NINETY-FIFTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
1978
FIRST MEETING
Monday Morning, October 9, 1978 10:00 a.m.
Chairman Jansen E. Hartman called the 95th Annual Conference to order. The hymn, “Come We That Love the Lord”, was sung and John H. Riggall led in prayer.
Secretary James A. Beil appointed Harold C. Weaber as Assistant Secretary and Bernard N. Coble as Recording Secretary.
The Roll was established as follows:
Allentown Bethel – Ronald C. Mahurin – John L. Deily
Allentown Cedar Crest – Roy A. Hertzog -Jay Fasnacht
Allentown Salem – – Allan C. Palmer
Bethlehem – Frank L. Herb, Jr. – Warren L. Zimmerman
Blandon – Dana E. Weller – Stanley C. Kalbach
Camden, DE (Mission) – James G. Koch
Carmel, NY (Mission) – William H. Bartron
Catasauqua – – Arthur W. Deppe
Coopersburg – Donald D. Reitz – Robert W. Snyder Sr.
Denville, NJ – (Probationer) – Joseph Lamberto
Easton – LeRoy C. Wilcox – Russell E. Dech
Emmaus – Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. – Clifford L. Kauffman
Ephrata – Robert W. Smock – Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ – D. Thomas Phillips – H. Walter Stout, Jr.
Fleetwood – Austin G. Shelly – Norman L. Reed
Freehold-Englishtown, NJ – – Clinton Crankshaw
Graterford – Keith E. Plows – C. Roger Detwiler
Harleysville – Arthur H. Frable, Jr. – Ernest Pierson
Harrisburg – R. C. Reichenbach – Walter A. Schlagel
Hatfield – John H. Herb – Lee E. Boyles
Howell, NJ – John Vandegriff – David Markuson
Lancaster – John Dunn – Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon – Bruce A. Ellingson – LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton – Bernard N. Coble – Ernest E. Bauer
Maple Glen – Carl K. Spackman – Harold E. Snyder
Mt. Carmel – Alva C. Cassel – Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Nazareth – Paul G. Zimmerman – Ralph Hendershot
New Fairfield, CT (Mission) – Robert L. Draper
Oley – (Probationer) – Eugene Kuhns
Paradise – Kenneth L. Good – L. Donald Miller
Philadelphia, Calvary – Robert A. Minnig – Leon Naudasher
Philadelphia, Emmanuel – Roger Reitz – Russell Davis
Quakertown – Bert N. Brosius – L. James Roberts
Reading – Jansen E. Hartman (1) Robert Breitegam, (2) Rodney Muthard
Royersford – Robert F. Johnson – Robert E. Raub
Scranton – (Probationer) – Arthur H. Frable, Sr.
Shamokin – (Probationer) – Ronald C. Lahr
Sinking Spring – Terris Byrd – Brian Moyer
Spring City – Richard E. Taylor – R. Stanley Weidner
Staten Island, NY – – Ralph D. Cole
Stroudsburg – (Probationer) – Horace Hartshorn
Sunbury – LeRoy S. Heller – Clayton Brosius
Terre Hill – William L. Graybill II – Paul Weber
Wallingford – William A. Heffner – Rufus Spedden
Walnutport – Harold C. Weaber – David L. Musselman
York – John H. Riggall – Sterling E. Baer
Zionsville – (Probationer) – David L. Weller
ORDAINED MEN SERVING BIBLE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES.-
James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, George E. Herb, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins, Daniel G. Ziegler
ORDAINED MISSIONARIES – T. James Bigley, Brian H. Butler, Leonard E. Buck, Richard J. Gehman, J. Barclay Harley, David Manney, Edward Moyer, Laird F. Stengele
ORDAINED MINISTERS IN RETIREMENT – Paul E. Baer, E. W. Bean, W. W. Hartman, F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, C. Leslie Miller
PROBATIONERS
Delbert R. Baker Newark, NJ (CE)
James R. Batchler Zionsville (P)
Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr. Shamokin (P)
Richard D. Harris Denville, NJ (P)
David H. Jones Reading (AP)
Frank T. Robinson Royersford (AP)
Henry A. Schell Oley (P)
Thomas P. Shorb Stroudsburg (P)
Terry N. Tareila Scranton (P)
Arthur J. Frisbie Glasgow, DE (CE)
James Wickstead Poughquag, NY (CE)
Philip Yerrington Nazareth (AP)
RESOLVED, that the alternate Delegates be seated.
RESOLVED, that the first ten pews constitute the Conference Bar.
RESOLVED, that all Pastors and Delegates seeking to be excused from meetings of Annual Conference meet with the Chairman for an explanation of their requests. The Chairman will have the right to make the final decision.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AGENDA
RESOLVED, that the Agenda be adopted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM: (See P. 36.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that the election procedure as presented at the 94th Annual Conference for the 95th Annual Conference be followed, effective Tuesday morning.
A. Nominations be closed for all positions at the opening of each day’s meetings.
B.A ballot be prepared by the tellers and the associate members of the conference for use during the day for those elections.
C. The ballots be marked by each member of the conference and be submitted to the tellers.
D.The tellers shall with the aid of the associate members of the conference tabulate the results, announce the results, and prepare run-off ballots as needed.
RESOLVED, that the following appointments by the Chairman be approved.
TELLERS: Robert F. Johnson, Chairman; Keith Plows, Secretary; LeRoy Heller, Norman Reed, Harold L. Snyder, Jr., Carl Spackman.
COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS: John Herb, Robert Minnig, Roy Hertzog, James Koch, John Deily, David Weller, L. James Roberts.
COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS: David E. Thomann, Chairman; Austin Shelly, Warren Zimmerman.
COMMITTEE ON AUDITING: Robert W. Gehret, Jay Fasnacht, Sterling Baer, Horace Kauffman, R. Stanley Weidner, Robert Raub.
COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES: R. C. Reichenbach., Chairman; John Vandegriff, Stanley Kalbach, Arthur Deppe, Ernest Bauer, Allan C. Palmer, Paul Weber, Ronald C. Lahr, Russell E. Dech, Clifford Kauffman, Lee E. Boyles, L. Donald Miller, Ralph Wike, Walter Schlagel, C. Roger Detwiler, Robert Snyder, Sr., Clinton Crankshaw, Rufus Spedden, Ernest Pierson, Arthur Frable, Sr., David Musselman.
TIMEKEEPER: LeRoy C. Wilcox
REPORTER: Donald Reitz
Chairman Jansen E. Hartman gave the Keynote Address: “The Biblical Principles of Excellence.”
RESOLVED, that we suspend the rules and that we adjourn. Adjourned at 11:58 a.m. in prayer by E. W. Bean.
SECOND MEETING
Monday Afternoon, October 9. 1978 – 1:30 p.m.
The Conference sang “Come Thou Fount”. Clifford L. Kauffman led in prayer.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE: (See p. 37.)
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that the Pastors be excluded from voting on the following resolution:
RESOLVED, that each church be encouraged to increase its Pastor’s salary at least 7% above the previous year’s salary, and further
RESOLVED, that it is the Recommendation of Annual Conference that the minimum salary for a Pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including supplemental benefits, be $9,700 for the 1978-1979 year.
RESOLVED, that the local Pastoral Relations Committee be encouraged to use the Guidelines including the Pastoral Evaluation Survey provided to this Annual Conference by the Ministerial Relations Committee. (See P-38.) Yes., 63; No., 33.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS: (See p.43.)
Report was accepted.
Whereas, The Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Richard D. Harris for ordination and Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr. and Terry N. Tareila for recognition of prior ordination, and
Whereas, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Richard D. Harris and Terry N. Tareila have served acceptably as Ministers in the Bible Fellowship Church for several years, and
Whereas, after examination, it is believed these men to be called of God to the Gospel ministry and to be in accord with the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church therefore,
RESOLVED, that Richard D. Harris be ordained, and the ordinations of Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr. and Terry N. Tareila be recognized at a service of ordination to be held in Calvary Bible Fellowship Church of Coopersburg, Pa. on Tuesday, October 10, 1978 – 7:30.
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Ronald W. Hoyle for recognition of prior ordination, and
Whereas, after examination, it is believed Ronald W. Hoyle to be called of God to the Gospel ministry and to be in accord with the FAITH & ORDER of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, Ronald W. Hoyle has served 16 years under the Bible Fellowship Church Foreign Missions Board, and
Whereas, during last year in the United States, he applied to have his Ministerial Credentials originally given by the American Baptist Convention of Pennsylvania, recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church, and,
Whereas, those 16 years of service under our direction given evidence of his call of God to minister the Word and his commitment to the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that we approve him for ordination without a formal year of Probation, and further,
RESOLVED, that because of the length of more-than-acceptable commitment and service, we give this approval by rule of exceptions.
APPROVED UNANIMOUSLY.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE: (See p. 46.)
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that we accept the following men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee:
PROBATIONERS: Delbert R. Baker, II, Newark, NJ; James R. Batchler, Jr., Zionsville, PA; James Beaver, Hatfield, PA; Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Shamokin, PA; Arthur J. Frisbie, Newark, DE; Richard D. Harris, Denville, NJ; Thomas E. Heimer, Pen Argyl, PA (on leave of absence); David H. Jones, Reading, PA; Charles E. Kramer, Ansonia, CT (on leave of absence); William L. Neff, Media, PA; Frank T. Robinson, Spring City, PA; Henry A. Schell, Oley, PA; Thomas P. Shorb, Stroudsburg, PA; Terry N. Tareila, Scranton, PA; James A. Wickstead, Poughquag, NY;
Philip E. Yerrington, Nazareth, PA.
CANDIDATES: George Bryson, Wallingford, PA; Ronald W. Hoyle, France; V. Kerry Inman, Roslyn, PA; Charles J. McConnell, Flourtown, PA; Gary W. Miller, Bethlehem, PA; Bruce A. Pickard, Pt. Pleasant, PA; Louis Prontnicki, Philadelphia, PA; Robert Raup, Sacramento, CA; Jonathan Reynolds, Zionsville, PA.
APPLICANTS: Richard Berkowitz, Templeville, MD; Richard Blauser, Spring City, PA; Douglas Bowne, Richmond, VA; Albert J. Dommel, Portland, OR; Ronald Erb, Royersford, PA: Paul J. Gadomski, Sunbury, PA: John C. Grady, Hatfield, PA; Rodney H. Long, Tallahassee, FL; Richard S. MacLaren, Hatboro, PA; Barry Minsky, Atco, NJ; Philip E. Morrison, Allentown, PA: Calvin T. Reed, Reading, PA: Jeffrey C. Stickler, Roslyn, PA; David A. Thomann, Skippack, PA; Thomas F. Templeton, Blooming Glen, PA; Roy M. Wallace, Jr., Ashland, OH.
Recessed at 2:55 P.m. Reconvened at 3:25 P.m.
MEMBERSHIP OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE (SECOND READING)
RESOLVED, that Article X of Principles of Order, “Annual Conference” paragraph 3, lines 4, 5 (FAITH AND ORDER, P. 26b, ’77 Edition) be amended as follows:
“ . . . every probationer who has been called to be the pastor of a church (this refers only to the first pastor of a church, and does not include probationers who are called to serve as associates of the first pastor of a church).
(lines 12, 13) “ . . . probationers who have not been called to be the first pastor of churches. . . “
REPORT OF THE CHURCH EXTENSION DIRECTOR: (See p. 48.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION: (See p. 62.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE: (See p. 69.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING: (See p. 70.)
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that the month of January be designated as FELLOWSHIP NEWS SUBSCRIPTION MONTH: that each pastor seek to increase his number of subscriptions to meet a new goal of 1,400 subscriptions.
RESOLVED, that donations of $50.00 each be given to FELLOWSHIP NEWS from the following Boards: Victory Valley, Foreign Missions, Christian Education, Church Extension, Pinebrook Junior College, and Pinebrook Bible Conference. (Checks should be made payable to the Board of Publication and Printing, and sent to the Business Manager by February 1, 1979.)
RESOLVED, that the price of the Yearbook be $2.00.
RESOLVED, that the price of FELLOWSHIP NEWS be $3.00 per year.
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE: Ronald C. Mahurin, Robert Breitegam.
BUSINESS MANAGER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: Bernard N. Coble.
BOARD OF PUBLICATION & PRINTING: John H. Herb, R. C. Reichenbach, E. Ray Burger, Gary Sterner.
Herbert Dyke, missionary to India, addressed the conference.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn to meet at 6:30 p.m. Adjourned at 5:02 p.m. in prayer by Herbert Dyke.
Third Meeting
Monday evening, October 9, 1978 – 6:30 P.M.
The Conference sang “There Is A Fountain”. Jay Fasnacht led in prayer.
Thomas P. Shorb spoke on “Excellence in Worship”.
The Lord’s Supper was observed.
The following was elected:
EDITOR-PUBLISHER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: Richard D. Harris
REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE: (See p. 72.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS: (see p. 74.)
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, That we adjourn. Adjourned at 8:58 p.m. in prayer by Paul Weber.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday, October 10, 1978 – 9:00 a.m.
The Conference sang the hymn, “May Jesus Christ Be Praised.” Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr. led in prayer.
The minutes of meetings one, two, and three were read and approved as corrected.
A devotional period was held in which Keith E. Plows spoke on “Personal Excellence.”
Recessed at 10:45 a.m.; Reconvened at 11:08 a.m.
James R. Cressman, Hospitalization Secretary, addressed the Conference.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE: (See p. 92.)
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:00 noon in prayer by Richard Taylor.
FIFTH MEETING
Tuesday afternoon, October 10, 1978 – 1:30 p.m.
The Conference sang “All the Way My Savior Leads Me”. Robert W. Smock led in prayer.
David Chow, Ambassadors for Christ, addressed the Conference.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE: (See p. 104.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME: (See p. 114.) Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE TREASURER: (See p. 123.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: See p. 124.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: (See p. 137.)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY: (See p.143.)
Report was accepted.
Recessed at 2:35 p.m.; Reconvened at 3:08 p.m.
Government Legislation: (SECOND READING)
I. MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT FOR ALL OFFICIAL CHURCH BUSINESS
RESOLVED, that #5, p. 86 Faith & Order be deleted and that the following be added to the Duties of the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church:
The Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church shall annually recommend to Annual
Conference the rate of payment for mileage for all official church business. It shall be established by Annual Conference by a majority at one reading.
IV. ANNUAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEES:
RESOLVED, that the FAITH & ORDER, p. 64 (’77ed.), under “Committees Appointed by the Chairman” have #3 Committee on Examination of Congregational Minutes deleted, and it become #3 under “Standing Boards and Committees Appointed by the Chairman.”
RESOLVED, that the FAITH & ORDER, (p. 64), would read as follows:
4. Standing Boards and Committees
(a)Appointed by the Chairman
1.Committee on Statistics (Currently in the Appendix of the Yearbook (1977, p. 202-204)
2.Committee to Examine Annual Conference Minutes (FAITH & ORDER p. 86, ’77 ed.)
3. Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches.
A. Purpose
1.To provide a degree of uniformity in the manner in which the Particular Churches conduct their respective congregational meetings.
2.To ensure that a Particular Church is in conformity to the FAITH & ORDER.
3.To assist the pastors in the manner in which they shall preside at congregational meetings.
4.To assist the secretary of each particular church in keeping proper and accurate records of the proceedings of the congregational meetings.
B. The Duties
- The Committee shall determine annually by use of Suggested Format (see p. ) the adequacy of the minutes of each Particular Church.
2. The Committee shall notify any Particular Church of inadequacies found in the minutes along with suggested corrective measures.
3. The Committee shall verify:
a. that the delegate and alternate delegate are elders and the individuals reported to the Secretary of Annual Conference.
b. that petitions as circulated for consideration at Annual Conference have been adopted by the congregation.
4. The Committee shall submit a report to Annual Conference including the above verifications.
C. The Formulation
1.The Committee shall consist of five (5) members appointed by the Chairman of Annual Conference.
2. The Committee shall organize itself.
3.The Committee shall meet at least annually in the week prior to Annual Conference.
4. Committee on Agenda (Material yet to be written)
RESOLVED, that the following changes and additions be made:
2.Congregational Meetings (FAITH & ORDER, p. 51, 1977 Ed.) The following new paragraph shall be added:
The secretary shall keep adequate and accurate minutes of all congregational meetings. The Board of Elders shall insure that a copy of the minutes of all congregational meetings held during the year is sent to the COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES. Said copy (ies) shall be delivered to the address of Annual Conference by Monday of the week prior to Annual Conference.
3. Suggested format for Congregational meetings.
1. The meeting shall open with prayer.
2. Roll Call: This shall include all church officers and all individuals responsible for reporting at the regular meeting(s). The roll call shall precede the minutes of the first meeting of each year.
3. The reading and approval of minutes of previous meeting(s).
4. Reports:
a. Board of Elders (to include at least the following):
(1) Membership.
(2) Financial report(s)–including evidence of auditing.
(3) Appointment of the Pastoral Relations Committee.
(4) Benevolence Report (omitted if Deacon Board reports).
(5) Status of the Work.
(6) Establishment of value of church property.
(7) Recommendations.
b. Board of Deacons
c .Any other organizational reports as required by the By-Laws of the Particular Church. (This may include: Sunday School, Youth Fellowship, Adult Fellowship (s), W. M. S., Special Committees, Pastor, etc.)
5. Old Business–All motions properly recorded.
6. New Business–All motions properly recorded.
7. Election of Church Officers.
8. Petition(s) to Annual Conference.
9. Adjournment.
(Whereas, section 4c above makes the report of the Women’s Missionary Society to the Congregational Meeting optional; therefore; The requirement of W.M.S. report to the Local Congregational meeting be deleted from FAITH & ORDER, p. 6o, 5e)
4. Special Meetings.
1. The purpose of every meeting must be stated at the beginning of the minutes of said special meeting.
2. Business must be limited to that of the stated purpose.
3. The action must be properly recorded.
5. Choosing leaders, etc. (continuation of material already in FAITH & ORDER).
6. Communication of Particular Churches to Annual Conference.
Any Particular Church has the right to petition Annual Conference requesting its action and guidance. A petition must be approved by a majority vote of those present and voting at a duly-called congregational meeting and appear in the minutes. It must be placed on the agenda of Annual Conference and the answer to the Particular Church placed in the minutes of Annual Conference. The Secretary of the Board of Elders shall be responsible for forwarding the petition to the Secretary of Annual Conference. Petitions received by September 1 shall be guaranteed consideration in that Annual Conference session. Those received after September 1 will be held for consideration in the next conference year. The Secretary of Annual Conference shall send two copies to each Pastor by September 15.
The Board of Elders of a Particular Church has the right to request the action or guidance of Annual Conference on issues confronting the Particular Church. There may be times when it may be inadvisable for the whole congregation to be involved in the approach to Annual Conference. The request to Annual Conference must be approved in a duly called Board of Elders meeting and appear in the minutes. The delegate of this church may introduce the Board’s request as a motion from the floor of Annual Conference. When a Board intends to use this method, the Secretary and the Chairman of Annual Conference should be notified of their intention by October 1.
7. Other Organizations in Particular Church. (Continuation of material already in the FAITH & ORDER, beginning p. 52)
8. Miscellaneous By-Laws (Continuation of material already in the FAITH & ORDER, beginning p. 60).
9. Qualifications and Duties of Church Membership (Continuation of material already in the FAITH & ORDER, beginning p. 61).
VII. ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH
RESOLVED, that we permit women to serve as Deacons.
Motion defeated, less than the required 2/3 majority for legislation. Yes, 51; No, 39.
RESOLVED, that the minutes of the Second Meeting be opened, and that material relative to Ronald W. Hoyle’s ordination be inserted. (see p. 6.)
Whereas, there is not a 2/3 majority of the 95th Annual Conference which favors the position on the Role of Women in the Church, printed in the 1977 Yearbook, p. 157-173, and,
Whereas, this is an important topic in serving God in our generation, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Chairman appoint a committee of seven ministers declaring an alternate understanding of “The Biblical View of the Role of Women in the Church”.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 5:00 P.m. in prayer by Roger Reitz.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 11, 1978 9:00 a.m.
Allan C. Palmer led in prayer.
The minutes of meetings four and five were read and approved as corrected.
The following were elected:
COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS: James A. Beil, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Frank L. Herb, Jr., Keith E. Plows, and John H. Riggall.
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE: Daniel G. Ziegler
MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE: Carl C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, Ronald C. Mahurin, David J. Watkins, Paul G. Zimmerman.
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION: LeRoy S. Heller
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE: Paul Clymer, L. James Roberts, Robert Zentz.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: Bert N. Brosius., David J. Watkins.
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Richard Taylor, Timothy R. Baker, Willard Stull.
BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS: R. C. Reichenbach, Austin G. Shelly, James R. Cressman, Kermit K. Gehman.
Frank L. Herb, Jr. spoke on the topic, “Excellence in Ministry”.
Recessed at 10:32 a.m.; Reconvened at 11:00 a.m.
REPORT OF SPECIAL AD HOC COMMITTEE CONCERNING READING CHURCH PETITION OF 1977:
There is no uniformity of policy, i.e., no one statement has been generated by Annual Conference to require or restrict the amounts or manners by which monies are to be received by our various agencies.
In lieu of this one stated policy a law of custom and tradition has been established by personal appeal, requirements made by Annual Conference at various times in our history, and general appeals and offerings made or taken by our Agencies. It appears to be the traditional nature of our Conference to adhere to a system of these various giving techniques rather than restrictions or enforced offerings. Also, it appears evident that Conference anticipates, by reason of resolutions made from time to time, that churches will and should support by offerings all of our ministries.
It is further concluded that Boards of Elders and all members should be reminded that approval of our denominational ministries on an Annual Conference-wide basis implies Conference-wide approval of the existence, operation and spiritual worthiness of all our Agencies. Allowances must be made for conscientious preferences and Spirit-given burdens. Individual Boards of our various Agencies are encouraged to re-formulate and state their policies for fund raising.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Lee Boyles, Pinebrook Bible Conference; Robert Breitegam, Reading Church; Jansen E. Hartman., Reading Church; Bright Heist, Victory Valley; Horace A. Kauffman,, Board of Directors; L. James Roberts, Pinebrook Jr. College; David E. Thomann., Foreign Missions; Daniel Ziegler, Board of Church Extension.
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that this report be adopted as the answer to the Reading Church’s petition to the 94th Annual Conference.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES: (See p.147)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS: (See p.148) :
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES: (See p.15)
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:00 noon in prayer by Arthur W. Deppe.
SEVENTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 11, 1978 – 1:30 p.m.
R. Stanley Weidner led in prayer.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AUDITING: (See p.151)
Report was accepted.
The petition from Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Quakertown, Pa. was placed on the floor for consideration.
PETITION TO THE NINETY-FIFTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE FROM THE QUAKERTOWN CHURCH
Whereas, Grace Bible Fellowship Church of Quakertown., Pa. has accepted the resignation of its Sunday School Superintendent due to relocation, and,
Whereas, The Board of Elders of Grace Church has attempted to fill this vacancy according to the By-laws of the FAITH & ORDER of the Bible Fellowship Church, under Sec. E “By-laws of Particular Churches”, paragraphs 2 and 3 on pages 51 and 52 of the FAITH & ORDER, and, Whereas, the Board of Elders is cognizant of the difficulty in interpreting some of these points as applied to particular local situations, and,
Whereas, the Board of Elders is concerned that they fulfill their obligation to function under the “order” of the FAITH & ORDER, therefore,
RESOLVED, that we, the congregation of Grace Bible Fellowship Church of Quakertown, meeting on March 8, 1978, petition the 95th Annual Conference meeting at Pinebrook Junior College in Coopersburg, Pa. on October 9, 1978, to study the following:
1. What is the relationship of the term “basic accord” relative to the “order” of the FAITH & ORDER.
2. The procedures of the Nominating Committee of the local church.
3. The procedures for filling vacancies through resignation, removal and death.
4. The obligation of each individual church to function under the By-laws for Particular Churches as stated in the FAITH & ORDER, pages 50 thru 62.
RESOLVED, that representatives from the Board of Elders from Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Quakertown, communicate to the Government Committee, in the next conference year, the particular areas of apparent ambiguities and contradictions found in the FAITH & ORDER which confront the Quakertown congregation, and further,
RESOLVED, that the Government Committee report its findings to the 96th Annual Conference.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS:
Report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that the following resolutions be adopted as submitted by the Committee on Resolutions, consisting of: John H. Herb., Chairman; Roy A. Hertzog, Secretary; James G. Koch., Robert A. Minnig, John L. Deily, L. James Roberts, David L. Weller.
Whereas, the Lord has been gracious to the Bible Fellowship Church, equipping her thru all the years of her existence with men gifted to guide, lead, and administrate her churches and agencies, and,
Whereas, even now the blessing of the Lord is evidenced by Pastors faithful to the preaching of the Word, Elders ruling by the precepts of Scripture, and,
Whereas, many of those in the Bible Fellowship Church have been men and women of vision and faith, firm in their commitment to fulfilling the commandments of our Lord, take the Gospel of Christ to the uttermost parts of the World, serving in our various agencies and ministries, and witnessing in our communities, therefore,
RESOLVED, that we seek to further the Glory brought to the Name of God, Who has so richly blessed us, by continuing to seek His will for our Denomination, and further,
RESOLVED, that with hearts truly filled with gratitude and praise we joyfully thank God for the way He has provided for us, kept us true to His Word, and used us to further His Kingdom, and further,
RESOLVED, that we thank all those who labor faithfully for our Lord in the agencies and ministries of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, in the providence of God, the Bible Fellowship Church Home, Pinebrook Bible Conference, Pinebrook Junior College, and Victory Valley Camp have been enabled to effectively carry out their ministries through their dedicated staffs, therefore,
RESOLVED, that we request the Administrator of the Bible Fellowship Church Home, the Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, the President of Pinebrook Junior College, and the Director of Victory Valley Camp to personally express our appreciation to their staff members for their cooperation, concern, and dedication of service.
Whereas, James A. Beil has efficiently served as Secretary of the 95th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, Harold C. Weaber has competently assisted the Secretary, and
Whereas, Bernard N. Coble has competently served as Recording Secretary, therefore,
RESOLVED, that we express our thanks to these brethren for their labors, and that we present each of them a gift of $25.00 from the Board of Publication and Printing.
Whereas, Pinebrook Junior College has so graciously provided meals and housing for the members of the 95th Annual Conference, therefore,
RESOLVED, that we express our appreciation for its entertainment of this body with a rising vote of thanks in this session of Annual Conference.
Whereas, Pinebrook Bible Conference has offered to entertain the next Annual Conference, therefore,
RESOLVED, that the 96th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church be convened at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Box 1, Stroudsburg, Pa. 18360 on Monday, October 8, 1979 at 10:00 a.m.
Report of Committee on Communications: (See p.151.)
Report was accepted.
Whereas, Rodney Muthard, James Bigley, David L Musselman, Terry N. Tareila, A. L. Seifert, George E. Herb, Donald T. Kirkwood, and H. Walter Stout, Jr. have submitted written requests to be excused from various or all meetings of the 95th Annual Conference, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that these requests to be excused be granted.
RESOLVED, that the base rate for annuities paid from the Ministers’ Retirement Fund shall be $78.00 per year of service, beginning with the payment starting October 1, 1978.
RESOLVED, that the contributions by ministers to the Ministers’ Retirement Fund be two percent (2%) of all salary and supplemental benefits except parsonage allowances to Pastors who provide their own housing.
RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors formulate definitions necessary to implement the motion relative to ministers’ contributions to the Ministers’ Retirement Fund.
Recessed at 2:47 p.m.; Reconvened at 3:10 p.m.
RESOLVED, that the Administrative Budget for 1978-79 be approved for use.
ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET 1978-79
A. Benefits for each Pastor
1. Beneficiary Fund $ 100.
2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 200.
3. Ministerial Convention 500.
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 13,000.
5. Health and Welfare 46,000.
Insurance for Pastors $59,800.
B. Benefits for each Church
1. Conference Entertainment 2,500.
2. Moving Fund 5,000.
3. Fund to Assist Churches 500.
$ 8,000.
C. Annual Conference Programs
1. Publication and Printing 2,000.
2. Expenses of Boards & Committees 3,500.
3. Expenses of Board of Directors 120.
4. Ministerial Candidate Committee Intern Fund 750.
5. Historical Committee 250.
6. Contingencies 122.50 $ 6,742.50
D. Total Budget 74,542.50
RESOLVED, that the Administrative Budget for 1979-80 be approved for circulation to the Churches.
PROPOSED ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET 1979-1980
A. Benefits for each Pastor
1. Beneficiary Fund $ 1,000.
2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 500.
3. Ministerial Convention 500.
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 15,000.
5. Health and Welfare Insurance for Pastors 52,000.
$69,000.
B.Benefits for each Church
1. Conference Entertainment $ 3,000.
2. Moving Fund 5,000.
3. Fund to Assist Churches 1,000.
$ 9,000.
C.Annual Conference Programs
1. Publication and Printing $2,500.
2. Expenses of Boards & Committee 4,500.
3. Expenses of Board of Directors 250.
4.Ministerial Candidate Committee Intern Fund 1,000.
5. Historical Committee 13,000.
6. Contingencies 500.
9,750.
D. Total Budget $87,750.
RESOLVED. that effective with the payment of October 1, 1980, each church shall begin to pay to the Board of Directors directly for its Health and Welfare Insurance, rather than as part of the Administrative Budget. Yes, 72; No, 11. (FIRST READING)
RESOLVED, that the rate of payment for mileage on denominational business remain at 12 cents per mile.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION: Warren L. Zimmerman.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE: Bruce A. Ellingson.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: Jay Fasnacht.
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Terris L. Byrd.
BOARD OF PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE: Ronald C. Mahurin, Lee E. Boyles, and John Moran.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME:
John Dunn, Robert W. Smock, Paul G. Zimmerman and Charles G. Hersh.
BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY: Alva C. Cassel, James Herrold and Clyde W. Snyder.
CHAIRMAN OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Carl C. Cassel.
VICE-CHAIRMAN OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.
SECRETARY OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE: James A. Beil.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Bert N. Brosius, Alva C. Cassel, John Dunn, Robert F. Johnson, Norman L. Reed, Harold L. Snyder, Jr., and Warren L. Zimmerman.
RESOLVED, that the following Board of Church Extension budget for 1979-1980 be adopted:
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION – 1979-1980
RECEIPTS
Churches – Prepaid $ 66,000
General (Current) Gifts 6,000
Designated – Special Project – Atlantic City 30,000
Other Designated 40,000
Interest 3,800
$145,800
EXPENDITURES
Appropriations:
Finesville $ 2,400
Newark-Baker 14,000
Mid-Hudson Missions 24,000
Delaware Missions 12,000
Eastwick Mission 3,500
Special Project -Atlantic City 36,000
New Mission (s) 8,500
Teams 1,500
PISCES 3,000
$104,900
Administration:
Director’s Salary $ 9,600
Director’s Benefits 2,300
Director’s Parsonage 6,000
Director’s Travel 4,200
Office 6,000
Promotion 1,100
Board Expense 1,000
Administrative Budget 300
Workman’s Compensation 400
$ 30,900
Reserves:
Fund to Assist Churches $ 1,000
Capitol Funds 3,000
Contingencies 2,000
6,000
Total $141,800
RESOLVED, that the following Board of Publication and Printing budget for 1978-1979 be adopted.
BUDGET 1978-1979
FELLOWSHIP NEWS:
Income
1,100 Subscriptions at $3.00 $ 3,300
Donations from Boards 300
Subsidy 100
$ 3,700
Expenditures
Printing 12 issues of Fellowship News $ 3,000
Secretarial Help 150
Editor’s Expenses 50
Business Manager’s Expenses 500
$ 3,700
Income – Board of Publication and Printing
Administrative Budget $ 2,000
Yearbooks 2,000
FAITH & ORDER 500
$ 4,500
Expenditures – Board of Publication and Printing
Yearbooks $ 1,900
Honorariums 500
Church Supplies 500
Fellowship News Subsidy 100
Repairs on Printing Equipment 800
Board and Secretarial Expenses 300
New Equipment 400
$ 4,500
The Chairman made the following Committee Appointments:
COMMITTEE ON AGENDA: James A. Beil, Harold C. Weaber and Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.
COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES: LeRoy C. Wilcox and Dana Weller.
COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM FOR NEXT ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Keith E. Plows, Richard Taylor, John H. Herb and Carl C. Cassel.
COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS: LeRoy S. Heller, John Dunn, Daniel G. Ziegler, Warren Zimmerman and Arthur H. Frable, Jr.
Whereas, the 94th Annual Conference requested the Ministerial Candidate Committee and Credentials Committee to derive a method whereby men who previously had ministerial credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church could come to have their credentials recognized again by this denomination; therefore,
RESOLVED, that we recommend to the 95th Annual Conference that such men follow the procedure outlined in the Form of Government, Article XIII, Procedure for Recognition of a Minister – Men entering the Ministry or Men Received From Other Churches.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 4:58 p.m. in prayer by Stanley C. Kalbach.
EIGHTH MEETING
Wednesday Evening, October 11, 1978 – 6:30 p.m.
Terris L. Byrd led in prayer.
The minutes of meetings six and seven were read and approved as corrected.
The following were appointed:
COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE THE MINUTES OF THE PARTICULAR CHURCHES: R. C. Reichenbach, Thomas P. Shorb, William Graybill, II, Terry N. Tareila, and Donald D. Reitz.
RESOLVED, that the following be adopted as legislation. (SECOND READING)
VI.FUND TO ASSIST CHURCHES
1.A fund shall be established to assist churches in financial need which shall be known as the Fund to Assist Churches.
2.The Fund to Assist Churches shall be administered by the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church, who shall receive appeals from churches in need of assistance, consider such appeals, and make appropriations as it may decide are necessary. The Board of Directors shall establish procedures of application and criteria for distribution of funds.
3.Any person or church who is aware that a church is in serious financial need may inform the Board of Directors.
4.The Fund to Assist Churches shall be maintained by an annual allotment from the Administrative Budget, and if there are insufficient funds to meet the needs, by a direct appeal to the churches. Unused money in the Fund shall be invested.
RESOLVED, that the following shall be added to the Duties of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church: (SECOND READING)
1. The Board of Directors shall maintain and administer the Fund to Assist Churches.
2.The Board of Directors may solicit contributions from the churches to help the needy church(es) when there is insufficient money in the Fund to Assist Churches to meet the needs.
RESOLVED, that the following enabling legislation be adopted:
The Fund to Assist Churches shall be established with a $1,000 yearly contribution from the Board of Church Extension for the first three years of the Fund’s existence and from an initial appeal to the churches and individuals for contributions.
The following were appointed by the Chairman:
COMMITTEE TO PREPARE AN ALTERNATE UNDERSTANDING OF “THE BIBLICAL VIEW OF THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH”: Harvey J. Fritz., Jr., Chairman; William A. Heffner, Terry N. Tareila, James R. Batchler., William Graybill, II, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr. and Alva C. Cassel.
RESOLVED, that the material entitled “Sunday Bible School;” part b of Article III “Public, Worship” of the Standards of Life and Worship of the FAITH & ORDER (page 43, 1977 edition) be revised to read: (FIRST READING)
(b) Sunday Bible School
Sunday Bible Schools shall be conducted on the Lord’s Day wherein the Scriptures shall be studied and taught1 with provision being made for graded instruction. Students shall be encouraged to accept Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord as the Holy Spirit brings conviction concerning their needs.2
1 Deuteronomy 31:12-13 “Assemble the people, the men and the women and children and the alien who is in your town, in order that they may hear and learn and fear the Lord your God, and be careful to observe all the words of this law. And their children, who have not known will hear and learn to fear the Lord your God, as long as you live on the land where you are about to cross over the Jordan to possess it.”
II Timothy 2:15; 3:14-17 “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth. You, however., continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them; and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. AU Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”
2 Matthew 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Scripture references are quoted from the N.A.S.V.)
RESOLVED, that the material entitled “Sunday Bible School By-Laws” replace the material entitled “Sunday School” in the FAITH & ORDER (Pages 52-54, 1977 edition) (FIRST READING)
SUNDAY BIBLE SCHOOLS
Each Sunday Bible School shall have the following officers:General Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent. These officers shall serve for a term of one year. These officers may either be elected by and from the membership of the particular church, or appointed by the Board of Elders. The Board of Elders shall determine whether these officers shall be chosen by election or appointment. The Pastor, by virtue of his office, is an officer of the Sunday Bible School.
QUALIFICATIONS OF STAFF MEMBERS
1. Each one shall confess Jesus Christ as His Lord and Saviour and give evidence of this in his conduct.
2.Each one shall be faithful in his attendance of the public services of the particular church.
3.Each one shall be faithful in attendance of staff meetings.
DUTIES OF OFFICERS
The General Superintendent shall:
1. Provide each class with a born-again teacher as directed by the Executive Committee.
2.See that the school is properly graded.
3.Preside or arrange for a leader at each session of the school.
4. Periodically survey the work done in the various classes and departments.
5. Cooperate with the pastor in overseeing the Sunday Bible School and be responsible to the congregation, to which he shall submit a statistical report.
The Assistant Superintendent shall:
1. Assume the responsibilities of the General Superintendent in his absence or incapacity.
2. Have as his special interest the oversight of absentee visitation and stimulation of Sunday Bible School promotion.
The Secretary* shall:
1. Be appointed by the Executive Committee.
2. Be responsible for enrollment and attendance records.
3. Provide the General Superintendent with all necessary information for reports.
The Treasurer* shall:
1. Be appointed by the Executive Committee.
2. Be accountable for all monies received as determined by the by-laws of the Particular Church.
The Departmental Superintendent shall:
1. Be appointed by the Executive Committee.
2. Lead and direct all departmental activities consistent with the spiritual goals and objectives of the particular Sunday Bible School.
3. Work closely with the General Superintendent, keeping the Superintendent informed of all matter relating to the department, i.e. discipline problems, teaching needs, material requirements, et cetera.
4. Be aware of absentees, advising the Assistant Superintendent when students are absent for three and six consecutive weeks.
DUTIES OF TEACHERS
Each teacher shall:
1. Endeavor to lead his students to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to nurture those who have made a profession of faith in Christ.
2. Thoroughly prepare himself through prayer and Bible study to teach the Scriptures, making use of teacher manuals and/or other resource materials.
3. Become personally acquainted with each of his students so that lessons may be relevant.
4. Be faithful in the visitation of students and follow-up of absentees.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
1. It shall be composed of Pastor, General Superintendent., Assistant Superintendent, Secretary*, Treasurer*, Departmental Superintendents, and/or others appointed or elected in accordance with the by-laws of the Particular Church.
2. It shall meet at the call of the General Superintendent.
3. It shall arrange for meetings of the entire Sunday Bible School staff.
4. The General Superintendent or Pastor shall preside at all meetings.
5. It shall be responsible to provide each department with personnel as needed.
6. It shall exercise oversight in the assignment of all teachers, assistants, and substitutes.
7. It shall review and act upon the resignation or proposed removal of any teacher or officer of the Sunday Bible School.
8. It shall be responsible to maintain a high degree of spirituality, positive Christian conduct, and full cooperation on the part of the Sunday Bible School staff.
9. It shall approve all curricula to be used in the Sunday Bible School.
10. It shall approve all furnishings, equipment, and teaching aids to be used in the Sunday Bible School.
11. It shall endeavor to provide a program of teacher training.
12. It shall approve all projects conducted by the Sunday Bible School or individual classes.
ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES
1. A visitor who attends for three consecutive Sundays shall be enrolled as an active member.
2. A member is dropped from the active enrollment after thirteen consecutive absences and maintained on the roll as an inactive member for six months.
NOTE: The duties of the secretary and the treasurer may be combined into one office, Secretary-Treasurer, in accordance with the by-laws of the particular church.
Yes, 58; No, 29.
RESOLVED, that upon adoption of recommendation #2 above, Miscellaneous By-Law g of the By-Laws for Particular Churches be deleted from the FAITH & ORDER. (page 60, 1977 edition).
The following was elected:
CHURCH GOVERNMENT STUDY COMMITTEE: Frank L. Herb, Jr.
Recessed at 8:50 p.m.; Reconvened at 9:20 p.m.
The following legislation was adopted: (SECOND READING)
II. ELECTION AND RESIGNATIONS
RESOLVED, that Section F-4, P. 65, FAITH & ORDER, read as follows:
Ordained ministers who have been called to minister by the rules of Pulpit Supply or who are laboring in any agency of Bible Fellowship Church shall be eligible for election or appointment to Conference Offices, Boards, or Committees.
An ordained minister who is without a call to a church is eligible to serve in an elective office and on Conference Boards and Committees as long as he remains on the list of Ordained Ministers Working Under the Direction of Bible Fellowship Church.
A minister who is granted a leave of absence may serve as a minister in any elective or appointed position only until the next Annual Conference, when a successor will be elected or appointed to fill the unexpired term.
Laymen who are members in good standing of a Bible Fellowship Church are eligible for election or appointment to Conference Boards or Committees. These laymen need not be members of the Annual Conference. The Nominating Committee shall seek assistance from Pastors and Boards of Elders in obtaining capable candidates for these positions.
A resignation from an Annual Conference office shall be sent to the Secretary of Annual Conference. A copy shall also be sent to the Chairman of the Nominating Committee.
A resignation from a Board or Committee shall be submitted to the Secretary of the Board or Committee. The Board or Committee shall report to Annual Conference such resignation(s), recommending appropriate action. The Board or Committee shall inform the Nominating Committee.
RESOLVED, that the following be adopted as FIRST READING to replace that of VIII, p. 22, 1977 Year Book:
By a two-thirds majority of those voting, the Annual Conference may propose to the churches amendments or changes in the Form of Government of the Bible Fellowship Church. After the approval of a first reading of the proposed change, the pastor and delegate of each Particular Church shall be responsible to inform their Board of Elders of the proposed change. The amendment will be declared in effect when approved by two-thirds majority of those voting on the amendment at a succeeding Annual Conference.
Procedures for amendment or change in the Articles of Faith shall follow those prescribed for change in the Form of Government. In addition, the Board of Elders of each church shall vote on the proposed change; an affirmative vote by a majority of the total number of elders shall be required for approval. Before the Annual Conference can consider a second reading of the proposed amendment or change in the Articles of Faith, approval of the proposed change must be reported within twenty-four (24) months to the Secretary of the Annual Conference by the Board of Elders of at least two-thirds of the churches.
The following communication was received from Allentown Bethel and Allentown Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Churches:
Whereas, Bethel Bible Fellowship Church of Allentown and Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Church have for a number of years been discussing the Lord’s will relating to a merger of Bethel Church with Cedar Crest at the Cedar Crest location;
Whereas, they expect to decide the question of a merger within a few weeks subsequent to the 95th session of Annual Conference, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that we request the 95th session of Annual Conference to clarify whether or not the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church has the final authority to act in behalf of the Annual Conference in all matters relating to a merger, in the event that this is approved by both congregations.
Ronald C. Mahurin, Pastor
John L. Deily, Delegate
Allentown Bethel
Roy A. Hertzog, Pastor
Jay H. Fasnacht, Delegate
Cedar Crest
RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors has the authority to act on behalf of the Annual Conference in matters relating to the merger of Allentown Bethel and Allentown Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Churches in the event both Churches approve the merger.
Whereas, Rev. F. B. Hertzog will observe his 80th birthday on January 4, 1979 (D.V.) and, Whereas, Brother Hertzog has served for over 50 years in the Bible Fellowship Church as a faithful and effective Pastor, District Superintendent, and Administrator of the Bible Fellowship Church Home,
RESOLVED, that the January 1979 issue of the FELLOWSHIP NEWS be dedicated to Rev. F. B. Hertzog, with an appropriate article on his life and ministry included therein.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 10:15 p.m. in prayer by F. B. Hertzog.