Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren In Christ Church of Pennsylvania, at its next meeting, to take appropriate action to accomplish the transfer of the title and improvements thereon elected, and variously known as MBC Home, Mennonite Brethren In Christ Orphanage and Home, and the Home Farm, all located at Center Valley, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, to this Corporation.
Resolved, That Item L under Local Conference Rules on page eight of the Year Book be revised to include the following:
In the event that a candidate receives two-thirds of the votes cast in the informal nominating ballot, he may be declared elected by Congregational affirmation.
Resolved, That $500.00 be taken from the Civilian Public Service Fund and appropriated to the District Superintendent parsonage fund, and further
Resolved, That fifty dollars ($50.00) be donated to the Mennonite Central Committee out of the Civilian Public Service Fund.
Resolved, That the petition of the Salem M. B. In C. Church that all officers of the Salem M. B. In C. Church and Sunday School, with the exception of the Board of Trustees of the Church and the Treasurer of the Sunday School, be limited to five consecutive years of office, said officers being ineligible for re-election for a period of one year, be granted.
Resolved, That the petition of the Ebenezer M. B. In C. Church of Bethlehem, Pa., that Annual Conference grant them the permission to adopt the following procedure for Local. Conference elections:
The tenure of office for any elected officer of the Church and Sunday School shall not be more than five years. Any elected officer whose term has expired shall not be eligible for the same office unto the expiration of one year, be granted.
Resolved, That the petition of the Bethel M. B. In C. Church that the Annual Conference grant Bethel Church the privilege of recognizing the Advisory Board, consisting of all elected Church and Sunday School officers, as an official Board under the direction of and answerable to the Local Conference, be granted,
Resolved, That the petition of Bethel M. B. In C. Church that Annual Conference grant to Bethel Church the privilege of electing the Trustees at the same time the other officers are elected, be granted.
Resolved, That the District Superintendents assume the responsibility of the Second Division Camp Meeting alternately each consecutive year.
Resolved. That any Congregation desiring to elect Sunday School officers at the same time when the other Church Officers are elected, shall be permitted to do so.
Resolved, That we recommend that the representation of Delegates to the Annual Conference be on the following basis: One delegate for the first two hundred members or fraction thereof and another Delegate for each additional two hundred members. The first delegate elected by the Local Conference shall be the member of the Stationing Boundary and Appropriations Committee, and be known as the senior delegate.
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 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 after 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 the Home Mission Board be authorized to deal with the question relating to the Mission in the Home Missionary Society as to their being further incorporated in the work of the Conference, as unorganized works.
Adjourned at 11:45 P. M., with prayer by the Chairman P. T. Stengele and Benediction by the Secretary, T. D. Gehret.
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,
H. B. Musselman, District Superintendent Emeritus,
E. W. Bean, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, R. H. Gehman, J. E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman,
W. W. Hartman, W. F. Heffner, W. A. Heffner, F. M. Hottel, W. B. Hottel, J. B. Layne, C. Leslie Miller, J. H. Riggall, E. J. Rutman, R. C. Reichenbach, Arthur M. Sprock, D. E. Thomann, A. G. Woodring, H. D. Yarrington, G. F. Yost, E. E. Kublic, J. B. Henry, A. L. Seifert, Donald T. Kirkwood, Robert W. Smock, James G. Koch, Earl M. Hosler, Warren Taylor, Bertram L. Ringler, Allan F. Smith, Paul H. Cressman, T. LaMarn Manney, David H. Fahs, H. H. Bergey, S. A. Hackman, John B. Harley, Monroe A. Kreisher, R. Spedden, R. S. Weidner, Herbert V. Smith, A. W. Deppe, H. L. Shelly, J. D. Kreiss, Clayton E. Weber, Daniel K. Ziegler, Franklin Mead, John Long, Ralph D. Cole, E. J. Dietzman, J. R. Weber, Theodore L. Bleich, Edward W. Judd, Parke E. Rankin, George R. Fish, Frank L. Herb, Sr., David Gardner.