Annual Conference Proceedings – 1988
First Meeting
Tuesday Morning, October 25, 1988, 10:00 AM
The first meeting of the 105th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church was called to order by the Chairman, Jansen E. Hartman, at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA at 10:00 AM on October 25, 1988.
Vice-Chairman James A. Beil opened in prayer.
Report of the Registrar:
The report was accepted.
The roll of conference members was established as follows:
Ordained Ministers Working Under the Direction of the Bible Fellowship Church and Delegates
Allentown, Cedar Crest Ronald C. Mahurin, Robert F. Johnson, Jay H. Fasnacht, John W. Trauch, Ronald L. Sprankle
Allentown, Salem Charles J. McConnell, Jeffrey C. Stickler
Bangor Thomas S. MacMillan, Henry U. Sandt, Jr.
Bethlehem Harvey J. Fritz Jr., Warren L. Zimmerman, Carl Ackerman
Blandon George R. Bryson, Raymond R. Bertolet
Camden, DE James G. Koch, Horace E. Short
Catasauqua (Probationer), Calvin A. Boyle
Coopersburg Thomas P.Shorb, Clyde W.Snyder
Denville, NJ Richard D. Harris, ( )
Edison, NJ (Mission) Dennis M. Cahill
Emmaus Dana E. Weller, David N. Schoen, Richard Lefever, Jonathan D. Reynolds
Englishtown, NJ Raymond G.Burnett ,Clinton Crankshaw
Ephrata Daniel P. Allen, Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ David H. Jones, Donald P. Straub
Fleetwood Frank L. Herb, Jr., Douglas Manwiller
Graterford ( ), Douglas D. Bowne
Harleysville ( ), Kenneth D.Keeler, Harold Crider
Harrisburg Albert J. Dommel, Stephen C.Coleman
Hatfield ( ), Lee E. Boyles
Holmes, NY (Mission) * Robert S. Commerford
Howell, NJ John C. Vandegriff Jr., David Keevil
Kutztown Randall A.Grossman, George K. Monroe
Lancaster David A.Thomann, Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon Calvin T. Reed, LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton William H. Bartron, Warren F. Shelly
Maple Glen Carl K. Spackman, George Priestly
Mt. Carmel Alva C. Cassel, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Nazareth Keith E. Plows, Leonard Kessler
Newark, DE (Probationer), Arthur J. Frisbie
Newark, NJ (Mission) Delbert Baker, II
New Fairfield, CT ( ), Carl Anderson
Ocean County, NJ (Mission) Dean A. Stortz
Oley Kenneth F. Barber, Clayton E. Weber
Paradise Ralph M. Soper, L. Donald Miller
Philadelphia, Emmanuel (Probationer), Russell L. Davis
Philadelphia, Wissinoming G. Wayne Clapier, Lee Henderson
Pocono Mountain ** Ronald C.Erb, Salvatore Roseti
Poughquag, NY James A. Wickstead, Thomas Ward
Quakertown Bert N. Brosius, L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading Jansen E. Hartman, Robert Breitegam, Walter Raybuck, Charles Lavigna
Royersford Robert W. Smock, Dennis Souder
Scranton James R. Batchler Jr., Scott Mitchell
Shamokin Hugh C. Coulbourn Jr., T. Lamarn Manney
Sinking Spring (Probationer), Donald McKinney
Somers Point,NJ (Mission) Roger L. Reitz
Spring City Carl T. Martin, Roland Schlenker
Staten Island, NY Bryan G. Upton, Ralph D. Cole
Stroudsburg Philip E. Morrison, Robert D. Carroll
Sunbury LeRoy S. Heller, Bert E. Brosius, Robert Cox
Terre Hill Steven L. Trommler, Keith Anderson
Wallingford Richard E. Taylor, William R. Singletary
Wappingers Falls, NY (Probationer), Charles Webb
York Kenneth L. Good, Philip G. Norris
Zionsville W. David Armstrong, David L. Weller
* formerly referred to as Pawling or Whaley Lake
** formerly referred to as Mt. Pocono
Ordained Men Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, Bruce A. Ellingson, George E. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Barry J. Minsky, Daniel G. Ziegler
Ordained Men Between Calls
Terris L. Byrd, John L. Herb, A. L. Seifert
Ordained Missionaries
Leonard E. Buck, Brian H. Butler, Robert L. Draper, Richard J. Gehman, Walter H. Frank, Barclay J. Harley, Ronald W. Hoyle, Herbert K. Lea, Edward Moyer, William W. Mull, Louis Prontnicki, David Riddell, Philip E. Yerrington, Paul G. Zimmerman
Ordained Ministers in Retirement
Paul E. Baer, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, W. W. Hartman, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, C. Leslie Miller, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, Laird F. Stengele, David E. Thomann, Harold D. Yarrington
Probationers Serving as First Pastors of Churches
Thomas G. Barshinger, W. Neil Harding, Jr., John M. Reed, William G. Schlonecker, Robert A. Sloan, Byron Widger,
Seating of the following Alternate Delegates was approved: Timothy Cole, Philadelphia, Emmanuel; David R. Way, Poughquag, NY; W. A. Davis, Ephrata, PA.
RESOLVED, that the Conference Bar be limited to those seated at the tables.
The Registrar reported requests from the following who asked to be excused from parts or all of the meetings of Annual Conference:
Brian H. Butler, William W. Mull, Russell Davis, Robert L. Draper, David W. Riddell, David A. Carver, C. E. Kirkwood, Carl C. Cassel, Philip E. Yerrington, J. Barclay Harley, Ronald W. Hoyle, C. Leslie Miller, David H. Jones, Donald P. Straub, Harold L. Snyder, Jr., Robert W. Gehret, Charles J. McConnell, Bruce A. Ellingson, Bernard N. Coble, George E. Herb, Jeffrey C. Stickler, Leonard E. Buck, W. W. Hartman, Randall A. Grossman, Terris L. Byrd, Carl T. Martin, T. James Bigley, Jr.
RESOLVED, that these requests be granted.
Report of the Committee on Agenda and Program
The report was adopted.
Robert Breitegam, delegate from Reading, read I Thess. 1 and led the Conference in prayer.
Jansen E. Hartman gave the keynote devotional address entitled, “The Christian and the Lost”.
The Secretary appointed Robert W. Smock and Daniel P. Allen as Assistant Secretaries, and David T. Allen, Charles Albert and David A. Thomann as computer operators for the Secretary.
The Chairman appointed the following Committees:
Committee on Communications:
Dana E. Weller, Albert J. Dommel, Charles J. McConnell.
Tellers:
Keith E. Plows, LeRoy S. Heller, Carl K. Spackman, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Harold L. Snyder, Jr., LeRoy O. Herb, Clyde W. Snyder.
Committee on Resolutions:
David A. Thomann, Calvin T. Reed, John C. Vandegriff, Jr., Jonathan D. Reynolds, George K. Monroe, Bert N. Brosius, Philip G. Norris.
Committee on Auditing:
Robert W. Gehret, Jay H. Fasnacht, Horace A. Kauffman, Lee E. Boyles.
Committee To Monitor the Minutes:
Bruce A. Ellingson, G. Wayne Clapier, James R. Batchler, Jr.
Reporter:
Thomas S. MacMillan.
Parliamentarian:
John H. Herb
Timekeeper:
Ronald C. Erb
Administrative Assistant:
Thomas P. Shorb
RESOLVED, that we approve the Committees appointed by the Chairman.
The was accepted
Report of the Committee on Arrangements for the 105th Annual Conference(see page 35)
Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee (see page 37).
The report was accepted.
Report of the Committee on Credentials (see page 39 ).
The report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that the Chairman appoint a committee to prepare a tribute to David W. Chappell to appear in the 1988 Yearbook.
The Chairman appointed Randall A. Grossman and Richard E. Taylor to prepare this tribute.
RESOLVED, that the material in the Faith and Order starting on the bottom of page 169 be changed to read as follows:
“Categories of Ministry, All ordained men who hold Ordination Credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church shall be members in good standing in a particular Bible Fellowship Church and shall subscribe annually to theFaith and Order. (SECOND READING)
WHEREAS, Larry Carpenter does not hold membership in a Bible Fellowship Church and did not return the Faith and Order questionnaire, therefore
RESOLVED, that Larry Carpenter’s name be removed from our roll of ministers.
The following motion lost:
WHEREAS, William Graybill does not hold membership in a Bible Fellowship Church, therefore
RESOLVED, that he be warned that his name will be removed from our roll of ministers by May 1, 1989 unless he becomes a member of the Bible Fellowship Church.
(54 No, 50 yes)
WHEREAS, William Graybill does not hold membership in a Bible Fellowship Church, therefore,
RESOLVED, that his name be removed from our roll of ministers.
WHEREAS, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended William C. Aukamp, David E. Gundrum, Ronald C. Hagy, William G. Schlonecker and Byron Widger for ordination, and,
WHEREAS, these brethren have served acceptably as ministers of the Bible Fellowship Church for the required period of time, and
WHEREAS, after examination the Credentials Committee believes 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 William C. Aukamp, David E. Gundrum, Ronald C. Hagy, William G. Schlonecker and Byron Widger be ordained to the Gospel Ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church and further,
RESOLVED,that the service of Ordination shall be held on Tuesday, November 1, 1988, at 7:30 PM at the Bethel Bible Fellowship Church of Emmaus.
RESOLVED, that we extend the time.
The five brethren recommended for ordination were asked to come forward and be introduced to the Conference members.
Adjourned at 12:06 PM with Leonard Kessler leading in prayer.
The Registrar reported the following absent from the first meeting:
UNEXCUSED, Edward Moyer, Richard J. Gehman, Walter H. Frank, Louis Prontnicki, Paul E. Baer, Harold A. Yarrington, Paul G. Zimmerman.
Second Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
Robert F. Johnson opened in prayer.
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee, (see page 42)
The report was accepted.
Those present who are under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee were introduced to the members of Conference.
RESOLVED, that the men under care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee be accepted as listed below:
Probationers (year of licensing in parenthesis)
William C. Aukamp Rapid City, SD (1985)
Thomas G. Barshinger Catasauqua, PA (1986)
Douglas D. Bowne Spring City, PA
R. Jerome Brush Wallingford, PA
Arthur J. Frisbie Newark, DE (1976)
David E. Gundrum Reading, PA (1986)
Ronald C. Hagy Reading, PA (1986)
W. Neil Harding Philadelphia, PA (1983)
Walter M. Johnston Wyomissing, PA (1987)
Barnabas Marshall Staten Island, NY (1988)
Christopher J. Morrison New Britain, CT
James E. Neher Graterford, PA (1987)
Richard T. Paashaus Coopersburg, PA
John M. Reed Fairfield, CT
Brent E. Robinson Sinking Spring, PA
William G. Schlonecker Newark, DE (1985)
Robert A. Sloan, Jr. Birdsboro, PA
Larry M. Smith Lisle, NY
David H.C. Sng Hatfield, PA (1987)
Dennis W. Spinney Dudley, MA (1984)
Byron Widger Wappinger Falls, NY (1985)
Candidates
James Allay North Wildwood, NJ
Gary F. Bentley Telford, PA
Clifford B. Boone Allentown, PA
Carl J. Fischer Nazareth, PA
Harold B. Fravel, III Ephrata, PA
Harold G. Fried Union City, PA
Ronald A. Honeywell North East, MD
Gary L. McElroy Shoemakersville, PA
Philip J. Mitchell Allentown, PA
Duane E. Moyer Guadeloupe, F.W.I.
Scott A. Neiswender Bloomsburg, PA
John A. Poulette, Jr. Kempton, PA
Charles M. Snyder Chambersburg, PA
Jeffrey C. Stickler Allentown, PA
Warren N. Stuber Plymouth, MA
J. Richard Vroman Lansdale, PA
David R. Way Pleasant Valley, NY
Howard N. Wells Hatfield, PA
Applicants
David T. Allen Akron, PA
William N. Crowell Limerick, PA
Peter A. Fessler Lebanon, PA
Thomas J. Gardner Greenville, SC
Richard P. Jones, Sr. Emmaus, PA
Darryl K. MacPherson Quakertown, PA
Warren F. Shelly Lehighton, PA
Thomas F. Templeton Somers Point, NJ
Thomas P. Voorhees W. Trenton, NJ
Report of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church (see page 44 )
The report was accepted.
Report of the Board of Church Extension (see page 53)
The report was accepted.
Clayton E. Weber was publicly thanked by the Conference for his 30 years of service on the Board of Church Extension.
Report of the Director of Church Extension (see page 61)
The report was accepted.
The Director of Church Extension gave a brief oral report. He introduced Christopher Morrison who will be church-planting in Spencer, Mass. He also thanked the other men serving under the Church Extension Department.
He also announced that Valley Bible Fellowship Church in Poughquag, NY is “giving birth” to a daughter church in Pleasant Valley, NY, pastored by Poughquag delegate, David Way.
Report of the Board of Missions (see page 73 )
The Report was accepted.
The Executive Secretary of the Board of Missions gave a brief oral report.
The following missionary was introduced: Herb Lea who is planning to teach pastors in Chad.
Report of the Board of Directors of the Pinebrook Junior College (see page 81 )
The report was accepted.
Thomas P. Shorb led the Conference in prayer on behalf of the President and Academic Dean of Pinebrook Junior College who are in St. Louis this week presenting the case for the College to be reinstated as a candidate for accreditation by the American Association of Bible Colleges.
Report of the Board of the Bible Fellowship Church Home (see page 91).
The report was accepted.
The President of the Bible Fellowship Church Home gave a brief oral report.
Report of the Board of Pinebrook Bible Conference (see page 99).
The report was accepted.
The Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference gave a brief oral report.
Report of the Board of Victory Valley Camp (see page 103)
The report was accepted.
The Director of Victory Valley gave a brief oral report.
Report of the Board of Christian Education (see page 107)
The report was accepted.
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing (see page 109)
The report was accepted.
The Editor of Fellowship News gave a brief oral report.
Report of the Historical Committee (see page 111)
The report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that group photographs of the members of the 105th Annual Conference be taken Wed. Oct. 26th at 10:15 AM.
RESOLVED, that group photographs of the participants of Annual Conference be taken every four years.
Report of the Stewardship Council (See page 113)
The report was accepted.
Report of the Conference Judicatory (See page 115)
The report was accepted.
Report of the Ministerial Convention Committee (see page 116)
The report was accepted.
Keith E. Plows led the Conference in prayer for the recovery from illness of W. W. Hartman.
WHEREAS, we strongly believe it is the Scriptural responsibility of the church to adequately meet the needs of its pastors, (Matt. l0:l0; 1 Cor. 9:7-15; Gal. 6:6; Phil. 4:10-19; 1 Tim. 5:17-18), therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we encourage each church to increase its pastor’s salary at least 5% above the previous year’s salary, and further
RESOLVED, that the minimum salary adequate for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church including benefits is $ 17,850 for the 1988-89 year.
(Pastors were excused from voting on the above resolution).
WHEREAS, the Ministerial Relations Committee believes there is no adequate legislation provided in the Faith and Order to formally approve a call to a church extension mission or to any of our denominational agencies, therefore,
RESOLVED, that the Chairman appoint a committee to formulate adequate legislation to formally approve a call to a church extension mission or to any of our denominational agencies.
WHEREAS, precedence has been established whereby the Board of Church Extension has submitted calls to Ministerial Relations Committee and obtained its approval before the calls are presented to the men; therefore be it,
RESOLVED, that their procedure be continued until the proposed legislation is acted upon by the Annual Conference.
RESOLVED, that the annuties paid from the Ministers’ Retirement Fund beginning October 1, 1988, shall be $ 144.00 per year of service up to 40 years of service for which an annuitant is eligible.
RESOLVED, that the rate of mileage reimbursement remain at $ .18 per mile.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn to meet at 7:00 PM.
Adjourned at 5:00 PM in prayer by George Priestly.
Third Meeting
Tuesday, October 25, 7:00 PM
George Bryson led the Conference in prayer.
Seating of the following alternate delegate was approved: Paul T. Rutman of Pocono Mountain.
The following were elected:
Board of Church Extension:
Richard G. Matthews (3 years)
Robert H. Zentz (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
Daniel F. DeLozier (3 years)
Mark W. Tress (3 years)
Board of Publication and Printing
Paul E. Reinhard, Jr. (3 years)
Fellowship News Editor
Thomas S. MacMillan (1 year)
Fellowship News Business Manager
Paul T. Rutman (1 year)
James A Beil, President of the Bible Fellowship Church Home, presented the work and needs of aspects of the ministries at Fellowship Manor in Whitehall, PA, and at the Bible Fellowship Church Home in Nazareth, PA.
David J. Smock, Assistant Administrator of Fellowship Manor, presented aspects of skilled nursing care.
Craig Porterfield, Administrator of the Bible Fellowship Church Home at Nazareth, presented aspects of personal care.
James A. Beil presented the goal of independent living units to be developed on the Whitehall property.
Phil Atkins, Director of Victory Valley Camp, presented aspects of the ministry there, publicly recognizing the 44 Bible Fellowship Churches who sent campers to Victory Valley this year.
Harold E. Snyder, Director of Stewardship Services, presented the ministry of the Stewardship Council.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:10 PM, led in prayer by Donald McKinney.
Excused: Bert N. Brosius; A. L. Seifert; Donald P. Straub; David Keevil; Carl Ackerman.
Fourth Meeting
Wednesday, October 26, 9:00 AM
David A. Thomann led the Conference in singing “How Firm a Foundation”. Leonard Kessler, Delegate from Nazareth read Colossians 3:22 – 4:6 and led in prayer. Keith E. Plows spoke on “The Christian in His Vocation.”
RESOLVED, that the following delegates and alternate delegates be seated: Nicholas Kusiak, Bethlehem; Robert W. Gehret, Ephrata; John Anderson, Poughquaq, NY.
Report of the Committee to Examine the Minutes of Particular Churches (see page 118)
The report was accepted.
Report of the Committee to Examine Minutes of the 104th Annual Conference (see page 120 )
The report was accepted.
RESOLVED, that the Ministers’ Retirement Fund percentage of contribution be established at 3%. (FIRST READING)
The following were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee:
Harold L. Snyder Jr. (3 years)
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church:
James A. Beil (3 years)
Carl C. Cassel (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
Robert W. Smock (3 years)
Richard E. Taylor (3 years)
Dana E. Weller (2 years)
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Junior College:
Kenneth F. Barber (3 years)
George R. Bryson (3 years)
John H. Herb (3 years)
Jay H. Fasnacht (3 years)
Rodney A. Muthard (3 years)
Russell M. Ruch (3 years)
Board of Christian Education:
Philip E. Morrison (3 years)
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Home:
John F. Moran (3 years)
John W. Trauch (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley Camp:
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. (3 years)
Bryan B. Bray (3 years)
Bright N. Heist (3 years)
Board of Missions:
Ralph M. Soper (3 years)
Robert Breitegam (3 years)
James E. Sunday (3 years)
Board of Pinebrook Bible Conference:
Philip E. Morrison (3 years)
John H. Riggall (3 years)
Robert Breitegam (3 years)
Kermit K. Gehman (3 years)
John M. Stengele (3 years)
Board of Publication and Printing:
James R. Batchler, Jr. (3 years)
Credentials Committee:
James A. Beil (1 year)
Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. (1 year)
Frank L. Herb, Jr. (1 year)
Keith E. Plows (1 year)
John H. Riggall (1 year)
Ministerial Candidate Committee:
Randall A. Grossman (3 years)
Historical Committee:
Willard E. Cassel (3 years)
Harold P. Shelly (3 years)
Committee on Nominations:
Alva C. Cassel (3 years)
Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
Chairman of Annual Conference:
James A. Beil (1 year)
Vice Chairman of Annual Conference:
Carl C. Cassel (1 year)
Secretary of Annual Conference:
Bryan G. Upton (1 year)
Stewardship Council:
Robert W. Gehret (3 years)
Conference Judicatory:
Keith E. Plows (5 years)
Thomas P. Shorb (5 years)
RESOLVED, that the Conference Administrative Budget for 1988-89 be approved for use beginning October 1, 1988
Administrative Budgets
Oct. 1, 1988 Oct. 1, 1989
to
Sept. 30, 1989 Sept. 30, 1990
A. Benefits for Each Pastor
1. Beneficiary Fund 0 1000
2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 750 750
3. Ministerial Convention 750 1600
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 38000 40000
Total $ 39,500 $ 43350
B. Benefits for Each Church
1a. Conference Entertainment 3500 4000
1b.Conference Expense 600 600
2. Moving Fund 5000 5000
3. Fund to Assist Churches 100 500
Total $ 9200 $ 10100
C. Annual Conference Program
1. Publication & Printing 4000 4400
2. Expenses of Boards and Committees
a. Chaplaincy Expenses 800 800
b. Stewardship Council 2500 2500
c. All other Expenses 5000 5000
3. Expenses, Board of Directors
a. Computer Use 1000 1000
b. Other Expenses 300 200
4. Ministerial Candidate Committee 1000 1000
5. Historical Committee 1000 1000
6. Contingencies 102 250
Total $ 15,452 $ 16,150
Total Budget $ 64,152 $ 69,600
WHEREAS, the Board of Church Extension on September 16, 1988, elected Daniel G. Ziegler to a three-year term as Director of Church Extension effective October 25, 1988; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the election of Daniel G. Ziegler to a three-year term as Director of Church Extension effective October 25, 1988, be ratified.
RESOLVED, that the 1989 – 90 budget for the Board of Church Extension be adopted.
Church Extension Department
1989-90 Budget
Maintenance Budget
INCOME
Churches – undesignated $ 92,506.00
General Contributions from other sources 7,000.00
Designated 219,394.00
Interest 1,200.00
$ 320,100.00
EXPENSES
Appropriations
Edison, NJ $ 18,000.00
Project Beachhead 58,000.00
Newark, NJ 25,500.00
E. Union Co., NJ 4,800.00
New Fairfield, CT 1,200.00
Holmes, NY 12,000.00
Philadelphia, PA Southeast Asian 35,000.00
New England Team 25,000.00
Ocean County, NJ 30,000.00
New Missions (Existing) 34,000.00
$ 243,500.00
Administration
Director’s Salary and Benefits $ 24,000.00
Director’s Health Insurance 2,500.00
Director’s Continuing Education 1,500.00
Department Travel 9,000.00
Parsonage – Office Building 12,000.00
Office Operations 20,000.00
Board Expenses 2,000.00
Promotion 1,000.00
Surveys 200.00
Administrative Budget 500.00
Workers Compensation 2,200.00
Stewardship Council 300.00
Fellowship News 200.00
$ 75,400.00
Reserves
Contingency 1,200.00
1,200.00
TOTAL $ 320,100.00
DEVELOPMENT BUDGET
INCOME
Designated Offerings 56,000.00
EXPENSES
Starting New Missions 45,000.00
WIDER HORIZONS 3,000.00
PISCES 3,000.00
Development Fund 5,000.00
$ 56,000.00
RESOLVED, that the following be added to the material entitled “Board of Church Extension”, page 157ff, Faith and Order, and be inserted immediately after the title:
The Board of Church Extension governs the Church Extension Department which consists of the Board of Church Extension, the Executive Director of Church Extension, all other employees of the Board, the churches and missions under jurisdiction of the Board and the pastors of those churches and organizing pastors of those missions.
A. Purpose
The Church Extension Department exists for the purpose of building the Body of Christ through extending the Bible Fellowship Church in the United States of America and its territories and jurisdictions and Canada. It does this by evangelizing in areas, communities and neighborhoods and among people where Bible Fellowship Churches do not exist and by forming, fostering and nurturing to maturity new congregations. (SECOND READING)
WHEREAS, Pinebrook Junior College is a co-educational institution with a large percentage of female students, and
WHEREAS, Pinebrook Junior College also has a significant number of women on the faculty and staff, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the College believes that the inclusion of women as members of the Board of Directors would strengthen and broaden the perspective of the Board; and
WHEREAS, Pinebrook Junior College is not a church and does not function as a church and therefore such a change of policy would not be contradictory to the teachings of Scripture; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Principles of Order, page 162, 1986 Edition, Board of Directors of Pinebrook Junior College, Election be amended to read:
It shall be composed of the President, five ministers and eleven laymen and/or laywomen. They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I: Three ministers and four laymen/laywomen
Class II: One minister and four laymen/laywomen
Class III: One minister and three laymen/laywomen
(SECOND READING)
and further,
RESOLVED, that to implement the above legislation after approval at Second Reading, a 17th Board member be elected for a term of three years at the 1988 Annual Conference in addition to the regular election, and further,
RESOLVED, that Pinebrook Junior College suggest to the Nominating Committee at least three qualified women for nominees. (Yes, 103; No, 18)
WHEREAS, the Board of Missions is very concerned about the lack of retirement provisions of certain sending mission boards; and
WHEREAS, this Board has approved the development of a Missionary Retirement Fund; and
WHEREAS, this Board is deeply appreciative of undesignated funds provided by a number of churches for various ministries conducted by the Board (i.e., temporary subsidies for missionary support, Executive Secretary support, missionary specials, summer missionary financial aid, Urbana, Pastors’ Missions Seminar, World Missions Week, administrative expenses, etc.); therefore be it
RESOLVED, that, in order to establish this Missionary Retirement Fund and to continue the other Board ministries, each church should consider giving an additional 5% in undesignated funds to the Board of Missions for this ministry as well as the on-going ministries of the Board.
WHEREAS, the three year term of Roy A. Hertzog as Executive Secretary of the Board of Missions is completed, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Missions has re-elected him to his second term at the March 8, 1988 Board meeting, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we ratify the election of Roy A. Hertzog as Executive Secretary of the Board of Missions.
RESOLVED, that a contribution of $ 250.00 be given to the Board of Publication and Printing from each of the following Boards and Committees: Victory Valley, Missions, Christian Education, Church Extension, Pinebrook Junior College, Pinebrook Bible Conference and Bible Fellowship Church Home.
RESOLVED, that $1.00 per member be given to the Board of Publication and Printing from each church to help underwrite the cost of printing the Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Business Manager by December 31, 1988.
RESOLVED, that the cost of the 1988 Yearbook be $5.50 per copy.
RESOLVED, that we extend the time.
RESOLVED, that we adopt the proposed 1988-1989 budget for the Board of Publication and Printing.
Board of Publication & Printing
Budget 1988 – 1989
INCOME
Subsidy from Administration Budget $ 4,000
Contributions from Boards & Committees ($ 250.00 each)1,750
Contributions from Churches 6,500
Yearbook Sales 4,500
Sale of Printed Material 1,500
Total Income $ 18,250
EXPENDITURES
Fellowship News
Printing (4 issues) $ 7,000
Composition (Typesetting – 4 issues) 1,000
Mailing (4 issues) 1,800
Mailing Labels & Computer Time 250
Postage Due (Address Corrections Requested) 300
Editorial Expenses (Sec/Supp/Ph/Mi) 600
Business Manager’s Expenses (Sec/Supp/Ph/Mi) 600
Honoraria 800
Printing Church Supplies 500
Printing Yearbooks 4,500
Printing Miscellaneous Material 300
Board and Secretarial Expenses 500
Miscellaneous (USPS Permits) 100
Total Expenditures $ 18,250
RESOLVED, that we adjourn. Adjourned at 12:08 PM, led in prayer by John C. Vandegriff, Jr.
Fifth Meeting
Wednesday, October 26, 1:30 PM
David H. Jones led in prayer.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee:
Alva C. Cassel (3 years)
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church:
Robert W. Gehret (3 years)
Stewardship Council:
Richard E. Lefever (2 years)
RESOLVED, that the second paragraph of Article XVIII of the Articles of Faith of the Bible Fellowship Church, entitled, “The Church”, be amended to read; “the purpose of the church is to worship God (6), to edify the saints (7), and to evangelize the world (8)”, and be it further
RESOLVED, that subsequent footnotes in Article XVIII be renumbered accordingly
(6) John 4:23,24; I Peter 2:5, 9
(7) I Corinthians 12:7, 11
(8) Matthew 28:19, 20
(9) Ephesians 4:11, 12
(10) I Peter 5:2, 3, 5
(11) Matthew 18:17
(12) Hebrews 13:7, 17, 24a
(SECOND READING) (Yes, 128; No, 0)
The Secretary of Annual Conference reported that at least two-thirds of the Bible Fellowship Churches’ Boards of Elders voted unanimously in favor of the above resolution.
Carl T. Martin read the following petition to the 105th Annual Conference from the Faith Bible Fellowship Church of Spring City.
Whereas the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church provides for the means whereby Amendments to the Faith and Order may be acted upon by the Elder Boards of particular churches following approval at first reading, (Article XII pages 182, 183 – 1986 edition),
Therefore be it petitioned from the Faith Bible Fellowship Church of Spring City, to the 105th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church that since a proposed change has been made in the membership requirement (Article X, pp.47,48; 1986 ed.) and approved at first reading, the provision cited above for Amendments to the Articles of Faith be invoked for this proposed Amendment to the Principles of Order requiring that:
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 Board of Elders of each church shall vote on the proposed change, and 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 of change in this Standard of Worship and Life, approval of the proposed change must be reported within 24 months to the Secretary of Annual Conference by the Board of Elders of at least two-thirds of the churches.
WHEREAS, Article XIII (page 18 of the Faith and Order) of the By Laws of Annual Conference provide for Amendments to the Principles of Order, therefore
RESOLVED, that the existing procedures as described under Article XIII be our response to the Spring City Petition.
WHEREAS, it is important that each official delegate and Pastor receive all the reports from the Study Committees, Committees and Agencies and
WHEREAS, in order to coordinate this procedure one distribution point should be employed, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that all Study Committees have their reports to the designated distribution point by August 31st and further,
RESOLVED, that all Committee and Agencies have their reports to the designated distribution point by September 30th.
RESOLVED, that the 106th Annual Conference be held October 24 – 26, 1989 at Pinebrook Bible Conference.
Report of the Committee on Statistics (see page 121)
The report was accepted.
Report of the Committee to Monitor Minutes (oral report).
The minutes of the meetings of Tuesday, October 25, 1988 were circulated and approved as corrected by the secretaries.
Report of the Committee on Auditing (see page 123).
The report was accepted.
Report of the Committee on Communications (see page 124).
The report was accepted.
The Stewardship Council recommends to the 105th Annual Conference the following as an implementation procedure for Article III, numbers 9 and 10 of its duties:
WHEREAS, a more positive role is desired for the Stewardship Council, and
WHEREAS, the power to approve and disapprove the programs of the agencies is viewed as an encumbrance to accomplishing the work of the Council and agencies, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the following be adopted as a revision of Article III, duty 9, at first reading.
“9. to co-ordinate and review with sensitivity the stewardship programs, including major capital campaigns and deferred giving of various Bible Fellowship Agencies, so as to guard against duplication, competition, over-exposure and undue aggressiveness.”
and be it further
RESOLVED, that duty 10 be deleted, and further
RESOLVED, that present duty 11 become duty 10 and present duty 12 become duty 11.
(FIRST READING)
RESOLVED, that duty 9 under Article III be implemented in the following manner:
“The Director of Stewardship Services will contact periodically each agency of the Bible Fellowship Church to discuss with them their fund raising plans. The Director of Stewardship Services will then report his findings and progress to the Stewardship Council to evaluate, and, in turn, offer any helpful assistance if necessary.
The Chairman made the following appointments:
Committee on Agency Calls
James A. Beil
L. James Roberts
Ronald C. Mahurin
LeRoy S. Heller
Daniel G. Ziegler
Program and Agenda of the 106th Annual Conference
Bryan G. Upton
Thomas P. Shorb
James A. Beil
Committee on Arrangements for the 106th Annual Conference
David A. Thomann
Daniel P. Allen
Randall A. Grossman
Philip A. Morrison
Thomas P. Shorb
James A. Beil, ex officio
Committee to Examine Minutes of Particular Churches
Kenneth L. Good
Ralph M. Soper
Ronald C. Erb
Dennis M. Cahill
Committee to Examine Minutes of the 105th Annual Conference
Carl T. Martin
William H. Bartron
W. Neil J. Harding, Jr.
Committee on Statistics for the 106th Annual Conference
LeRoy S. Heller
Calvin T. Reed
Daniel G. Ziegler
Hugh C. Coulbourn
Warren G. Zimmerman
David A. Thomann
Registrar of the 106th Annual Conference
Philip E. Morrison
The following were elected:
Board of Christian Education
David N. Schoen (3 years)
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Home
James G. Koch (3 years)
RESOLVED, that the Chairman appoint a Committee to formulate a Biblical response to the epidemic of aids, to report to the 106th Annual Conference.
The Chairman appointed the following to the Committee to Formulate a Biblical Response to the Epidemic of Aids:
Philip E. Morrison
Richard D. Harris
Ronald Reed
Lisa McKernan
Carl Fischer
David J. Smock
Charles J. McConnell
The following motion was defeated:
WHEREAS, the Faith and Order states on p. 182 that proposed legislation in the order which has passed at first reading by a 2/3 majority and failed to pass with a 2/3 majority at Second Reading, but passed with a simple majority at Second Reading may be resubmitted at Second Reading the following year, and
WHEREAS, the resolution concerning Article X-A of the “Standard of Worship and Life” found on page 34 of the 1987 Yearbook meets the criteria stated above, therefore be it
RESOLVED that Article X-A of the “Standards of Worship and Life” be amended to read as follows:
RESOLVED, that Article X – A of the Standards of Life and Worship be amended according to the proposal on page 202 of the 1985 Year Book, as amended by the action of the 1986 Annual Conference:
A. Alcoholic Drinks – the use of alcoholic beverages is one of the most serious social problems in the United States. Its abuse has led to personal and family suffering, serious physical and mental health problems, and increased rates of accidental and criminal injury and death. The financial cost of such beverages and their consequences is a tremendous and unnecessary burden on all of society.
The Scriptures teach that drunkenness is sinful.1 Due to the addictive quality of alcohol, even the moderate use of such beverages may lead to serious consequences.2 This is especially true because the alcoholic content of such beverages has been tremendously increased since Bible times. Furthermore, moderate use may be a stumbling-block for believer and unbeliever alike.3
Therefore, we strongly and persistently warn our people of the dangers of alcoholic beverages and urge all members of the Bible Fellowship Church to abstain totally from the use, manufacture and distribution of them.
1.Romans 13:13; I Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:18-21
2.Proverbs 20:1, 23:31-35
3.Matthew 18:6-7; Romans 14:20-21; I Corinthians 8:9-11, 13
(77, Yes; 45, No)
The following was elected:
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Junior College:
Carol Ann Gearhart (3 years)
RESOLVED, that we suspend the rules and adjourned to meet at 6:30 PM. Adjourned at 5:02 PM, with Jonathan D. Reynolds leading in prayer.
Sixth Meeting
Wednesday, October 26, 6:30 PM
John H. Herb lead in prayer.
Ronald C. Mahurin introduced a video in which Cliff Boone, John LaRusso and Glenn Miller represented the Cedar Crest BFC in Tanzania as they conducted a survey of unreached people groups there.
Bryan G. Upton shared the Staten Island church’s involvement with Barnabas Marshall in enabling him to obtain seminary training in preparation for his return to his native Nigeria.
On behalf of the Board of Christian Education, Philip E. Morrison presented plaques to Cornerstone Bible Fellowship Church of Bangor for the highest percentage increase in Sunday School attendance, and to Faith Bible Fellowship Church of Lancaster for the highest numerical increase in Sunday School attendance.
The Committee to Monitor Minutes presented minutes of the third and fourth meetings for acceptance. These minutes were accepted.
Report of the Committee of Resolutions
WHEREAS, this year marks twenty years of excellent service of Daniel G. Zeigler as Director of Church Extension, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we extend to Daniel G. Zeigler our thanks for the vision and diligence that he has exemplified and praise the Lord for the fruit that has been borne in this important work.
WHEREAS, the Church Extension Department has seen the great need of the people of New England, and
WHEREAS, Christopher Morrison and Dennis Spinney have accepted the call of God to push our borders further out to Northeastern Connecticut and Massachusetts,be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we commit ourselves to prayerful support of these men as they seek to reach out to the people of this needy area.
WHEREAS, five churches under the jurisdiction of the Church Extension Department were self-supporting this year, and
WHEREAS, Camden, DE and Kutztown, PA have been self-supporting for three years and are no longer under the jurisdiction of the Church Extension Department, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we praise the Lord for His obvious blessing on these works.
WHEREAS, many ministers and laymen have spent tremendous effort and have shown great wisdom in the operation of our various boards and committees, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we praise our God for His provision of such fine laborers.
WHEREAS, Edwin W. Ahlum and his dedicated staff have demonstrated an attitude and spirit of faithful service to the Lord, and
WHEREAS, Pinebrook Bible Conference has made significant improvements to the physical facilities, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we express our appreciation and encouragement to the Director and staff of Pinebrook Bible Conference for their excellent service and for their stewardship in further developing the Conference property, and further
RESOLVED, that we express our thanks to the Director and his staff for their hospitality in hosting the 105th Annual Conference.
WHEREAS, the faculty and staff of Pinebrook Junior College have served the Lord faithfully investing in the lives of the students, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we continue to support the college and its President, Carl C. Cassel, through our prayers and gifts and by encouraging students to consider the programs available at Pinebrook Junior College, and
WHEREAS, the college is seeking accreditation with the American Association of Bible Colleges, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we petition the Lord to grant the accreditation which it is seeking.
WHEREAS, Clifford Boone, David Butler, Jerry Brush, Carl Fisher, Darryl MacPherson, Barnabas Marshall and James Neher have served diligently in serving the 105th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church as Pages, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we express our gratitude to these men for their excellent work.
WHEREAS, Bryan G. Upton has served diligently as Secretary to the 105th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
WHEREAS, Daniel P. Allen and Robert W. Smock have faithfully labored as Assistant Secretaries, and
WHEREAS, Charles J. Albert, Jr., David T. Allen, and David A. Thomann have served as Computer operators, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we express our gratitude to these brethren for their valuable service and that an honorarium of $50.00 be given to each of them for their willing service, and
WHEREAS, Jansen E. Hartman has served with great devotion and efficiency as Chairman of the 105th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that the body of Annual Conference express its gratitude to Brother Hartman with a standing ovation, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the 106th Annual Conference offer a prayer of thanksgiving for our Brother Hartman and also ask our Lord for opportunities to further His Kingdom throughout the world.
WHEREAS, the Lord continues to provide for the Bible Fellowship Church abundant numbers of ministers of the Word, and
WHEREAS, He has established four new pastorates, but has yet to call four men to vacant pulpits, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we praise Him for the willing shepherds that He has provided for His flock, seek His will in finding pastors for the vacant churches, and intercede in behalf of ministers without congregations.
WHEREAS, William C. Aukamp, David E. Gundrum, Ronald C. Hagy, William G. Schlonecker, and Byron Widger have been presented to the 105th Annual Conference and approved by it for ordination, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we thank Him for calling these brothers and lift them up in prayer for His abiding help.
WHEREAS, this Annual Conference is made up of lay delegates as well as ordained ministers, and
WHEREAS, these men have made sacrifices of time and schedule in their task of overseeing their congregations, in preparing for the Annual Conference, and in attending its meetings, and
WHEREAS, they have sought to carry out their responsibilities under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we thank the Lord for placing His work in their hearts, for giving them the vision to do His will, and for building up their leadership abilities, and be it further
RESOLVED, that we beseech Him to raise up many more to oversee His congregations, now and in the future.
WHEREAS, many members of the Annual Conference have left wives and children at home for the duration of this year’s meetings, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that the 105th Annual Conference extend its gratitude to these families for their sacrifice in sending husbands and fathers off for two days to do the Lord’s work.
WHEREAS, James A. Beil has served admirably in the exercise of all his duties as President of the Bible Fellowship Church Home in the past year, and
WHEREAS, there is still a tremendous work to be done, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we give praise to God for this man and pray for the Lord’s blessing and direction upon him.
WHEREAS, the Lord has most graciously supplied the Fellowship Home with an able director, Craig Porterfield, and
WHEREAS, the Lord likewise has met the need of an Assistant Administrator of Fellowship Manor in the person of David J. Smock, and
WHEREAS, these men have a great undertaking before them, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we give thanks to the Lord for these men and seek His continuing sufficiency for them in the guidance of the work and their respective staffs.
WHEREAS, the members of Annual Conference were treated with the most splendid dinner and evening at Fellowship Manor, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that the President of the Bible Fellowship Home convey our appreciation to the staff of Fellowship Manor for a most profitable evening.
WHEREAS, the Lord has brought to fruition long standing plans for Fellowship Manor and
WHEREAS, this building is a most beautiful and suitable edifice for the ministry of care to the aged, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we express our praise to the Lord by standing and singing the Doxology.
WHEREAS, Victory Valley Camp has enjoyed a year of prosperity and growth and
WHEREAS, Victory Valley Camp has continued to provide the Bible Fellowship Church with a Christ honoring and Christ centered camping program, and
WHEREAS, the director of Victory Valley Camp, Phil Atkins, has served untiringly in the exercise of his duties, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we express our thanks to the Lord for His enabling grace and commend Phil Atkins for a job well done.
WHEREAS, the Lord has provided the Bible Fellowship Church with an effective ministering missionary family, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Missions of the Bible Fellowship Church continues to effectively direct the affairs of its missions, and
WHEREAS, Roy A. Hertzog has ably served as Executive Secretary of the Board of Missions of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
WHEREAS, David E. Thomann has ably served as Financial Secretary of the Board of Missions of the Bible Fellowship Church, be it therefore
RESOLVED, that we continue to devote ourselves to this great ministry and those who faithfully serve with our prayers and commitment to the Church’s greatest challenge.
James A. Beil led the Conference in a prayer of thanks for the Chairman of Annual Conference, Jansen E. Hartman.
The Conference sang the Doxology in praise to God for the completion of Fellowship Manor.
Bert N. Brosius read Romans 13:1-7.
L. James Roberts, Jr. spoke on “The Christian and the State” including some description of his trip to see Christians in the country of Romania.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn.
The 105th Annual Conference adjourned at 8:45 PM, Wednesday, October 26th, 1988, being led in prayer by John Dunn.