EIGHTY-FOURTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
1967
The Eighty-Fourth Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church convened in the Bethel Church, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
The Conference opened at 10:00 A.M. October 9, with the singing of “Footprints of Jesus” led by Mr. Clyde W. Snyder. Pastor N.H. Wolf read I Cor.4:1-5 and led in prayer. The hymn “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” was also sung by the members of Annual Conference. Pastor LeRoy S. Heller sang “O Love Divine, What Hast Thou Done?”
Retiring District Superintendent, T. D. Gehret, addressed the Conference. The text for the. address was Matthew 19:27-30. Brother Gehret emphasized “Discipleship”. Outlined was the Price, Privilege and Cost of Discipleship.
District Superintendents, T. D. Gehret and A. L. Seifert conducted the Communion Service.
The Chairman, A. L. Seifert, instructed the Secretary, Ernest B. Hartman, to appoint his assistants. James A. Beil, Assistant Secretary and Robert W. Smock, Recording Secretary, were appointed.
The following were enrolled as members of the Conference:
ORDAINED: Russell T. Allen, E. W. Bean, James A. Beil, Bert N. Brosius, Alva C. Cassel, Carl C. Cassel, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, Bruce A. Ellingson, Raymond R. Dotts, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., T. D. Gehret, John E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, LeRoy S. Heller, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, John H. Herb, Earl M. Hosler, W. B. Hottel, Robert F. Johnson, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, Richard H. Kline, Donald R. Knauer, James G. Koch, Ronald C. Mahurin, Leon K. Overpeck, Robert Paul, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann. David J. Watkins, Norman R. Weiss, N. H. Wolf, Daniel G. Ziegler, Paul E. Baer, W. F. Heffner, E. E. Kublic, J. B. Layne, E. J. Rutman, P. T. Stengele, F. B. Hertzog, Donald B. Schaeffer, Reynold D. Gardner.
PROBATIONERS: M. Leslie Campbell, Paul B. Kuder, Keith E. Plows, Mark T. Smith, Paul G. Zimmerman.
DELEGATES:
ALLENTOWN DISTRICT
Allentown (Bethel) – Kermit K. Gehman
Allentown (Cedar Crest) – R. Paul Schaeffer
Catasauqua -Arthur W. Deppe
Graterford – Edward A. Stortz
Harleysville -H. Phares Mumbauer
Harrisburg – Walter A. Schlagel
Hatfield – Clyde W. Snyder
Lancaster – Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon – Frank L. Herb, Sr.
Lehighton – Willard E. Blocker
Mount Carmel – Roy E. Williams
Nazareth – Norman W. Granda
Paradise – George J. Dippner
Reading – Robert Breitegam
Royersford – William R. Hunsberger
Shamokin – T. Lamarn Manney
Sinking Spring – Paul W. Sensenig
Spring City – John F. Boyle
Sunbury – Allan F. Smith
York – Sterling E. Baer
BETHLEHEM DISTRICT
Allentown (Salem) – Allan C. Palmer
Bethlehem – Paul H. Cressman
Blandon – John I. Mengel
Coopersburg – Harold A. Mann
Denville – John F. Moran
Easton – Leonard F. Kessler
Emmaus – Paul I. Wentz
Fleetwood – Norman L. Reed
Maple Glen – Byron C. Cassel
Philadelphia (Calvary) – Leon H. Naudasher
Philadelphia (Emmanuel) – Edward J. Dietzman
Quakertown – Harold P. Shelly, Sr.
Scranton – Carl H. Kellerman
Staten Island – Kenneth Cole
Stroudsburg – George R. Fish
Terre Hill – J. R. Weber
Wallingford – Harold W. Griest
Zionsville – Charles G. Hersh
Written excuses were submitted by J. B. Layne, Paul E. Baer, Jack S. Herb and Harold A. Mann.
Oral excuses were presented concerning W. F. Heffner, Byron C. Cassel and Willard E. Blocker.
Resolved, That the excuses of the absent members be accepted.
Alternate delegates, J. R. Weber of Terre Hill and Frank L. Herb, Sr., of Lebanon, were seated.
New delegates, Paul W. Sensenig of Sinking Spring and Clyde Snyder of Hatfield, were introduced.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM: (See Report, page 23).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the first eight pews to the front and right of the Chairman constitute the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That no one be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission except the delegate and pastor of the host congregation.
The Chairman appointed the following committees:
Committee on Auditing: Horace A. Kauffman, Donald B. Knauer, Paul H. Cressman, R. Paul Schaeffer, William R. Hunsberger, Norman L. Reed, Raymond R. Dotts.
Committee on Communications: William A. Heffner, Russell T. Allen, Bert N. Brosius, Bruce Ellingson and Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.
Committee on Examination of Local Conference Minutes: E W. Bean, Frank L. Herb, Jr., Leon K. Overpeck, W. W. Hartman, John H. Herb, W. B. Hottel, A. W. Deppe, Harold A. Mann, Walter A. Schlagel, Allen F. Smith, John F. Boyle, Edward A. Stortz, H. Phares Mumbauer, John I. Mengel, Norman W. Granda, John F. Moran, Leon H. Naudasher, Clyde W. Snyder, Allan C. Palmer and Robert Breitegam.
Committee on Finance: Paul I. Wentz, Sr., Byron C. Cassel, Roy E. Williams, Harold W. Griest, Kermit K. Gehman and Charles G. Hersh.
Committee on Resolutions: C. E. Kirkwood, Carl C. Cassel, Keith E. Plows, R. C. Reichenbach and Earl M. Hosler.
Reporter: Daniel G. Ziegler
Tellers: James G. Koch, George E. Herb, Norman R. Weiss, Robert F. Johnson and Ronald C. Mahurin.
Timekeeper: David J. Watkins.
The above committees were approved.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS Part I
(See Report, page 24).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the resignation of John E. Golla be accepted and that his credentials be withdrawn.
Resolved, That Harold C. Weaber and M. Leslie Campbell be ordained during the Thursday evening meeting of this Annual Conference.
The report of the Committee on Agenda was received as a guide for the Conference.
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: (See Report, page 25).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 3:00 p.m.
Adjourned with prayer by Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, October 9, 1967
The meeting was opened at 3:00 p.m. with prayer by Robert F. Johnson.
Pastor Alva C. Cassel spoke briefly of his future plans of assuming a pastorate in Maine, engaging in rural missionary work.
Missionaries Timothy G. Kauffman, Fred Vendable and missionary candidate George F. Lee also gave words of greeting and spoke of future plans.
Norman B. Jerome from the American Sunday School Union briefly addressed the Conference.
Resolved, That no nominations be submitted from the Conference floor without having first secured the permission of the person being nominated.
REPORT OF THE YOUTH FELLOWSHIP GENERAL COMMITTEE (See Reports, page 26).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That each Youth Fellowship remit an offering for the work of the Youth Fellowship General Committee, and that this offering be payable to the treasurer of the Youth Fellowship General Committee and that it be submitted to the secretary of said committee at the Adjourned Session of this Conference.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATION AND PRINTING (See Report, page 27).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE TREASURER: (See Reports, page 28).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL PROMOTION COMMITTEE: (See Report, page 29).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That every Bible Fellowship Sunday school make a contribution for denominational Sunday school promotion. This contribution should be mailed to the Financial Secretary of the Committee, James R. Cressman, 1128 N. New Street, Bethlehem, Pa., 18018, before April 1, 1968.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION: (See Report, page, 30).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MINISTERIAL CANDIDATES: (See Report, page 31).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO PUBLISH FELLOWSHIP NEWS (See Report, page 36).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the month of January be designated as subscription month for FELLOWSHIP NEWS.
Resolved, That donations to FELLOWSHIP NEWS be given by the following boards and committees: Board of Foreign Missions, $50.00; Board of Church Extension, $50.00; Board of Directors of Berean Bible School, $50.00; Sunday School Promotion Committee $50.00; and Committee on Publication and Printing $400. Checks shall be made payable to FELLOWSHIP NEWS and sent to the Treasurer, Mr. Paul T. Rutman, 13 Hunter Lane, Camp Hill, Pa. , 1701 1, no later than February 1, 1968.
The Editor, David E. Thomann, and the Business Manager, R. C. Reichenbach, gave oral reports.
The following were elected:
Youth Fellowship General Committee: Ronald C. Mahurin, Daniel G. Ziegler and Clyde W. Snyder.
Editor of FELLOWSHIP NEWS: David E. Thomann
Resolved, That Alva C. Cassel be excused from attending the remaining meetings of Annual Conference.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 8:00 P.M. at Bethel Church.
Adjourned at 5:05 p. m. with prayer by E. W. B ean.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, October 9, 1967
The meeting was opened at 8:05 p. m. with prayer by David J. Watkins.
C. Leslie Miller briefly addressed the Conference.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Candidate Committee: Russell T. Allen, James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, Earl M. Hosler and David J. Watkins.
REPORT OF THE ALLENTOWN DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT, T. D. GEHRET (See Report, page 38).
REPORT OF THE BETHLEHEM DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT, A. L. SEIFERT (See Report, page 42).
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF CHURCH EXTENSION, EARL M. HOSLER: (See Report, page 46).
The above reports were accepted.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:10 P. M. with prayer by C. Leslie Miller.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, October 10, 1967
The meeting was opened with the singing of “Nothing But the Blood” directed by William R. Hunsberger. Daniel G. Ziegler sang “Shine on Me, O Lord Jesus”.
Scripture, Acts 15:1-11, was read by Charles G. Hersh and Norman W. Granda led in prayer. The hymn “I Am Resolved” was sung followed by the Speaker of the morning, John Deily. I Cor. 2:1-5 was read by the Speaker and he emphasized the necessity of making Christ crucified known so as to satisfy the inner cravings of man’s heart.
The minutes of the Monday meetings were read and approved.
Resolved, That probationers having charge of a Conference appointment shall be admitted to the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That J. R. Weber be excused from the Tuesday morning meeting because of employment.
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF BEREAN BIBLE SCHOOL (See Report, page 49)
The report was accepted.
The following was elected:
Business Manager of FELLOWSHIP NEWS: R. C. Reichenbach.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BEREAN BIBLE SCHOOL (See Report, page 52)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That each Church be encouraged to support Berean Bible School at a level equal to 4 % of its annual offerings and that this support be remitted to the School in twelve monthly payments. The laymen on the Board of Directors of Berean Bible School shall maintain contact throughout the year with the pastors and official boards of each Church keeping them informed of the work of the School and its needs.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME (See Report, page 57).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS (See Report, page 60)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That all Foreign Mission funds be forwarded quarterly to the General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions, Rev. T. D. Gehret, 2340 Union Street, Allentown, Pa. 18104.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF MIZPAH GROVE: (See Report, page 70).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY CAMP: (See Report, page 7Z),
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That each Church make a contribution to Victory Valley amp. The anticipated budget of the Camp indicates need for contributions of at least $4, 000.00 by the Churches. Checks shall be made payable to Victory Valley Camp and sent to the Secretary of the Board, Rev. Donald R. Knauer, 25 South Third Street, Quakertown, Pa. 18951 before March 1. 1968.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF LOCAL CONFERENCE MINUTES (See Report, page 76).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the request of the Stroudsburg Bible Fellowship Church be referred to the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That the petition of the Catasauqua Bible Fellowship Church be granted and that their delegate be seated in the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That the petition of the Lehighton Bible Fellowship Church be granted and that their delegate be seated in the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That the petition of the Philadelphia (Emmanuel) Bible Fellowship Church be granted and that their delegate be seated in the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Resolved, That the petition from the Staten Island Bible Fellowship Church be granted and that their delegate be seated in the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
The following were elected:
Committee to Publish FELLOWSHIP NEWS: Robert W. Smock, William R. Hunsberger and Paul T. Rutman.
Sunday School Promotion Committee: Raymond R. Dotts, Keith E. Plows.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 12:00 noon with prayer by Edward J. Dietzrnan.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, October 10, 1967
The meeting was opened with prayer offered by Walter A. Schlagel.
The following were elected:
Sunday School Promotion Committee: James R. Cressman, Glenn W. Sheats.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH (See Report, page 77)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See Report, page 89)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the recommendation of the Board of Church Extension requesting the Ephrata Bible Fellowship Church be recognized as a station be granted and the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee be requested to assign a pastor.
Resolved, That the second recommendation from the Board of Church Extension regarding the Fund to Assist Pastors and Churches be referred to the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee for further study and to bring in a report.
REPORT OF THE ARCHIVIST (See Report, page 93)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE (See Report, page 94)
The report was accepted.
The following were elected:
Treasurer of Annual Conference: Harold W. Griest.
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church: Carl C . Cassel, Jansen E. Hartman, Frank L. Herb, Jr., Earl M. Hosler, Byron C. Cassel, Kermit K. Gehman, Harold W. Griest and Paul I. Wentz, Sr.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY CHURCH GOVERNMENT (See Report, page 94)
The report was accepted.
The following was adopted:
The first proposal regarding the format was adopted as presented.
PROPOSAL TWO: THE FORM OF GOVERNMENT
PREAMBLE
The Bible Fellowship Church has adopted this statement of FAITH AND ORDER to declare with clarity and precision its faith and testimony to the glory of God.
The Bible Fellowship Church acknowledges as its sole Head, Jesus Christ, the Son of God and Saviour of men. It submits to the written Word of God and to the presence of the Holy Spirit as its only source of guidance and power in maintaining its redemptive life and work in the world.
The Bible Fellowship Church adopted this FAITH AND ORDER not as a substitute for, but in subordination to, the Word of God. These standards have been received as being based upon the Scriptures; even the elements not drawn directly from the Word have been acknowledged as based upon the general rules and tenor of the Word. These standards seek to provide effective means for the application of the teaching of the scriptures to the faith, worship, government and discipline of the church. Although these standards have been acknowledged to be of lesser importance than the inspired words of the Scriptures, yet they cannot be neglected without resulting in serious impairment of the life of the Church.
The Bible Fellowship Church acknowledges as brethren all those who share its confession of faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ . It confesses gladly the benefits of the historical and geographical breadth of this fellowship. It acknowledges specifically the benefits derived from similar statements of faith and order devised at many times in the history of the church. It seeks to respond to the responsibilities that these benefits bring by beseeching Almighty God so to indwell it that it may by His grace bring glory to himself and blessing to men.
ARTICLE I PRELIMINARY PRINCIPLES
1. That in seeking to be founded upon the Word of God in practice as well as doctrine the Bible Fellowship Church sets forth this form of government as that which is in its judgment most clearly in keeping with the Holy Scriptures.
2. That the formulation of faith and practice must be in submission to the Holy Scriptures because God has not bound the conscience to the doctrines and commandments of men when they exceed or contradict His Word.
3. That every union of particular churches shall have the right, in harmony with the preceding principles, to formulate a faith and order which will seek to provide a basis of fellowship always in submission to the written Word of God.
4. That this form of government shall seek to make of this body a church that operates by written standards, which is not, however, to be understood as being opposed to love or spirit, but rather opposed to disorder and injustices which can so easily pervert right human relationships when authority is personal or when there is no accepted ways of deciding issues that inevitably arise among men, however deeply they may be committed to Jesus Christ and to one another.
5. That our Lord the Head of the Church, for the edification of the body and the evangelization of the world has appointed officers in the visible church to preach the Gospel, administer the ordinances and exercise discipline.
6. That, though the character, qualifications and authority of church officers are described in the Holy Scriptures, yet the electing of persons to be officer-bearers shall rest with the body.
7. That careful adherence to these principles will contribute to the glory and happiness of the church in that it can own the blessing of our Lord , the Head of the Church universal, and also the approbation of an impartial public.
ARTICLE II THE CHURCH
Jesus Christ has established his rule upon earth in the church. The universal church consists of all those persons, in every nation, who make profession of faith in Christ and yield submission to Him and His rule. Because this multitude cannot meet in one place for worship and fellowship, the Scriptures indicate that these believers shall be divided into many particular churches. A particular church consists of the professing believers voluntarily associated in submission to the Holy Scriptures, for divine worship, godly living, and evangelism. The particular churches seek to demonstrate their participation in the church universal by forming unions with other particular churches which have similar understanding of doctrine and organization.
ARTICLE III OFFICERS
Having called and assembled His church, our Lord provides for the governing of each particular church by conveying authority to officers whom He enables. The continuing officers in the church are ministers, ruling elders and deacons. The endowed mail does not create the office nor does the office clothe the man with power, but the Lord endows the man with gifts and qualifications that enable him to fill the office which, God Himself has created.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 8:30 P.M.
Adjourned with prayer by Roy E. Williams.
Sixth Meeting
Tuesday Evening, October 10, 1967
The meeting was opened with prayer by Paul B. Kuder.
The following were elected:
Committee on Credentials: Frank L. Herb, Jr., W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood and John H. Riggall.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS (Part 2) (See Report, page 105)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That we accept the resignation of Richard H. Kline and drop his name from our roll of ministers.
Resolved, That we grant the request of Alva C. Cassel to minister in rural church work in the state of Maine and that his name be placed in the listing of Ordained Ministers Working with other Organizations.
Resolved, That the request of Robert Paul for a one year leave of absence be granted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATIONING, BOUNDARIES AND APPROPRIATIONS (See Report, page 105)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the delegates of the mission churches be advisory members of the Committee on Stationing, Boundaries and Appropriations.
Resolved, That the name of the Committee on Stationing, Boundaries and Appropriations be changed to Committee on Stationing and Appropriations.
Resolved, That the rules relating to Pulpit Supply be changed to eliminate the requirement that matters relating to Pulpit Supply must be handled by certified mail by the striking of the word “certified” wherever it appears in our FAITH AND ORDER in the section covering Pulpit Supply.
Whereas, The use of certified mail in dealing with matters of Pulpit Supply has proven to be cumbersome and difficult for our Delegates, confining to our District Superintendent and unnecessary for our Pastors, therefore,
Resolved, That we avail ourselves of the “Rule of Exception” and discontinue the use as of September 1968.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PENSIONS (See Report, page 106)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the Annuities paid to retired ministers and to widows of pastors of the Bible Fellowship Church by the Ministers’ Retirement Fund be raised 10% for the year beginning October 1, 1967 and, further,
Resolved, That the By-Laws be amended to include this increase.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:25 P.M. with prayer by Keith E. Plows
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday Morning, October 11, 1967
Horace A . Kauffman led the Conference in “Like a River Glorious” to open the devotional period. John F. Boyle read I Cor. 3:1-11 for the Scripture lesson and Leon H. Naudasher led in prayer. The hymn “Trust and Obey” was sung and a Pastors’ Quartet sang, “Soldiers of Christ Arise”.
Harold W. Griest addressed the Conference focusing attention upon “The Indispensable Man”, informing each of the necessity of training and preparing others for places of leadership.
The minutes of the Tuesday afternoon and evening meetings were read and approved.
The following were elected:
Board of Foreign Missions: General Secretary, T. D. Gehret, Russell T. Allen, Willard E. Cassel, James G. Koch, Robert Breitegam, James R. Cressman, Kermit K. Gehman and Roy E. Williams.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and recess to the call of the Chair.
Prayer was offered by Jansen E. Hartman.
The meeting was reconvened at 3:30 P. M.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE (See Report, page 167)
The report was accepted.
The following were elected:
Board of Directors of Berean Bible School: (3 years) Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. , Donald R. Knauer
Whereas, The Adjourned Session of the 1966 Conference declared that an additional minister be elected to fill the vacancy created by the retiring District Superintendent on the Board of Directors of Berean Bible School, therefore,
Resolved, That we elect one minister for a two year term in order to equalize the classes.
The following were elected: (2 years) David J. Watkins (3 years) Carl Rishel and John M. Stengele
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY THE PROCEDURE FOR ORDINATION (See Report, page 112)
The report was adopted.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the call of the Chair.
Adjourned at 5:00 P.M. with prayer by Timothy G. Kauffman.
Eighth Meeting
Wednesday Evening, October 11, 1967
The meeting was opened with prayer by R. C. Reichenbach.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY DIVORCE (See Report, page 113)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the article, Divorce, (Second Reading) be adopted.
Resolved, That the following statement appear under the heading of OFFICERS: Qualifications – Elections – Duties (1957 Yearbook, page 37):
That no person who has been divorced or who has married a divorced person for any reason may be a member of the Official Board. It is not the severity of divorce, but the dignity of the off ice as detailed in scripture (I Peter 5:1-4; I Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1: 5-9) that prevents a divorced person or one married to a divorced person from holding office on the Official Board of the Church.
Resolved, That the request of Roy E. Williams to be excused from the Thursday and Friday meetings be granted and that the alternate delegate be seated.
Resolved, That H. Phares Mumbauer be excused from the Friday meetings.
Resolved, That George J. Dippner be excused from the Thursday and Friday meetings and that the alternate delegate be seated.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATIONING AND APPROPRIATIONS (Part 2) (See Report, page 114)
The report was approved.
The following were elected:
Board of Directors of the Home for the Aging: James A. Beil, A. L. Seifert.
Whereas, A vacancy has been created on the Board of Directors of the Home for the Aging because of the resignation of Richard H. Kline, therefore,
Resolved, That we elect one minister for a one year term in order to fill his unexpired term.
The following were elected:
(One year) Ernest B. Hartman (Two years) Paul I. Wentz
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:45 P. M. with prayer by Paul H. Cressman.
Ninth Meeting
Thursday Morning, October 11, 1967
The singing of “Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah”, led by Paul H. Cressman opened the meeting. Paul I. Wentz led in prayer after which the hymn, “Hallelujah What A Saviour!” was sung. The Scripture lesson, Psalm 19, was read by George R. Fish. “In the Secret of His Presence” was rendered as a solo by Bert N. Brosius.
The speaker, John Phillips, gave a missionary address to the Conference. The missionary work in three East African states, Somalia, The Republic of Sudan and Ethiopia was outlined. The speaker challenged each one to remember these mission fields with specific prayer requests.
The following were elected:
Board of Church Extension: Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., James G. Koch, Daniel G. Ziegler, John L. Deily and Charles G. Hersh.
The Berean Bible School Budget was presented.
The budget was ratified.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY PULPIT SUPPLY (See Report, page 115)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the report of the Committee to Study Pulpit Supply submitted to the Eighty-Third Annual Conference be accepted and published in the 1967 Yearbook.
Resolved, That the first recommendation:
(No pastoral poll is to be. . . .
. . . by the Official Board. ) (See Reports, page 11 7) be referred back to the Committee for further study.
Resolved, That to the standing committees on the Official Board be added a Pastoral relations committee of three men. It shall be appointed by the Pastor. Its duties shall be to improve communications between Board and Pastor; between congregation and Pastor; to work for the improvement of relations between Pastor and congregation; to candidly discuss with the Pastor any problems that may arise.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and reconvene at 2:30 p.m.
Prayer was offered by John Dunn.
The meeting was reconvened at 3:50 P.M.
The minutes of the Wednesday Evening meeting were read and approved.
The following were elected:
Board of Mizpah Grove: George E. Herb, Robert W. Smock, Harold A. Mann and Norman W. Granda.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS (See Report, pages 157, 168)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AUDITING (See Report, page 159)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS (See Report, page 159)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO PLAN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONFERENCE CENTER (See Report, page 160)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the tenure of men elected to study committees created for a specific assignment shall continue until completion of the specific assignment. Vacancies due to death, resignation or other causes shall be filled by further elections.
Resolved, That three members from the Board of Victory Valley Camp be added to the Committee to Plan the Development of the Conference Center.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATIONING AND APPROPRIATIONS – Part III (See Report, page 160).
The report was approved.
Resolved, That Merle LeFever alternate delegate from Paradise, be excused from the Friday meetings.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned with prayer by Russell T. Allen
Tenth Meeting
Friday Morning, October 13, 1967
The opening hymn, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” was led by Harold A. Mann. T. Lamarn Manney read the Scripture lesson from I John 5:1-14 and John F. Moran offered the morning prayer. A solo, “Fill All My Vision, Lord”, was sung by Carl C. Cassel. Before the message the hymn, “Breathe on Me, Breath of God”, was sung.
A. L. Seifert gave the devotional message. Using Genesis 42:1 as the text, District Superintendent Seifert drew attention to the fact that a famine exists among God’s people while there is “corn in Egypt.” The blessing was elsewhere because proper fellowships and relationships were lacking. It is necessary for each believer to have a correct Christian fellowship one with another and with Christ as head.
The minutes of the Thursday meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That the alternate delegate from Harleysville, Clayton Dietz, be seated.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES (See Report, page 162)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the former Committee to Study Ordination prepare a suitable form for the ordination service.
The recommendations of the Board of Church Extension were considered.
Resolved, That the Board of Church Extension be composed of the District Superintendent and the Director of Church Extension, by virtue of their offices, and three ordained ministers and three laymen who are elected by ballot by the Annual Conference. The elected members of the Board shall comprise three classes of one minister and one layman, respectively. Each class shall be elected, in turn, for a three-year term. (First Reading)
Resolved, That the material located in the proposals of the Board of Church Extension as follows:
(All mission churches. . . . of the District Superintendent. See reports, page 92)
be referred back to the Board of Church Extension for further study.
Resolved, That the Board of Church Extension shall, on the basis of standards which it shall determine and publish, recommend mission churches under its care for membership in Annual Conference. A church shall be received into membership by a majority vote of Annual Conference, which shall entitle the church to be represented at sessions of Annual Conference by its pastor and a lay delegate, to participate in the Pulpit Supply procedures, and to all other rights, privileges and responsibilities of membership in Annual Conference. The Board of Church Extension and the Director of Church Extension may counsel and advise the churches under their jurisdiction in matters of pastoral relations and pulpit supply. (First Reading)
The Chair appointed the following:
Committee on Publication and Printing: David E. Thomann, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. , and Robert W. Smock.
Committee on Agenda: Willard E. Cassel, Bert N. Brosius, LeRoy S. Heller.
Committee to Examine Annual Conference Minutes: John H. Riggall and LeRoy S. Heller.
Committee on Program for Next Annual Conference: Russell T. Allen, Donald T. Kirkwood and David J. Watkins.
Committee to Publish Year Book: Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann and Willard E. Cassel.
The above committees were approved.
Resolved, That a study committee comprised of two representatives elected by each of the following: Board of Church Extension, Credentials Committee, Ministerial Candidate Committee, Committee to Study Pulpit Supply and Committee on Church Government correlate the proposed legislation submitted at this Annual Conference by the Board of Church Extension with legislation proposed by their respective Boards and Committees, and that this committee report at the Adjourned Session of this Annual Conference.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned with prayer by Norman R. Weiss.
Eleventh Meeting
Friday Afternoon, October 13, 1967
The meeting was opened with prayer by W. B. Hottel.
The following were elected:
Boa rd of Victory Valley Camp: Carl C. Cassel, Donald R. Knauer, Ronald C. Mahurin, Kermit K. Gehman, Bright Heist and Paul I. Wentz, Jr.
Richard H. Kline gave a word of greeting to the Conference.
Resolved, That Annual Conference grant the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home their request to elect the said officers, and be it further
Resolved, That the name “Board of Directors of the Home” be deleted from the Year Book as it now appears on page 9, article 4, paragraph I and 2. (1965 Year Book) (Second Reading)
Resolved, That the By-Laws governing the Board of Directors of the Home be deleted from the Year Book. (Second Reading)
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS (See Report, page 162).
The report was accepted.
Whereas, A vacancy has been created on the Committee on Church Government because of the resignation of Richard H. Kline, therefore
Resolved, That we elect one minister in order to fill his term.
James A. Beil was elected.
The following was elected:
Historical Committee: Paul H. Cressman.
Resolved, That regulation number 11 on page 10 of the published By-Laws and Articles of Faith of the Bible Fellowship Church, October 1960, under Pulpit Supply, Annual Conference Action, which reads, “No Pastor shall serve any church longer than nine (9) consecutive years” be eliminated. (First Reading)
(The above resolution was adopted by a ballot vote with 64 affirmative and 15 negative votes).
The minutes of the Friday morning meeting were read and approved.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See Report, page 165).
The Report was accepted.
Resolved, That the Board of Church Extension shall, as part of its annual report, present to Annual Conference for adoption a proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1 of the year following. The budget shall include projected needs for planned new church openings.
After being adopted by Annual Conference, the budget for Church Extension may serve as a guide to the churches in their giving for Church Extension. Each Official Board shall, by June 15, submit to the Board of Church Extension its best estimate of the amount the Church may be expected to remit for Church Extension by Annual Conference. (First Reading)
Resolved, That on January 6, 1968, an Adjourned Session of this Annual Conference be convened at 9:00 A. M. in Bethel Church, Allentown, Pa., to consider the Report of the Committee to Study Church Government.
Whereas, Our experience this year indicates again the problems in our present pulpit supply system, and
Whereas, Interest is being expressed to discuss the pulpit supply proposal submitted in 1966, therefore
Resolved, That the Pulpit Supply Committee prepare a program designed to increase our understanding of the proposal and to promote general discussion of our pulpit supply problems, and further
Resolved, That all pastors and delegates be encouraged to meet at Cedar Crest, Allentown, on Saturday, March 9, 1968 at 9:00 A.M. for this program. No vote shall be taken at this meeting on the proposal.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
EIGHTY-FOURTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ADJOURNED SESSION (I) of the 84th ANNUAL CONFERENCE
of the
BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH
Twelfth Meeting
Saturday Morning, January 6, 1968
The meeting was opened with Carl C .Cassel directing the singing of “Lead On, 0 King Eternal.” Frank L. Herb, Jr., led in prayer.
Carl C. Cassel gave the devotional address based upon Joshua 1. Leader ship was the subject emphasized. Each leader must be aware of God’s commission upon them. Each must in turn respond accordingly to the commission and pass the message on to those who must be led and then they must respond to the God appointed leadership.
The Roll was called.
Resolved, that absent members be excused, and, further, that alternate delegates be seated.
The Committee to study Church Government requested 45 minutes to present three papers relative to the report.
C. E. Kirkwood presented material outlining the background of the report and a brief history of the Committee.
Carl C. Cassel presented the Major thrust of the report.
James A. Beil presented areas of change.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY CHURCH GOVERNMENT (See Report, page 94).
ARTICLE IV MINISTERS
The Lord of the Church has given gifts to men called ministers in His church. The office of the ministry is the first in the church in both dignity and usefulness. The one who fills the office is described in the Scriptures by several terms. As he has the oversight of the flock of Christ, he is termed bishop. As he feeds them with spiritual food, he is termed pastor (shepherd). As he serves Christ in the church, he is termed minister. As it is his duty to be an example to the flock in godliness and to govern well in the church of Christ, he is termed elder. As he is sent to declare the will of God to sinners, and to beseech them to be reconciled to God through Christ, he is termed an evangelist.
It was adopted.
ARTICLE V ELDERS
In the New Testament church, Christ has provided men called elders whom he has enabled and commissioned to govern with ministers in His church.
Men who bear this office share equally with ministers the authority in and responsibility for the life of the church; but in contrast to ministers, whose primary authority and responsibility is in the Word and doctrine and secondarily in ruling the primary authority and responsibility of elders is ruling and governing and secondarily in the Word and doctrine.
Those who fill this office should be examples to the flock of their sound faith, their blameless life and conduct and their wisdom and discretion.
Elders, as representatives of the people, are chosen by the membership of the church on the basis of Scriptural qualifications.
It was adopted.
Resolved that we adjourn to meet at 1:15 p.m.
Adjourned at 11:50 a.m.
Thirteenth Meeting
Saturday afternoon, January 6, 1968
ARTICLE VI DEACONS
The office of deacon is presented in the Scriptures as an office not of ruling, but of service. A deacon should be a man of deep spiritual life, exemplary conduct and sound judgment. His office is one of sympathetic service to the church and to the distressed, friendless or sick, after the example of our Lord Jesus Christ.
It was adopted.
ARTICLE VII CHURCH GOVERNMENT
By providing spiritually qualified overseers, called elders, Christ enables each particular church to govern itself.
But though the churches are autonomous, they are not independent because they are a part of a fellowship of churches. The basis of this fellowship is mutual conviction of the body of truth set forth in the Scriptures.
The Authority of the fellowship is secondary, being derived from the particular churches, and is limited to matters which pertain to the churches in fellowship or to common concerns which churches agree to take care of together.
All authority in the church, whether in particular churches or in the denomination, is moral and spiritual, ministerial and declarative ; it is moral and spiritual, negatively, in that it is unable to use civil force to compel obedience, and positively, in that obedience is incomplete unless it is inward and real as well as outward and apparent; it is ministerial and declarative in that the Holy Scriptures are the only rule of faith and conduct and therefore all decisions and laws must be understood as being servants of the Word, announcing that which the body believes the Scriptures to teach with the constant recognition that “councils may err” through frailty inseparable from humanity.
It was adopted.
ARTICLE VIII BOARD OF ELDERS
The Board of Elders shall be composed of the Minister and all the active elders of the congregation. The lay elders shall be elected by majority vote of the congregation. They shall be mature men who meet the qualifications of Scripture (I Tim. 3; Titus 1; I Peter 5). The number of elders chosen to serve on the Board shall be established by the congregation by ballot vote upon the recommendation of the Board of Elders.
The Minister shall serve as chairman of the Board of Elders; they shall elect one of their members to serve as Secretary. Two-thirds of the membership of the Board shall constitute a quorum.
The duty of the Board of Elders is the general oversight of the life and work of the church including the worship, preaching, ordinances, evangelism, visitation, discipline, finances and maintenance of the properties.
Because they are “under shepherds” and not “lords” the elders shall rule the congregation according to the direction of Christ, the Chief Shepherd, as expressed in the Scriptures and the needs of the membership. They shall hold semi-annual congregational meetings to report the status of the work to the congregation; and when they deem it advisable, present recommendations to the congregation. The congregation shall have the power to accept, to suggest changes or to reject such recommendations.
The Board of Elders shall be the channel of communication between the particular church and the fellowship of churches and its organizations. The elders shall nominate from their number and the congregation elect the representative(s) from the particular church to the fellowship-wide level.
It was adopted.
ARTICLE IX ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The church consists of many congregations which need mutual counsel and assistance to preserve soundness of doctrine and discipline, to enter into joint efforts for the advancement of the work of Christ and to prevent infidelity, error and immorality. From this arises the importance and usefulness of assemblies of particular churches.
The assembly of churches shall represent, in one body, all the particular churches of this denomination and shall be called the Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
The Annual Conference shall consist of every ordained minister laboring in direct relationship to the Bible Fellowship Church, every ordained minister who is retired, every probationer who has been called to pastor a church, and one lay elder from every properly constituted church with the membership of two hundred or less and one additional lay elder for two hundred members in excess of the first two hundred. Ordained ministers who retain membership in one of our churches and who are engaged in Christian service not directly related to our Annual Conference, probationers who have not been called to pastor a church and missionaries who hold membership in one of our churches and are under the supervision of the Board of Foreign Missions, shall be advisory members of the Annual Conference. They shall not participate in the deliberations of the sessions except by permission by the chairman.
The Annual Conference shall provide legislation, govern the affairs of the churches on the denominational level and receive appeals, complaints or other references from churches about doctrine or government. It alone shall have the power to amend the FAITH AND ORDER. It shall decide issues as a final court of appeal. Although it is responsible for these duties, it shall not invade the autonomy of the particular churches.
The Annual Conference shall have the power to resolve questions of doctrine or discipline seriously and reasonably proposed; to reprove, warn or bear testimony against error in doctrine or immorality in practice in any church; to examine and license candidates for the ministry; to ordain, install, judge and remove ministers; to examine and approve or censure the records of particular churches; to unite or divide congregations at the request of the people; to provide for supervision of vacant pulpits and to give counsel in calling pastors.
It shall keep and publish a record of the proceedings of its sessions and make them available to the membership of the churches.
Each meeting of the Annual Conference shall be opened and closed with prayer. The business sessions shall be conducted according to the Standing Rules (Business Rules of the Conference).
The parliamentary procedure shall be according to Robert’s Rules of Order except in places where our legislation provides otherwise.
It was adopted.
Resolved, that Article X be referred back to the Committee on Church Government.
Resolved, that Article XI be referred back to the Committee on Church Government.
Resolved, that we suspend the rules and adjourn. Adjourned at 4:00 p.m. with prayer by Donald T. Kirkwood.
Fourteenth Meeting
Saturday Morning, April 6, 1968
The meeting was opened with the singing of “Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart” led by Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., and F. B. Hertzog led in prayer.
F.B. Hertzog brought the devotional message. Remarks were based upon Luke 10:16. It was emphasized that compassion, not fear, must be manifested by the servants of God in their work for Him in these times of trouble. Courage is to be derived in knowing that those who hear the messenger (you) hear Jesus Christ (me).
A time of prayer was spent for various conference needs and for our government at this time of national crises.
Resolved, that we accept the excuses of the absent members and seat the alternate delegates in the conference bar.
The following were elected:
Superintendent: A.L. Seifert
Vice Superintendent: John H. Riggall
Whereas, the Nominating Committee and Conference Body have been unable to procure any nominees for the office of Director of Church Extension, therefore,
Resolved, that by use of the Rule of Exception, the Board of Church Extension supervise the work of church extension for the 1968-1969 conference year, and further,
Resolved, that the Board of Church Extension make a study of the office of the Director of Church Extension, its duties and potentiality, and further,
Resolved, that a report be submitted to the 1968 Annual Conference.
The vote was “yes” 63, “no” 15.
The following were elected:
Vice-Chairman of Annual Conference: Carl C. Cassel
Secretary of Annual Conference: Ernest B. Hartman
Robert Eckland, Norman B. Jerome and Donald J. Ritter briefly addressed the conference body.
Resolved, that a nominating committee be elected by using two nominating ballots. .. one for ministers and one for laymen. From the nominees, the 8 ordained ministers receiving the highest number of votes shall be considered candidates. The 6 laymen receiving the highest number of votes shall be considered candidates.
Resolved, that we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet this afternoon.
The meeting adjourned at 12:35 p.m. with prayer by Mark T. Smith.
Fifteenth Meeting
Saturday Afternoon, April 6, 1968
The meeting was opened at 1:45 p.m. at the call of the Chair.
The Chairman appointed the following:
Committee on Statistics: Willard E. Cassel, Donald T. Kirkwood, LeRoy S. Heller, John Dunn.
The following were elected:
Nominating Committee: John H. Riggall, James G. Koch, David E. Thomann, Daniel G. Ziegler, Robert W. Gehret, Horace A. Kauffman, Clyde W. Snyder.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS – Administrative Budget:
The Conference Administrative Budget for the year beginning on October 1, 1968 is presented herewith:
1. Publication and Printing $1, 500. 00
2. Conference Entertainment 640. 35
3. Beneficiary Fund 800. 00
4. District Superintendent:
(a) Annual Support 7,000.00
(b) Travel & Utility Grant 3,400.00
5. District Superintendent’s Parsonage 4, 362. 17
6. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 5, 000. 00
7. Moving Fund 3,200.00
8. Expenses for Boards and Committees while
transacting Conference Business 800. 00
9. Other Expenses of Board of Directors 290. 00
10. Contingencies 500. 00
11. Ministerial Convention Expenses 400. 00
$ 27,892.52
Subscriptions to Administration Budget 1968-1969
Allentown (Bethel) 1,800. Mount Carmel 696.
Allentown (Cedar Crest) 600. Nazareth 576.
Allentown (Salem) 350. Phila. (Calvary) 500.
Bethlehem 2,160. Phila. (Emmanuel) 376.
Blandon 500. Paradise 360.
Catasauqua 372. Quakertown 1, 105.
Coopersburg 800. Reading 1,920.
Denville 350. Royersford 650.
Easton 450. Scranton 450.
Emmaus 1,500. Shamokin 480.
Ephrata 100. Sinking Spring 216.
Fleetwood 862, Staten Island 300.
Graterford 650. Spring City 600.
Harleysville 400. Stroudsburg 258.
Harrisburg 800. Sunbury 1,200.
Hatfield 1,280. Terre Hill 700.
Lancaster 500. Wallingford 1,200.
Lebanon 380. York 850.
Lehighton 401.52 Zionsville 300.
Maple Glen 900. Total $ 27,892. 52
The Budget was adopted.
Whereas, David Hendershot, who served faithfully as a member of the Youth Fellowship General Committee has submitted his resignation due to other responsibilities,
Resolved, that the members of the adjourned session elect a member to serve the one and one half year unexpired term of Mr. Hendershot.
The following was elected: Benjamin Pattison
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS:
Whereas, Roy Hertzog has served commendably under the Board of Foreign Missions and is recommended by them for ordination, and,
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended that he be ordained, and,
Whereas, after examination before this Committee we are convinced that he is in accord with our Faith and Order, and is called of God to the Gospel Ministry,
We therefore, Recommend that Roy Hertzog be ordained at a service to be held in Bethel Bible Fellowship Church of Allentown, Pa., on the evening of May 5, 1968.
(C.E. Kirkwood, Frank L. Herb, Jr., A. L. Seifert, John H. Riggall, W.B. Hottel, Committee)
Resolved, that we adjourn to meet Saturday, April 13, at 9:00 a.m. at the Bethel Church, 529 N. 8th Street, Allentown, Pa.
Adjourned with prayer by Carl C. Cassel at 4:30 p.m.
Sixteenth Meeting
Saturday Morning, April 13, 1968
The meeting was opened by James A. Beil, who directed the singing of “The Day of Resurrection” and led in prayer. A devotional meditation based on Acts 15:1-29 was given by Jansen E. Hartman, depicting the life of the Jerusalem church council and its relationship to the present day church.
The roll was taken.
Resolved, that we accept the excuses of absent members, and alternate delegates be seated.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BEREAN BIBLE SCHOOL
On behalf of the Board of Directors of Berean Bible School I submit the following action to the Adjourned Session of the 84th Annual Conference meeting in Bethel Church, Allentown, Pa., on Saturday, April 13, 1968 for ratification:
The election of Rev. Jansen E. Hartman as President of Berean Bible School for the term beginning on June 30, 1968 and ending on June 30, 1969. This action was taken by the Board at a special meeting on Saturday, February 17, 1968.
– Donald R. Knauer, Secretary
The report was accepted and the election ratified.
Resolved, that we adjourn to meet again at 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Seventeenth Meeting
Saturday Afternoon, April 13, 1968
The meeting was opened at 1:30 p.m.
Resolved, that the Annual Conference empower the Board of Directors to negotiate for the purchase of the Bible Conference grounds known as Pinebrook, as well as the adjoining 40 acres and buildings owned by Richard Crawford, and, if a suitable price can be agreed upon, to empower the Board of Directors to make such a purchase.
Resolved, that the above question require a 2/3rd majority for adoption.
The vote was “yes”- 45; “no”- 19.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
REPORT OF THE FIRST CAMP
Chairman: John H. Riggall
Recording Secretary: Willard E. Cassel
Financial Secretary: Donald T. Kirkwood
George E. Herb, Sec.
REPORT OF THE SECOND CAMP
Chairman: James G. Koch
Recording Secretary: Leon K. Overpeck
Financial Secretary: John Dunn
Leon K. Overpeck, Sec.
Chairman of Erection, John H. Riggall
Chairman of Dismantling, William A. Heffner
Resolved, that the Board of Directors shall have, and they hereby are, given authority to arrange for such financing as will be involved in the purchase of Pinebook.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
Adjourned at 4:15 p. m. with prayer by Frank L. Herb, Jr.