EIGHTY-NINTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
1972
First Meeting
Monday Morning, October 9, 1972
Song leader — LeRoy S. Heller opened the conference in leading in the singing of “We Sing the Boundless Praise”. Robert W. Gehret led in prayer.
Carl C. Cassel introduced the devotional speaker for the week, John Brueckman. He addressed the conference on the topic, “Scripture and the Time Fulfilled.”
The roll was called as follows:
Church Ordained Pastor Delegate
Allentown (Bethel) James G. Koch John L. Deily
Allentown (Salem) John H. Herb Dale Kemmerer
Belvidere Philip T. Link
Bethlehem Frank L. Herb, Jr. A. Franklin Campbell
Blandon Arthur H. Frable Stanley Kalbach
Coopersburg LeRoy S. Heller Delbert L. Seifert
Denville, N. J. Willard E. Cassel Charles M. Petersen
Ephrata Robert W. Smock Robert W. Gehret
Emmaus Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. Clifford L. Kauffman
Finesville, N. J. H. Walter Stout, Jr.
Fleetwood Austin G. Shelly Norman L. Reed
Graterford Keith E. Plows Edward A. Stortz
Harleysville David E. Thomann Clayton Dietz
Harrisburg R. C. Reichenbach Roscoe N. Landis
Hatfield Ronald C. Mahurin Clyde W. Snyder
Lancaster John Dunn Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon Bruce A. Ellingson Ronald Ensminger
Maple Glen Carl K. Spackman Byron C. Cassel
Mount Carmel Paul G. Zimmerman Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Nazareth James A. Beil Norman W. Granda
Paradise William A. Heffner E. Gerald Hershey
Quakertown Bert N. Brosius L. James Roberts
Reading Jansen E. Hartman Robert Breitegam
Royersford Robert F. Johnson William R. Hunsberger
Shamokin Harold C. Weaber Ronald C. Lahr
Spring City George E. Herb R. Stanley Weidner
Staten Island, N.Y. Ralph D. Cole
Stroudsburg Harold E. Snyder
Sunbury William W. Mull Clayton Brosius
Terre Hill W. W. Hartman John M. Slater
Wallingford C. E. Kirkwood Edward Shockley, Sr.
Walnutport David L. Branning Oliver W. Beil
York John H. Riggall Sterling Baer
Zionsville E. W. Bean Bright N. Heist
Probationers
Allentown(Cedar C.) Dean F. Bult John Pfeiffer
Catasauqua Roger Reitz A. W. Deppe
Easton LeRoy C. Wilcox Wm. T. Margeson
Lehighton Terry Tareila Ernest E. Bauer
Phila. (Calvary) Keith L. Yoder Leon H. Naudasher
Phila. (Emmanuel) Dana E. Weller Edward J. Dietzman
Scranton Bernard N. Coble Franklin Mead
Sinking Spring Terris L. Byrd Richard Fisher
ORDAINED MINISTERS – Carl C. Cassel, Donald R. Knauer, A. L. Seifert, David J. Watkins, Daniel G. Ziegler
ORDAINED MINISTERS ON LEAVE OF ABSENCE – Donald T. Kirkwood
RETIRED MINISTERS – Paul E. Baer, W. F. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, E. J. Rutman, N. H. Wolf
ORDAINED MISSIONARIES – T. James Bigley, Brian H. Butler, Leonard E. Buck, Richard J. Gehman, Robert F. Gordon, J. Barclay Harley, Roy Hertzog, Edward Moyer, Laird E. Stengele.
The following were absent: Clayton Brosius, Dean F. Bult, Leon H. Naudasher, David J. Watkins, Donald T. Kirkwood, Paul E. Baer, W. F. Heffner, E. J. Rutman, N. H. Wolf, *James Bigley,*Leonard Buck, Robert Gordon, *J. Barclay Harley, *Roy Hertzog, *Edward Moyer, *Laird F. Stengele.
(*Absence due to service on respective fields)
Written excuses from Richard J. Gehman, Donald T. Kirkwood, Leon H. Naudasher, Clayton Brosius, W. F. Heffner, N. H. Wolf, and Paul E. Baer were read by the Secretary and oral requests to be absent for a funeral and an emergency sick call were made by Bert N. Brosius and by John Pfeiffer for Dean F. Bult.
Resolved, that the above excuses be accepted.
Resolved, that the first ten rows be the Conference Bar.
Secretary James A. Beil appointed Willard E. Cassel Assistant Secretary and Robert W. Smock, Recording Secretary.
The following committees were appointed by the Chairman and approved by the Conference:
COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS: William A. Heffner, John H. Herb, A. Franklin Campbell, Terris L. Byrd.
COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS: Carl C. Cassel, James G. Koch, Bruce A. Ellingson, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Bert N. Brosius, Leon H. Naudasher.
TIMEKEEPER: David L. Branning
REPORTER: R. C. Reichenbach
TELLERS: Robert F. Johnson, Keith E. Plows, Carl K. Spackman, John L. Deily, Norman W. Granda, George E. Herb
Resolved, that Richard J. Gehman, Missionary ordained by the Bible Fellowship Church, be seated in the Bar.
Resolved, that the Agenda be adopted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM (See page Z8)
The report was accepted.
Recessed at 11:40 a.m. Reconvened at 11:50 a.m.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE (See page 28)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS (See page 31)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE
The report was accepted.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:11 p.m. with prayer by E. W. Bean.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, October 9, 1972
The meeting was opened with prayer by F. B. Hertzog.
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE: (3 years) Ronald C. Mahurin, Horace A. Kauffman
COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS: Willard E. Cassel, Frank L. Herb, Jr., James G. Koch, Keith E. Plows, John H. Riggall.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION (See page 34)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MINISTERIAL CANDIDATES (See page 36)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, that the following men be accepted as having served satisfactorily during the past year and are presently in the following stages of development.
PROBATIONERS:
Dean F. Bult, Allentown, Pa.
Terris L. Byrd, Sinking Spring, Pa.
Bernard N. Coble, Scranton, Pa.
Robert L. Draper, Howell, Township, N.J.
David Manney, Ecuador
D. Thomas Phillips, Neptune City, N. J.
Roger Reitz, Catasauqua, Pa.
Mark T. Smith, Hamburg, Pa.
Terry Tareila, Lehighton, Pa.
Dana E. Weller, Philadelphia, Pa.
Keith L. Yoder, Philadelphia, Pa.
CANDIDATES:
Dennis Dodge, Burlington, Vermont
Alan E. Graffam, Norristown, Pa.
APPLICANTS:
William H. Bartron, Beverly Mass.
Douglas Bowne, Rahns, Pa.
Glenn H. Davis, Cambridge, Ohio
Frank DeJuana, Staten Island, N. Y.
Kenneth Good, Strasburg, Pa.
Dale Heffline, Stroudsburg, Pa.
Thomas Heimer, Nazareth, Pa.
Russell G. Jeandell, New Castle, Del.
Charles Kramer, Spring City, Pa.
Rodney H. Long, Elysburg, Pa.
John Loos, New Brunswick, N. J.
Jonathan D. Reynolds, Zionsville, Pa.
Jeffrey Stickler, Bethlehem, Pa.
Keith Stickler, Bethlehem, Pa.
Matthew Swope, Telford, Pa.
Richard Taylor, Graterford, Pa.
David A. Thomann, Harleysville, Pa.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (See page 37)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO PUBLISH FELLOWSHIP NEWS (See page 44)
The report was accepted.
Whereas, we have been informed by the Credentials Committee that T. D. Gehret, W. B. Hottel and P. T. Stengele were taken home to be with the Lord, therefore
Resolved, that the Chairman appoint a committee to prepare suitable obituaries to appear in the 1972 Year Book
The Chairman appointed Robert W. Smock and David E. Thomann.
Resolved, that the above appointments be approved.
Oral reports were given by Robert W. Smock, Editor of FELLOWSHIP NEWS, and R. C. Reichenbach, Business Manager of FELLOWSHIP NEWS.
REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE (See page 46)
The report was accepted.
The following appointments were made by the Chairman and approved by the Conference:
COMMITTEE ON AUDITING:
William R. Hunsberger, Clifford L. Kauffman, Ronald Ensminger, Edward Shockley, Sr., John Pfeiffer, Dale L. Kemmerer, Stanley Kalbach, Roscoe N. Landis, LeRoy C. Wilcox, Harold L. Snyder, Jr., Ronald C. Lahr, John M. Slater, Clayton Brosius, Edward A. Stortz, Clayton Dietz, Bright N. Heist.
COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF LOCAL CONFERENCE MINUTES: E. W. Bean, W. W. Hartman, Arthur W. Deppe, Delbert L. Seifert, Charles M. Petersen, William T. Margeson, Clyde W. Snyder, Ernest E. Bauer, Ralph D. Cole, Edward J. Dietzman, Franklin Mead, Harold E. Snyder, Oliver W. Beil, H. Walter Stout, Jr., Philip T. Link, Richard Fisher, E. Gerald Hershey, R. Stanley Weidner.
The following was elected.
EDITOR – PUBLISHER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: Robert W. Smock.
Recessed at 3:00 p.m. Reconvened at 3:25 P.M.
The following were elected:
BUSINESS MANAGER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: R. C. Reichenbach.
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE: (3 years) E. W. Bean
MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE: James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See page 47)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE (See page 52)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE (See page 53)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, that we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 p.m.
Adjourned at 4:05 p.m. with prayer by R. Stanley Weidner.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, October 9, 1972
The meeting was opened with the singing of “Wonderful Peace”. C. E. Kirkwood, Carl C. Cassel and David E. Thomann, led in prayer.
The minutes of the morning and afternoon meetings were read and accepted as corrected.
REPORT OF THE PINEBROOK SERVICE BOARD (See page 55)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS (See page 60)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME (See page 83)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY CAMP (See page 85)
The report was accepted.
The following were elected:
GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS: David E. Thomann
BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS: Willard E. Cassel, R. C. Reichenbach, Austin G. Shelly, Paul G. Zimmerman, Robert Breitegam, James R. Cressman, Kermit K. Gehman, Paul Truett.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME: (2 years) E. W. Bean, John Dunn, William A. Heffner, Paul Cressman.
Resolved, that the Victory Valley Board be composed of nine men; four ordained ministers and five laymen in three classes of three-year terms each. (Initially, one class of three laymen would be elected for one-year term; a second class of three ordained ministers would be elected for two-year term; and a third class of two laymen and one ordained minister would be elected for three-year term. Thereafter, each class would be elected for three-year terms. (Second Reading)
Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 9:00 p.m. with prayer by Roger Reitz.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, October 10, 1972
Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., led the conference in prayer.
The minutes of the third meeting were read and approved as read.
The Conference sang, “We Come O Christ To Thee”.
John Brueckman spoke on “The Doctrine of the Two Ages”.
REPORT OF THE PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE (See page 88)
The report was accepted.
Recessed at 10:02 a.m. Reconvened at 10:20 a.m.
Consideration was given to the REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY CHURCH MEMBERSHIP (Previously published in the 1969 Year Book, pp. 119-133 but not considered)
Resolved, that we move ourselves into a Committee of the Whole so as to permit open discussion of the above report.
Resolved, that we suspend the rules and recess to 1:30 p.m. Paul G. Zimmerman led in prayer.
Reconvened as a Committee of the Whole at 1:30 p.m. with the singing of “Come Thou Fount”.
We were informed of the serious illness of R. Paul Schaeffer, former delegate from Allentown, Cedar Crest. Dean Bult led in prayer for this special need.
Resolved, that the Committee of the Whole rise and report:
Whereas, the conclusion reached by the Committee of the Whole be the recommendation of the adoption by the Annual Conference of the following:
Resolved, that a study committee of four ordained ministers and three laymen be appointed by the chairman to study in the light of Scriptures our denomination’s statements on the qualifications and duties of members and moral standards. This committee shall present definite recommendations for the consideration of Annual Conference.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATION AND PRINTING (See page 92)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE TREASURER (See page 92)
The report was accepted.
The following was elected.
TREASURER: Robert W. Gehret
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE (See page 94)
The report was accepted.
Recessed at 3:14 p.m. Reconvened at 3:31 p.m.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See page 98)
The report was accepted.
Timothy Kauffman, missionary to Zaire, supported by the Bible Fellowship Church was introduced by David E. Thomann.
Alan E. Graffam and Dennis Dodge, approved candidates under the Ministerial Candidate Committee, were introduced by James A. Beil.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH (See page 101)
The report was accepted.
Resolved that we suspend the rules and meet at 6:30 p.m.
Resolved that we adjourn. Adjourned at 5:01 p.m. with prayer by Harold L. Snyder.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Evening, October 10, 1972
The meeting opened with the singing of “My Saviour’s Love.” Ralph D. Cole led in prayer specifically for Robert W. Smock who is ill.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH – James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, Jansen E. Hartman, James G. Koch, John H. Riggall, Byron C. Cassel, James R. Cressman, Robert W. Gehret, Horace A. Kauffman.
BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY CAMP – (one year) – Harry Bailey, Bright N. Heist, Harold E. Snyder; (two years) – Arthur H. Frable, John H. Herb, Ronald C. Mahurin; (three years) Carl C. Cassel, James Herrold, Clayton Weber.
Recessed at 7:20 p.m. Reconvened at 7:32 p.m.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (three years) LeRoy S. Heller, John Deily.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE (three years), William W. Mull, Carlton Wentz, Nicholas Sheetz.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO READ LOCAL CONFERENCE MINUTES
In the minutes of the Bethany Bible Fellowship Church of Catasauqua we found the following petition:
Whereas, the Annual Conference, the recognized final authority, governing body of our fellowship churches, and organized under the rule of equal representation, namely 2 votes for each organized church, 1 vote by the pastor and 1 vote by the duly elected lay delegate. And with a provision for a tie vote, the deciding vote to be cast by the chairman, and
Whereas, for the past several years this rule being (abridged or ignored, knowingly or unknowingly) by other rules, has caused an overbalance of votes, creating a possible 10 to 20 percent advantage to one side or another. This gives some churches a possible 3, 4 or 5 votes instead of the originally allotted.
With due respect to all concerned we consider this to be discriminatory to us and many of our churches and do herewith petition Annual Conference convening in Pinebrook, October 9, 1972 to take appropriate steps to re-establish the rule of equal representation as initially created, and which is comparable to any other governing body whether local, state or federal.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Resolved, we adjourn. Adjourned at 9:08 p. m. in prayer by John M. Slater.
Sixth Meeting
Wednesday Morning, October 11, 1972
Sterling Baer led in prayer.
The minutes were read and approved as read.
The Conference sang: “Christ, the Lord Is Risen Today”. Edward Stortz led in prayer.
John Brueckman spoke from the topic; “Jesus and His Resurrection”. The devotional period closed with the singing of “All Hail the Power.”
The following report was adopted — Second Reading
BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING
The Board of Publication and Printing shall be composed of three ministers and two laymen elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. The Business Manager of the FELLOWSHIP NEWS shall be a member by virtue of his office.
DUTIES:
1. The Board of Publication and Printing shall be responsible to publish:
a. The Annual Conference Year Book
b. FELLOWSHIP NEWS
c. Other Conference literature
2. It shall provide Conference related materials:
a. Local Church and Sunday School supplies
b. Stationery, etc., used by the Annual Conference Secretariat.
3. It shall determine amount of pay and the honorariums of:
a. Editorial Staff of Fellowship News
b. Business Manager of FELLOWSHIP NEWS
4. It shall receive the following funds:
a. Revenue from FELLOWSHIP NEWS Subscriptions
b. Revenue from Boards contributing to the publication of FELLOWSHIP NEWS
c. Revenue from sale of Annual Conference Year Books or other Conference literature authorized to be produced and sold by the Annual Conference.
d. Appropriation from Administrative Budget
5.The Business Manager shall deposit all funds in a bank or trust company approved by the Board of Publication and Printing to be disbursed at the direction of the Board.
6. It shall investigate possible areas of expansion in the field of literature and printing.
7.It shall present a written report to the Annual Conference and also a prospective budget for the ensuing year.
The following deletions will be made:
1970 Year Book, p.B. (under Standing Boards & Committees):
1. Committee on Publication and Printing
2. Committee to Publish Year Book
3. Committee to Publish FELLOWSHIP NEWS
1970 Year Book, p.D. (Under Year Books):
1. “and Publisher”
1970 Year Book, p. D (Under Boards and Committees):
1. Once in each of the first two paragraphs: “Committee on Publication and Printing”
1970 Year Book, p.G
1. Complete section “Publication and Printing”
FAITH & ORDER (mimeo) p. 12 (Committees to be appointed):
1. Committee on Publication and Printing
FAITH & ORDER (mimeo) pp. 23 and 24
1. Complete section relative to Committee on Publication & Printing.
(Robert W. Smock, John Dunn, R. C. Reichenbach, P. T. Rutman, Willard C. Cassel, David E. Thomann, Committee).
Consideration was given to the Government Committee material presented for second reading.
The following were elected:
PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE BOARD (3 years) Ronald C. Mahurin, Lee Boyles
Recessed at 10:25 a.m. Reconvened at 11:00 a.m.
Resolved that we extend the time
Resolved that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:08 with prayer by Norman L. Reed.
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday Afternoon, October 11, 1972
Clyde W. Snyder led in prayer for specific expressed needs.
The following were elected:
PINEBROOK SERVICE BOARD – Robert Breitegam, Ronald Ensminger, George E. Herb, Donald Matz, Walter Schlagel, Gerald Schlonecker, Paul G. Zimmerman
Further consideration was given to the Government Committee material for second reading.
Recessed at 3:00 p.m. Reconvened at 3:35 p.m.
Missionary David Solt addressed the Conference.
The following articles were adopted at second reading:
ARTICLE X – 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, and its agencies, every ordained missionary, 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 a membership of two hundred or less and one additional lay elder for every hundred members in excess of the first two hundred, ordained ministers on leave of absence, ordained ministers who retain membership in one of the churches and who are engaged in Christian service not directly related to the Annual Conference, probationers who have not been called to pastor a church and missionaries who hold membership in one of the 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 denomination 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 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 the standing rules provide otherwise.
ARTICLE XI – MINISTERS LABORING IN OTHER CHURCHES OR ORGANIZATIONS
An ordained minister of the Bible Fellowship Church, consistently with his ordination vows and without prejudice to his ministerial standing, may properly under certain circumstances and conditions, labor in churches or organizations other than those of the Bible Fellowship Church.
The following rules must be adhered to in such cases:
1.Such labor shall not require the performance of functions. inconsistent with his ordination vows required of ministers and other provisions of the FAITH AND ORDER of the Bible Fellowship Church.
2.They shall not be regarded as under the sole jurisdiction of the organization in which they serve. Such an organization must recognize that those who hold credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church are under its discipline in their faith and life.
ARTICLE XII – THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
This material has been approved and appears in the mimeo FAITH AND ORDER, page 19.
ARTICLE XIII – PROCEDURE FOR RECOGNITION OF A MINISTER
All men who desire to have ministerial credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church shall apply to the Ministerial Candidate Committee. Initial application should be made in writing to the chairman of the Committee; any minister in the denomination can supply the name and address of the current chairman.
Every man who is called to serve as a pastor of a Bible Fellowship Church must have credentials with the denomination. Men who serve as supply pastors for an extended period of time shall be required to establish a proper relationship with this Committee.
Men Entering the Ministry. The Ministerial Candidate Committee divides those under its care into three groups: Applicants, Candidates and Probationers. An Applicant is man who offers himself to this Committee for service in the Bible Fellowship Church; young men are encouraged to seek this recognition as early in their educational program as they sense the call of God to the ministry. A Candidate is a man whose application is accepted and who remains under the guidance of this Committee; men move to this group when they near the completion of their educational preparation for the ministry. A Probationer is a man who has been approved by this Committee, has passed an examination on the FAITH AND ORDER of the Bible Fellowship Church, and is working in a Bible Fellowship Church or in one of the denominational ministries. After a Probationer has served at least two years, he may be recommended to the Credentials Committee for ordination examination. The minimum period of probationary service may be extended; having served as a Probationer does not guarantee ordination. Internship or field work programs enhance the value of this probationary period when churches and men desire.
Men Received from Other Churches. This material has been approved and appears in mimeo FAITH AND ORDER, page 20 – first four paragraphs.
Ordination. The Bible Fellowship Church understands ordination to the Christian ministry to be the laying on of the hands of the elders of the Church accompanied by prayer and the public recognition by the Church of gifts previously given by God to one called to the ministry of the Word of God. The examination for ordination is conducted by the Credentials Committee of the Bible Fellowship Church. So long as an ordained minister maintains a relationship to this denomination he remains under the care of the Credentials Committee subscribing annually to the FAITH AND ORDER.
ARTICLE XIV – PULPIT SUPPLY PROCEDURE
This material has been approved and appears in 1971 Year Book, page 13-22.
ARTICLE XV – AGENCIES OF THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The churches individually and as a body recognize their responsibility for the growth of the church in this country and overseas, for the ministry, for education, for camps and conferences, for youth work, for publications, for ministerial pensions and relief and for other appropriate concerns.
The Annual Conference shall establish boards, committees or offices, temporary or permanent, incorporated or unincorporated for the discharge of these responsibilities.
Such agencies shall perform all their acts as the servants of and in accordance with the rules of the Bible Fellowship Church; they shall be accountable to and submit reports to the Annual Conference as it may require.
The Annual Conference is empowered to consider the programs of such agencies to correlate their work, to prevent duplication of effort and to guide the development of denominational programs. Each agency shall administer its own program and finances in conformity to policy which has been approved by the Annual Conference.
ARTICLE XVI – CHAIRMAN
To conduct the business of the Annual Conference in an orderly and efficient manner, a chairman shall be chosen by and from the membership of the Annual Conference.
The chairman by his election shall be considered to possess, by delegation from the whole body, all authority necessary to direct the meetings of the Annual Conference according to the rules of the Bible Fellowship Church.
When there is a tie vote, the chairman shall have the deciding vote. If he is not willing to decide, he shall call for a second ballot; if the vote is again tie, the issue shall be considered lost.
Before the Annual Conference adjourns it shall elect by ballot the Chairman for the next Annual Conference. A Chairman shall be eligible to succeed himself twice. After the close of the Annual Conference, the chairman shall have the power to convene the Annual Conference by circulating a written call for such a session giving the members two weeks notice.
ARTICLE XVII – SECRETARY
Each Annual Conference before adjournment shall elect by ballot a secretary from its membership. He shall record its transactions, preserve the records carefully, and prepare for publication the proceedings, of the Annual Conference. He shall furnish certified excerpts from the minutes of the Annual Conference when properly requested; when such excerpts are given, they shall be considered as authentic evidence of the fact which they declare. The secretary is empowered to appoint any assistants he needs.
Resolved, that in an incorporated congregation, the Board of Elders shall choose from their number the authorized legal representatives according to their respective Articles of Incorporation.
Resolved, that in an unincorporated congregation, three trustees shall be elected by and from the Board of Elders to be the authorized legal representatives.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (three years) – David L. Branning, Bruce A. Ellingson, Leon H. Naudasher, Harold E. Snyder.
Resolved that we suspend the rules and meet at 6:30 p.m.
Resolved that we adjourn. Adjourned at 5:08 p.m. with prayer by Edward Shockley, Sr.
Eighth Meeting
Wednesday Evening, October 11, 1972
Meeting opened with the singing of “Go, Labor On; Spend, and Be Spent”.
Austin G. Shelly led in prayer.
Minutes were read and approved as read.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING – Willard E. Cassel, David E. Thomann, Paul T. Rutman, Gary Sterner
An oral progress report concerning Pinebrook Sewage System was given by Carl C. Cassel, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Resolved, that the Board of Directors be authorized to sell the property at 1218 E. Rosemont Drive, Bethlehem, Pa.
Whereas, the Conference has authorized the sale of the property at 1218 E. Rosemont Drive, Bethlehem, Pa., therefore,
Resolved, that the proceeds from the sale be placed in the Ministers’ Retirement Fund.
Resolved, that the annuities and the maximum as provided for in the regulations on pages G and H of the 1971 Year Book be increased by 20 % for the 1972-1793 year, and that the continuing of this increase be the subject of further study by the Board of Directors.
An oral progress report concerning Pinebrook was given by the Service Board through its secretary, David J. Watkins.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE LOCAL CONFERENCE MINUTES: II
“We have examined all the Local Conference Minutes except Cedar Crest and Sunbury churches, and have found them correct to the best of our knowledge and belief.”
(E. W. Bean, W. W. Hartman, Arthur W. Deppe, Delbert L. Seifert, Charles M. Petersen, Clyde W. Snyder, Ernest E. Bauer, Ralph D. Cole, William T. Margeson, Edward J. Dietzman, Franklin Mead, Harold E. Snyder, Oliver W. Beil, H. Walter Stout, Jr., Philip T. Link, Richard Fisher, E. Gerald Hershey, R. Stanley Weidner, Committee).
Resolved, that LeRoy G. Wilcox be ordained at a service to be held in the Easton Bible Fellowship Church on Thursday, Nov. 2, 1972 at 8:00 p.m.
Resolved, that Robert Minnig be ordained at a service to be held in the Lancaster Bible Fellowship Church on Thursday, October 26, 1972 at 8:00 p.m.
The following two resolutions were adopted at Second Reading:
Resolved, that the mimeographed copies of the Articles of Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church which have been adopted by Annual Conference be our Official FAITH AND ORDER and, further,
Resolved, that this be the official FAITH AND ORDER to which the Pastors shall subscribe.
Robert Minnig was invited to a seat in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, that the By Laws of the Board of Christian Education, the statement of Philosophy of Christian Education be ratified.
Resolved, that the month of January be designated as Subscription Month to the FELLOWSHIP NEWS and each Pastor be urged to encourage subscriptions among the families of his congregation.
Resolved, that donations be given from the following Boards an Committees:
Board of Victory Valley $ 50.00
Board of Foreign Missions 50.00
Board of Church Extension 50.00
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Jr. College 50.00
Pinebrook Conference Board 50.00
Board of Christian Education 50.00
Checks should be made payable to the Board of Publication and Printing, and sent to the Business Manager by February 1, 1973.
The following budget was adopted:
FELLOWSHIP NEWS BUDGET FOR 1972-1973
Income
Subscriptions at $2.25 each $3,100.00
Donations: $50.00 each from Board of
Christian Education, Pinebrook Jr. College,
Foreign Missions, Victory Valley, Church
Extension, Pinebrook Conference 300.00
Board of Publication and Printing 1,000.00
Total Income 4,400.00
Expenditures
Printing 12 issues of FELLOWSHIP NEWS 3,500.00
Honorariums 175.00
Secretarial Assistance 175.00
Editor’s Expenses 150.00
Business Manager’s Expenses 150.00
Postage 150.00
Equipment (Fund) 50.00
Committee Expenses 50.00
Total expenditures 4,400.00
Resolved, that we extend the time.
The following budget of the Board of Church Extension was adopted:
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION PROPOSED BUDGET
1973 -1974
Receipts:
Churches 55,000.00
Interest 800.00
Special Gifts 2,000.00 57,800.00 57,800.
Expenditures:
Appropriations:
Churches 7,000.00
Missions 12,500.00
TIE Team 1,000.00
PISCES 3,000.00 23,500.00
Administrative:
Director’s Salary 7,200.00
Supplemental Benefits 1,200.00
Parsonage:
Mortgage 1,880.00
Utilities 880.00
Insurance 140.00
Director’s Travel 2,000.00 Board Ex. 650.00
Operating Expenses 1,800.00
Fellowship News 50.00 15,800.00
Reserves:
Capitol Fund 3,000.00
Repayment of loan and
new mission 15,000.00
Contingency 500.00 18,500.00
Total expenses 57,800.00
Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 9:19 p.m. with prayer by Dale Kemmerer.
Ninth Meeting
Thursday, October 12, 1972 – 9:00 a.m.
The Conference sang “Like a River Glorious”. Horace A. Kauffman led in prayer.
The choir of Pinebrook Junior College, under the direction of Mrs. Dean Stortz sang, “In Heavenly Love Abiding”.
John E. Brueckman spoke on “The Believer and Jesus’ Resurrection.”
Devotions were concluded with the singing of “Christ Arose”.
The minutes were read and approved as read.
Whereas Robert W. Smock has asked to be relieved of the position of Editor-Publisher of the FELLOWSHIP NEWS for health reasons, therefore,
Resolved, that we accept his resignation with regret and pray for his restoration to full health.
Whereas the duly-elected editor-publisher of the FELLOWSHIP NEWS has resigned for health reasons, and
Whereas the Board of Publication and Printing is responsible for publishing FELLOWSHIP NEWS, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Board of Publication and Printing be authorized to assume the duties of the editor of FELLOWSHIP NEWS until an editor is elected.
Recessed at 10:30 a.m. Reconvened at 11:10 a m.
Resolved, that we suspend the rules to meet at the call of the Chair.
Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:02 p.m. with prayer by Edward J. Dietzman.
Tenth Meeting
Thursday Afternoon, October 12, 1972
The meeting opened at 2:00 p.m. with the singing of “The Lord Is My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” (Crimond). Terris Byrd led in prayer.
Minutes were read and approved as read.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS (See page 108)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AUDITING (See page 116)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES
The report was accepted.
Report of Committee on Communications:
Report was accepted (See page 116)
PRESENTATION OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE BUDGET
PRESENTATION OF CONFERENCE ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET
Resolved, that we approve presentation to our churches of the following Administrative Budget proposed for 1973-1974
ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET PROPOSED FOR 1973-1974
COMPARED WITH BUDGET APPROVED FOR 1972-1973
Approved for Proposed for
1972-1973 1973-1974
1 Publication and Printing 1,500.00 2,000.00
2 . Conference Entertainment 1,600.00 2,600.00
3. Beneficiary Fund 1,000.00 1,000.00
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 8,500.00 10,000.00
5. Moving Fund 3,000.00 2,000.00
6. Expenses for Boards & Com.
while transacting Conf. Bus 2,100.00 2,100.00
7. Other expenses of B. of D. 350.00 450.00
8. Ministerial Convention Exp. 450.00 450.00
9. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 2,000.00 1,000.00
10. Health & Welfare Insur. for,
Pastors and Dependents 15,593.44 17,500.00*
11.For use by Ministerial Candi-
date Com. for Internships 1,000.00 1,000.00
12. Contingencies 500.00 1,400.00
TOTALS 37,593.44 41,500.00
*Includes insurance coverage ($34. 69 per month for Pastors of 42 churches contributing to the Budget.
Resolved, that the Government Committee be authorized to have copies of the Faith and Order printed according to the format approved by the 86th Annual Conference, namely, Preamble, Articles of Faith, and the Form of Government, without the article on amendments.
Recessed at 3:20 p.m. Reconvened at 3:52 p.m.
The following were appointed:
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS STUDY COMMITTEE: Frank L. Herb, Jr., Bruce A. Ellingson, Daniel G. Ziegler, William A. Heffner, William R. Hunsberger, John L.
Deily, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM FOR NEXT ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Robert F. Johnson, A. Franklin Campbell, Clifford L. Kauffman.
COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES: David L. Branning, Terry Tareila
COMMITTEE ON AGENDA: Conference Secretariat
The following were elected:
CHAIRMAN – Jansen E. Hartman
VICE CHAIRMAN – Carl C. Cassel
SECRETARY – James A. Beil
REPORT OF THE RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE
Whereas, the sessions of the 89th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church have been carried out successfully under the able leadership of its Chairman, therefore be it
Resolved, that we, the members of Annual Conference, express our appreciation to Jansen E. Hartman for the efficient and Christian manner in which the business was executed.
Whereas, A. L. Seifert has served as Director of the Pinebrook Bible Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we praise our God for the Director, and for the blessing of the Lord upon his ministry.
Whereas, the Department of Church Extension has been led by the able leadership of its Director, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks to God for Daniel G. Ziegler and his faithfulness to the task of extending the church.
Whereas, David J. Watkins, President of Pinebrook Junior College, has given himself to the development of the school, therefore
Resolved, that we express our appreciation to God for a man of dedication and vision.
Whereas, the ministers of the Bible Fellowship Church have faithfully served the Lord and have sought under God to minister to the needs of their people, therefore
Resolved, that we thank God for calling, enabling and empowering these brethren for their work and ministry.
Whereas, Byron C. Cassel has graciously and conscientiously carried out with diligence and care his responsibilities as Treasurer of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore
Resolved, that we extend to him our heartfelt thanks for this ministry.
Whereas, the 89th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church has been graciously entertained by the Pinebrook staff and volunteers, therefore
Resolved, that we express our gratitude for their provision by a rising vote of thanks at the evening meal on Thursday, October 12, 1972.
Whereas, James A. Beil has served faithfully as Secretary of Annual conference, ably assisted by Willard E. Cassel, Assistant Secretary and Robert W. Smock, Recording Secretary, therefore
Resolved, that each of these brethren be commended for their fine work and be given a token gift of $25.00 each from the Board of Publication and Printing.
Whereas, Our Blessed Lord has called unto Himself our brother, W. B. Hottel, who served faithfully as pastor in a number of our churches, therefore
Resolved, that we thank God for his commitment to our Lord and his work and pledge our prayer for his family.
Whereas, our Blessed Lord has called unto Himself our brother, T. D. Gehret, who served faithfully as pastor and District Superintendent of our churches until his retirement, therefore
Resolved, that we thank God for his commitment to our Lord and His work and pledge our prayer for his family.
Whereas, Our Blessed Lord has called unto Himself our brother, P. T. Stengele, who served faithfully as pastor and District Superintendent of our churches until his retirement, therefore
Resolved, that we thank God for his commitment to our Lord and His work and pledge our prayer for his family.
Resolved, that the Secretary of Annual Conference send appropriate copy of the three previous resolutions to the respective family.
Whereas, Missionaries Timothy Kauffman and David Solt attended and briefly addressed this Annual Conference, therefore
Resolved, that we thank God for these dedicated ambassadors of Christ and assure them and all our missionaries of our continued interest and prayers in their behalf.
Whereas, F. B. Hertzog, Administrator of the Bible Fellowship Church Home, reported to this Annual Conference on its progress and projected development, therefore
Resolved, that we express our appreciation for his continuingly devoted service.
Whereas, David E. Thomann, General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions, reported to this Annual Conference and has served very acceptably in this position, therefore,
Resolved, that we express our appreciation for his faithfulness and pray for God’s continued blessing upon him in this labor of love.
Whereas, Robert W. Smock and R. C. Reichenbach have diligently served another year as Editor and Business Manager of FELLOWSHIP NEWS, therefore
Resolved, that we express our sincere appreciation for their labors in this important ministry.
Whereas, the Lord has given to our church many faithful elders who have served as delegates throughout the year and during this conference, therefore
Resolved, that we thank God for them and pray His richest blessing upon them, their families and their churches.
Whereas, the main reason for establishing the Adjourned Session of Annual Conference was the old pulpit supply system, and since our new pulpit supply system does not make an adjourned session necessary, and
Whereas, the mid-year contributions and payments can be sent to the appropriate officers by April 1, and
Whereas, the officers of the 90th Annual Conference and the Nominating Committee for the 90th Annual Conference can be elected at this present session, and
Whereas , the Board of Directors can make the necessary adjustments to the Administration Budget based on the subscriptions received, and
Whereas, the 90th Annual Conference can ratify the election of the Director of Church Extension, therefore be it
Resolved, that there be no Adjourned Session of the 89th Annual Conference, and that provisions be made to eliminate sessions of Adjourned Conference in the future.
Resolved, that the 90th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church convene at Pinebrook, Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, October 8, 1973, at 10:00 a.m.
Resolved, that each pastor, shortly after the election of the Conference Delegate and Alternate Delegate, shall inform the Secretary of the Annual Conference of the results of these elections.
Resolved, that Yearbooks shall be ordered and paid for at Annual Conference.
Resolved, that all monies which are due to conference boards and committees be forwarded to them prior to August 31 of the year in which they are to be reported.
Resolved, that the instructions on pages 117 and 118 of the 1971 Yearbook be revised by the Statistical Committee and inserted in the 1972 Yearbook.
Resolved, that the report of each Board and Committee made to Annual Conference shall include a report by its Treasurer stating the total amount of cash on hand and the depository where this fund is being maintained.
Resolved, that the term of office for those elected and appointed by this body shall be for the term designated by our rules for that office or until successors are chosen.
Resolved, that John Brueckman be encouraged to adapt his devotional messages to this Conference for publication in FELLOWSHIP NEWS.
Whereas, Bethany Church, Walnutport, has by our Lord’s enabling grown to the ability to meet its financial needs without aid from the fellowship of churches, therefore
Resolved, that we praise our Lord for this evidence of His continued grace and pray for God to continue to add to the number of believers there.
The following is presented for Second Reading:
Whereas, in recent years, various boards and committees have presented and Annual Conference has adopted resolutions regarding the receipt of their respective offerings, therefore be it
Resolved, that the following become part of our Standing Rules:
1. Each church shall make an annual contribution to the Board of Christian Education by April
2. Each church shall contribute to the support of Pinebrook Junior College, to be remitted to the college in twelve monthly payments, or four quarterly payments.
3. All Church Extension funds shall be forwarded quarterly to the Treasurer of the Board of Church Extension.
4. Each church shall make an annual contribution to the Bible Fellowship Church Home. Checks shall be made payable to the Bible Fellowship Church Home and submitted by April 1 of each year.
5. Each church shall make an annual contribution to Victory Valley Camp. Checks shall be made payable to Victory Valley Camp and sent to the Financial Secretary of the Board of Victory Valley before March 1 of each year.
6. All foreign missions funds shall be forwarded quarterly to the General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions.
(Carl C. Cassel, Chairman; Bruce A. Ellingson, Secretary; Bert N. Brosius, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., James G. Koch, Leon H. Naudasher, Committee).
The following were appointed:
STATISTICAL COMMITTEE – Willard E. Cassel, LeRoy S. Heller, John Dunn, Paul G. Zimmerman, Donald R. Knauer
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Resolved, that we suspend the rules, and adjourn to meet at 7:15 p.m. Adjourned at 5:17 p.m. with prayer by William T. Margeson.
Eleventh Meeting
Thursday Evening, October 12, 1972
The meeting opened at 7:15 p.m. in singing “When I Survey”. Dana Weller led in prayer.
The minutes were approved as corrected.
The following were elected:
NOMINATING COMMITTEE – James A. Beil, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, James G. Koch, Norman W. Granda, Norman L. Reed, William R. Hunsberger
Whereas, Bethany Church, Catasauqua, petitioned this Conference concerning the ministers qualified to vote at Annual Conference and,
Whereas, the Conference in considering Article X – Annual Conference of the Form of Government specifically voted on each category of ministers who carry credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church and decided to include the following as voting members of Conference:
I. Ordained Ministers Working Under Direction of the Bible Fellowship Church,
II. Ordained Missionaries,
V. Retired ministers,
VI. Probationers who have been called to pastor Bible Fellowship churches, and to exclude the following from voting at Annual Conference,
III. Ordained Ministers working with other organizations, and
IV. Ordained Ministers on leave of absence and
Whereas, Article X was approved including these provisions as our Form of Government to replace previous Disciplines and Forms of Government,
Resolved, that we declare that Article X be considered the answer to the petition from Bethany Church, Catasauqua.
Resolved, that a committee of two representatives from Pinebrook Bible Conference Board, Pinebrook Junior College, Board of Directors, Pinebrook Service Board and the Financial Secretary of the Board of Directors, be formulated to make a study on the possibility of purchasing the Smiley property; such a study is to include possible land utilization and a financial program for such a purchase, and further,
Resolved, that if in the opinion of this committee such a purchase is desirable, its findings are to be presented to a special session of Annual Conference and further
Resolved, that permission be, and hereby is, granted to obtain an option if deemed advisable by this committee and further
Resolved, that the Chairman of Annual Conference be the Chairman of this committee.
Conference Board: A. L. Seifert, Lee Boyles
Junior College: Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., David J. Watkins
Service Board: Robert Breitegam, Ronald Ensminger
Board of Directors: Jansen E. Hartman, Carl C. Cassel, Horace Kauffman – Committee
Resolved, that we rescind resolution appearing on page 25 of 1971 Yearbook and place responsibility for interest on unpaid balance of Pinebrook loan on Pinebrook Service Board Resolution follows:
Resolved, that the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church be, and it hereby is, authorized to borrow $50,000, using Pinebrook real estate as collateral if necessary, to provide working capital for the Pinebrook Service Board. The interest on this loan shall be borne by the Pinebrook Conference Board and the Pinebrook Junior College on a ratio of 77.5 and 22.5 respectively.
Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 7:50 p.m. with prayer by Carl C. Cassel.
Immediately following adjournment the Conference observed the Lord’s Supper. Amen.