SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1958
The Seventy-fifth Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania convened in Ebenezer Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 1121-25 North Main Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
The Conference opened at 1:00 p. m., Monday, October 13, with singing “The Church’s One Foundation.”
The Chairman of the Annual Conference, F. B. Hertzog, due to illness was unable to be present to open the Conference, therefore the Vice Chairman, C. E. Kirkwood, occupied the Chair.
He addressed the Conference on the “Dangers that Confront the Church,” basing his exposition on Acts 6:1-4.
A Prayer and Praise Period followed during which we humbly praised the Lord for His rich blessings poured out upon the work and also for many individual spiritual and physical victories. The Communion service, in which the entire Conference participated, proved to be a time of blessed fellowship and rejoicing in the Lord.
The Secretary, N. H. Wolf, appointed the following assistants: Assistant Secretary, Ernest B. Hartman; Recording Secretary, Paul E. Baer.
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, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A Heffner, W. F. Heffner, Frank L. Herb, Jr., F. B. Hertzog, Earl M. Hosler, W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, J. B. Layne, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, P. T. Stengele, David E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, E. J. Rutman, A. G. Woodring, J. B. Henry, C. Leslie Miller, H. D. Yarrington.
Probationers — Russell T. Allen, Carl C. Cassel, LeRoy S. Heller, Richard H. Kline, Donald B. Schaeffer.
Delegates
Allentown District
Francis H. Gehman, Kermit K. Gehman, Allentown (Bethel)
Robert Breitegam, Reading
William E. Miller, Sunbury
Clair E. Bupp, York
George A. John, Shamokin
Daniel K. Ziegler, Hatfield
David F. Gardner, Harrisburg
Roy E. Williams, Mount Carmel
R. S. Weidner, Royersford and Spring City
S. A. Hackman, Graterford and Harleysville
James A. Bell, Nazareth and Northampton
William P. Snyder, Lehighton
Burton Deppe, Walnutport
Charles W. Weaber, Lebanon
Raymond Snyder, Lancaster
Ned G. Copenhaver, Stroudsburg
Bethlehem District
A. Franklin Campbell, Bethlehem
Byron C. Cassel, Philadelphia (Salem)
Harold P. Shelly, Quakertown
Allan F. LaRose, Easton
Harold A. Mann, Coopersburg
R. Spedden, Chester
Merrill Achey, Allentown (Salem)
Paul I. Wentz, Emmaus, Macungie and Zionsville
Clayton E. Weber, Fleetwood and Blandon
Carl H. Kellerman, Scranton
Robert W. Gehret, Terre Hill
Henry B. Wilkinson, Philadelphia (Calvary)
Edward J. Deitzman, Philadelphia (Emmanuel)
Roger Bowne, Staten Island, N. Y.
Ray Engle, Jersey City, N. J.
Resolved, That we accept the excuses of the absent delegates and when they arrive they shall be seated in the Conference Bar.
A letter of Communication from J. B. Henry, Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, was read.
Resolved, That this letter be referred to the Committee on Communications.
Resolved, That we excuse E. J. Rutman and upon his arrival he be seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That the first seven rows of pews throughout the Church constitute the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That all Home Mission Ministers present be recognized as advisory members. The following were present during the Conference: Robert F. Johnson, Bert N. Brosius, Robert E. McIntyre, G. Howard VanSandt, Leon K. Overpeck, Reynold D. Gardner, George E. Herb, Norman F. Gordon, Jr., Alva C. Cassel.
Resolved. That no member be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission of the Chairman except William A. Heffner and A. Franklin Campbell.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Timekeeper and Reporter.
He appointed David E. Thomann, reporter and Richard H. Kline, timekeeper.
Report of the Committee to Arrange a Program for the Services of the Annual Conference:
MONDAY: 1:00 P. M. Opening address by the Chairman of the Annual Conference,
Rev. F. B. Hertzog, District Superintendent.
Prayer-Praise Period (Limited to 30 minutes).
Observance of the Lord’s Supper.
TUESDAY: 9:00 A. M. Devotions in charge of Rev. C. E. Kirkwood, District
Superintendent,
7:30 P. M. “MISSIONS IN REVIEW”
A.Each Home Mission Minister to speak on the topic “My
Call To The Mission Of The Church.”
(Limited to 3 minutes.)
B. Each Foreign Missionary present to speak on the same topic, with
same time limit.
Rev. C. E. Kirkwood, District Superintendent, to give Ordination Challenge.
(Limited to 10 minutes.)
(The Tuesday Evening service shall be in charge of the host pastor.)
The committee recommends that the morning devotional period be limited to thirty minutes, including singing, prayer, and a brief meditation.
William A. Heffner,
W. W. Hartman,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
The Committee appointed in 1957 to study Conference procedure presented a proposed agenda for this Conference.
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: William A. Heffner, James G. Koch, David E. Thomann.
Committee on Finance: Paul I. Wentz, Byron C. Cassel, Francis H. Gehman, S. A. Hackman.
Committee on Examination of Local Conference Records: E. W. Bean, W. B. Hottel, W. F. Heffner, Richard H. Kline, James G. Koch, Russell T. Allen, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, Frank L. Herb, Jr., Donald B. Schaeffer, Carl C. Cassel, William E. Miller, George A. John, David F. Gardner, James A. Beil, William P. Snyder, Burton Deppe, Charles W. Weaber, Raymond Snyder, Ned G. Copenhaver, A. Franklin Campbell, Harold P. Shelly, Henry B. Wilkinson, Allan F. LaRose, Roger Bowne, Carl H. Kellerman, Ray Engle.
Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: C. E. Kirkwood, F. B. Hertzog, Walter H. Frank.
Committee on Statistics: J. B. Layne, Willard E. Cassel, J. E. Golla, Jansen E. Hartman, Donald T. Kirkwood, LeRoy S. Heller, John Dunn.
Committee en Examination of District Superintendents, Local Preachers, Evangelists, Missionaries: N. H. Wolf, Ernest B. Hartman, W. F. Heffner, R. H. Gehman, Paul E. Baer.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: P. T. Stengele, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, W. B. Hottel, John H. Riggall.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: Jansen E. Hartman, T. D. Gehret, Walter H. Frank, David E. Thomann.
Committee on Resolutions: John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, R. C. Reichenbach.
Committee on Auditing: T. D. Gehret, Daniel K. Ziegler, R. Spedden, R. S. Weidner, Clayton Weber, Roy E. Williams, Robert W. Gehret, Kermit K. Gehman, Edward J. Dietzman, Harold A. Mann, Sr., Robert Breitegam, Clair Bupp, Merrill F. Achey.
Committee an Examination of Annual Conference Records: R. H. Gehman, Earl M. Hosler.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules to adjourn to meet tonight from 6:30 to 9:00 o’clock.
The meeting was adjourned at 2:45 p. m., with prayer by John Dunn.
SECOND MEETING
Monday Evening, October 13, 1958
The Second Meeting was opened at 6:30 p. m. with the singing of “Draw Me Nearer” with prayer by R. H. Gehman.
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 Examiners: (See Reports)
Resolved, That the following brethren who have successfully completed the examination on the Discipline be referred to the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: Bert N. Brosius, Leonard Buck, Alva C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, Robert E. McIntyre, Leon K. Overpeck, G. Howard VanSandt.
The Report of the Committee on Local Conference Records:
We have examined all the Local Conference Records and have found them in good condition. A few omissions and minor errors were found which were corrected by the Pastors concerned.
The following petitions were found:
Petition # 1
Fleetwood-Blandon Circuit: Resolved, That the congregation of Trinity M. B. C. Church, Blandon, Pennsylvania wishes to request the Annual Conference which is to meet in Bethlehem on October 13, 1958, to renew its original petition to the Annual Conference held in 1956, asking that consideration be given for the appointment of a full-time pastor.
Petition #2
Royersford-Spring City Circuit: Resolved, After much prayer and serious consideration we the members of the Royersford and Spring City Circuit believe that it will be for the good of the Lord’s work in each of these communities to dissolve the circuit which has existed for more than sixty years; Therefore, we petition the Annual Conference convening in Bethlehem, Pa., October 13, 1958, to dissolve the circuit and give each congregation our own pastor and permit us to operate independently and that this action be taken as soon as possible.
Petition #3
Lancaster: Resolved, That we the members of the Faith Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, petition the Annual Conference to discontinue the Home Mission appropriation to Lancaster and grant the Lancaster congregation the status of a station.
Petition #4
Allentown, (Bethel):
(a) That we petition Annual Conference that an Agenda be sent out to all Local Conferences prior to each Annual Conference.
(b) That we petition Annual Conference meeting in the 1958 session to amend the proposal on changing the name, to include the two new names “United Bible Church” and “Bible Fellowship Church,” and also the present name “Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church” from which all local Conferences shall select a name to represent our denomination.
Petition #5
Shamokin: It was moved and passed at the Local Conference of the Calvary Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Shamokin to petition the Annual Conference to be held at Bethlehem, Pa., October 13, 1958, to reconsider the action of Annual Conference of 1957 relative to Church name, and to retain the present name of the denomination.
Petition #6
Coopersburg: Whereas, according to the Annual Conference Year Book f or 1955 the various congregations in the conference were requested to vote on a change in name for the denomination, and,
Whereas, the total vote of the membership, by a large majority, favored no change in name, and a very substantial majority of the congregation in their votes also favored no change in name, and
Whereas, these facts were apparently overlooked at the Adjourned Session of the 1957 Annual Conference, when only the two names were submitted to the voters for their decision, therefore,
Be it Resolved, That we petition the 1958 Annual Conference to amend the action of the 1957 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference, so as to include the present name, with the two previously submitted to the membership through the Local Conferences for their final vote.
Petition #7
Emmaus, Macungie & Zionsville Circuit: Whereas, according to the 1955 year book the local churches were requested to vote for change of name, etc., and
Whereas, the general vote of all the churches was against the change of name both in the number of members voting and churches voting with the exception of the vote “if a more suitable name could be agreed upon,” which vote by a small margin of members voting was “that a more suitable name would be agreeable,” and
Whereas, at the adjourned session of the 1957 Annual Conference two names were chosen other than the present name to be voted upon as the choice of a name, and
Whereas, the local congregations were not given the privilege of a choice between the names suggested and the present name, which privilege was possibly in the mind of the 1955 Annual Conference, therefore,
Be it Resolved, that we recommend to the next Annual Conference that the procedure followed at the previously adjourned session of Annual Conference be amended and that the present name be included among the names to be voted upon, and that the local conferences be permitted to again vote on the choice of a name from the list of three names including the present name, submitted by Annual Conference.
Petition #8
Reading: to the Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ 1958: We the Church at Reading, Pa., petition the Annual Conference in the adoption of a new name, that consideration be given to the inclusion of the name of Christ.
Petition #9
Bethlehem:
(a) Resolved, that we petition Annual Conference concerning the change of Church name. We ask that they reconsider and restudy this important matter. We ask that they be governed by the original petition as found in the 1955 Year Book, page 23, in that they first find out by ballot from the church membership whether or not a change is desired.
(b) Resolved, that we petition Annual Conference meeting in the 1958 session that they rescind the requirement that signatures be affixed to the “ballots” pertinent to pulpit supply.
(c) Whereas, our denomination the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania has on March 28, 1906 acquired property at Center Valley, Pa., and which has since been known as the Orphanage and Home, and
Whereas, throughout our denomination, in recent decades, there has been a noticeable default of active interest resulting in apathy and near inaction in regards to the aforementioned project, therefore be it further
Resolved, that we petition the 75th Annual Conference and the properly elected Board to seriously plan and strenuously press to bring to completion this long-overdue requisite.
E. W. Bean, Donald B. Schaeffer, Raymond Snyder,
W. B. Hottel, Carl C. Cassel, Ned G. Copenhaver,
W. F. Heffner, William E. Miller, A. Franklin Campbell,
Richard H. Kline, George A. John, Harold P. Shelly, Sr.,
James G. Koch, David F. Gardner, Henry B. Wilkinson,
Russell T. Allen, James A. Beil, Allen F. LaRose,
Robert W. Smock, William P. Snyder, Carl H. Kellerman,
David E. Thomann, Burton Deppe, Roger Bowne,
Frank L. Herb, Jr., Charles W. Weaber, Ray Engel,
Committee.
Resolved, That the petitions recorded in the minutes books of the Fleetwood-Blandon Circuit, the Royersford-Spring City Circuit, and the Lancaster Church be referred to the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Report of the Allentown District Superintendent, F. B. Hertzog: (See Reports)
Report of the Bethlehem District Superintendent, C. E. Kirkwood: (See Reports)
Report of the Director of Home Missions, Jansen E. Hartman: (See Reports)
Resolved, That they be adopted.
Report of the Board of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we proceed to the second reading of the Report of the Government Committee, October 14, 1957.
Report Of Government Committee-1958
(Second Reading)
ELECTION OF CONFERENCE BOARDS AND OFFICERS
Only ordained ministers and probationers having charge of a work, who are willing to minister under the direction of the Annual Conference and according to the Discipline shall be eligible to be elected or appointed to Conference Offices, Boards or Committees. (Held over for second reading at the Annual Conference, 1959.)
Only laymen who are in good standing with the Local Churches shall be considered for election or appointment to Conference Offices, Boards or Committees. These laymen need not be members of the Annual Conference.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. It shall consist of the District Superintendents, four ordained ministers and three laymen.
Board of Foreign Missions
A. A General Secretary shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference from among the ordained ministers.
By virtue of his office he shall be a member of the Board of Foreign Missions.
B. The Board of Foreign Missions shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. It shall consist of the District Superintendents, General Secretary, two ordained ministers and four laymen.
Board of Home Missions
A. A Director of Home Missions shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference from among the ordained ministers.
By virtue of his office he shall be a member of the Board of Home Missions.
B. The Board of Home Missions shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. It shall consist of the District Superintendents, Home Mission Director, two ordained ministers and two laymen.
(The above was adopted.)
(First Reading)
Election of Conference Boards & Officers (continued)
Vice-District Superintendents
Vice-District Superintendent(s) shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of Annual Conference. In the event of a vacancy occurring in the office of District Superintendent, the Board of Directors shall designate which of the Vice-District Superintendents shall fill the unexpired term.
Committee Over The District Superintendents
The Committee shall consist of three ordained ministers elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference.
President of Berean Bible School
The President of Berean Bible School shall be elected annually by ballot by the Board of Education from among the ordained ministers. His election shall be submitted to the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference for ratification.
Chairman of Annual Conference
The Chairman of the Annual Conference shall be a District Superintendent and shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference.
Vice-Chairman of Annual Conference
The Vice-Chairman of the Annual Conference shall be a District Superintendent and shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference.
Secretary of Annual Conference
The Secretary of the Annual Conference shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference from among the ordained ministers. The Secretary shall appoint his assistants.
Treasurer of Annual Conference
The Treasurer of the Annual Conference shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. In the event of a vacancy occurring in the office, the Board of Directors shall appoint a treasurer to fill the unexpired term.
The Victory Valley Committee
The Victory Valley Committee shall be composed of the District Superintendents, two ordained ministers and three laymen and shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference.
Menno Youth General Committee
The Menno Youth General Committee shall be composed of two pastors and two laymen from each District. The District Superintendents shall be ex-officio members of this Committee. The Pastors shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference and the laymen appointed annually by the District Superintendents.
Beneficiary Society
The Beneficiary Society shall elect a President, Secretary and Treasurer at its annual meeting.
Laymen’s Benevolent Society
The Annual Conference shall elect annually by ballot three laymen to serve as a Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society, designating the President, Secretary and Treasurer of the Board.
These laymen shall be members of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania and members of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society.
BOARDS TO BE APPOINTED
Board of Publication and Printing
The Board of Publication and Printing shall consist of three ordained ministers appointed annually by the Chairman of the Annual Conference.
(The above was adopted.)
Adjourned 9:00 p. m., with prayer by John H. Riggall.
THIRD MEETING
Tuesday Morning, October 14, 1958
The Third Meeting was opened at 9:00 a. m., with the singing of “And Can It Be That I Should Gain.” Richard H. Kline led in prayer and David E. Thomann and LeRoy S. Heller sang, “Simply Trusting.”
Jansen E. Hartman spoke on the life of godliness, which is produced by the sanctifying and cleansing power of the Word of God.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned 9:40 a. m., with prayer by Merrill Achey.
FOURTH MEETING
Tuesday Afternoon, October 14, 1958
The meeting was opened with the singing of “Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me.” Frank L. Herb, Jr. led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
H. D. Yarrington briefly addressed the Conference telling us of the open doors of ministry as a hospital chaplain.
Report of the Committee on 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 find them all satisfactory, and serving commendably where the Lord has placed them.
N. H. Wolf, R. H. Gehman,
Ernest B. Hartman, Paul E. Baer,
W. F. Heffner,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Home: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Ordination:
We have met with the following brethren: Richard H. Kline, Russell T. Allen, LeRoy S. Heller, Donald B. Schaeffer, and have examined them relative to their personal lives, doctrinal beliefs and pastoral work. We believe them to be sincere, devoted and godly servants of the Lord.
We, therefore, recommend that they be ordained to the Christian ministry in this evening’s service.
Jansen E. Hartman, T. D. Gehret,
Walter H. Frank, David E. Thomann,
Committee.
Report of the Board of Directors: (See Reports)
Resolved, That disposition of the money held under Civilian Public Service Camps be made as follows that $50.00 be given to Mennonite Central Committee, and the balance of $435.64 to be applied towards the District Superintendents’ parsonages.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records:
We hereby certify that we have examined the Annual Conference Minutes of the sessions of 1957 and have found them correct.
We hereby submit two copies duly certified.
We have read the reports of the Ministerial Convention and the Sunday School Convention, and believe them to be correct to the best of our knowledge.
R. H. Gehman,
Earl M. Hosler,
Committee.
Resolved, That we proceed to the consideration of the report of the Government Committee. (First Reading)
ANNUAL CONFERENCE MEMBERS
Members of the Annual Conference shall be as follows:
1. All ordained ministers of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania laboring under the direction of the Annual Conference.
2. All probationers who have charge of a conference appointment under the direction of the Annual Conference.
3. All retired ministers of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
4. Lay delegate(s) from each church or circuit as provided by the Discipline.
Advisory members of the Annual Conference shall be as follows:
1. All ordained ministers of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania who retain their membership in one of our local churches, and who are engaged in Christian service not directly responsible to our Annual Conference.
2. Home Missionary Pastors.
3. Missionaries who hold membership in one of our local churches and are under the supervision of the Foreign Mission Board of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
Participation in proceedings of the Annual Conference shall be as follows:
1. Only members of the Annual Conference shall be eligible to vote.
2. Advisory members shall not be permitted to participate in Conference discussions except by request of the Chairman.
PLEASE NOTE: We as a Committee go on record as not favoring the forming of a Nominating Committee for Annual Conference for the following reasons:
1. We have not been able to discover a satisfactory method to establish a nominating committee.
2. The dangers of relegating important Conference positions to a limited number of Conference members.
A. L. Seifert, Chairman, William A. Heffner, A. L. Wentz,
Willard E. Cassel, Secretary, R. C. Reichenbach, Rufus Spedden,
J. H. Riggall, David E. Thomann,
J. E. Golla, James R. Cressman,
Committee.
Resolved, That we approve the suggested revision of the standing rules as presented by the Government Committee, and that we adopt their report.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules, and adjourn and meet tomorrow morning at 9:00 o’clock.
Adjourned at 4:45 p. m., with prayer by Clair E. Bupp.
FIFTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 15, 1958
The meeting was opened with the singing of the hymn, “Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned,” after which Harold P. Shelly, Sr., led in prayer and Daniel K. Ziegler sang, “Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart.”
P. T. Stengele brought the morning devotional message based upon Peter’s first epistle, chapter 2, verses 1 to 10, emphasizing the all importance of the true Church of Jesus Christ, over against religious systems past and present.
The Conference Chairman, F. B. Hertzog, gave a brief address to the Conference.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Report of the Board of Education: (See Reports)
(It was adopted.)
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders:
The Traveling Elders have been examined individually through their respective delegates. We are happy to report that these men have been found to be men of God, preaching the Word of God faithfully, and manifest a whole-hearted concern for the work of the Lord and His Church.
We, therefore, commend them for future service amongst us.
F. B. Hertzog, Walter H. Frank,
C. E. Kirkwood,
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.
The following ministering brethren responded “yea” to the roll call: E. W. Bean, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, R. H. Gehman, T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, W. F. Heffner, Frank L. Herb, Jr., F. B. Hertzog, Earl. M. Hosler, W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, J. B. Layne, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, P. T. Stengele, David E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, A. G. Woodring, Russell T. Allen, Carl C. Cassel, LeRoy S. Heller, Richard H. Kline, Donald B. Schaeffer. Paul E. Baer, “Nay.”
The following was read to the Conference:
Brother Chairman and members of the Conference:
After prayer and much thought and consultation with the District Superintendents, I feel led of the Lord to request for an indefinite leave of absence, due to a physical condition.
Signed, Paul E. Baer.
Resolved, That we grant Paul E. Baer, his request and further
Resolved, That we include his name on the list of Itinerant Ministers.
Resolved, That the resolution relative to “yea and nay roll call” be referred to the Government Committee for further study.
The following reports were read and adopted:
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS
We, the Committee on Communications, report that we have received word from Rev. J. B. Henry, Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, who is also a member of the Annual Conference. Brother Henry writes, “It is with regret that I am unable to attend this year due to a commitment for the Africa Inland Mission; however, you will be in my thoughts and my prayers.” Therefore,
Resolved, That we remember our good brother in prayer that he may have all needed wisdom and strength for the ministry in which he is engaged.
We have received letters from Rev. and Mrs. Calvin F. Snyder, of Glendale, California. Rev. and Mrs. Snyder are retired missionaries to Tibet, China.
They continue to be actively engaged in prayer and Bible study groups as well as in preparing materials for use in foreign missionary work.
They express appreciation for the financial support, prayers, and gifts from the Pennsylvania Conference as well as for the Gospel Herald provided by the Foreign Mission Board. Therefore,
Resolved, That we continue to remember them in prayer that their lives may continue to be blessed as well as be a blessing to others.
A letter from Rev. J. Barclay Harley, one of our missionaries to Venezuela, South America, informs us that he and Mrs. Harley have been laboring in their present location for nine months. Already they have completed almost one half of their first term of foreign mission service. Rev. Harley is presently serving as co-pastor of the church in Ciudad Bolivar and has made several trips into the interior for an evangelistic and teaching ministry. They request a continued interest in our prayers. Therefore,
Resolved, That we thank the Lord for these gifts to the church and pray that they shall have a prosperous and fruitful ministry.
William A. Heffner, David E. Thomann,
James G. Koch,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage:
We have worked under the direction of the District Superintendents during the year.
E. W. Bean, David E. Thomann,
R. H. Gehman, W. W. Hartman,
Committee.
Annual Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports)
Annual Report of the Board of Publication and Printing: (See Reports)
Report of the Sunday School Promotion Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Menno Youth General Committee: (See Reports)
Annual Report of the Board of Trustees, Layman’s Benevolent Society: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the call of the Chair,
Adjourned, 11:55 a. m., with prayer by David F. Gardner.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 15, 1958
The meeting was opened 3:05 p. m., with singing “When the Roll is Called Up Yonder.” E. E. Kublic led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We have examined Bert N. Brosius, Leonard E. Buck, Alva C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, Robert E. McIntyre, Leon K. Overpeck and G. Howard Van Sandt.
We are convinced that they are called of God to the Ministry. They also have given service in the Home Missionary Society and are in accord with our Church doctrine. We, therefore, recommend them for Annual Conference license.
P. T. Stengele, W. B. Hottel,
W. W. Hartman, John H. Riggall,
William A. Heffner,
Committee.
The President of Berean Bible School gave an oral report of the accomplishments and objectives of the School and submitted a proposed budget for 1959.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of Victory Valley Youth Camp Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Tellers Appointed to tabulate the vote on Church Name cast by the Local Conferences:
Following is a summary of the vote submitted by the District Superintendents and the Director of Home Missions of the votes on Church Name received by them, in the Local Conferences.
The total vote on the two names submitted by the Annual Conference was:
United Bible Church 448
Bible Fellowship Church 359
The vote by Local Conferences was:
United Bible Church 15
Bible Fellowship Church 14
In addition to the above 807 ballots there were 234 votes cast for the name, Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania and 8 votes cast for miscellaneous names.
In four Local Conferences the majority of the votes cast were for the name — Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
Byron C. Cassel, J. E. Hartman,
A. L. Seifert, T. D. Gehret,
Walter H. Frank,
Tellers.
Report of the Conference Treasurer: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules, and adjourn to meet this evening at 6:30 to 9:00 o’clock.
Adjourned, 4:40 p. m., with prayer by E. W. Bean.
SEVENTH MEETING
Wednesday Evening, October 15, 1958
The meeting was opened 6:30 o’clock with singing, “Come Thou Blessed Saviour.” Charles W. Weaber led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes were read and approved.
Resolved, That we consider the petitions that have been found in the Local Conference records, and are listed as follows:
The petition recorded in the Allentown (Bethel) Minute Book, That we petition Annual Conference that an agenda be sent out to all Local Conferences prior to each Annual Conference.
Resolved, That this petition be denied.
The petition recorded in the Bethlehem Minute Book; That we petition Annual Conference meeting in the 1958 session that they rescind the requirement that signatures be affixed to the “ballots” pertinent to pulpit supply.
Resolved, That this petition be denied.
The petition recorded in the Bethlehem Minute Book:
That we petition the 75th Annual Conference and the properly elected Board to seriously consider and plan for the future of the Home now located at Center Valley, Pa.
Resolved, That we gratefully acknowledge the above petition, and refer the matter to the Board of Trustees of the Home.
Adjourned at 9:00 p. m., with prayer by F. M. Hottel.
EIGHTH MEETING
Thursday Morning, October 16, 1958
The meeting was opened at 9 o’clock with singing, “May Jesus Christ Be Praised.” Earl M. Hosler led in prayer and Carl C. Cassel sang, “In Tenderness He Sought Me.”
The Chairman, C. E. Kirkwood read the fourth Chapter of II Corinthians for our devotional meditation.
C. Leslie Miller, General Superintendent of the Union Gospel Press, spoke briefly and brought greetings from those associated with him in His work.
Resolved, That a Committee of five be appointed by the Chairman to make a study of the petitions relative to Church Name submitted by various Local Conferences and to report back to this Conference with recommendations.
The Chair appointed the following: Byron C. Cassel, A. L. Seifert, Walter H. Frank, Jansen E. Hartman, T. D. Gehret.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 3 o’clock.
Adjourned with prayer by N. H. Wolf.
NINTH MEETING
Thursday Afternoon, October 16, 1958
The meeting was opened at 3:00 p. m., with the singing of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” E. J. Rutman led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports)
Resolved, That the membership on the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee to be limited to those Churches or Circuits and those Missions petitioning for membership on the Committee under our rules, that received at least $2,800.00 in Steward offering during the year.
Report of the Committee on Church Name Petitions:
We met with the Pastors and Delegates of the various churches which submitted petitions to this Conference relative to Church Name. After prayerful consideration and consultation with the Pastors and Delegates from the churches submitting petitions on church name, we recommend, as Conference action in response to each of the petitions received on this subject from the Local Conferences at Allentown (Bethel), Shamokin, Coopersburg, Emmaus, Macungie and Zionsville Circuit, Reading and Bethlehem, the amendment of paragraph number 4 of the procedures outlined for the change of church name as found on page 57-B of the 1957 Yearbook, so that it will read as follows:
“4. Final selection between the two names chosen today shall require two readings, selections at each reading to require two-thirds of the total vote. First reading shall be at Annual Conference 1958. The second reading shall be at the adjourned session of Annual Conference 1958.”
After a vote is taken to select a name for our denomination from the two names chosen at the adjourned session of Annual Conference 1957, the name chosen at this conference shall be submitted to each church for approval by ballot at the Sunday morning worship service on February 22, 1959. Approval shall be determined by the total vote of the constituency of our entire denomination.
The Committee strongly recommends that the Conference request each Pastor to acquaint his congregation with the reasons why a change in church name is desired.
Byron C. Cassel, Walter H. Frank,
A. L. Seifert, T. D. Gehret,
Jansen E. Hartman,
Committee.
Resolved, That the result of the ballot on Church Name taken on February 22, 1959, be forwarded to Pastor A. L. Seifert, Hatfield, Pa.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 to 9:00 o’clock.
Adjourned 4:55 p. m., with prayer by H. D. Yarrington.
TENTH MEETING
Thursday Evening, October 16, 1958
The meeting was opened at 6:30 p. m., with singing “Showers of Blessing.” A. G. Woodring led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That all pastors on the coming Sunday fill the pulpits of their new assignments.
Resolved, That we proceed with elections.
General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions: T. D. Gehret was elected.
Board of Foreign Missions: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, Walter H. Frank, J. E. Golla, Kermit K. Gehman, Roy E. Williams, Robert Breitegam, James R. Cressman.
Board of Directors: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, Jansen E. Hartman, Walter H. Frank, Donald T. Kirkwood, Byron C. Cassel, Paul I. Wentz and Daniel K. Ziegler.
Board of Home Missions: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, Jansen E. Hartman, A. L. Seifert, William A. Heffner, Clayton E. Weber, S. A. Hackman.
Trustees of the Home: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, E. W. Bean, David E. Thomann, Paul I. Wentz, Harold A. Mann.
Board of Education for Three Years: W. B. Hottel, John H. Riggall, Daniel K. Ziegler, Francis H. Gehman.
Board of Examiners: R. C. Reichenbach, Donald T. Kirkwood, Ernest B. Hartman.
Committee over the District Superintendents: W. F. Heffner, P. T. Stengele, W. W. Hartman.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen’s Benevolent Society: A. W. Deppe, President; Allen S. Weiss, Secretary; A. L. Wentz, Treasurer.
Resolved, That all contributions received for 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, 819 North Main Street, Allentown, Penna.
The following members of the Sunday School Promotion Committee were elected for three years: Robert W. Smock, James R. Cressman, William E. Miller.
Resolved, That we hold a Conference-Wide Sunday School Convention on Saturday, May 9, 1959, in Grace Church, Reading, Pa.
Resolved, That during the 1959-60 Conference Year, Regional Institutes be held, if requested by the regions. The time and place of the Institute would be arranged by this Committee.
Resolved, That the reports of the Boards of Foreign Missions, Home Missions and Berean Bible School be printed for free distribution.
Resolved, That we print 1200 Year Books to be sold at $1.00 per copy. Checks shall be made payable and forwarded to N. H. Wolf, Secretary. The deficit shall be paid out of the Board of Publication and Printing Fund.
Adjourned at 9:00 p. m., with prayer by H. D. Yarrington.
ELEVENTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 17, 1958
The meeting was opened at 9:00 o’clock with singing, “O Worship the King” and J. E. Golla led in prayer.
T. D. Gehret brought an inspirational message based on I John 3:1-3, emphasizing the constant cleansing needed by God’s people in view of the hope of the Lord’s return for His own. LeRoy S. Heller sang, “He Lifted Me.”
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were adopted:
REPORT OF THE EDITOR OF THE M. B. C. SUPPLEMENT OF THE GOSPEL HERALD
We have served another year as editor of the M. B. in C. Supplement of the Gospel Herald. The work at times was difficult, but not without blessings. We have appreciated the work and support of our three brethren, Pastors William A. Heffner, Carl C. Cassel and John Dunn for their help in securing copy and material. Many of the brethren have been faithful in submitting articles. We wish that all our pastors would submit copy so that our paper could be filled ONLY with M. B. in C. news. This can be done if all would do their part.
Our subscriptions have dropped this year and we are asking again that each pastor do his best in promoting our Church paper. The success of our paper lies in the response that our pastors give to its promotion. May we count on your wholehearted support.
David E. Thomann,
Editor.
REPORT OF THE CIRCULATION MANAGER OF THE M. B. C. EDITION OF THE GOSPEL HERALD
As we come to the close of this Conference year, I rejoice in the fact that the splendid articles and rich truths, that are to be found in the M.B.C. Gospel Herald, have entered many homes of our constituency. The Church paper is appreciated by many who look for its arrival and read it with interest.
Yet again I regret to say that we are still decreasing in our number of subscribers, having dropped from 775 last Conference to 690 at this present time. What can we do about this loss? Well, all of us, if we desire, can show a little more concern in our various churches and seek to promote an increased circulation. If we all do our part, our people are sure to respond. Perhaps there is someone in your Class who would be happy to assume the responsibility of this phase of the work. I would be happy to work with him.
FINANCIAL
Balance in Treasury, October 1, 1957 $ 29.54
Received for Subscriptions 1,866.13 $1,895.67
Expenditures
To Union Gospel Press $1,696.30
To Board of Publication and Printing 150.00
Refunds 9.95
Envelopes 13.50
Secretarial Expenses 21.20
Total Expenses $1,890.75
Balance in Treasury, September 30, 1958 4.92 $1,895.67
Respectfully submitted,
R. C. Reichenbach.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS
An aerogramme from Miss Olive Rawn, our missionary to the Sudan in Africa, informs us that she is well and busily engaged in the work of witnessing for Christ through personal testimony, the ministry of the Word and by means of medicine. Services are conducted daily in the dispensary as well as a regular program of Sunday, and mid-week services. She expresses appreciation for our remembrance of her. Therefore,
Resolved, That we thank God for this devoted witness for Christ and pray for divine blessing upon her every effort for Christ.
Rev. Austin Shelly, another one of our missionaries to Venezuela, South America, writes that he is now looking forward to preaching in Spanish with great anticipation. As of December 20th he and his family will be living in Cumana, Venezuela. They remember us in prayer; therefore,
Resolved, That we pray for them that they may in all ways triumph for Christ.
William A. Heffner, David E. Thomann.
James G. Koch,
Committee.
Procedures for the next year for meeting the needs of Berean Bible School.
Resolved, That the following recommendations be adopted:
1. Proclamation of a day as Berean Bible School Day in the Sunday Schools and Churches for the purpose of promoting interest in and support of the school. Checks for these contributions shall be sent and made payable to Berean Bible School, 1020 S. Hall Street, Allentown, Pa.
2. A special offering shall be received at the Youth Rallies at each Camp Meeting.
3. The laymen on the Board of Education shall constitute a Committee to work with all our churches to promote the advantages of training at Berean Bible School and to formulate a plan to raise $25,000.00 needed to carry on the Berean Bible School program in the 1958-59 year. The District Superintendents shall be advisory members of this Committee.
Resolved, That we adopt the following recommendations from Victory Valley Camp Committee:
1. That every Sunday School receive an offering for the Victory Valley Youth Camp by March 1st. This offering is to be forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Directors.
2. That the living room and basement of the main building be available for limited use by groups from our churches. Any group using these facilities shall make reservations through the Secretary of the Board of Directors, and shall also forward to him an offering for the use of said facilities.
Resolved, That the adjourned session of Annual Conference be held Saturday, April 11, 1959, at 9:00 a. m., in Ebenezer Church, Bethlehem, Pa.
Resolved, That we continue with the elections.
General Menno Youth Committee: Earl M. Hosler, J. E. Golla, LeRoy S. Heller, Carl C. Cassel, Gary Amey, Glenn Ruoss, Paul I. Wentz, Jr., Glenn Sheats.
Resolved, That we elect a Committee of seven Ministers and three laymen outside of the Board of Directors, to study and formulate proposals for the revision of our Church Government. All work of this Committee is to be approved through the Board of Directors before being presented to the next Annual Conference.
Committee: Willard E. Cassel, John H. Riggall, J. E. Golla, William A. Heffner, R. C. Reichenbach, David E. Thomann, A. L. Seifert, James R. Cressman, A. L. Wentz and R. Spedden.
Editor of M. B. in C. Supplement of “Gospel Herald”: David E. Thomann. Assistant Editors appointed by the Editor: A. L. Seifert and Harold P. Shelly.
Circulation Manager of “Gospel Herald”: R. C. Reichenbach.
Resolved, That the Chairman appoint a Committee of two to compile a report of the Conference for the “Gospel Herald” Supplement. He appointed James G. Koch and John Dunn.
Victory Valley Youth Camp Committee: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, William A. Heffner, Walter H. Frank, Clayton E. Weber, S. A. Hackman, and Kermit K. Gehman.
Chairman of the Next Annual Conference: F. B. Hertzog.
Vice Chairman of the Next Annual Conference: C. E. Kirkwood.
Secretary of the Next Annual Conference: N. H. Wolf.
Annual Conference Treasurer: Paul I. Wentz.
Resolved, That the Chairman appoint a Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage and a Board of Publication and Printing.
He appointed the following:
Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage: E. W. Bean, Donald B. Schaeffer, W. W. Hartman and David E. Thomann.
Board of Publication and Printing: John H. Riggall, John Dunn and Willard E. Cassel.
Resolved, That we consider the proposal of the Committee on Church name, to select from the two names chosen at the adjourned session of Annual Conference, 1957.
Resolved, That we vote on the first and second choices for Church name. Should neither name have a 2/3 majority on the first ballot, there shall be a “yes” or “no” vote on the name receiving the highest vote on the first ballot.
The Church name chosen was “Bible Fellowship Church.”
Resolved, That the Committee of five who worked on name change, plus the two District Superintendents, prepare a statement of reasons for changing our name to be given in sufficient number to each pastor, to be circulated by those who desire it in each Church, and further,
Resolved, That we recommend that each pastor read publicly this statement prior to the meeting on February 22, 1959.
Adjourned with prayer by W. F. Heffner.
TWELFTH MEETING
Friday Afternoon, October 17, 1958
The meeting was opened at 1:30 p. m., with the singing, “Thank You, Lord for Saving my Soul.” David E. Thomann led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were adopted:
Report of the Committee on Statistics: (See Reports)
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AUDITING
We have examined the reports and accounts of the following:
Local Conference Records; District Superintendents’ Reports; Camp Meetings; General Camp Meeting Committee; Conference Treasurer; Committee on Finance; Committee on Statistics; Ministers’ Retirement Fund; Layman’s Benevolent Society; Board of Foreign Missions; Board of Education; Gospel Herald Subscriptions; Beneficiary Fund; Victory Valley; Camp Meeting Cafeteria Account; Menno Youth General Committee; Sunday School Convention Report.
A few errors were found, which were corrected by the parties concerned. We find the above records and accounts to be in satisfactory condition.
T. D. Gehret, Roy E. Williams, Clayton E. Weber,
Harold A. Mann, Clair E. Bupp, Robert W. Gehret,
Robert Breitegam, Kermit K. Gehman, Daniel K. Ziegler,
R. Spedden, Merrill Achey,
Edward J. Dietzman, R. S. Weidner,
Committee.
COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS
1. Whereas, we the members of the 75th Annual Conference are conscious of the Lord’s divine blessing upon our denomination throughout these many years, in giving us consecrated, spiritual leadership and a faithful constituency, therefore,
Resolved, That we lift our hearts in thanks to God and look to Him for His continued favor and guidance.
2. Whereas, the Lord in this past year has again given to us devoted leaders, District Superintendents F. B. Hertzog and C. E. Kirkwood and Home Mission Director Jansen E. Hartman, and has enabled them to discharge the duties of their offices in a most exemplary manner, therefore,
Resolved, That we acknowledge these labors of love, extend to them our appreciation for their sacrificial service and pledge our loyalty and prayer support.
3. Whereas, God has been pleased to glorify His name through the faithful preaching of our pastors, souls having come to a knowledge of Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord and many believers encouraged and strengthened in the faith, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for what He has brought to pass and look to the future in anticipation of greater things as we humbly wait upon Him.
4. Whereas, God in His matchless grace has been pleased to give to us many loyal and zealous people, comprising the constituency of our churches, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for their faithfulness, and pray that the testimony of each local congregation may continue to increase in favor with God and men.
5. Whereas, God has enabled our retired ministers, E. E. Kublic, F. M. Hottel, A. G. Woodring and E. J. Rutman to be present at this Annual Conference, and,
Whereas, they have willingly served the Lord whenever and wherever the need has arisen, therefore,
Resolved, That we thank God for their presence with us, and pray that He may bless them richly both physically and spiritually.
6. Whereas, Pastor William A. Heffner and the members of the Bethlehem Ebenezer congregation have so graciously provided for the physical well-being of the Conference, therefore,
Resolved, That our gratitude be expressed to them for their most generous hospitality, and,
Resolved, That the Secretary provide Pastor William A. Heffner with a copy of this resolution to be read to his congregation.
7. 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 operation of our Sunday Schools, therefore,
Resolved, That we pray God’s continued blessing upon the Publishers, 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.
8. Whereas, the following brethren have served the Conference most acceptably in their delegated responsibilities: N. H. Wolf as Editor of the Year Book, Paul I. Wentz as Conference Treasurer, and T. D. Gehret as Secretary of the Foreign Mission Board, therefore,
Resolved, That we donate to each a gift of appreciation of fifty dollars ($50.00), the first two to be taken from the Publication and Printing Fund and the latter from the Foreign Mission Fund.
9. Whereas, H. D. Yarrington and C. Leslie Miller have shown a sincere interest in the work of our Conference by their presence, therefore,
Resolved, That we thank God for His grace which is given them by Jesus Christ and encourage them to greater exploits in His Name.
10. Whereas, D. E. Thomann, editor of the M. B. in C. supplement of the Gospel Herald, and R. C. Reichenbach, circulation manager have faithfully labored in their elected offices, therefore,
Resolved, That one hundred ($100.00) dollars be given to the editor and twenty-five ($25.00) dollars be given to the circulation manager from the Conference Fund as a token of our appreciation.
11. Whereas, The Union Gospel Press has in an excellent manner printed and published the M. B. C. edition of the Gospel Herald, therefore,
Resolved, That we pray the Lord will reward the publishers for their faithful service, and further,
Resolved, That the Secretary of Annual Conference send a copy of this resolution to them.
12. Whereas, Our Heavenly Father has both spiritually and materially showered His blessings upon Berean Bible School during the past year and,
Whereas, He has answered prayer in so definite a manner on behalf of our president, faculty and student body, therefore,
Resolved, That we praise God for His care, and invoke His continued blessing on our school and its ministry.
13. Whereas, Paul E. Baer, loyal in the pastorate for over 30 years, has requested a leave of absence due to poor health, therefore,
Resolved, That we give thanks unto God for the faithful ministry of Brother Baer, submit ourselves to the purpose of God in his life and further,
Resolved, That his name be maintained on the record of the Roll and Directory of Ministers under the heading entitled Itinerants.
John H. Riggall, Robert W. Smock,
A. L. Seifert, R. C. Reichenbach,
Committee.
Whereas, The Reading Course was not designed to meet the needs of those who are presently entering our ministry and does not accomplish the need for which it was originally intended, and,
Whereas, With the exception of “Jesus is Coming” and “The Law of Liberty in the Spiritual Life,” none of the subjects comprising the curriculum has been studied by any applicant in the last several years, and,
Whereas, The design of including in the curriculum “Jesus is Coming” and “The Law of Liberty in the Spiritual Life” was to secure uniformity of doctrine in the fields of eschatology and sanctification, but the manner of examining the applicants does not achieve this purpose.
Resolved, That a Committee of three, plus the two District Superintendents be elected to study the needs and the design of a course of study, the best method of achieving this design, and to make recommendations and submit a prepared curriculum at the next Annual Conference.
The following were elected: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, Jansen E. Hartman, Donald T. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret.
Resolved, That we receive a contribution of 50 a member for the moving fund. Any deficit in this fund for this year only, shall be covered by funds from the Home Mission offering.
The Board of Directors shall make a recommendation at the adjourned session on April 11, 1959, as to how these expenses shall be met in the future.
Resolved, That the next Annual Conference convene in the Bethel Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 526-30 North Eighth Street, Allentown. Pa., October 12, 1959 at 1:00 p. m.
Resolved, That the Committee on Program for the next Annual Conference be as follows: Walter H. Frank, Willard E. Cassel and William A. Heffner.
Resolved, That the Ministerial Convention be held April 10, 1959 at the Zionsville Church.
Officers for the Ministerial Convention: T. D. Gehret, Chairman; Earl M. Hosler, Secretary.
Committee on Program: W. W. Hartman, Earl M. Hosler, C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, F. B. Hertzog, J. E. Golla.
Resolved, That we hold two Camp Meetings in Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa., the first to be held by the Allentown District, June 27 to July 5, 1959 and the second to be held by the Bethlehem District, July 11 to 19, 1959.
Resolved, That Paradise, Millersville, Binghamton, N. Y., and Denville, N. J., be included in the First District Camp Meeting and that Finesville, Roxborough, Trenton, and Miller Heights be included in the Second District Camp Meeting.
Resolved, That one ($1.00) dollar registration fee per tent accompany each order, not refundable and be turned over by the Registrar to each respective Camp Meeting Committee.
Resolved, That the rental of tents shall be eight ($8.00) dollars each per Camp Meeting in addition to the registration fee to be paid to the Pastors before the Camp Meeting. The Pastors shall pay rents to the Officers of the respective Committee no later than Tuesday of camp involved, together with a list of names and number of tents.
Resolved, That all tent orders be properly filled in and signed by the person placing the order to be sent to Donald B. Schaeffer, Registrar, no later than June 1.
The various Boards report their organization as follows:
Board of Directors: F. B. Hertzog, President; T. D. Gehret, Vice President; C. E. Kirkwood, Secretary; Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer.
Board of Foreign Missions: Walter H. Frank, Chairman; T. D. Gehret, Secretary.
Board of Home Missions: C. E. Kirkwood, President; A. L. Seifert, Secretary.
Board of Trustees of the Home: T. D. Gehret, Chairman; E. W. Bean, Secretary; David E. Thomann, Assistant Secretary; Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer.
Board of Publication and Printing: John H. Riggall, President; John Dunn, Secretary.
Board of Examiners: Donald T. Kirkwood, Chairman; R. C. Reichenbach, Secretary.
Committee over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: E. W. Bean, Chairman; Donald B. Schaeffer, Secretary.
Victory Valley Bible Camp Committee: C. E. Kirkwood, Chairman; William A. Heffner, Secretary; Walter H. Frank, Treasurer.
General Menno Youth Committee: Earl M. Hosler, Chairman; Carl C. Cassel, Secretary; Paul I. Wentz, Jr., Treasurer.
Beneficiary Society: N. H. Wolf, President; R. C. Reichenbach, Secretary; John H. Riggall, Treasurer.
The following report was read and adopted:
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY THE ARTICLES OF FAITH
(First Reading)
The following Articles are submitted at this time for the consideration of the Annual Conference. Please note the Articles are not numbered as the final order of the Articles will be determined after all of them have been considered. The Committee has not considered all the Articles of Faith.
Article
THE HOLY SCRIPTURES
The Holy Scriptures, both Old and New Testament, are the inspired,1 infallible Word of God,2 a divine revelation, the original writings of which were verbally inspired by the Holy Spirit.3 They are the supreme and final authority of faith and conduct.4
Inspiration is a special act of the Holy Spirit3 by which He guided the writers of the Scriptures so that their words would convey the thoughts He wished conveyed, would bear a proper relationship to the thoughts of the other inspired books, and be kept free from error of fact, doctrine and judgment.5
The Holy Scriptures, the Word of God, written, are composed of all books of the Old Testament and the New Testament, namely:
Old Testament New Testament
Genesis Ecclesiastes Matthew I Timothy
Exodus Song of Solomon Mark II Timothy
Leviticus Isaiah Luke Titus
Numbers Jeremiah John Philemon
Deuteronomy Lamentations Acts Hebrews
Joshua Ezekiel Romans James
Judges Daniel I Corinthians I Peter
Ruth Hosea II Corinthians II Peter
I Samuel Joel Galatians I John
II Samuel Amos Ephesians II John
1 Kings Obadiah Philippians III John
II Kings Jonah Colossians Jude
I Chronicles Micah I Thessalonians Revelation
II Chronicles Nahum II Thessalonians
Ezra Habakkuk
Nehemiah Zephaniah
Esther Haggai
Job Zechariah
Psalms Malachi
Proverbs
1 II Timothy 3:15-17 … the Holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
2 Psalm 119:89 Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. Isaiah 40:8 The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand forever. John 10:35 …..and the scripture cannot be broken.
3 II Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. I Peter 1:11 Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. I Corinthians 2:12,13 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
4 John 17:17… thy word is truth. Luke 24:27,44 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scripture the things concerning himself and he said unto them, these are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms concerning me. Revelation 22:18,19 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
5 Matthew 5:17,18 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
Article
THE TRINITY
There are three persons in the Godhead: the Father, the Sonl and the Holy Spirit;2 and these three are one God,3 the same in substance, eternally equal in power and glory.
1 Matthew 3:16,17 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. John 20:28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
2 Acts 5:3,4 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost … Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
3 Genesis 1:1,26 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…. Matthew 28:19 . . . baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. II Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen.
Article
GOD THE FATHER
There is but One only living and true God,1 imminent, transcendent, infinite in being and perfection, pure spirit,2 invisible, immutable,3 eternal, almighty, most wise,4 most holy, most free, most loving, most gracious, most merciful, long suffering, abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression and sin,5 the rewarder of them that diligently seek Him, and withal most just and terrible in His judgments, hating all sin, and who will by no means clear the guilty.
1 Isaiah 45:5,6 I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me: that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the Lord, and there is none else.
2 John 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
3 Malachi 3:6 For I am the Lord I change not….
4 Romans 11:33,34 0 the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been his counsellor?
5 Exodus 34:6,7 And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.
Article
GOD THE SON
Jesus Christ the Son of God, is the Word,1 the eternal and true God, who is of one substance and equal with the Father.2 He took upon Himself man’s nature with all the essential properties thereof, yet apart from sin: being conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary,3 so that two perfect and distinct natures were joined in one person, which person is truly God and truly man, the only mediator between God and man.
The Lord Jesus Christ is the revelation of God to man.4 In the days of His humiliation5 He lived a sinless life, performed miracles, taught the will of God, presented a revelation of God to man;5 was crucified and died: was buried and arose bodily from the dead the third day. The Lord Jesus offered Himself a sacrifice for sins,6 satisfied the justice of the Father, propitiated the wrath of God, reconciled God and man,7 and obtained an eternal inheritance.
The Lord Jesus Christ ascended to heaven from whence He came and was exalted taking His place at the right hand of the Father where He maketh intercession in behalf of all who come to God through Him.8
1 John 1:1-3,14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him: and without him was not any thing made that was made. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
2 Colossians 1:15-20 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: for by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and the visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominion or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: and he is all things and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and, having made peace through the blood of the cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.
3 Matthew 1:22-23 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
4 Hebrews 1:1-4 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; who, being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
5 Philippians 2:5-11 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
6 Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
7 Romans 5:10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
8 Hebrews 4:14,15 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Article
GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT
The eternal l Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Father and the Son,2 is of the same substance and equal in power and glory with the Father and the Son. By Him the prophets were moved to speak the Word of God, and all writers of the Holy Scriptures were inspired to record infallibly the mind and will of God.3 He is the only efficient agent in the application of redemption. He convicts men of sin, of righteousness and of judgment,4 moves them to repentance and regenerates5 them by His grace, enabling them to embrace Jesus Christ by faith.
The Holy Spirit indwells all true believers, baptizing them into one body of which Christ is the head.6 He, the divine Comforter, Intercessor and Advocate, empowers the believer for service.7
1 Hebrews 9:14. . . who through the eternal Spirit . . .
2 John 14:16,26 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
3 II Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
4 John 16:7-11 … the Comforter … will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
5 John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
6 I Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
7 Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Article
CREATION
The triune God according to His sovereign will created out of nothing and out of things that He had made, by immediate and mediate action, the worlds and all that is therein.1 He is the Governor and Upholder of the creation by His wisdom and the word of His mighty power.2
1 Genesis 1:1,2 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. (See also Genesis 1:3-2:3) Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
2 Colossians 1:16,17 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
Article
SIN
Sin is any lack of conformity to the will of God,1 or transgression of the law of God.2 Sin separates man from God incurring His wrath and judgment; and it is manifested in the selfishness, rebellion and the total depravity of man’s conduct and behavior before God and man. Sin is the cause of the curse and defilement of the created universe.3
1 I John 5:17. All unrighteousness is sin…. James 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not to him it is sin.
2 I John 3:4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. James 2:10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
3 Romans 8:22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. (See also Genesis 3:17,18)
Article
REPENTANCE
Repentance unto life is a voluntary act of man,1 accomplished by the convicting power of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God. Repentance consists of a knowledge of sin,2 a sense of guilt and corruption which results in the confession and forsaking of sin and a turning to God.
1 Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Acts 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
2 John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness and of judgment.
3 I Thessalonians 1:9 For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;
Article
REGENERATION
Regeneration, or the New Birth,1 is an instantaneous creative act of God whereby divine life is imparted to those dead in sin, making them members of the family of God2 through the agency of the Holy Spirit.3
1 John 3:3,6,7 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, ye must be born again. I Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.
2 John 1:11-13 He came unto his own and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. II Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new. James 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
3 Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.
Article
JUSTIFICATION
Justification is the act of God’s grace whereby the sinner is declared righteous solely through faith1 in the redemptive work of Christ;2 by this action Christ’s righteousness is imputed,3 sin is pardoned and the sinner is restored to divine favor.4
1 Romans 5:1,2 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Acts 13:39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
2 Romans 8:33,34 Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth: It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
3 Romans 5:18 Therefore as by the offense of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. II Corinthians 5:21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
4 Isaiah 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
C. E. Kirkwood, Chairman, Jansen E. Hartman,
Willard E. Cassel, Secretary, A. L. Seifert,
F. B. Hertzog, Donald T. Kirkwood,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
Resolved, That the present committee on the “Articles of Faith” be continued as follows: C. E. Kirkwood, Willard E. Cassel, F. B. Hertzog, T. D. Gehret, Jansen E. Hartman, A. L. Seifert, and Donald T. Kirkwood.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to study Annual Conference procedure with a view to expedite business, said committee to submit a report of its findings to the 1959 Annual Conference.
He appointed: C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, Willard E. Cassel.
Resolved, That the Menno Youth newspaper, the “Menno Youth Spotlight” continue if circumstances permit during the year, 1958-1959.
The following reports were read and adopted:
The Report of the Annual Ministerial Convention: (See Reports)
The Reports of the Committee to organize the Allentown District Camp Meeting:
The Churches of the Allentown District and the Missions located at Millersville, Paradise, Binghamton, N. Y., and Denville, N. J., shall comprise this Camp Meeting to be held in Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa., June 27th, 1939 to July 5th, 1959. The officers are: Walter H. Frank, Chairman; N. H. Wolf, Secretary; P. T. Stengele, Treasurer.
The District Superintendent shall secure extra help if he and the Committee deem it advisable.
F. B. Hertzog, Chairman,
W. B. Hottel, Secretary.
Report of the Committee to Organize for the Bethlehem District Camp Meeting:
The Churches of the Bethlehem District and the Missions located at Trenton, Finesville, Roxborough and Miller Heights, shall comprise this Camp Meeting to be held in Mizpah Grove, Allentown, Pa., July 11 to 19, 1959.
Officers: T. D. Gehret, Chairman; David E. Thomann, Secretary; William A. Heffner, Treasurer.
C. E. Kirkwood, Chairman,
Robert W. Smock, Secretary.
Adjourned at 4:40 p. m. with prayer by District Superintendent F. B. Hertzog.
Signed,
F. B. Hertzog, District Superintendent, Chairman,
C. E. Kirkwood, District Superintendent, Vice Chairman,
N. H. Wolf, Secretary,
Paul I. Wentz, Treasurer,
Jansen E. Hartman, Director of Home Missions,
Ernest B. Hartman, Assistant Secretary,
Paul E. Baer, Recording Secretary,
E. W. Bean, H. D. Yarrington, S. A. Hackman,
Willard E. Cassel, F. M. Hottel, James A. Beil,
John Dunn, E. E. Kublic, William P. Snyder,
Walter H. Frank, E. J. Rutman, Burton Deppe,
R. H. Gehman, A. G. Woodring, Charles W. Weaber,
T. D. Gehret, Russell T. Allen, Raymond Snyder,
J. E. Golla, Carl C. Cassel, Ned G. Copenhaver,
W. W. Hartman, LeRoy S. Heller, A. Franklin Campbell,
William A. Heffner, Richard H. Kline, Byron C. Cassel,
W. F. Heffner, Donald B. Schaeffer, Harold P. Shelly, Sr.,
Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, Allan F. LaRose,
Earl M. Hosler, Robert F. Johnson, Harold A. Man,
W. B. Hottel, Francis H. Gehman, R. Spedden,
Donald T. Kirkwood, Kermit K. Gehman, Merrill Achey,
James G. Koch, Robert Breitegam, Clayton E. Weber,
J. B. Layne, William E. Miller, Carl H. Kellerman,
R. C. Reichenbach, Clair E. Bupp, Robert W. Gehret,
John H. Riggall, George A. John, Henry B. Wilkinson,
A. L. Seifert, Daniel K. Ziegler, Edward J. Deitzman,
Robert W. Smock, David F. Gardner, Roger Bowne,
P. T. Stengele, Roy E. Williams, Ray Engle.
David E. Thomann, R. S. Weidner,
THIRTEENTH MEETING
(Adjourned Session)
Saturday Morning, April 11, 1959
The meeting was opened with the singing of “The Son of God Goes Forth to War,” after which the Chairman, District Superintendent F. B. Hertzog, led in the responsive reading of the Epistle of Jude.
His remarks were centered on the ability of God to keep us from falling in spite of the present day apostasy. W. W. Hartman and Walter H. Frank led in prayer, invoking God’s direction in the decisions of the day, after which all joined in singing, “Faith of Our Fathers.”
The roll was called by the Secretary.
The Committee to Study Church Name reported the results of the conference-wide ballot taken on the name, “Bible Fellowship Church.”
Results of ballot taken on name, “Bible Fellowship Church”:
Do Not
Church Approve Approve
Allentown (Bethel) 189 44
Reading 79 55
Sunbury 58 14
York 63 15
Shamokin 23 29
Hatfield 65 6
Harrisburg 35 14
Mt. Carmel 18 1
Royersford 36 3
Spring City 35 5
Graterford 14 5
Harleysville 28 4
Nazareth 27 3
Northampton 18 11
Lehighton 10 7
Walnutport 11 9
Lebanon 24 9
Lancaster 27 1
Stroudsburg 22 5
Bethlehem 84 70
Philadelphia (Salem) 60 10
Quakertown 83 11
Easton 38 28
Coopersburg 36 23
Chester 65 5
Allentown (Salem) 24 11
Emmaus 37 34
Macungie 8 8
Zionsville 14 22
Fleetwood 45 12
Blandon 29 11
Scranton 35 1
Terre Hill 57 2
Philadelphia (Calvary) 32 5
Philadelphia (Emmanuel) 28 0
Staten Island 17 2
Jersey City 12 2
Binghamton 9 8
Denville 11 0
Finesville 15 0
Miller Heights 5 0
Millersville 10 0
Paradise 14 1
Roxborough 15 1
Trenton 15 0
Totals 1580 507
Resolved, That we vote on the church name. The result was:
Approved — 56
Do not approve — 6.
Resolved, That the Board of Directors be and are hereby authorized to take necessary legal steps to have the name of our denomination changed to “Bible Fellowship Church,” including change of our Charter.
Resolved, That we elect a full time Home Mission Director.
Resolved, That a District Superintendent be elected for the Allentown District, and the informal ballot be used in nominating the candidates, the three highest to be candidates and elected according to the Discipline.
F. B. Hertzog was elected.
Resolved, That a District Superintendent be elected for the Bethlehem District, and the informal ballot be used in nominating the candidates, the three highest to be candidates and elected according to the Discipline.
C. E. Kirkwood was elected.
Resolved, That two Vice 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 Discipline.
T. D. Gehret and Walter H. Frank were elected.
Resolved, That the time limit for Pastors, District Superintendents, and the Home Mission Director shall be nine years, and
That when an Elder has served in the office of District Superintendent or Director of Home Missions for a period of five or more successive years, and leaves the office he shall not be eligible for re-elections for a period of three years. (Second reading).
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and extend the time indefinitely.
Resolved, That we have a nominating ballot for the office of Director of Home Missions. The five (5) receiving the highest number of votes shall be interviewed by a Committee of five (5) appointed by the Chairman regarding their availability. The two (2) District Superintendents shall be members of this Committee.
Resolved, That we adjourn, and suspend the rules to meet at the call of the Chair.
Adjourned with prayer by George E. Herb.
FOURTEENTH MEETING
Saturday Afternoon, April 11, 1959
The meeting was opened with the singing of “Grace Greater Than Our Sins.” John Dunn led in prayer.
The Secretary called the roll and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we proceed to elect a Home Mission Director. The Chair appointed C. E. Kirkwood, F. B. Hertzog, W. B. Hottel, John H. Riggall and Clayton Weber to interview the nominees for this office.
William A. Heffner was elected.
The following report was read and adopted.
REVISIONS TO STANDING RULES RELATIVE TO PULPIT SUPPLY
(First Reading)
Local Conference Action:
1. On the last Sunday of September the delegate of each church or circuit shall conduct a congregational meeting after the morning worship. A poll shall be taken without public discussion as to pastoral relations. The First Delegate shall preside. Whenever a Pastor has served in the pastorate for nine consecutive years or for any other reason will not be available for further consideration, no congregational poll shall be taken.
The poll shall contain the following:
a. Do you desire to retain your pastor? Yes or No
b. Reasons for the above expression
c. Signature
(This poll is to give direction to the Official Board and must be signed to be considered.)
2. The Official Board, excluding the Pastor, shall deal with the matter of Pulpit Supply. The First Delegate shall be chairman. Two-thirds of the membership of the Board shall constitute a quorum.*
3. In the case of circuits, the combined Official Boards of all churches shall deal with the matter of Pulpit Supply.*
4. The Official Board shall within three (3) days (Tuesday) prepare a preference list by ballot using parliamentary procedure containing its first and second choice for pastor. These choices shall be made from a list of Mennonite Brethren in Christ ministers and probationers having charge of a work. It shall be furnished by the District Superintendents.
a. The First Delegate shall immediately inform the pastor in writing of the order of the preference list. Preference list shall no, be made public.
b. The First Delegate shall inform the District Superintendent by telephone of the order of the preference list by Tuesday following the congregational poll. Preference list and polls shall be sent immediately by certified mail.
5. Failure to comply with the above time limits shall result in the matter of Pulpit Supply being dealt with by the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee as set forth hereafter under Annual Conference Action.*
Annual Conference Action:
1. The District Superintendent shall inform each pastor of the church(es) having listed his name first or second on its preference list. This information is to be conveyed by telephone on the Wednesday following the congregational poll and confirmed immediately by certified mail.
2. The Pastor shall consider his first choice(s) and make his decision. He shall convey this information to the District Superintendent by Saturday of the same week. Confirmation to follow immediately by certified mail.
3. By Monday of the following week, the District Superintendent shall inform the delegate of the acceptance of the call of the church involving a first choice.
4. He shall also on the same day inform the remaining pastors of available church(es) involving second choice.
5. The Pastor shall consider his second choice(s) and make his decision. He shall convey this information to the District Superintendent by Thursday of the same week. Confirmation to follow immediately by certified mail.
6. On Friday of this same week the District Superintendent shall inform the delegate of the acceptance of the call of the church involving a second choice.
7. On Friday of this same week the District Superintendent shall inform the delegates of churches, not having received their first or second choices, of the available men. The Official Board shall meet before Monday of the following week and prepare a preference list, using parliamentary procedure, designating their first and second choices. These choices shall be dealt with by the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee at Annual Conference.
8. Failure to comply with the above time limits shall result in the forfeiture of the choice under consideration.*
9. The Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee shall deal with the matter of Pulpit Supply of stations, circuits and missions who have not yet received a pastor. Stations and circuits shall be given priority. No choices shall be granted without the District Superintendent having consulted with the Pastor involved. Delegates from mission churches shall be on call for consultation relative to Pulpit Supply.
10. The Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee shall compile and present a list of all appointments and appropriations subject to the approval of the Annual Conference.*
11. No pastor shall serve any church longer than nine consecutive years.*
12. The delegate shall announce a pastor’s acceptance of the call of the church.
*Signifies no change
David E. Thomann, Chairman, R. C. Reichenbach,
Willard E. Cassel, Secretary, William A. Heffner,
John H. Riggall, James R. Cressman,
John E. Golla, A. L. Wentz,
A. L. Seifert, Rufus Spedden,
Gov’t Committee.
Resolved, That the costs of moving pastors be borne by the Conference as heretofore.
Resolved, That two copies of Reports of all Standing Committees and Boards be mimeographed and sent to the Pastors one week previous to Annual Conference. Questions may be asked and corrections made before inclusion into the Annual Conference Minutes. Reports are not to be read publicly, unless called for from the Conference floor.
Resolved, That the club plan suggested by the Circulation Manager of the “Gospel Herald, M. B. C. Edition” be adopted.
Resolved, That standing rule “N” on page 19 of the 1958 Year Book, be amended to read, “The retirement age of District Superintendents and Pastors is established at 72 years.”
Resolved, That the Board of Foreign Missions and the Board of Home Missions study the wording and format of the pledge cards now in use by our Churches. A suggested card is to be submitted to the 1959 Annual Conference.
Adjourned at 4 p. m., with prayer by J. B. Henry.