NINETY-SECOND ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
1975
First Meeting
Monday morning, October 13, 1075 – 10:00 a.m.
The Chairman, Carl C. Cassel, called the Annual Conference to order at 10:00 a.m.
The Roll was established as follows:
Allentown, Bethel – James G. Koch – LeRoy M. Siegfried
Allentown, Cedar Crest – Roy Hertzog – Glenn Rohrbach
Allentown, Salem – John H. Herb – Allan C. Palmer
Bethlehem – Frank L. Herb, Jr. – Warren L. Zimmerman
Blandon – Dana E. Weller – Stanley C. Kalbach
Catasauqua – Roger Reitz – Arthur W. Deppe
Coopersburg – Donald D. Reitz – Michael Guttman
Denville, N. J. – – John F. Moran
Easton – LeRoy C. Wilcox – Russell E. Dech
Emmaus – Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. – Clifford L. Kauffman
Englishtown-Freehold, N. J. – William W. Mull – Clinton Crankshaw
Ephrata – Robert W. Smock – Robert W. Gehret
Fleetwood – Austin G. Shelly – Norman L. Reed
Graterford – Keith E. Plows – Edward A. Stortz
Harleysville – Arthur E. Frable, Jr. – Clayton L. Dietz
Harrisburg – R. C. Reichenbach – Walter A. Schlagel
Hatfield – Ronald C. Mahurin – Clyde W. Snyder
Lancaster – John Dunn – Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon – Bruce A. Ellingson – Leroy O. Herb
Maple Glen – Carl K. Spackman – Byron C. Cassel
Mt. Carmel – Alva C. Cassel – Harold L. Snyder- Jr.
Nazareth – Paul G. Zimmerman – Roy E. Williams
Paradise – William A. Heffner – E. Gerald Hershey
Quakertown – Bert N. Brosius – L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading – Jansen E. Hartman – 1st – Robert Breitegam 2nd – Rodney Muthard
Royersford – Robert F. Johnson – William R. Hunsberger
Scranton – Bernard N. Coble – Arthur H. Frable, Sr.
Shamokin – – T. Lamarn Manney
Sinking Spring – Terris L. Byrd – Donald E. Long
Staten Island, N. Y.- – Ralph D. Cole
Stroudsburg – Robert A. Minnig – Harold E. Snyder
Sunbury – LeRoy S. Heller – Merle H. Phillips
Terre Hill – – Robert L. Weaver
Wallingford – David L. Branning – Edward T. Shockley, Sr.
York – John H. Riggall – Sterling E. Baer
Zionsville – Ernest W. Bean – Bright N. Heist
Finesville – D. Thomas Phillips – H. Walter Stout, Jr.
Lehighton – Kenneth Good – Ernest E. Bauer
Phila., Calvary – Terry Tareila – Leon H. Naudasher
Phila., Emmanuel – – H. G. Manuel
Spring City – Richard Taylor – Edward E. Custer
Walnutport – – Oliver W. Beil
Belvidere, N. J. – William H. Bartron
Franklin, N. J. – Donald R. Knauer
Howell, N. J. – Robert L. Draper
Neptune, N. J. – Charles E. Kramer
ORDAINED BUT NOT IN PASTORATE: James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, Willard E. Cassel, George E. Herb, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins, Daniel G. Ziegler
ON LEAVE OF ABSENCE: Donald T. Kirkwood, A. L. Seifert
ORDAINED MISSIONARIES: T. James Bigley, Leonard E. Buck, Brian H. Butler, Richard J. Gehman, Robert Gordon, J. Barclay Harley, Edward Moyer, Laird F. Stengele
RETIRED MINISTERS: Paul E. Baer, W. W. Hartman, W. F. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, C. Leslie Miller, E. J. Rutman, N. H. Wolf
PROBATIONERS:John Vandegriff
RESOLVED: that when a Probationer is called through the Pulpit Supply System to serve as a pastor or in another ministerial capacity, he shall be a voting member of the Annual Conference.
The following submitted excuses for absence: Donald R. Knauer, W. F. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, John F. Moran, H. Walter Stout, Jr., C. Leslie Miller, Horace A. Kauffman, Donald T. Kirkwood, N. H. Wolf, Paul E. Baer
RESOLVED: that the excuses of the above be accepted.
The following asked to be excused from various meetings: E. W. Bean, Michael Guttman, Roy E. Williams, Ernest E. Bauer, Robert L. Weaver, Warren L. Zimmerman, George E. Herb, Glenn Rohrbach, Oliver W. Beil, Clyde W. Snyder, David J. Watkins
RESOLVED: that the above requests be granted.
RESOLVED: that the first 10 rows constitute the Conference Bar.
The Secretary appointed Willard E. Cassel as Assistant Secretary.
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the Agenda be adopted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM (See page 32).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the time of the Up-Date Reports of Bible Fellowship Church Agencies be reduced to 30 minutes.
Chairman Carl C. Cassel gave the Keynote Message: “Working Together As Brethren” from Acts 15.
Bert N. Brosius sang a solo.
The Lord’s Supper was observed.
The following Delegates were introduced to the Conference: Edward H. Custer, Spring City; Walter Schlagel, Harrisburg; Merle H. Phillips, Sunbury; Roy E. Williams, Nazareth, Stanley Kalbach, Blandon; LeRoy M. Siegfried, Allentown, Bethel; Rodney Muthard, Reading; Leroy O. Herb, Lebanon; Arthur H. Frable, Sr., Scranton; E. Gerald Hershey, Paradise.
Dr. William Campbell, missionary to Morocco, addressed the Conference.
RESOLVED: that we suspend, the rules and adjourn. Adjourned at 11:55 a.m. with prayer by Clifford L. Kauffman.
Second Meeting
Monday afternoon, October 13, 1975 – 1:30 p.m.
Raymond R. Dotts led in prayer.
David E. Thomann gave an Up-Date on the work of Foreign Missions.
The following appointments were made by the Chair and approved by the Conference:
TELLERS: Robert F. Johnson, Chairman; Keith E. Plows, Austin G. Shelly, L. James Roberts, Leroy O. Herb, Michael Guttman
COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS: John Dunn, Chairman; Paul G. Zimmerman, David L. Branning, Carl K. Spackman, Russell E. Dech, Clinton Crankshaw, Robert Breitegam, William R. Hunsberger
COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS: R. C. Reichenbach, Chairman; Bert N. Brosius, Terris L. Byrd, R. Glenn Rohrbach, Harold L. Snyder, Jr., Arthur H. Frable, Sr.
TIMEKEEPER: Kenneth Good
REPORTER: William H. Bartron
COMMITTEE ON AUDITING: Norman L. Reed, Chairman; Edward Shockley, Clifford L. Kauffman, Ralph D. Cole, Edward A. Stortz, Roy E. Williams, Donald Miller, Rodney Muthard
COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES: E. W. Bean, Chairman; Bruce Ellingson, LeRoy Siegfried, Stanley Kalbach, Arthur W. Deppe, John F. Moran, Walter Stout, Jr., Clayton Dietz, Walter Schlagel, Ernest Bauer, Leon H. Naudasher, Horace G. Manuel, T. Lamarn Manney, Donald E. Long, Edward R. Custer, Merle Phillips, Robert Weaver, Oliver W. Beil, Sterling E. Baer, Bright N. Heist, Allan C. Palmer
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE (See page 32).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that we strongly encourage each church to strive to provide for its pastor a salary that is at least equal to the average gross income of its constituent households, and be it further
RESOLVED: that we encourage each church to increase its pastor’s salary for 1975-1976 to at least 7% above the previous year’s salary; and be it further
RESOLVED: that it is the consensus of this Conference that the minimum salary adequate for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including supplemental benefits, should be no less than $8,025.00 for the 1975-1976 year.
RESOLVED: that we clarify Paragraph F- 4 of the By-Laws for Annual Conference.
RESOLVED: that the above resolution be referred to the Government Committee.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE (See page 34).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that we accept the following men who are under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee:
PROBATIONERS: William H. Bartron, Belvidere, N. J.; Dennis Dodge, Bennington, Vermont (presently not serving in a B. F. Church ministry); Kenneth Good, Lehighton, Pa.; William Graybill, II, Walnutport, Pa.; Charles E. Kramer, Neptune, N. J.; David Manney, Quito, Ecuador; D. Thomas Phillips, Finesville, N. J.; Terry Tareila, Phila., Pa.; Richard Taylor, Spring City, Pa.; John Vandegriff, Reading, Pa.; Keith Yoder, Phila., Pa. (on leave of absence)
CANDIDATES: Delbert R. Baker, II, Newark, N. J.; James R. Batchler, Jr., Hatfield, Pa.; Arthur J. Frisbie, Wilmington, Del.; Richard Harris, Hatfield, Pa.; Thomas Heimer, Phila., Pa.; Fred Huber, Bowmansville, Pa.; Dale E. Kehler, Chester Springs, Pa.; Bruce Pickard, Hatfield, Pa.; Robert Raup, Sacramento, Cal.; Jonathan Reynolds, Zionsville, Pa.; Thomas Shorb, Bethlehem, Pa.; James Wickstead, Hatfield, Pa.
APPLICANTS: Douglas Bowne, Bellefonte, Pa.; George Bryson, Graterford, Pa.; Frank DeJuana, Staten Island, N. Y.; Albert Dommel, Emmaus, Pa.; Ronald Erb, Royersford, Pa.; John Garvin, King of Prussia, Pa.; Keith O. Gingrich, Reinholds, Pa.; John Grady, Denville, N. J.; Kenneth Keeler, Morwood, Pa.; Rodney Long, Tallahassee, Florida; Scott Murphy, Hatfield, Pa.; Frank Robinson, Royersford, Pa., Henry A. Schell, Old Bridge, N. J.; Richard Siegel, Phila., Pa.; Jeffrey C. Stickler, Maple Glen, Pa.; David A. Thomann, East Stroudsburg, Pa.; Philip Yerrington, Royersford, Pa.
REPORT OF THE TREASURER (See page 36).
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (See page 37).
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION (See page 41).
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLICATION & PRINTING (See page 43).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the month of January be designated as FELLOWSHIP NEWS Subscription Month and that each pastor seek to increase his number of subscriptions to meet the goal of 1300 subscriptions (total).
RESOLVED: that a donation of $50.00 each be given to FELLOWSHIP NEWS from the following Boards: Victory Valley, Foreign Missions, Church Extension, Christian Education, Pinebrook Jr. College, Pinebrook Bible Conference. Checks should be made payable to the Board of Publication & Printing and sent to the Business Manager by February 1, 1976.
RESOLVED: that the price of the Yearbook be $1.50.
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE: (3 years) Ronald Mahurin, Horace A. Kauffman
TREASURER: Robert W. Gehret
EDITOR-PUBLISHER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: Willard E. Cassel
BUSINESS MANAGER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: R. C. Reichenbach
RESOLVED: that we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 p.m. Adjourned at 3:30 p.m. with prayer by Merle Phillips.
Third Meeting
Monday evening, October 13, 1975 – 6:30 p.m.
The Conference sang one stanza of “All the Way My Saviour Leads Me.” Allan C. Palmer led in prayer.
An Up-Date on Church Extension was presented.
Recessed at 7:04. Reconvened at 7:15 p.m.
REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE (See page 45).
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP HOME FOR THE AGING (See page 46).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the recommendations relative to the duties of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home be referred to the said Board for further study.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY (See page 54).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the following duties of the Board of Victory Valley be adopted at SECOND READING:
1. To formulate objectives and policy for the camp.
2. To plan the year-round camp program.
3. To develop and maintain the site of the camp.
4. To formulate and maintain the standards of the camp.
5. To secure and provide for the training of the camp staff.
6. To supervise the financial and business matters of the camp.
7. To promote the camp to the public.
8.To evaluate the camp and its program.
9.To report to the Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE: Paul G. Zimmerman, Carl C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, Ronald C. Mahurin, David J. Watkins
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS (See page 57).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that Richard Taylor be ordained as a minister of the Bible Fellowship Church at a service to be held in the Faith B. F. Church of Spring City, Pa. on November 6, 1975 at 8:00 p.m. and William H. Bartron be ordained as a minister of the Bible Fellowship Church at a service to be held in the Belvidere B. F. Church on April 1, 1976 at 8:00 p.m. The Committee on Credentials shall have charge of these services.
RESOLVED: that the following be adopted at SECOND READING:
Categories of Ministry
All ordained men who hold Ordination Credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church shall subscribe annually to the FAITH & ORDER.
The Categories of Ministry are as follows:
I. Ordained Ministers Working Under the Direction of the Bible Fellowship Church
II. Ordained Ministers Working Under the Direction of the Board of Foreign Missions of the Bible Fellowship Church.
III. Ordained Ministers Working with Other Organizations (See Article XI, p. 27 – FAITH & ORDER, 1975 ed.)
IV. Ordained Ministers on Leave of Absence
1.An ordained minister, who for personal reasons, resigns from an active ministry of the B. F. Church, may be granted this classification by the Committee on Credentials.
2. An ordained minister having resigned f rom his active ministry and having accepted no other ministry with the B. F. Church within one year may be classified under this category.
3. This classification shall be reviewed annually by the Committee on Credentials.
V. Ordained Ministers in Retirement
1. These men draw retirement benefits from the B. F. Church.
RESOLVED: that at SECOND READING the words Ministerial Relations Committee be substituted for Credentials Committee in Article XIV, A, #3, ‘d’ of the Principles of Order, page 32, FAITH & ORDER, (1975 ed.).
RESOLVED: that the proposed revision of the Constitution of Youth Fellowship be referred to the Board of Christian Education for further study.
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 9:02 p.m. with prayer by Rodney Muthard.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday morning, October 14, 1975 – 9:00 a.m.
The minutes of the first, second and third meetings were read and approved as corrected.
C. E. Kirkwood led devotions. The Ministers’ Quartet sang.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See page 60).
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See page 68).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the following budget be adopted:
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION – PROPOSED BUDGET
FOR 1976-1977
Receipts:
Churches – Prepaid $58,000
Interest 2,800
Designated gifts 18,000
General Gifts & Churches Special l5,000 $83,800
Expenditures:
Appropriations:
Pre -1975 Churches & Missions 13,000
Newark (Baker’s housing & Salary) 13,000
Mid-Hudson missions 20,000
New mission 13,000
PISCES 3,000
Team 400 $59,400
Administration:
Director’s Salary 8,500
Director’s Sup. Ben. 1,600
Parsonage 4,400
Director’s Travel 2,800
Office 2,800
Board Expenses 800
Administrative Budget 200
Workman’s Comp. 250 $21,350
Reserve:
Capital Fund – 2,000
Contingency – 1,050 $ 3,050
$83,800
Whereas, the Board of Church Extension certifies that the Howell, N. J. mission has attained the standards in Article 18 of the FAITH & ORDER, therefore be it
RESOLVED: that the Howell, N. J. Mission be recognized as a church and received into Annual Conference membership.
RESOLVED: that John L. Colantonio, delegate from Howell, N. J. be seated in the Conference Bar.
RESOLVED: that the following be adopted at FIRST READING:
That the following changes in legislation pertaining to the Church Extension Board’s duties and work be made (FIRST READING):
A. Delete #5, under Duties of the Board, p. 69, FAITH ORDER (1973 ed.)
b. Delete #4 and #5 under the Rules Relative to Status of Churches, p. 71, FAITH & ORDER.
c. That #6 under Rules Relative to Status of Churches pp. 71 & 72, FAITH & ORDER, be revised to read as follows:
All churches which receive financial aid from the Board of Church Extension shall be under the jurisdiction of the Church Extension Department as long as they continue to receive such aid and until three years after the date of their receiving the last payment of such aid. After a church ceases to be under the jurisdiction of the Church Extension Department, it shall not again come under that jurisdiction or be eligible to receive financial aid from the Board of Church Extension except when a need for financial aid shall be occasioned by its participation in the start of a new Bible Fellowship Church or mission, in which case the Board of Church Extension may appropriate such financial aid. The Board of Church Extension and the Director may counsel and advise the churches under their jurisdiction in matters of pastoral relations and pulpit supply.
The following was referred to Government Committee to formulate proper policy:
The Board of Directors shall maintain and administer a Fund to Assist Needy Churches. Provision for the maintenance of said Fund may be made by contributions from churches and individuals and, when necessary, through the Administrative Budget. Unused money in the Fund shall be allowed to accumulate against the times when churches shall have need and, when possible, invested so as to increase the value of the Fund.
When a church is in need of assistance, it shall make application for such assistance to the Board of Directors who shall consider the need and make such appropriations as it may decide to help the church. Any person or church who is aware that a church is in serious need may inform the Board of Directors of the situation, whereupon the Board of Directors shall investigate said situation and act to help where said help is needed. If there are insufficient monies in the Fund to meet the needs, the Board of Directors shall solicit contributions from the churches to help the needy church(es).
(To help initiate the Fund to Assist Needy Churches, the Board of Church Extension pledges that it will make a contribution to the Fund of $1,000 in each of the first three years of the Fund’s existence.)
The following were elected:
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE: (3 years) E. W. Bean
CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE: Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Frank L. Herb, Jr., Willard E. Cassel, Keith E. Plows, John H. Riggall.
RESOLVED: that we suspend the rules and extend the time.
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:05 p.m. with prayer by John L. Colantonio.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday afternoon, October 14, 1975 – 1:30p.m.
Pinebrook Junior College Up-Date
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF PINEBROOK JR. COLLEGE (See page 76).
Report was accepted.
Report of the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Jr. College was discussed.
Recessed at 3:20 p.m. Reconvened at 3:40 p.m.
The Pinebrook Jr. College budget was considered.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JR. COLLEGE (See page 77).
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH (See page 81).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the rate for annuities from the Ministers’ Retirement Fund be established at $60.00 beginning October 1, 1975, a year for each year of active service.
RESOLVED: that the 1975-1976 Administrative Budget be adopted as follows:
1. Conference Entertainment $ 2,500.00
2. Beneficiary Fund 1,000.00
3. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 500.00
4. Ministerial Convention Expense 500.00
5. Publication & Printing 2,500.00
6. Moving Fund 3,200.00
7. Expenses, Brds. & Com. for Conf. Business 2,250.00
8. Other Expenses of Brd. of Directors 100.00
9. Min. Cand. Com. Internship Fund 250.00
10. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 10,500.00
11. Health & Welfare Ins. for Pastors & Dependents 22,700.00
12. Contingencies 430.88
$46,430.88
RESOLVED: that the 1976-1977 Administrative Budget be approved as follows:
1. Conference Entertainment $ 3,000.00
2. Beneficiary Fund 1,000.00
3. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 500.00
4. Ministerial Convention Expenses 500.00
5. Publication & Printing 2,500.00
6. Moving Fund 3,500.00
7. Expenses, Brds. & Com. for Conf. Business 3,000.00
8. Other Expenses of Brd. of Directors 200.00
9. Min. Cand. Com. Internship Fund 500.00
10. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 12,000.00
11. Health & Welfare Ins. for Pastors & Dependents 24,000.00
12. Contingencies 500.00
$51,200.00
RESOLVED: that we extend the time.
RESOLVED: that we suspend the rules and meet at 6:30 p.m.
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 5:03 p.m. with prayer by F. B. Hertzog.
Sixth Meeting
Tuesday evening, October 14, 1975 – 6:30p.m.
Edward H. Custer led in prayer.
Pinebrook Bible Conference Up-Date by David E. Thomann.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE (See page 91).
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE PINEBROOK CONFERENCE BOARD (See page 93).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that each church be encouraged to make a contribution to Pinebrook Bible Conference. Checks should be made payable to Pinebrook Bible Conference Board and sent to the Director.
REPORT OF THE PINEBROOK SERVICE BOARD (See page 97).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that each church endeavor to make a contribution to the Pinebrook Service Board.
RESOLVED: that the Service Board members be elected for a term of 3 years in classes as follows: (SECOND READING)
I. Three men for 3 years
II. Two men for 2 years
III. Two men for 1 year
Thereafter each class shall be elected for 3 years.
RESOLVED: that the following Petition be received from the Bible Fellowship Church of Ephrata:
Whereas, the Annual Report of the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Jr. College for the 1973-74 fiscal year reflects an income of only $1,033 over expenditures, and
Whereas, the national financial trend in colleges is following a downward trend, and
Whereas, as a result, many smaller colleges have either closed or merged with larger colleges, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we request Annual Conference to protect our financial state by establishing a debt ceiling for Pinebrook Jr. College at a level equal to that listed for plant funds for that year (example, $93,549 in the 1974 Yearbook) as determined by the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church at the close of each fiscal year, and further,
RESOLVED: that should this ceiling be reached at the close of any fiscal year, Pinebrook Jr. College shall immediately be closed and further
RESOLVED: that the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church thereupon shall begin immediate action to liquidate our assets and further,
RESOLVED: that should this ever occur, Annual Conference shall then elect a Committee on Scholarships to receive and disburse funds to assist Bible Fellowship students anticipating full-time service for the Lord.
The following motion was considered:
RESOLVED: that in order to protect our financial state a debt ceiling be established for Pinebrook Jr. College at a level equal to that listed for plant funds for that year (for example $93,549 in the 1974 Yearbook) as determined by the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church at the close of each fiscal year, and further
RESOLVED: that should this ceiling be reached at the close of any fiscal year, Pinebrook Jr. College shall immediately be closed, and further
RESOLVED: that the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church thereupon shall begin immediate action to liquidate our assets, and further
RESOLVED: that should this ever occur, Annual Conference shall then elect a Committee on Scholarships to receive and disburse funds to assist Bible Fellowship students anticipating full-time service for the Lord.
(Resolution lost – No – 60; Yes – 27)
The following were elected:
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: (3 years) Richard Taylor, Alva C. Cassel, Willard Stull, Timothy Baker, (1 year) Bruce A. Ellingson
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 9:32 p.m. with prayer by D. Thomas Phillips.
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday morning, October 15, 1975 – 9:00 a.m.
The minutes of the fourth, fifth and sixth meetings were read and approved as corrected.
John L. Deily, alternate delegate from Allentown, Bethel, was seated in the Bar.
Donald D. Reitz ministered in song and C. E. Kirkwood ministered through the Word using Isaiah 6.
REPORT OF THE AUDITING COMMITTEE (See page 102)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS (See page 102).
Report was accepted.
The following Duties of the Board of Foreign Missions were adopted at FIRST READING:
1.To formulate objectives and policy for the Foreign Mission program of the Bible Fellowship Church.
2.To interview and examine all prospective candidates for approval and for financial assistance.
3.To exercise oversight over the members of the Foreign Mission Department and to maintain standards in conformity to the Bible Fellowship Church.
4. To supervise the financial and business matters relative to Foreign Missions.
5. To promote Foreign Missions in conjunction with the local church.
6. To submit a written report to the Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Recessed at 10:30 a.m. Reconvened at 10:55 a.m.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY DOCTRINAL BALANCE OF ARTICLES OF FAITH (See page 143).
Report was accepted.
Discussion of the draft of a new Article – Human Ability and Responsibility – as presented by the Committee to Study Articles of Faith was conducted with the following changes in the proposed article:
RESOLVED: that the Ephesians 2:1-3 passage be placed under footnote 2 and footnote 6.
RESOLVED: that Romans 8:8 be added to footnote 3.
RESOLVED: that we suspend the rules and recess to meet at 1:30 p.m.
Recessed at 12:10 p.m. Reconvened at 1:30 p.m.
Bernard Coble led in prayer.
Up-Date on Bible Fellowship Church Home for the Aging was presented by Administrator James A. Beil.
The following were introduced to the Conference: Thomas Shorb, Richard Harris, Bert Baker, Bruce Pickard, James Batchler, John Burkard, David Smock, Jeff Stickler, James Wickstead, Thomas Heimer.
RESOLVED: that after the word “men” of paragraph 3, place reference #8 – James 1:18 as footnote #8 – change present footnote #8 to footnote #9.
RESOLVED: that the following material be adopted as an Article of Faith entitled “Human Ability and Human Responsibility” to be substituted for the present Article X entitled “Free Agency.” (FIRST READING)
Article X
HUMAN ABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY
In his original creation man was endowed with ability to will and to do good or evil and was accountable for his willing and doing.1
But by the fall of Adam man lost his ability apart from God’s grace2 to will and to do those things necessary to a right relationship to God;3 however, he is still accountable to God for obedience to all His commands.4 Man has not lost his ability to make decisions,5 but left to himself acts only in accordance with his fallen sinful nature.6
Only by God’s infinite grace can man will or do anything necessary to his salvation.7 God by that grace saves men8 whom He causes to will and to do good; however, He does this without nullifying man’s ability to act responsibly.9
1 And the Lord God commanded the man saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shall surely die (Genesis 2:16,17).
2 And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirt that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others (Ephesians 2:1-3).
3 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God (Romans 3:11). So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God (Romans 8:8).
4 Who will render to every man according to his deeds: to them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life: but unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil; of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile (Romans 2:6-10). And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent (Acts 17:30).
5 For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live (Deuteronomy 30:11,19).
6 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one… They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one (Romans 3:10,12). Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil (Jeremiah 13:23). (See also Ephesians 2:1-3 as per footnote 2).
7 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy (Romans 9:16).
8 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruit of his creatures (James 1: 18).
9 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling: For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure (Philippians 2:12,13).
Discussion of the new Article – “The Evangelistic Mission of the Church” presented by the Committee to Study Articles of Faith was conducted with the following changes in the proposed Article:
RESOLVED: that I Peter 3:15 be added as a footnote after the last word – “commission” of paragraph 1.
RESOLVED: that the following article be adopted (FIRST READING):
Article
THE EVANGELISTIC MISSION OF THE CHURCH
The Church has been commissioned by Jesus Christ to preach the gospel to all nations.1 Each particular church and every believer bear responsibility to this commission.2
In the Gospel God has clearly revealed the only way of salvation which is sufficient for and applicable to the whole lost race of mankind.3 Based on His infinite and perfect love and his expressed desire that all men be saved, He bids the Church that with urgency, compassion and persuasion it proclaim the gospel to all people and invite them to believe.5
It is the duty and privilege of everyone who hears the gospel to repent and receive its merciful provisions.6 Those who do so are saved, 7 and those who continue in impenitence and unbelief incur aggravated guilt and perish by their own fault.8
1 Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I command you: and lo, I am with you always even unto the end of the world (Matthew 28:19,20 ASVP 1901). But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8).
2 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear (I Peter 3:15).
3 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world (I John 2:2).
4 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth (I Timothy 2:3,4).
5 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them: and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God (II Corinthians 5:18-20).
6 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent (Acts 17:30). For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (Romans 10:13).
7 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house (Acts 16:31). Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life (John 5:24).
8 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him (John 3:36). I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish (Luke 13:3). But, after thy hardness and impenitent heart, treasureth up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God (Romans 2:5).
RESOLVED: that the above material entitled “The Evangelistic Mission of the Church” be inserted in the Articles of Faith as Article XIX and all succeeding articles be advanced by one in numerical order.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS (See page 144).
Report was accepted.
It was noted that this is the first time that the membership of the denomination has exceeded 5,000. It is also the sixth straight year of net increase with acceleration:
1970 2
1971 36
1972 74
1973 91
1974 174
1975 202
Baptized 510. Observation was made that plans need to be made to incorporate those baptized into the membership of the church.
Per capita giving 1974 $370
1975 $390
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS
Whereas Carl C. Cassel has presided over the 92nd Session of the Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church with much wisdom and care, therefore
RESOLVED: that we express praise to God for giving us such a gifted Chairman.
Whereas, David E. Thomann has labored diligently in the demanding position of Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference and
Whereas, he has served sacrificially as General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions,
RESOLVED: that we hereby assure him of our confidence in and appreciation for his ministry and pledge him our moral and prayerful support.
Whereas, F. B. Hertzog has served the Lord and His people as a faithful pastor for many years and has pioneered in the establishing of the Home for the Aging, serving as its Administrator since 1966
RESOLVED: that we express our appreciation for a job well done and assure him and his wife of our continued prayers that the Lord will bless and use them for His glory.
Whereas, James A. Beil has now assumed full responsibility for the care of the Home for the Aging as its new Administrator, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we assure him of continued prayers for and interest in this ministry. May the blessings of the Lord be upon him in his new undertaking.
Whereas, David J. Watkins, President of Pinebrook Jr. College and Carl C. Cassel, Academic Dean of the College, have continued to exercise much wisdom in the leadership of our school, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we thank God for these brethren and pray that He will strengthen and guide them in the years ahead.
Whereas, the faculty and staff of Pinebrook Jr. College have faithfully sought to meet the total needs of our student body, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we express our appreciation to these servants of God for their ongoing commitment to this ministry.
Whereas, Daniel G. Ziegler has manifested much zeal, foresight and dedication as Director of the Church Extension Department, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we praise God for our brother’s enthusiastic leadership and assure him of our continued prayer support.
Whereas, we have a family of missionaries called of God and devotedly serving under the care of the Board of Foreign Missions, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we thank God for their service, and further,
RESOLVED: that we pledge our continued financial and prayer support.
Whereas, the Editor-Publisher, Willard E. Cassel and Business Manager, R. C. Reichenbach have prepared and circulated the FELLOWSHIP NEWS in a spirit of dedication, therefore,
RESOLVED: that they be assured of our deep appreciation for their labors in this ministry.
Whereas, Robert W. Gehret, Conference Treasurer; James R. Cressman, Health and Welfare Secretary and Horace A. Kauffman, Financial Secretary, have sacrificially fulfilled their duties, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we commend them on a job well done and express our appreciation for their service on our behalf.
Whereas, James A. Beil has admirably served as Secretary of the 92nd Session of Annual Conference, and
Whereas, Willard E. Cassel has ably assisted the Secretary and Mrs. Esther Cassel has typed the masters for most of the minutes, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we thank these folk for their labors and that we give each of them a gift of $25.00 from the Board of Publication & Printing.
Whereas, there are pulpit vacancies in a few of our denominational churches, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we beseech God to raise up men of His choice to serve as pastors of these churches.
Whereas, God has blessed the labors of the ministers of the Bible Fellowship Church as they have faithfully served the Lord and His Church this past year, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we thank God for these servants of Christ and that we pray for the guidance, power and fulness of the Holy Spirit to be granted to all of our pastors and the churches to which they will minister this coming year.
Whereas, God has blessed the 92nd Session of Annual Conference with Delegates from each of the churches and,
Whereas, these men have sacrificially given of their prayers, time, effort and concern at the Conference, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we thank God for these servants and pray that the Lord’s wisdom, guidance and strength be granted to them and to all of the Elders of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, the 92nd Session of Annual Conference has been graciously and bountifully entertained by the Pinebrook staff and other volunteers, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we thank God for their willingness and express our appreciation to them with a rising vote of thanks at the evening meal on Wednesday.
Whereas, C. E. Kirkwood has been God’s servant to speak to our hearts in the morning meetings and
Whereas, the Lord continued to use him in the work of the Kingdom throughout the past year, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we ask God to grant him physical strength to continue his ministry in retirement.
Whereas, W. W. Hartman has concluded a lifetime of loving service as a compassionate shepherd of a number of Bible Fellowship Churches, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we praise God for our Brother and assure him of our continued prayers in his well-earned retirement.
Whereas, the congregation of Howell, N. J. has been recognized as a church and been received into Annual Conference membership, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we praise God for his evident blessing upon them during their first four years of existence, and, further,
RESOLVED: that we welcome them with much thanksgiving into our fellowship.
Whereas, God has provided faithful workers to staff the several ministries of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore,
RESOLVED: that we praise God for their faithfulness to the work and pray God’ s blessing on all of our ministries.
RESOLVED: that the 93rd Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church convene at Pinebrook on October 11, 1976 at 10:00 a.m.
John Dunn, Chairman; Paul G. Zimmerman, David L. Branning, Carl K. Spackman, Russell E. Dech, Clinton Crankshaw, Robert Breitegam, William Hunsberger, COMMITTEE
RESOLVED: that the traveling expenses for all official Church business shall be 12 c per mile, effective October 1, 1975.
RESOLVED: that the Government Committee study the rule relative to mileage reimbursement for conference business to report to the next Annual Conference.
RESOLVED: that the Government Committee prepare legislation for incorporation into the by-laws, to provide procedures to cover resignations from boards and committees of the Annual Conference and for reporting such resignations to the Annual Conference.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF PUBLICATION & PRINTING: Arthur H. Frable, Jr., Willard E. Cassel, Gary Sterner, E. Ray Burger
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, Jansen E. Hartman, James G. Koch, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., James R. Cressman, Horace A. Kauffman, Byron C. Cassel, Robert W. Gehret
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION: (3 years) LeRoy S. Heller, Edward Shockley, Sr.
RESOLVED: that we suspend the rules and extend the time to meet at 6:30 p.m.
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 5:10 p.m. with prayer by W. W. Hartman.
Eighth Meeting
Wednesday evening, October 15, 1975 – 6:30 p.m.
Up-Date by Ministerial Relations Committee.
RESOLVED: that the revision of Article IX of our Standards of Life and Worship be adopted as follows:
Alcoholic Drinks: Since the use of alcoholic drink is the cause of incalculable misery in the world, the evil influence of which are enormous in their effects on society at large, no person shall be permitted to become a member of the Bible Fellowship Church who makes such drinks, deals in them, or uses them as a beverage. Any member who does so shall be brought under the discipline of the Church. All members of our denomination shall use their influence against this evil.
(The above resolution did not carry by a 2/3 majority vote. The vote case was Yes – 53; No – 35).
RESOLVED: that we adjourn, Adjourned at 10:01 p.m. with prayer by Carl C. Cassel.
Ninth Meeting
Thursday morning, October 16, 1975 – 9:00 a.m.
The minutes of the seventh and eighth meetings were read and approved as read.
Howard Schaeffer, alternate delegate from Cedar Crest, was seated in the bar.
The Pinebrook Jr. College Folk Team sang. C. E. Kirkwood led devotions.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE LOCAL CONFERENCE MINUTES (See page 146).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the Government Committee prepare material defining the duties of the Committee to Examine Local Conference Minutes. This material shall be presented to the 93rd Annual Conference.
The following was adopted at FIRST READING:
Duties of the Board of Directors of the BFC Home for the Aging:
1.The Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home shall be responsible to maintain a home for the aging and infirm and to engage in such other forms of benevolent and charitable work in connection with said Home as may be determined.
2.The general business and affairs of the Bible Fellowship Church Home shall be managed and conducted by its Board of Directors acting as a Board, or through its properly authorized Officers in accordance with the By-Laws of the Bible Fellowship Church Home; and management of its corporate business and affairs shall be in accordance with and subject to the Faith & Order and By-Laws of the Bible Fellowship Church.
3.The general conduct of the Bible Fellowship Church Home shall be under the immediate supervision and control of an Administrator elected annually by its Board of Directors at the latter’s February meeting.
4.The Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home shall make a written report of its activities to Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Recessed at 10:30 a.m. Reconvened at 11:00 a.m.
RESOLVED: that we delete the words “and Board of Victory Valley” from the last line of the first paragraph under the section Conference Treasurer, page 68 (1973 ed.) of the Faith & Order, and further be it
RESOLVED: that the 92nd Annual Conference grant Victory Valley Board the privilege of maintaining its own treasury with a Treasurer elected by and from the membership of the Board of Victory Valley (FIRST READING) (Yes 7 6; No – 3).
Whereas the above resolution from Victory Valley Board was passed by more than a 2/3 majority vote and
Whereas, the Victory Valley Board is the last Board operating under the Conference Treasurer, and
Whereas it would be advantageous to conduct the business of Victory Valley Board by having its own treasurer, therefore be it
RESOLVED: that the change in Treasury become effective immediately under the rule of exception to continue for one year. (Yes – 69; No – 16).
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY DIVORCE (See page 141).
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED: that the Chairman appoint a Committee of four ordained ministers and three laymen to reconsider our denomination’s standard prohibiting legitimately divorced people or those married to legitimately divorced people from holding the office of Elder. (Yes – 43; No – 35).
RESOLVED: that we suspend the rules and extend the time.
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:14 p.m. with prayer by T. Lamarn Manney.
Tenth Meeting
Thursday afternoon, October 16, 1975 -1:30 p.m.
Clinton Crankshaw led in prayer.
Ministerial Candidate Committee Up-Date.
Minutes of the Ninth meeting were read and approved as corrected.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS: (3 years) Austin G. Shelly, R. C. Reichenbach, Kermit K. Gehman, Roy E. Williams
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JR. COLLEGE: (3 years) Carlton Wentz, L. James Roberts, William Mull, (1 year) Nicholas Sheetz, John L. Colantonio
RESOLVED: that the Board of Foreign Missions be authorized to construct an apartment building to provide housing for missionaries on furlough (Yes – 56; No -23).
Whereas, the Board of Foreign Missions desires to construct an apartment building for missionaries on furlough, and
Whereas, the Board of Foreign Missions deems it practical to build such an apartment building on the Pinebrook property and
Whereas, precedent has established that the Pinebrook property be confined to the ministries of the Bible Conference and the Pinebrook Jr. College, and
Whereas, the granting of such permission may be considered to go beyond the purview of the various Pinebrook boards and the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, a precedent would thereby be established, therefore,
RESOLVED: that Annual Conference grant conditional approval to the Board of Foreign Missions for constructing an apartment building on the Pinebrook property, and further,
RESOLVED: that final approval be conditioned on the following:
1.Concurrence as to the feasibility of such a construction must be given by the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church, Pinebrook Service Board, Pinebrook Bible Conference Board and Board of Directors of Pinebrook Jr. College.
2.The above four boards must develop a program in keeping with our present rules for locating, constructing and maintaining said apartment building before construction begins. And be it further
RESOLVED: that when the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church has determined that the above conditions are met final approval will be considered to have been granted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS (See page 147).
Report was accepted.
The following budget was adopted:
BOARD OF PUBLICATION & PRINTING
Fellowship News
Income:
1,300 Subscriptions @ $2.50 $ 3,250
Donations from Boards 300
Board of Pub. & Printing subsidy 25 4,475
Expenses:
Printing 12 issues of Fel. News 3,500
Secretarial Help 100
Editor’s Expense 125
Business Mgr.’s Expense 250
Maintenance of Equipment 500 4,475
Board Activity
Income:
Administrative Budget 2,500
Year Books 1,550
Faith & Order Booklets 150 4,200
Expenses:
Fellowship News Subsidy 925
Year Books 1,650
Honoraria 350
Debt Reduction 775
Church Supplies 500 4,200
RESOLVED: that the churches consider giving for Church Extension at a rate of 5 % of their total offerings. Such a level of giving is needed to provide for an aggressive program of church planting evangelism which will be an adequate response to the spiritual needs of America now. Further, 5% of their total offerings has been the average rate of church extension giving of our churches throughout most of our history. Smaller churches which find a 5% goal unrealistic might consider offerings of $10.00 per member as a goal.
RESOLVED: that the following duties of the Historical Committee be adopted at SECOND READING:
1. To determine policy and procedure by which the Archivist can maintain and supplement the historical material of the Bible Fellowship Church.
2. To assist the Archivist in the collection of relevant historical materials.
3. To maintain denominational archives for the accumulation of materials and memoirs relating to the history of the denomination.
4. To encourage each local fellowship to maintain a file of important documents related to the historical development of the local fellowship.
5. To make an annual report to the Annual Conference.
RESOLVED: that all Bible Fellowship Agencies which employ men full-time who are members of the Ministers’ Retirement Fund be required to make an annual pledge and payments to the Annual Conference Budget.
RESOLVED: that Section C (Narcotics) in the article on Harmful Indulgences in the Faith & Order be revised at SECOND READING to read as follows:
Narcotics and dangerous drugs: Recognizing the dangers of the use of narcotics and other dangerous drugs, we solemnly warn and admonish our people to have no part with the illegal use of or traffic in them. The only legitimate use of narcotics and dangerous drugs is when they are prescribed by competent physicians. In all other instances our every influence should be exerted against this growing evil of drug abuse (Romans 6:16; 1 Cor. 6:19,20).
Whereas, the Government Committee recommended to the 91st Annual Conference in its report, page 143, 1974 Yearbook, that each church study the role of women in the church while the Government Committee does the same, and
Whereas, that same Committee submitted no further word to the 92nd Annual Conference, and
Whereas, this question presses upon us in the function of the local church today, be it
RESOLVED: that the Government Committee compile a list of helps and circulate that list to the churches as early as possible during this next conference year, and further
RESOLVED: that all of our churches take seriously the recommendation set forth before them by the Government Committee in the 1974 Yearbook, make a study of the question before us and come to the 93rd Annual Conference prepared to discuss that question and adopt for first reading legislation concerning the role of women in the church.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BFC HOME FOR THE AGING: (2 years) Bert N. Brosius, William A. Heffner, Norman W. Granda
BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY: (3 years) Clayton Weber, James Herrold, Alva Cassel (1 year) John Stengele
PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE BOARD: (3 years) Ronald Mahurin, Lee Boyles
PINEBROOK SERVICE BOARD: (3 years) Gerald Schlonecker, Donald Matz, George E. Herb, (2 years) John Moran, Paul Clymer, (1 year) Robert Breitegam, Sterling Baer
RESOLVED: that we suspend the rules and extend the time to meet at 6:00 p.m.
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 5:20 p.m.
ELEVENTH MEETING
Thursday evening, October 16, 1975 – 6:00 p.m.
The Conference sang one stanza of “Beneath the Cross of Jesus.” Richard Taylor led in prayer.
The minutes of the tenth meeting were read and approved as read.
RESOLVED: that the Chairman of Annual Conference give consideration to using as tellers advisory members and/or men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee.
The following Officers of the 93rd Session of Annual Conference were elected:
Chairman – Jansen E. Hartman
Vice-Chairman – Carl C. Cassel
Secretary – James A. Beil
The following were elected:
GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE: Arthur E. Frable, Jr. (replacement for member who resigned)
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: James A. Beil, John Dunn, Robert F. Johnson, James G. Koch, Norman L. Reed, William R. Hunsberger, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
By request of a member of Conference, Vice-Chairman Frank L. Herb, Jr. assumed the Chair.
RESOLVED: that the vote cast for the following resolution be by ballot and require a 2/3 majority (Yes 54; No – 22).
RESOLVED: that we interpret the existing article on Alcoholic Beverages (p. 47, Faith & Order, 1975 ed.) to mean that no member shall be permitted to make such drinks, to deal in them or use them as a beverage (Resolution lost Yes – 43; No – 33).
Chairman Carl C. Cassel resumed the Chair.
The following appointments were made by the Chairman and approved by the Conference:
COMMITTEE ON AGENDA: James A. Beil, Willard E. Cassel
COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES: Dana Weller, Stanley Kalbach
COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM FOR 93rd ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Frank L. Herb, Jr., Jansen E. Hartman, Bert N. Brosius, Bruce A. Ellingson
COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS: Willard E. Cassel, LeRoy S. Heller, John Dunn, Donald R. Knauer, Paul G. Zimmerman
COMMITTEE TO STUDY DIVORCE PROBLEM: Keith E. Plows, LeRoy C. Wilcox, David J. Watkins, Donald T. Kirkwood, R. Glenn Rohrbach, Robert Breitegam, L. James Roberts.
RESOLVED: that in the event anyone is not willing to serve on the Committee to Study Divorce, the Chairman of the 92nd Annual Conference shall have the privilege to make the necessary appointments.
RESOLVED: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 8:44 p.m. with prayer by Frank L. Herb, Jr.