1980 Annual Conference Minutes

NINETY-SEVENTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS

1980

FIRST MEETING

Monday Morning, October 13, 1980 – 10:00 A.M.

            Chairman Jansen E. Hartman called the 97th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church to order. James A. Beil led the prayer of invocation. The hymn “At Calvary” was sung and Paul G. Zimmerman led in prayer. Frank & John Herb ministered in music by singing “Love So Divine”. Evan Knowles read Acts 2: 41-47. Jansen E. Hartman gave the keynote address, “The Biblical Basis of Our Fellowship”.

            The hymn “And Can it Be That I Should Gain” was sung, after which the Lord’s Supper was observed.

            Secretary James A. Beil appointed Harold C. Weaber as Assistant Secretary and Bernard N. Coble as Assistant to the Secretaries.

            The Roll was established as follows:

Allentown Cedar Crest – Ronald C. Mahurin, Roy A. Hertzog, John L. Deily, John Trauch

Allentown Salem – (Probationer), Allan C. Palmer

Bethlehem – Robert F. Johnson, Warren L. Zimmerman

Blandon – Dana E. Weller, Stanley C. Kalbach

Camden DE (Mission) – James G. Koch, Raymond Dotts

Catasauqua –                                       , Arthur W. Deppe

Coopersburg – Frank L. Herb, Jr., Clyde W. Snyder

Denville, N.J.- Richard D. Harris, John F. Moran

Easton – LeRoy C. Wilcox, Russel E. Dech

Emmaus – Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Clifford L. Kauffman

Englishtown, N.J. – (Probationer), Clinton Crankshaw

Ephrata – Robert W. Smock, Robert W. Gehret

Finesville, N.J. – D. Thomas Phillips, Donald Straub

Fleetwood – Austin G. Shelly, Norman L. Reed

Graterford – (Probationer), C. Roger Detwiler

Harleysville – Paul G. Zimmerman, Kenneth Keeler

Harrisburg – R. C. Reichenbach, Walter A. Schlagel

Hatfield – John H. Herb, Lee E. Boyles

Howell, N.J. – John Vandegriff, David Markuson

Lancaster – (Probationer), Horace A. Kauffman

Lebanon – Bruce A. Ellingson, Leroy O. Herb

Lehighton – Bernard N. Coble, Ernest E. Bauer

Maple Glen – Carl K. Spackman, V. Kerry Inman

Mt. Carmel – Alva C. Cassel, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.

Nazareth – Keith E. Plows, Ralph Hendershot

Newark, N.J. – (Mission), Delbert R. Baker, II

New Fairfield, CT (Mission) – Robert L. Draper

Oley – Henry A. Schell, Eugene Kuhns

Paradise – Kenneth L. Good, L. Donald Miller

Philadelphia Calvary – (Probationer),Leon H. Naudasher

Philadelphia Emmanuel – Roger Reitz, Russell L. Davis

Quakertown – Bert N. Brosius, L. James Roberts, Jr.

Reading – Jansen E. Hartman, Robert Breitegam, Rodney Muthard

Royersford –                                       , James Weidner

Scranton – Terry N. Tareila, Carl Kellerman

Shamokin – Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Ronald C. Lahr

Sinking Spring – Terris Byrd, Brian Moyer

Spring City – Richard E. Taylor, John Derck

Staten Island, N.Y. – (Probationer), Ralph D. Cole

Stroudsburg – Thomas P. Shorb, Thomas W. Sacher

Sunbury – LeRoy S. Heller, Clayton B. Brosius, Bert E. 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 – James R. Batchler, Jr., David L. Weller

ORDAINED MEN BETWEEN ASSIGNMENTS – Arthur H. Frable, Jr.

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, Ron Hoyle, William Mull

ORDAINED MINISTERS IN RETIREMENT – Paul E. Baer, E. W. Bean, John Dunn, W. W. Hartman, F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, C. Leslie Miller

PROBATIONERS –

Charles J. McConnell                         Allentown Salem

G. Wayne Clapier                               Philadelphia Calvary

Barry Minsky                                     Graterford

William L. Neff                                  Englishtown

David A. Thomann                             Lancaster

Bryan G. Upton                                  Staten Island, N.Y.

Note: Whereas Sunbury Church has recently attained a membership in excess of 300, it has therefore sent two delegates to Annual Conference.

            The following did not answer to the Roll:

John Trauch                                        Richard W. Gehman

Raymond Dotts                                  J. Barclay Harley

Robert W. Smock                               David Manney

Robert W. Gehret                               Edward Moyer

C. Roger Detwiler                              Ron Hoyle

Ernest E. Bauer                                   William Mull

Rodney Muthard                                 Paul E. Baer

Thomas W. Sacher                             F. B. Hertzog

George E. Herb                                   C. E. Kirkwood

Brian H. Butler                                   C. Leslie Miller

The Chairman ruled that the Alternate Delegates be seated:

Walter E. Raybuck                             Reading

Earl A. Weiss                                     Stroudsburg

Paul K. Clymer, Jr.                             Cedar Crest

Evan Knowles                                    Camden, DE

Alvin Loughery                                  Graterford

Harold Ruth                                        Sinking Spring

            Whereas, the Delegate of Grace Church, Wallingford has become unable to serve because of brain surgery, and the Alternate Delegate because of business, and

            Whereas, these circumstances have come to pass so recently that another congregational business meeting could not be called according to our rules to elect another Delegate, therefore, be it

            Resolved, that the Delegate elected as a replacement by the Board of Elders of Grace Church, Wallingford, be seated as Delegate to this conference.

            Resolved, that George R. Bryson be seated as Delegate from Grace Church, Wallingford.

            Resolved, that the first eleven pews constitute the Conference Bar.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AGENDA

            Resolved, that the agenda be accepted.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM (See p. 39)

            Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that the election procedure as used by the 96th Annual Conference be followed, effective Monday afternoon:

            A.        Nominations be closed for all elections to be conducted at a particular meeting at the opening of that meeting.

            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, and prepare run-off ballots as needed.

REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that the following appointments by the Chairman be approved:

Tellers: Robert F. Johnson; Keith E. Plows; LeRoy S. Heller; Carl K. Spackman; Norman L. Reed; David L. Weller; Harold L. Snyder, Jr.

Committee on Resolutions: R. C. Reichenbach; Ronald C. Mahurin; Bert N. Brosius; Frank L. Herb, Jr.; John L. Deily; Alan C. Palmer; Lee E. Boyles; John Derck.

Committee on Communications: Austin G. Shelly; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.; Robert Breitegam; Walter

Schlagel.

Committee on Auditing: Robert W. Gehret; Horace A. Kauffman; Eugene J. Kuhns; Ralph D. Cole; Warren L. Zimmerman; David L. Musselman.

Timekeeper: Henry A. Schell

Reporter: Roger Reitz

            Resolved, that all communications relative to absences from Annual Conference be referred to the Committee on Communications, which shall report back before the end of this day.

            The new members of the Conference were introduced.

            Resolved: that we adjourn. Adjourned in prayer by James G. Koch at 12:04 P.M.


SECOND MEETING

Monday Afternoon, October 13, 1980, 1:30 P.M.

            James R. Batchler led in prayer.

REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE (See P. 40 )

Report was accepted.

            Whereas, the inflation rates continued to escalate this past year, and

            Whereas, we strongly encourage each church to adequately meet the need of its Pastor, therefore be it,

            Resolved, that we encourage each church to increase its pastors salary at least 7% above the previous year’s salary, and further,

            Resolved, that it is the consensus of this 97th Annual Conference that the minimum salary adequate for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including benefits, is $11,200 for the 1980-81 year.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS: (See P. 41)

Report was accepted.

            Whereas, The Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Philip E. Yerrington for Ordination, and,

            Whereas, the Board of Foreign Missions has recommended him for Ordination, and,

            Whereas, He has served acceptably as an Assistant Pastor in the Bible Fellowship Church for three years, and,

            Whereas, After examination, the Credentials Committee believes him 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 be it

            Resolved, that Philip E. Yerrington, be approved for Ordination. The Credentials Committee shall be in charge of the service of Ordination. The time and place of this service will be set in keeping with the availability of Philip E. Yerrington.

            Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended David A. Thomann and Charles J. McConnell for recognition of prior Ordination, and,

            Whereas, these brethren have served acceptably as ministers in the Bible Fellowship Church for several years, and,

            Whereas, after examination, we believe them 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, be it

            Resolved, that the prior Ordination of David A. Thomann and Charles J. McConnell be recognized during the Tuesday evening session of this 97th Annual Conference.

REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE (See p. 44 )

Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that the following men be accepted under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee:

Probationers (Year of licensing in parenthesis)

Keith B. Anderson                              Ecuador, S. Am. (1980)

James L. Beaver                                 Clearwater, Fl.

Douglas D. Bowne                             Royersford, Pa.

George R. Bryson                               Wallingford, Pa. (1978)

G. Wayne Clapier                               Philadelphia, Pa. (1980)

D. Shane Donche                                Souderton, Pa. (1980)

Arthur J. Frisbie                                 Newark, De. (1976)

Randall A. Grossman                         Hatfield, Pa..

V. Kerry Inman                                  Coopersburg, Pa. (1980)

David H. Jones                                   Reading, Pa. (1978)

Herbert K. Lea                                    Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (1980)

Charles J. McConnell                         Allentown, Pa. (1978)

Gary W. Miller                                   Bethlehem, Pa.

Barry J. Minsky                                  Graterford, Pa. (1980)

Philip E. Morrison                              Allentown, Pa.

William L. Neff                                  Freehold, N.Y. (1978)

David A. Thomann                             Lancaster, Pa. (1978)

Bryan G. Upton                                  Staten Island, N.Y. (1979)

Stephan Van Eck                                Sunbury, Pa.

James A. Wickstead                           Poughquag, N.Y. (1976)

Philip E. Yerrington                           Edinburgh, Tx. (1978)

Candidates

Ronald S. Coulton                              Quakertown, Pa.

Harry L. Downs                                  Cherry Hill, N.J.

Ronald C. Erb                                     Philadelphia, Pa.

John C. Grady                                     Sarasota, Fl.

Hilary A. Nixon                                  Madison, N.J.

Calvin Reed                                        Reading, Pa.

William Schlonecker                          Dallas, Tx.

David Schoen                                     West Lawn, Pa.

Applicants

Thomas J. Beil                                    Nazareth, Pa.

David W. Chappel                              Spring City

Albert Dommel                                  Emmaus, Pa.,

Gary R. Hafer                                     Reading, Pa.

Richard P. Jones, Sr.                           Wescosville, Pa.

Kenneth Keeler                                   Harleysville, Pa.

Randy Keeley                                     Boothwyn, Pa.

Rodney H. Long                                 St. Paul, Mn.

Richard MacLaren                              Hatboro, Pa.

Terry W. Roberts                                Spring City

Jeffrey C. Stickler                               Willow Grove, Pa.

Thomas Templeton                             Souderton, Pa.

Roy M. Wallace, Jr.                            Ashland, Oh.

            Whereas, each member of the Ministerial Candidate Committee is elected to a term of service of one year, and,

            Whereas, longer terms of service and rotation of the terms would provide greater assurance of stability to the work of the Committee, therefore be it

            Resolved, that the approval of a change in our rules stating the terms of election of this committee be given, with the new reading being as follows: (Present reading is on page 82 of the 1977 edition of the Faith and Order)

            The Ministerial Candidate Committee shall be composed of five ordained ministers elected on a rotating basis to serve three-year terms of service. Class I shall be composed of two ministers; Class II shall be composed of two ministers; Class III shall be composed of one minister. (First Reading)

            If approved at a Second Reading, Class I shall be elected for a three-year term; Class II shall be elected for a two-year term; and Class III shall be elected for a one-year term. (Implementing Legislation)

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH (See P. 47)

Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that the annuities from the Ministers’ Retirement Fund beginning October 1, 1980 shall be $90.00 per year of service for each annuitant up to forty years of service.

            Resolved, that the Administrative Budget for the 1980-81 year as presented be approved for use effective October 1, 1980.

1980-1981 ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET

A.        Benefits Pastors                                                                      (1980-81 )       (1981-82)

            1. Beneficiary Fund                                                                1,000             1,000

            2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund                                                 1,000             1,000

            3. Ministerial Convention                                                       500             500

            4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund                                                17,000             19,000

                        Total                                                                            19,500             21,500

B.        Benefits Churches

            1. Conference Entertainment                                                  3,000             3,000

            2. Moving Fund                                                                      5,000             5,000

            3. Fund to Assist Churches                                                     1,000             1,000

                        Total                                                                            9,000             9,000

C.        Annual Conference Programs

            1. Publication & Printing                                                        2,500             2,500

            2. Expenses of Boards & Committees                                    4,400             4,500

            3. Expenses of Board of Directors                                          100             250

            4. Ministerial C. C. Internship                                                1,000             1,500

            5. Historical Committee                                                         1,000             1,500

            6. Contingencies                                                                     250             750

                        Total                                                                            9,250             11,000

TOTAL BUDGET                                                                             $37,750            41,500

            Resolved, that the Administrative Budget for the 1981- 1982 year as presented (second column, above) be approved for circulation to the churches in solicitation of their pledges by April 15, 1981.

            Resolved, that the rate for mileage reimbursement for official travel shall remain at fifteen cents per mile.

            Resolved, that the following be the answer to the first petition from the Graterford Church to the 96th Annual Conference:

            Whereas, the Graterford Bible Fellowship Church has petitioned the Annual Conference to establish a revolving loan fund, and

            Whereas, both the Board of Church Extension and the Board of Pinebrook Junior College have asked the Board of Directors to join the Christian Stewardship Council as part of developing deferred giving and other forms of giving to the Bible Fellowship Church and its agencies; and,

            Whereas, information is available showing that the Christian Stewardship Council is a group sound in doctrine and is being used by several evangelical organizations and churches; therefore be it

            Resolved, that we investigate means to develop this kind of program in the Bible Fellowship Church because interest is being expressed by several segments of our constituency; and further

            Resolved, that as part of this investigation the Board of Directors be represented at the next meeting of the Christian Stewardship Council.

            Resolved, that the following be the answer to the second petition from the Graterford Church to the 96th Annual Conference:

            Whereas, the Graterford Bible Fellowship Church has petitioned the Annual Conference to consider providing group insurance for fire, liability, and other kinds of coverage; and

            Whereas, the investigation of this Board through brokers in the Bible Fellowship Church and outside our membership indicates that group coverage could be less expensive for some, but more expensive for others; therefore be it

            Resolved, that the best results can be achieved when the individual churches choose those specific coverages designed for their needs from competitive companies rather than adapting their benefits to an overall group plan administered by the Conference.

            Resolved, that the following rules governing the Fund to Assist Churches be added to the material now approved and printed on pages 172-173 of the 1978 Yearbook (SECOND READING)

1.         Responsibility of the Church Seeking Assistance

A. Request for assistance by a particular church shall be by Board of Elders resolution and shall be in writing to the Chairman of the Board of Directors.

B. The request for assistance shall include the following information:

(1) Circumstances causing the present need;

(2) Amount of money needed and, if pertinent, date by which the funds are needed;

(3)  Use to which funds are to be put.

C. The Directors shall reserve the right to examine the latest financial statement of the church requesting funds if circumstances seem to warrant such an examination.

2.   Responsibility of the Board of Directors

A. The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church and two other directors of his choice shall consider requests for funds, and be empowered to award and release funds to churches who request aid.

Awards must be by unanimous agreement of the three Directors or by majority vote of the full Board of Directors.

B. The committee of three Directors shall report to the next meeting of the full Board any requests considered or funds disbursed.

C. The Financial Secretary of the Board of Directors shall inform the Directors of the status of the Fund to Assist Churches, and shall make recommendation to the Directors concerning the amount of money to be budgeted in the Conference Administrative Budget and/or solicited from churches to keep the fund solvent.

REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE (See p. 63 )

Report was accepted.

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING (See p. 64 )

Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that January be designated as Fellowship News subscription month.

            Resolved, that donations of $100.00 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 be sent to the Business Manager by February 1, 1981.)

REPORT OF THE CHURCH EXTENSION DIRECTOR (see p. 65)

            Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 P.M. Adjourned at 3:36 P.M. in prayer by Donald T. Kirkwood.


THIRD MEETING

Monday, October 13, 1980 – 6:30 P.M.

            The meeting was opened with the singing of “Christ Returneth!” John F. Moran led in prayer and a trumpet trio ministered in music.

            The following probationers, who have charge of a work, addressed the Conference:

G. Wayne Clapier

Arthur J. Frisbie

Herbert K. Lea

Charles J. McConnell

Barry J. Minsky

            The Conference sang “When We All Get to Heaven”.

The Probationers reports continued:

William L. Neff

David A. Thomann

Brian G. Upton

James A. Wickstead

The following men were elected:

MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE

Jansen E. Hartman (3 years)

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH

Jansen E. Hartman; Horace A. Kauffman; Kermit K. Gehman (3 years)

BOARD OF PUBLICATION & PRINTING

John H. Herb; LeRoy C. Wilcox; D. Thomas Phillips; Gary Sterner; Ralph D. Cole

EDITOR-PUBLISHER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS

Richard D. Harris

BUSINESS MANAGER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS

Bernard N. Coble

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS

            Report was accepted.

            The following have requested to be excused from various services of the 97th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church:

1. James Weidner – I wish to be excused from all meetings which extend beyond Wednesday evening because of my employment.

2. Arthur J. Frisbie – I will not be able to be here for Wednesday and Thursday meetings. My work schedule will not permit me to stay.

3. Sterling E. Baer – I would like to be excused from Conference Wednesday evening.

4. Paul E. Baer – Please excuse me from attending the entire session.

5. Ernest E. Bauer – Please excuse me from the Monday and Tuesday morning sessions because of pressing medical problems in the family.

6. Donald P. Straub – Please excuse me from the Tuesday morning meeting to keep a business appointment.

7. Richard E. Taylor – Because my wife is expecting delivery of our third child at any time. I respectfully ask permission to be excused to join her if the delivery should come during Annual Conference.

8. Harold C. Weaber – I ask to be excused from the afternoon meeting of Annual Conference on Tuesday, October 14, 1980 to conduct a funeral service in Walnutport.

9. Donald T. Kirkwood – I ask to be excused from all meetings of Annual Conference. My work schedule does not permit my attendance at all the sessions.

10.  David E. Thomann, George E. Herb, T. James Bigley – due to the nature of our responsibilities, we ask to be excused from various meetings of the Conference.

11. Laird F. Stengele – Because of previous commitments for Wednesday, October 15, 1980, I would kindly request you to grant permission to be excused on that day.

12. David J. Watkins – I ask to be excused from Annual Conference Wednesday afternoon meeting due to responsibilities at the College.

13. Walter H. Frank – With great disappointment, I will be unable to attend Annual Conference.

14. Leon H. Naudasher – I ask to be excused from meetings after the last meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 1980.

15. James A. Wickstead – I ask to be excused from the Annual Conference meetings of October 14 and 15 because of work obligations in secular employment.

We recommend that these men be excused.

Austin G. Shelly, Chairman; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Secretary; Robert Breitegam; Walter A. Schlagel.

Resolved, that the above mentioned men be excused.

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See p. 73)

            Report was accepted.

            Considerable time was spent discussing a proposal to change Section A, Article IX Harmful Indulgences,

The following was elected:

MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE

            Robert F. Johnson (3 years)

            Adjourned at 10:13 P.M. in prayer by William L. Graybill II.


FOURTH MEETING

Tuesday, October 14, 1980 – 9:00 A.M.

            The Conference sang the hymn, “What a Wonderful Saviour”. Eugene J. Kuhns led in prayer and read Romans 12:9-21. The Young Pastor’s Quartet sang, “Bless the Lord, Oh My Soul”. Horace A. Kauffman spoke on the topic “The Privileges and Responsibilities of Our Fellowship”.

The following were elected:

MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE

            John L. Deily (3 years)

COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS

            James A. Beil; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.; Frank L. Herb, Jr.; Keith E. Plows; John H. Riggall.

MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE

            Carl C. Cassel; John H. Herb; Robert F. Johnson; David J. Watkins; Paul G. Zimmerman.

            Resolved, that no nominations for elections shall be completed before the respective boards and committees have reported.

            The minutes of the previous meetings were read and approved as corrected.

Recessed at 10:40 A.M., Reconvened at 11:00 A.M.

REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE (See P. 86)

            Report was accepted.

REPORT OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE (See p. 93)

            Report was accepted.

The time was extended.

            Adjourned at 12:10 P.M. in prayer by D. Thomas Phillips.


FIFTH MEETING

Tuesday, October 14, 1980 – 1:30 P.M.

            The meeting was opened with prayer by Henry A. Schell.

            Missionaries Nancy Wehr, Sharon Bachman, and Richard Gehman were introduced and addressed the Conference.

            The Chair ruled that we deviate from the Agenda to again consider the Church Extension proposal to amend Article 9, Section A.

            Whereas, there appears to be some division of conviction on the matter of Article #9A on total abstinence, and

            Whereas, there appear to be areas that need further clarification in the light of the discussion to date on this subject, therefore

            Resolved, that the Chairman of Annual Conference appoint a committee to study the subject of total abstinence and its relationship to Church membership.

            This committee shall be composed of nine members: six Pastors and three Laymen, with Jansen E. Hartman, Chairman of Annual Conference, being a non-voting ex-officio member, and the chairman of the committee.

            This Committee must bring its report to the 98th Annual Conference.

Yes, 74; No, 24.

            The Chairman appointed the following committee to study the above-mentioned matter:

            John H. Riggall                                   Clyde W. Snyder

            John H. Herb                                      Robert W. Smock

            L. James Roberts                                Robert F. Johnson

            Daniel G. Ziegler                                Robert W. Gehret

            Delbert R. Baker II

Resolved, that the appointments be approved.

Recessed at 3:10 P.M.; reconvened at 3:37 P.M.

Resolved, that the price of the Yearbook be $2.50.

REPORT OF THE PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE (See p. 105)

            Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that each church make a contribution to the Pinebrook Bible Conference. Checks are to be made payable to Pinebrook and sent to the Director, Box 1, Stroudsburg, Pa. 18360.

REPORT OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME (See p. 113)

            Report was accepted.

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY (See p. 127)

            Report was accepted.

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (See P. 131)

            Report was accepted.

REPORT OF CHURCH GOVERNMENT STUDY COMMITTEE

            Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that in Article V, p. 23, 1977 Faith & Order, the word “representatives” found in the last paragraph be changed to “Leaders”. (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that in Article VIII, Paragraph 1, p. 24, 1977 Faith & Order, the following be substituted for the last sentence in paragraph 1:

            “If the congregation has more qualified elders than are needed to serve at one time, the number of active elders shall be determined by the congregation by ballot vote upon recommendation of the Board of Elders.” (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that in Article VIII, Paragraph 4, p. 24, 1977 Faith & Order, the wording of the first sentence shall read as follows:

            “…the elders shall rule the congregation according to the direction of Christ, the Chief Shepherd, as expressed in the Scriptures and according to the needs of the membership.” (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that the following material be referred back to the Government Study Committee:

            Article VIII, Paragraph 4, p. 24, 1977 Faith & Order. They had recommended that the wording of the last sentence shall read as follows:

            “The congregation shall have the right to approve, to suggest changes, or to disapprove such recommendations.”

            Resolved, that Article IX, Paragraph 2, first sentence, p. 25 of the 1977 Faith & Order be changed to read:

            “The term of office shall be decided by the particular church by congregational vote, but shall not be for less than three years, except that when a particular church desires a probationary term of service for newly-chosen elders.” (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that in Article IX, Question 2, page 25, 1977 Faith & Order, the words “basic accord” be changed to the word “agreement…” (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that in Article IX, Question 3, p. 25, 1977 Faith & Order, the words “government and discipline” be changed to “principles of Order”. (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned in prayer by Clayton B. Brosius at 5:05 P.M.


SIXTH MEETING

Tuesday, October 14, 1980 – 6:30 P.M.

            The meeting was opened with prayer by Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr.

The following were elected:

BOARD OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE

LeRoy S. Heller; W. Wayne Batten; Raymond R. Dotts; Warren L. Zimmerman (3 years)

BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

            Leroy O. Herb and Jonathan D. Reynolds.(3 years)

            The proposed Women’s Missionary Society Constitution, presented by the Board of Foreign Missions, was referred back for further study.

            The Credentials Committee conducted a special service. The Conference sang “Crown Him With Many Crowns”. Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., led in prayer, and Frank L. Herb, Jr. read II Timothy 1:6-14. Charles J. McConnell and David A. Thomann were presented to the Conference and their previous ordinations were recognized.

REPORT OF THE “COMMITTEE TO PREPARE AN ALTERNATE UNDERSTANDING OF ‘THE BIBLICAL VIEW OF THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH’ ” (See p. 135)

The report was accepted.

Resolved, that we extend the time.

            Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned in prayer by Carl H. Kellerman, at 9:16 P.M.


SEVENTH MEETING

Wednesday, October 15, 1980 – 9:00 A.M.

            The Conference was led in prayer by John L. Deily. “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” was sung, after which Earl A. Weiss read Ephesians 4:1-6, 11-13. Clyde W. Snyder and Daniel G. Ziegler ministered in music. Ronald C. Mahurin spoke on the topic “The Cultivation and Development of our Fellowship”. The Conference then sang “Blest Be The Tie That Binds”.

            The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved as corrected.

            The following Alternate Delegates were seated in the Conference Bar:

Jack Largent – Sinking Spring

Kenneth Cressman – Philadelphia Emmanuel

Raymond R. Dotts – Camden, DE

The following were elected:

BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION

            Bruce A. Ellingson; Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME

            John Dunn; Robert W. Smock; Keith E. Plows; Ronald Reed (2 years)

BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

            David A. Thomann (3 years)

GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS

            David E. Thomann (3 years)

PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE BOARD

            Frank L. Herb, Jr.; Norman W. Granda (3 years)

            Resolved, that all elected Boards and Committees of the Bible Fellowship Church submit in writing to the Nominating Committee any nominees they wish to be considered for their Board or Committee. Nominees should be submitted by May 1.

            Recessed at 10:45 A.M. Reconvened at 11:15 A.M.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE FOR EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES (See p. 141)

Report was accepted.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS (See p. 143)

            Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that the Board of Directors be requested to define “Ministers’ Supplemental Benefits”; specifically, what shall be included in the category, upon which assessments are levied for contributions to the Ministers’ Retirement Fund.

            Adjourned at 12:00 Noon in prayer by Stanley G. Kalbach.


EIGHTH MEETING

Wednesday, October 15, 1980 – 1:30 P.M.

            The meeting was opened with prayer by Norman L. Reed.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AUDITING (See P.144)

            Report was accepted.

The following were elected:

HISTORICAL COMMITTEE

            Bright N. Heist (3 years)

BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS

            Paul G. Zimmerman (3 years); Gerald Schlonecker (3 years); James Sunday (2 years)

BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY

            Dana E. Weller; John H. Herb (3 years); David L. Weller (1 year).

CHAIRMAN OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE

            Jansen E. Hartman.

            C. Leslie Miller addressed the Conference.

            Whereas, the material on page 28 of the 1979 Yearbook relative to election of the Nominating Committee, adopted for First Reading, is substantially the same as that submitted by the Government Committee, as appears below; therefore, be it

            Resolved, that the adoption of said material be considered as Second Reading.

            Election: After nominations have been closed for all other elections required by the By-laws, members of the nominating committee shall be elected to serve three year terms; no member of the committee shall be permitted to succeed himself; the committee shall be composed of three classes as follows: Class 1, two ministers and one layman; Class 2, one minister and one layman; Class 3, one minister and one layman. Duties: the committee shall present nominees for election at the Annual Conference. (This material will replace L on page 64 of By-laws of the Annual Conference.)

            Resolved, that to facilitate this change, the 97th Annual Conference shall elect:

            Two ministers and one layman to a three-year term, one minister and one layman to a two-year term, one minister and one layman to a one-year term.

            Resolved, that the Faith & Order – page 77, section g – Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home, first paragraph, be amended to read:

            Election: It shall be composed of five ministers and four layman. They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:

I. Two ministers, one layman

II. Two ministers, one layman

III. One minister, two laymen. (First Reading)

            Whereas, the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home is seriously considering an expansion program; and,

            Whereas, the Board deems it advisable to increase the number of members on the Board to gain added expertise; and,

            Whereas, the Board also deems it advisable to obtain such expertise by an immediate increase in membership; therefore, by use of the Rule of Exception, be it

            Resolved, that one additional layman be elected to the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home to serve a one-year term in the interim between first and second readings of the above legislation. (Unanimous)

The following was elected:

BOARD OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME

            Charles G. Hersh (1 year)

            Resolved, that the Government Committee study the feasibility of allowing Boards and Committees to recommend the election or re-election of a given number of their members; and further

            Resolved, that the Government Committee present recommendations concerning this matter if and when it deems advisable.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES (See p. 145)

Report was accepted.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS (See p. 146)

Report was accepted.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTION

Report was adopted.

            Whereas, the Lord has been gracious to the Bible Fellowship Church, equipping her through all the years with men gifted in leading and guiding His Church and all her agencies, and

            Whereas, even now the blessing of the Lord is evidenced by Pastors faithfully preaching and teaching the Word of God, elders among elders ruling in love and compassion as Scripture directs, and

            Whereas, we are at each Annual Conference blessed by the presence of our retired pastors coming among us to encourage us and reassure us of their love and continued concern for the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it

            Resolved, that we continue to seek and covet the continual outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit for our power, and further

            Resolved, that we strive to live in such a way so as to demonstrate to God our Father, how genuinely we thank and praise Him for every one of His thoughts to usward until He comes again.

            Whereas, in the power of God and with the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Bible Fellowship Church Home, Pinebrook Bible Conference, Pinebrook Junior College, and Victory Valley Camp have honored the Lord with efficient serving of their respective ministries for the past Conference year, therefore,

            Resolved, 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 express our deep appreciation to their entire staff for their dedicated service.

            Whereas, James A. Beil has efficiently served as Secretary of the 97th 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 Assistant to the Secretaries, therefore,

            Resolved, that we express our thanks to these brethren for their labors and that we present each of them with a gift of $50.00 from the Board of Publication and Printing.

            Whereas, Pinebrook Bible Conference has so graciously provided housing and meals for the members and guests of the 97th Annual Conference, therefore

            Resolved, that we express our appreciation to them for these provisions with a rising vote of thanks at the Wednesday evening meal of this Conference, and further,

            Resolved, that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Director.

            Whereas, Pinebrook Bible Conference has offered to entertain the next Annual Conference, therefore,

            Resolved, that the 98th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church be convened at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center, East Stroudsburg, Pa. on Monday, October 12, 1981 at 10:00 A.M.

            Whereas, our sovereign Lord in His divine wisdom has called home Mrs. E. T. Gehman, Mrs. Hilda Woodring, and Mrs. Marianne Riggall, and

            Whereas, we are very conscious of the ministries of these women of God who faithfully aided their husbands to carry on their pastoral duties, therefore

            Resolved, that we thank God for their lives that were lived and the testimonies that were manifested.

            Whereas, James Cressman has faithfully and efficiently served as a member of the Board of Foreign Missions for 28 years, the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church for 15 years, and has served as Secretary of our Health and Welfare program since its inception in 1969, and

            Whereas, James and Clara Cressman have ministered so unselfishly on the staff of Pinebrook Bible Conference, and

            Whereas, God in His sovereignty has led the Cressmans to move to California, therefore,

            Resolved, that we express our appreciation to James and Clara Cressman for their loving service and loyalty to the Lord and to this body, by a rising vote of thanks during one of the meals at this Annual Conference.

            R. C. Reichenbach                  Ronald C. Mahurin

            Bert N. Brosius                       Frank L. Herb, Jr.

            John Deily                              Alan C. Palmer

            Lee E. Boyles                         John Derck

The Committee on Resolutions

                                    Ronald C. Mahurin

                                    Secretary

            The following petition from Salem Bible Fellowship Church, Lehighton, was considered;

            Whereas, the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church at present makes no mention of the practice of Dedication of Children, and

            Whereas, Scripture sets a strong example for this practice in the dedication of Samuel by Elkanah and Hannah as recorded in I Samuel 1 and 2, and

            Whereas, the Bible Fellowship Church recognizes the importance of this practice, in that many children are dedicated each year, and

            Whereas, we recognize that this practice does not carry the importance of the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper as commanded in Scripture, therefore, be it

            Resolved, that we petition the 97th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, asking that an article on the Dedication of Children be included in the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.

            Resolved, that the Chairman appoint a committee of five ministers to study the matter of forms as a part of the Faith and Order, and further,

            Resolved, that the petition from Salem Church Lehighton, shall be referred to that committee.

            The Chairman appointed the following men to the aforementioned committee:

            Robert W. Smock; James A. Beil; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.; Bernard N. Coble; Carl K. Spackman.

            Resolved, that the Nominating Committee’s request for a clarification as to presenting nominees for elections who carry Credentials (ordination) with the Bible Fellowship Church, but are not presently serving in a Bible Fellowship Ministry, be referred to the Nominating Committee.

            Recessed at 3:05 P.M.; Reconvened at 3:35 P.M.

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS (See p. 146)

            Report was accepted.

            Resolved, that the following be adopted as First Reading:

WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY CONSTITUTION

Article I – Name: The name of this organization shall be the Women’s Missionary Society of .

Article II – Purpose: The purpose of this Missionary Society shall be to:

            A.        Give diligence to intercessory prayer in behalf of missions.

            B.        Encourage sacrificial giving in behalf of missions.

            C.        Support missionary projects both home and foreign.

            D.        Correspond with missionaries.

            E.        Assist missionary candidates and missionaries on furlough.

            F.        Promote spiritual growth among the members of the society.

Article III – Membership: The membership shall be open to Christian women of like faith, who are interested in missionary work and desire to share in this fellowship.

Article IV – Officers: The suggested officers of the local Women’s Missionary Society shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Corresponding Secretary. Each local Women’s Missionary Society shall elect the officers that it deems necessary. No one shall serve as President who is not a member of the Bible Fellowship Church.

The officers shall be elected annually in a Spring meeting.

The Executive Committee shall be constituted of the elected officers. The Pastor shall be an advisory member of the Executive Committee.

A vacancy occurring in any office shall be filled by election.

BY-LAWS

Article I – The Society shall meet regularly as arranged by the Executive Committee.

Article II – Duties of officers.

President:

            1.         To bear responsibility of leadership of the Women’s Missionary Society.

            2.         To preside at the meetings of the Society and of the Executive Committee.

            3.         To present reports at the Congregational meetings, if required.

Vice-President:

            1.         To preside in the absence of the President or when the President so directs.

2.To assume all duties of the President in the absence or incapacitation of the President.

Secretary:

1.To record all minutes of the meetings of the Society and of the Executive Committee.

            2.         To record attendance and to keep a membership roll, if desired.

3.To supply the President with statistical reports for the Congregational meetings, if required.

4.To carry on all correspondence relative to the Women’s Missionary Society, and to promote correspondence with the missionaries if there is not a Corresponding Secretary.

Corresponding Secretary:

            1.         To be the liaison between the Society and the missionaries.

            2.         To promote correspondence between the Society members and the missionaries.

Treasurer:

            1.         To receive and disburse funds, and keep accurate records.

2.To provide the President with financial reports for the Congregational meetings, if required.

Article III – Participation in Regional and Conference-Wide Women’s Missionary Society Programs.

A.Regional Programs.

1.The Board of Foreign Missions shall establish groupings of churches for Regional Programs.

2.The officers of the Women’s Missionary Society of each church of a region shall constitute an organizing committee for the region.

            3.         Each regional committee shall establish officers as it deems necessary.

4.Regional officers shall be elected at an Annual Meeting held in the Autumn. These officers shall be members of the Bible Fellowship Church.

5.The elected officers shall plan regional programs, including the establishing of frequency and dates of regional rallies.

B.        Conference-Wide Programs.

1.A general committee composed of four members: President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, shall be appointed by the Board of Foreign Missions.

2.This committee shall have the responsibility of developing Conference-wide programs of the Women’s Missionary Society.

The following were elected:

BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

            Carl K. Spackman (3 years)

PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE BOARD

            Sterling E. Baer (3 years)

SECRETARY OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE

            Harold C. Weaber

            Whereas, there is a need of continuity of service, and for experienced men on the Nominating Committee, therefore be it

            Resolved, that by rule of exception, men who serve for 1979-1980 be permitted to be nominees for election to said Committee at this Annual Conference.

            Resolved, that on page 26, 1977 Faith & Order, the last paragraph of Article IX be changed to read:

            The Board of Elders in each particular church shall determine which men are in agreement with the Articles of Faith and who will endeavor to follow the Principles of Order of the Bible Fellowship Church. Each Elder shall annually declare in writing his agreement with the Articles of Faith and willingness to follow the Principles of Order of the Bible Fellowship Church. No man can be divested of this office except by deposition for failure to maintain standards of doctrine and life in keeping with the dignity or the office. (Second Reading)

Yes, 79; No, 14

            Resolved, that in Article IXa, Paragraph 3, p. 26a, 1977 Faith & Order, the first sentence be changed to read:

            The term of office shall be determined by the particular church by congregational vote, but shall not be for less than three-years, except when a particular church desires a probationary term of service for newly-chosen deacons. (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 P.M.

            Adjourned in prayer by Walter E. Raybuck at 5:05 P.M.


NINTH MEETING

Wednesday, October 15, 1980 – 6:30 P.M.

            The meeting was opened with prayer by Robert W. Smock.

The following were elected:

BOARD OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE

            George Priestly (3 years)

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Alva C. Cassel; LeRoy S. Heller; Warren L. Zimmerman (3 years); Robert F. Johnson; Harold L. Snyder, Jr. (2 years); Bert N. Brosius (1 year).

            Resolved, that we accept the Travelers Medical Hospitalization insurance plan in place of our present plan, effective November 1, 1980.

            The Chairman made the following Committee Appointments:

Committee on Agenda

James A. Beil; Harold C. Weaber.

COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES

            R. C. Reichenbach; Thomas P. Shorb; Terry N. Tareila; Roy A. Hertzog; William L. Graybill, II.

COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM FOR NEXT ANNUAL CONFERENCE

            Ronald C. Mahurin; Keith E. Plows; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.

COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS

            LeRoy S. Heller; Daniel G. Ziegler; Warren L. Zimmerman; Bernard N. Coble; Bryan G. Upton.

COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES

            Kenneth L. Good; David A. Thomann.

            Resolved, that E, lb on p. 50 of the 1977 Faith & Order be revised to read:

            Optional Committees. The Board of Elders may organize various committees to assist them in carrying out the work of the Board when such assistance is necessary. The size of the congregation and the nature and amount of work to be done will determine the nature and number of committees appointed.

            Should the Board of Elders decide that it needs committees to carry out its work, the committees organized may be sub-divisions of the Board of Elders or may be appointed from among the membership of the congregation, subject to the approval of the Board of Elders.

            Elders shall be the Chairmen of committees directly responsible to the Board of Elders. Committees that function under the direction of another church committee that is chaired by an Elder may have a lay person other than an Elder as chairman, provided the person appointed to serve has been approved by the Board of Elders.

            All church committees organized shall be subordinate to the Board of Elders. The particular duties, rules of operation, and responsibility as well as the interrelationship of church committees shall be specified in the By-laws of the particular church.

            Some suggested committees for consideration are: Add Nominating Committee to the present list. (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that the material of the Historical Committee on the history of the church be published in the Faith and Order.

            Resolved, that the following material be a revision of Paragraphs 5 and 6 of 2, Congregational Meetings, on p. 51 of the 1977 Faith and Order:

2.Congregational Meetings (Paragraph #1 through Paragraph #4 should remain as is.)

            Add the following material as a substitute for Paragraph 5 and modification of Paragraph 6 with the heading 2a:

Elections in Congregational Meetings.

(1) Elections which use a Nominating Committee:

            A particular church may use a nominating committee to make nominations for church officers or leaders when this desire is expressed by a local congregational resolution. The Pastor shall be a member of this committee.

            In an election in which a nominating committee is used the Nominating Committee shall bring to the meeting nominations of one or more eligible persons for each office to be filled.

            Each particular church shall determine if additional nominations shall or shall not be received from the floor when a nominating committee is used.

(2) An election in which all nominations are made from the floor:

            In an election in which nominations are made exclusively in the congregational meeting, ballots shall be used to nominate the candidates.

            Each particular church shall adopt those additional procedures in their local by-laws that insure that only qualified persons be nominated.

            A majority of votes shall be … (rest of this paragraph is the same.)

            Delete letter “h” from Miscellaneous By-Laws. (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that on page 60 of the 1977 Faith & Order, the following be deleted: E, 5c; E, 5d; E, 5f; and E, 5g. (Second Reading)

            Resolved, that section 5 paragraph I, pages 60 and 61 of the 1977 Faith & Order, and the material contained in it, be deleted and be incorporated into Article VII, p. 46, as paragraph 4. (Second Reading)

The following were elected:

BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY

            John Vandergriff (3 years); Robert L. Draper (1 year)

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

            Norman L. Reed (1 year)

PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE

            Rodney Muthard (1 year)

Resolved, that we extend the time.

The time was extended.

            Resolved, that the following be adopted for first reading:

ANNUAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

            The Chairman shall appoint a Registrar and Assistant Registrar to serve the next Annual Conference.

            The Registrar shall register all members who are qualified to be seated in the Annual Conference and keep the attendance record of each meeting.

            A list of qualified members shall be drawn up prior to Annual Conference. The Committee to Examine the Minutes of Particular Churches shall confirm a list of delegates duly elected. The Credentials Committee and the Ministerial Candidate Committee shall furnish lists of ministers qualified to be members.

            Any member desiring to be excused from any meeting must present in writing the reason for such absence to the Registrar. This information will be relayed to the Chairman of Annual Conference. Any unusual request must receive authorization for absence from the Chairman. The names of absentees shall be recorded in the minutes of each meeting.

            The Registrar shall also provide for the registration of all advisory members of Annual Conference and for any official representatives from other bodies or organizations. He shall notify the Chairman of the presence of such persons at the session.

            The registration records shall be turned over to the Secretary of Annual Conference after adjournment.

            (This material will appear as #3 in the By-laws ,for Annual Conference, page 63 of the 1977 Faith & Order. Present #3 will become #5.)

            Resolved, that the Government Committee draw up legislation tying the material on Annual Conference Registration to the material on the Committee to Examine the Minutes of Particular Churches.

            Resolved, that the following Board of Church Extension Budget for 1981-1982 be adopted:

CHURCH EXTENSION BUDGET FOR 1981-82

            RECEIPTS:

                        Churches – Prepaid                                         $75,000

                        General (Current Gifts)                                   12,000

                        Designated Gifts                                              40,000

                        Project Beachhead                                           30,000

                                    Total                                                                           $157,000

            EXPENDITURES:

            Appropriations:

                        Finesville                                                         1,200

                        Newark – Baker                                               15,000

                        Mid-Hudson Missions                                     22,000

                        Camden                                                           3,000

                        Eastwick                                                          6,000

                        Glasgow                                                          -0-

                        Project Beachhead                                           48,000

                        (Atlantic City Area)

                        PISCES                                                           4,000

                                                                                                                           99,200

            Administration:

                        Director’s Salary                                              12,840

                        Director’s Benefits                                           2,600

                        Director’s Parsonage                                        8,500

                        Director’s Travel                                              5,400

                        Office                                                              6,600

                        Promotion                                                        1,200

                        Board Expenses                                               1,200

                        Administration Budget                                    400

                        Worker’s Compensation                                  400

                                                                                                                           39,140

            Reserves:

                        Capital Funds                                                  4,000

                        For New Missions                                           12,500

                        Contingencies                                                  2,160

                                                                                                                           18, 660

            Total                                                                                                   $157,000

            The Pinebrook Junior College Budget was presented.

            Whereas, the Board of Foreign Missions has received inquiries from Bible Fellowship Church members who desire to engage in missionary work in the U.S.A., and

            Whereas, at least two Bible Fellowship Churches recently have expressed the desire to send financial support through the Board of Foreign Missions to such missionaries serving in the U.S.A., and

            Whereas, we believe that certain U.S.A. based “Home Missionaries” are worthy of the support of Bible Fellowship Church members, but

            Whereas, the material pertaining to the Board of Foreign Missions in the Faith and Order (pp 71-72, 1977 edition) deals exclusively with “Foreign Missionaries” and “Foreign Missions”, therefore be it

            Resolved, that the Board of Foreign Missions include Home Mission responsibilities under the Board of Foreign Missions, and be it further

            Resolved, that the Board of Foreign Missions present to the 98th Annual Conference any recommended changes in current legislation pertaining to the Board of Foreign Missions.

            Resolved, that the Board of Christian Education report to the 98th Annual Conference the proposed legislation which was to be presented to the 97th Annual Conference.

            Resolved, that the following Board of Publication and Printing Budget for 1980-1981 be adopted:

BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING

1980-1981 BUDGET

FELLOWSHIP NEWS:

            Income:

                        1,000 subscriptions at $3.00                                       $3,000

                        Donations from Boards                                               300

                        Subsidy from Board of Publication & Printing           1,400

            Total Income                                                                                                  $4,700

            Expenditures:

                        Printing of 12 issues                                                   $3,600

                        Mailing of 12 issues                                                    400

                        Secretarial help                                                            150

                        Editor’s Expenses                                                        150

                        Business Manager’s Expense                                       300

                        Repairs & Supplies                                                      100

            Total Expenditures                                                                                         $4,700

BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING

            Income:

                        Taken from Cash Reserves                                          $ 500

                        Administrative Budget                                                2,500

                        Yearbooks                                                                   2,400

                        Faith & Order & Church Supplies                               1,600

            Total Income                                                                                                  $7,000

            Expenditures:

                        Yearbooks                                                                  $2,250

                        Honorariums                                                                525

                        Church Supplies & Faith & Order                               2,425

                        Fellowship News Subsidy                                           1,400

                        Warranty & Repairs on Equipment                             200

                        Board & Secretarial Expenses                                     200

                        New Equipment                                                           -0-

            Total Expenditures                                                                                         $7,000

            Whereas, the Board of Publication and Printing will need to print a new edition of the Faith & Order; therefore, be it

            Resolved, that when the new edition of the Faith & Order is printed, that any necessary changes in format be approved by the Church Government Committee.

            Resolved, that we adjourn the 97th Session of Annual Conference.

            Adjourned at 10:15 P.M. in prayer by Carl C. Cassel.

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