Annual Conference Proceedings – 1992
First Meeting
Monday Evening, October 19, 1992, 8:00 PM
The first meeting of the 109th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church was called to order by the Chairman, James A. Beil, at 8:00 PM, October 19, 1992 on the grounds of Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA.
The conference joined in singing, “To God Be the Glory”.
The Chairman led the conference in the opening prayer.
Report of the Registrar:
RESOLVED, that the chairs at the tables constitute the Conference Bar.
The roll of Annual Conference was established as follows:
Allentown, Cedar Crest Ronald C. Mahurin, Robert F. Johnson, Jay H. Fasnacht, Neil E. Montgomery, Donald I. Transue, John W. Trauch
Allentown, Salem ( ), Alan Abel
Bethlehem Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Carl Ackerman
Blandon Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Raymond R. Bertolet
Camden, DE James G. Koch, Raymond R. Dotts
Catasauqua (Probationer), Calvin A. Boyle
Coopersburg Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, Clyde W. Snyder
Denville, NJ Richard D. Harris, Steven C. Boepple
Emmaus Dana E. Weller, David N. Schoen, Gerald Schlonecker, Jonathan D. Reynolds
Englishtown, NJ Raymond G. Burnett, Robert W. Buck
Ephrata Daniel P. Allen, Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ David H. Jones, Donald P. Straub
Fleetwood (Probationer), Thomas E. Hummel
Graterford David J. Watkins, Douglas Bowne
Harleysville W. David Armstrong, Jr., Daniel J. Coyle
Harrisburg (Probationer), Harold E. Snyder
Hatfield (Probationer), Lee E. Boyles
Howell, NJ John C. Vandegriff, Jr., Joseph L. Dugan
Kutztown (Probationer), George K. Monroe
Lancaster David A. Thomann, Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon Calvin T. Reed, Leroy O. Herb
Lehighton William H. Bartron, Bruce A. Kellerman
Maple Glen Louis Prontnicki, George A. Priestly
Mt. Carmel Alva C. Cassel, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Mt. Pocono Ronald C. Erb, Salvatore Roseti
Nazareth Keith E. Plows, Allen M. Gehman
Newark, DE William G. Schlonecker, Roger Cole
Ocean County, NJ Dean A. Stortz, David M. Markuson
Oley Kenneth F. Barber, Gilbert J. Vining, Clayton E. Weber
Paradise Ralph M. Soper, David Eisenhower
Philadelphia, Emmanuel (Probationer), Timothy D. Cole
Philadelphia, Wissinoming G. Wayne Clapier, Daniel Crosley
Poughquag, NY James A. Wickstead, Thomas Ward
Quakertown David E. Gundrum, L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading Randall A. Grossman, James E. Neher, Charles Lavigna, Walter Raybuck, Ronald W. Reed
Royersford Robert W. Smock, Dennis Souder
Scranton James R. Batchler, Jr., John T. Jeffery
Shamokin Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., T. Lamarn Manney
Sinking Spring Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Donald Woodring
Spring City Carl T. Martin, Richard E. Frick
Stroudsburg Carl C. Cassel, G. Daniel Beaver
Sunbury LeRoy S. Heller, Robert Cox, Lamar Fetterman, Carl Weaver
Terre Hill Steven L. Trommler, James Wetzler
Wallingford Richard E. Taylor, William R. Singletary
Walnutport Larry M. Smith, Stanley H. Stahler
Wappingers Falls, NY Byron Widger, Charles Webb
York Kenneth L. Good, Philip G. Norris
Zionsville Gregory A. Uhrich, David L. Weller
Ordained Ministers in Retirement
Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, Jansen E. Hartman, George E. Herb, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, C. Leslie Miller, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Laird F. Stengele, David E. Thomann, Harold D. Yarrington
Ordained Missionaries
William C. Aukamp, Leonard E. Buck, Brian H. Butler, Robert L. Draper, Richard J. Gehman, J. Barclay Harley, Ronald W. Hoyle, Walter M. Johnston, Herbert K. Lea, Philip E. Morrison, Edward Moyer, William W. Mull, David W. Riddell, Philip E. Yerrington, Paul G. Zimmerman
Probationers Serving as First Pastors of Churches
R. Jerome Brush, W. Neil Harding, Jr., Gene W. Smith, John C. Studenroth, Alan Vivona, Howard N. Wells
Ordained Men Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
James A. Beil, Bert N. Brosius, Bernard N. Coble, Roy A. Hertzog, Barry J. Minsky, Daniel G. Ziegler
Ordained Men Serving as Pastors of Missions
Delbert R. Baker II, Dennis M. Cahill, Robert S. Commerford, D. Thomas Phillips, Richard B. Ravis, Roger L. Reitz
Ordained Men Between Calls
Terris L. Byrd, Albert J. Dommel, Frank L. Herb, Jr., John H. Herb, Charles J. McConnell, Edgar H. Munyan, Austin G. Shelly, Harold C. Weaber
RESOLVED, that the following alternate delegates be seated: Harold Crider (Harleysville), Thomas J. Beil (Philadelphia, Wissinoming), Richard Erb (Royersford).
Report of the Committee on Agenda and Program
RESOLVED, that the agenda be adopted.
Report of the Committee on Arrangements (see page 59)
RESOLVED, that the report of the Committee on Arrange-ments be accepted.
Bert N. Brosius, Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, welcomed the delegates to the grounds of the conference.
The Secretary, Randall A. Grossman, appointed Robert W. Smock as Assistant Secretary and Daniel P. Allen and David A. Thomann, Assistants to the Secretary.
The Chairman appointed the following committees:
Communications: Carl T. Martin, Delbert R. Baker II, William R. Singletary, Gerald L. Schlonecker, Raymond R. Dotts
Tellers: Keith E. Plows, LeRoy S. Heller, Harvey J. Fritz, Robert Cox, Leroy O. Herb, Clyde W. Snyder, William H. Bartron, Harold L. Snyder
Resolutions: James G. Koch, Steven L. Trommler, Richard D. Harris, David M. Markuson, Jonathan D. Reynolds
Auditing: Robert W. Gehret, Jay H. Fasnacht, Horace A. Kauffman, Lee E. Boyles, John W. Trauch
Reporter: David E. Gundrum
Time Keeper: Richard T. Paashaus
Parliamentarian: Charles F. Webb
Examination of Annual Conference Minutes: James E. Neher, Gregory A. Uhrich
Those delegates who were at Annual Conference for the first time introduced themselves to the body.
Roy A. Hertzog, Executive Director of the Board of Missions, introduced the missionaries in attendance to the conference. Introduced were: Byron and Lisa Barnshaw, Osborne and Diane Buchanan, William Early, Raymond Bertolet, John and Judy Nicely, Alma Hunsicker, John LoRusso, Leonard and Nina Buck, Mark and Diana Meitzler, Donna Robbins, and Cliff and Becky Boone. Donna Robbins and the Boones made brief remarks to the body.
Richard E. Taylor, Secretary of the Ministerial Candidate Committee, introduced the following men under the care of the committee: Howard N. Wells, Thomas J. Beil, Ralph E. Ritter, Richard J. Vroman, Daniel F. DeLozier, R. Jerome Brush, Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jonathan P. Tait, Gene W. Smith, J. Mark McCreary, Ronald R. Vining, Jerry L. Moyer, W. Neil Harding, Jr., John C. Studenroth, Jimmy D. Head, Kevin K. Gehman, Dennis J. Lawrence.
The conference joined in singing, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God”. Carl C. Cassel read Revelation 1:9-20, and delivered a message entitled, “Our Need: A Fresh, Overwhelming Vision of Jesus.” The conference sang, “Jesus, I am Resting, Resting in the Joy of What Thou Art”.
The conference was adjourned to the dining hall for small group prayer at 9:40 PM.
Second Meeting
Tuesday Morning, October 20, 1992, 8:50 AM
The meeting was called to order at 8:50 AM. “Great God of Wonders” was sung, followed by the reading of Isaiah 6:1-9 and prayer led by Steven L. Trommler.
Report of the Registrar
The registrar reported the following requests for excuses: Alan Abel, A.L.Seifert, Barry Minsky, Herbert K. Lea, Thomas Ward, Edgar Munyan, Raymond R. Dotts, Albert J. Dommel, Bernard N. Coble, John H. Herb, Richard T. Paashaus, C.L.Miller, Laird F. Stengele, Timothy D. Cole, William C. Aukamp, Brian H. Butler, Robert L. Draper, Richard J. Gehman, J. Barclay Harley, Ronald W. Hoyle, Walter M. Johnston, Philip E. Morrison, Edward Moyer, William W. Mull, David W. Riddell, Philip E. Yerrington, Paul G. Zimmerman, C.E.Kirkwood.
RESOLVED, that the excuses be granted.
RESOLVED, that the Alternate Delegate from Mt. Pocono, Paul T. Rutman, be seated.
Report of the Nominating Committee
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee (see page 61)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Credentials (see page 65)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
WHEREAS, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Clifford B. Boone, R. Jerome Brush and Howard N. Wells for ordination; and
WHEREAS, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended prior ordination recognition for John C. Studenroth, 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 Committee on Credentials believes these men to be called of God to the gospel ministry and to be in accord with the Faith & Order of the Bible Fellowship Church; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that Clifford B. Boone, R. Jerome Brush and Howard N. Wells be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church and further;
RESOLVED, the prior ordination of John C. Studenroth to the gospel ministry be recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church and further,
RESOLVED, that the service of ordination shall be held Tuesday, October 20, 1992, at 7:30 PM at Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA.
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee (see page 68)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church (see page 71)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Church Extension (see page 81)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
WHEREAS, the Board of Church Extension is of the opinion that the Edison, New Jersey, Mission and the Holmes, New York, Mission meet the qualifications of a church as specified in Article 18 of the Faith & Order of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Edison, New Jersey, Mission and the Holmes, New York, Mission be recognized as churches and their delegates received into membership of the 109th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
The above resolution was passed unanimously. Board of Church Extension Secretary, Richard E. Taylor, led the conference in thanks to God. Delegates John Dawson (Holmes, NY) and Richard Vroman (Edison, NJ) were introduced and welcomed to the Conference Bar.
Report of the Director of Church Extension (see page 87)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Missions (see page 100)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Roy A. Hertzog, Executive Director of the Board of Missions, presented an opportunity for missionary service in the formerly Communist nations of Eastern Europe. He stressed the strategic nature of this work and appealed to the conference to seek the Lord concerning the involvement of individuals and churches.
Report of the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Junior College (see page 116)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Lee E. Boyles, the realtor responsible for overseeing the sale of the Pinebrook property, reported on prospective buyers. Carl C. Cassel, president, appealed to the conference to pray that the Lord would grant the sale of the property in such a manner that our obligations might be honorably met. He reported that if the churches continue to pray and give and if the property is sold by June 30, 1993, no further debt will be incurred.
Report of the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Homes, Inc. (see page 128)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference (see page 141)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Victory Valley Camp (see page 146)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Stewardship Council (see page 150)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Richard J. Volpe, Director of BFC Stewardship Services, introduced Vyron Schmidt, Vice President of Congregational Services for Mennonite Mutual Aid, who made a brief presentation.
RESOLVED, that the Mennonite Mutual Aid be encouraged to make satisfactory arrangements with particular Bible Fellowship Churches to make their services available to their membership.
Report of the Board of Christian Education (see page 153)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
David N. Schoen presented Sunday School awards as follows: Upper Perkiomen Valley, largest actual increase in a small church (0-50 members), Wappingers Falls, largest percentage increase in a small church; Sinking Spring, largest actual and percentage increase in a medium size church (51-150 members); and Quakertown, largest actual and percentage increase in a large church (151 and up). The pastors received the awards on behalf of their churches.
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing (see page 158)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Historical Committee (see page 162)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
The Bible Fellowship Church by Harold Shelly is now published and is available from the Historical Committee. Dr. Shelly, Professor of Church History at Alliance Theological Seminary, was introduced and made brief remarks. He presented an autographed copy of the book to Richard E. Taylor, Bible Fellowship Church Archivist.
WHEREAS, the 105th Annual Conference established that group photographs of the Annual Conference be taken every four years, and
WHEREAS, the Agenda Committee has determined that the schedule for the 109th Annual Conference does not allow for photographs to be taken, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Agenda Committee for the 110th Annual Conference schedule a time for group photographs to be taken.
Report of the Conference Judicatory (see page 164)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Ministerial Convention Committee (see page 165)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Beneficiary Society (see page 167)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee to Examine the Minutes of the 108th Annual Conference (see page 169)
RESOLVED, that the report be adopted.
Report of the Committee to Examine the Minutes of Particular Churches (see page 170)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
WHEREAS, the 1986 Faith & Order, pages 88-90, clearly sets forth the required information to be included in the minutes of annual congregational meetings of Particular Churches, and
WHEREAS, the complete and accurate recording of this information is important and necessary, and
WHEREAS, the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches would like to encourage the complete and accurate recording of minutes of Annual Congregational meetings, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that starting in 1993, those churches found with major omissions and deficiencies (to be determined by the Committee) be listed in the report of the Committee and may it be further
RESOLVED, that those churches without evidence of elected delegate or alternate delegate to annual conference for 1992 be listed in this year’s report of the Committee to Examine Minutes of Particular Churches.
RESOLVED, that we extend the time.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Men Entering the Ministry
The Ministerial Candidate Committee divides those under its care into three groups: Applicants, Candidates, and Probationers. An Applicant is a man who offers himself to this committee for service in the Bible Fellowship Church; young men are encouraged to seek this recognition as early in their educational program as they sense the call of God to the ministry. A Candidate is a man whose application is accepted and who remains under the guidance of this Committee; men move to this group when they near the completion of their educational preparation for the ministry. A Probationer is a man who has been approved by this Committee, has passed examinations on the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church, and is working in the Bible Fellowship Church (a particular church or agency) or other ministry approved by the Ministerial Candidate Committee in consultation with the Credentials Committee. Such other ministry does not include service on the pastoral staff of a church other than a Bible Fellowship Church. Men who meet all stated requirements for probationers are eligible to be licensed as probationers by the Ministerial Candidate Committee.
Probationary Service in a Particular Church Or Mission
Normally, a probationer serves in a full-time capacity. After a probationer has served at least two years, he may be recommended to the Credentials Committee for ordination examination. The minimum period of probationary service may be extended; having served as a probationer does not guarantee ordination.
A man serving his probationary period on a part-time basis may do so with the following requirements: a. He shall serve the equivalent of at least two years full-time service as determined by the Ministerial Candidate Committee, in consultation with the Credentials Committee. b. He shall serve at least one year under the supervision of a Board of Elders and/or another evaluating body approved by the Ministerial Candidate Committee and the Credentials Committee.
Probationary Service in Other Ministry
If a man seeks ordination in the Bible Fellowship Church and is not serving as the pastor of a particular church or mission, he may do so with the following requirements: a. He shall be a member of a Bible Fellowship Church. b. He shall follow the same procedure for ordination as other probationers. c. He shall comply with the Faith and Order in the course of his service d. He shall be supervised by the Board of Elders of the church in which he holds membership, the governing board of the ministry under which he serves, and any other evaluating agencies the Ministerial Candidate Committee may require during the probationary period of service. The time of the probationary service may be in full or part-time capacity.
This material shall replace the material under the heading “Men Entering the Ministry” Bylaws for Annual Conference, Article II: Procedure for the Recognition of a Minister (Faith and Order, pp.119-120) (SECOND READING)
RESOLVED, that we adjourn.
Ronald C. Mahurin dismissed the Conference with prayer at 12:15 PM.
Third Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The meeting was called to order with prayer by James E. Neher.
RESOLVED, that the minutes of the first meeting be approved.
The following persons were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee
Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. (3 years)
David J. Watkins (3 years)
Dana E. Weller (1 year)
L. James Roberts, Jr. (3 years)
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church
Jansen E. Hartman (3 years)
Horace A. Kauffman (3 years)
L. James Roberts, Jr. (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
John C. Vandegriff, Jr. (3 years)
Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc.
LeRoy S. Heller (3 years)
Robert W. Smock (3 years)
Doris A. Wire (3 years)
Robert H. Zentz (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley Camp
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
John C. Vandegriff, Jr. (3 years)
Dana E. Weller (3 years)
Board of Missions
Kenneth F. Barber (3 years)
LeRoy O. Herb (3 years)
Board of Pinebrook Bible Conference
Alva C. Cassel (3 years)
LeRoy O. Herb (3 years)
Harold L. Snyder, Jr. (3 years)
Committee on Credentials
James A. Beil (1 year)
LeRoy S. Heller (1 year)
Keith E. Plows (1 year)
David A. Thomann (1 year)
James A. Wickstead (1 year)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
Calvin T. Reed (3 years)
Richard E. Taylor (3 years)
Historical Committee
Bright N. Heist (3 years)
Stewardship Council
James G. Koch (3 years)
Conference Judicatory
James A. Beil (5 years)
Lee E. Boyles (5 years)
Dennis DeHaan of Radio Bible Class and editor of Our Daily Bread, brought greetings to the conference.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
All retired ministers willing to serve are eligible for election to Boards and Committees.(SECOND READING)
(This shall be placed in the Faith & Order as the fourth paragraph of Article X: General Rule of Elections and Resignations, pp.132-133).
Report of the Study Committee on Inter-Cultural Ministries (see page 172)
Dr. William Krispin, Executive Director of the Center for Urban Theological Studies (CUTS) in Philadelphia, made a presentation on the challenge of urban ministry through partnership with other city ministries.
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
WHEREAS, the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee believes that God has opened a door to produce a viable model for ethnic church planting; and
WHEREAS, this model will take some time to formulate and present to Annual Conference; therefore be it
RESOLVED, the Inner-Cultural Ministries Study Committee be directed to proceed with the formulation of an ethnic church planting model and report back at the 110th Annual Conference.
WHEREAS, it is the Lord’s desire to reach all tongues, tribes and people with the Gospel of Christ; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Particular Churches of the Bible Fellowship Church continue to discover and be sensitive to ethnic people groups in their ministry target areas and seek ways of reaching these culturally diverse peoples.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
WHEREAS, the Nominating Committee of Annual Conference has recommended to the Board of Publication and Printing that it give consideration to preparing legislation for Annual Conference whereby the Editor and Business Manager of Fellowship News would no longer be elected by Annual Conference but be appointed by the Board of Publication and Printing and ratified by Annual Conference, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Publication and Printing concurs with the recommendation of the Nominating Committee since it is imperative that these individuals be qualified, willing and persons with whom the board can work, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the By-Laws of the Board of Publication and Printing, Faith & Order Update 1987, page 8, entitled “Election,” paragraph 2, be amended to read:
The Editor of Fellowship News and the Business Manager of Fellowship News shall be appointed by the Board of Publication and Printing for a three-year term subject to ratification by Annual Conference. The election of these officers shall be in such a manner that their respective terms shall not expire at the same time.[SECOND READING]
WHEREAS, the one year term of James E. Neher as the Fellowship News Editor has been completed, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Publication and Printing has appointed him to a three- year term, therefore be it
that we ratify the election of James E. Neher as the Fellowship News Editor.
WHEREAS, the one year term of Paul T. Rutman as the Business Manager of the Fellowship News has been completed, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Publication and Printing has appointed him to a two-year term, therefore be it
that we ratify the election of Paul T. Rutman as the Business Manager of Fellowship News.
RESOLVED, that the minutes of the Second Meeting be approved as corrected.
The following persons were elected:
Board of Christian Education
W. David Armstrong (3 years)
Robert S. Commerford (3 years)
Scott J. Fetterolf (3 years)
Jonathan D. Reynolds (3 years)
Board of Publication and Printing
William H. Bartron (3 years)
Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Committee on Agenda and Program
Appointment.
The Chairman of Annual Conference shall, prior to the adjournment of the Annual Conference, appoint the Committee on Agenda and Program for the succeeding Annual Conference.
Duties
1. The Committee on Agenda and Program shall establish and oversee a program for the succeeding Annual Conference designed to bring spiritual blessing and challenge to the members of the Annual Conference.
2. It shall receive from any Particular Church or Agency requests for time in the agenda of the Annual Conference. Such requests must be in writing and in the hands of the Committee at least 6 weeks prior to the beginning of the Annual Conference.
3. It shall establish the proposed order of business and program for the succeeding Annual Conference.
4. It shall circulate the proposed agenda at least 2 weeks prior to the Annual Conference.
(SECOND READING)
The above legislation replaces the material on the Committee on Program (Faith & Order, p. 133-134) and the Committee on Agenda (Faith & Order, p. 138) and shall be inserted as the first in the list of Committees appointed by the Chairman (Faith & Order, p. 133).
WHEREAS, the Board of Missions is faced with a number of issues that may make it unwise for it to participate in the MAF, therefore be it
RESOLVED, in the event that the MAF is adopted at second reading, the Board of Missions be given until the 110th Annual Conference to make a final determination in regard to whether or to what extent it will participate in the MAF.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Ministers’ Annuity Fund
I. Name. The name of the Fund is the Ministers’ Annuity Fund of the Bible Fellowship Church.
II. Purpose. The Ministers’ Annuity Fund is established to provide retirement benefits for persons ministering under the direction of the Annual Conference who have ordination credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church.
III. Administration. The Fund shall be controlled and operated by the Board of Pensions of the Bible Fellowship Church under the direction of the Annual Conference.
IV. Participation in the Fund
A. Churches and agencies must contribute to the Fund on behalf of all full-time or part-time employees ordained by the BFC and working under the direction of Annual Conference unless granted an exception by Annual Conference.
In addition, any agency of the Annual Conference may seek from the Board of Pensions, and be granted, exemption from participation in the Ministers’ Annuity Fund for any person working under its direction for as long as the supervising agency and the MAF eligible person provide assurance that the person is participating in a retirement plan equal, or superior to, the Ministers’ Annuity Fund.
Should a Ministers’ Annuity Fund eligible person working under an agency and not granted an exception by Annual Conference be covered by a retirement plan deemed by the Board of Pensions to be inferior to the Ministers’ Annuity Fund the agency shall contribute to a MAF account for that person a percentage of his income sufficient to make his retirement plan equal to what it would be if he participated in the Ministers’ Annuity Fund.
B. Churches and agencies may contribute to the Fund on behalf of full-time or part-time employees licensed by the Bible Fellowship Church.
C. When a man is ordained or has his ordination credentials recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church the Board of Pensions shall inform him and the church or agency required to make payments on his behalf, of Fund requirements and benefits.
D. Should church or agency obligation for MAF payment be based on less than the full salary of a person, the required payment shall be based on BFC related salary or the percent of retirement program paid by BFC. The same calculation shall be used to determine Annual Conference mandated payment to meet MRF obligations.
V. Contributions to the Ministers’ Annuity Fund. Each church or other eligible employer shall pay into the Fund the percentage mandated by Annual Conference of participant’s annual Bible Fellowship Church generated Schedule SE compensation in monthly or quarterly payments. Quarterly payments are due April 30 (for January, February., and March of current year); July 30 (for April, May and June of current year); October 30 (for July, August, and September of current year); and January 30 (for October, November, and December of previous year).
Whether payment is monthly or quarterly, an April 30 payment is required and must be accompanied by a copy of the participant’s Schedule SE for the previous year. An MAF member, or supervising agency, unable to meet the April 30 previous year payment adjustment requirements shall inform the Board of Pensions in writing of the nature of the problem and an extension may be granted. If the participant is not covered by Social Security he shall complete a Schedule SE for Ministers’ Annuity Fund purposes and submit it to the Board of Pensions. If the Schedule SE indicates underpayment or overpayment for the previous year the accompanying check shall reflect the adjustment required. Checks shall be made payable to the BOARD OF PENSIONS and sent to the Pensions Secretary.
The annual payment required is the Bible Fellowship Church- generated Schedule SE compensation figure multiplied by the annual percentage payment required by Annual Conference.
VI. Account ownership: When the initial payment is received on behalf of a person eligible to participate in the Ministers’ Annuity Fund, an individual account is opened in his name and all payments made to the Fund on his behalf, and all earnings of the account, are the property of the participating individual.
VII. Participant investment choices: A Ministers’ Annuity Fund participant may choose among Board of Pensions approved investment options according to written guidelines provided to all MAF participants by the Board of Pensions.
VIII. Benefits: The value of an individual account will vary according to factors such as years of service, amount of money contributed to the account, investment choices made by the individual participant, and general levels of investment earnings during the period of the participant’s employment.
IX. Withdrawal of fund from Ministers’ Annuity Fund accounts: A person with an account in the MAF may, upon date of retirement from Fund approved employment, remove all funds from his account. An MAF member in ministry may make withdrawals from his account by: a. following withdrawal rules governing his investment of choice, b. informing his elders or agency head of his decision in writing, c. directing his request through the Board of Pensions.
(Yes 94, No 21) (SECOND READING)
Phil Atkins, Director of Victory Valley Camp, reported on the condition of his daughter, Jill, who is undergoing rehabilitation from a serious illness.
RESOLVED, that we suspend the rules and extend the time.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn.
Daniel G. Ziegler led in closing prayer at 5:15 PM.
Fourth Meeting
Wednesday Morning, October 21, 1992, 8:50 AM
Song leader LeRoy S. Heller led the conference in singing, “Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken”. Louis Prontnicki read Ezekiel 47:1-12 and led the body in prayer.
Report of the Registrar:
The registrar presented requests for excuses from the following men: Raymond G. Burnett, Donald P. Straub, Richard D. Erb.
RESOLVED, that we grant all the excuses.
RESOLVED, that the alternate delegate from Edison, Ken Zimmerman, be seated.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes.
Purpose.
To certify that the Yearbook is an accurate account of the proceedings of Annual Conference.
Appointment.
The chairman of Annual Conference shall appoint the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes from the membership of Annual Conference at the first meeting, with at least one experienced member being retained when possible.
Duties.
1. The Committee shall independently monitor the proceedings of Annual Conference in order to assist the Secretary of Annual Conference in producing accurate minutes.
2. It shall assist the Annual Conference in correcting the Secretary’s minutes. The Secretary’s minutes, as corrected, become the official minutes of Annual Conference at the time of their approval.
3. Following the approval of minutes by the Annual Conference, all corrections to the official minutes shall be certified by the secretary, recorded by this committee, and reported to the Annual Conference if judged by this committee to be substantive.
4. It shall examine the minutes as printed in the Yearbook and compare them with the official minutes of the Secretary of Annual Conference.
5. It shall receive notification from members of Annual Conference of any suggested correction in the Yearbook and shall research its validity.
6. It shall report in writing to the next Annual Conference any and all discrepancies between the Yearbook and the official minutes, and any other recommended corrections to the Yearbook. Recommended corrections take effect upon adoption of the report by Annual Conference.
7. It shall submit to Annual Conference two corrected copies of the Yearbook certified to contain an accurate account of the proceedings of the previous Annual Conference. These copies shall be placed in the Bible Fellowship Church Archives. (SECOND READING)
This material is to replace the material under the heading “Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes.” (Faith & Order, pp.137-138).
The chairman appointed Richard B. Ravis as Timekeeper.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
“The purpose of the meetings of Annual Conference shall be to govern the Bible Fellowship Church according to the powers outlined above, to provide oversight and accountability of the churches and agencies within the body, to cultivate fellowship and unity among the brethren, and to generate unified vision and planning for the churches and their joint endeavors. The achievement of these purposes is to be pursued in a spirit of worship toward God and mutual edification.”
(SECOND READING)
(The above paragraph shall be placed in the Faith & Order p. 118, Article I, paragraph 4. Previous paragraph 4 shall become paragraph 5).
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Board of Pensions:
Composition and Election of the Board
The Board of Pensions is a board of the Annual Conference and shall be composed of 3 active ordained ministers participating in the Ministers’ Annuity Fund, 2 retired ministers who ministered under direction of Annual Conference at least 20 years, and four laymen in good standing with their local churches.
Classes shall be formed as follows:
Class I One active minister, one retired minister and one layman
Class II One active minister, one retired minister and one layman
Class III One active minister and two laymen
Each class shall be elected in turn annually by ballot for a term of 3 years.
Duties:
1. To receive, invest, and disburse funds contributed to the Ministers’ Retirement Fund and supervise investment of funds contributed to the Ministers’ Annuity Fund and process requests for withdrawal of funds from the MAF.
2. To determine eligibility for participation in the MAF, provide new participants with introductory information and starting date of participation; provide Fund participant and contributing organization information needed to calculate required payments; and offer personal counsel to all Fund participants and contributing churches and agencies.
3. To provide annually to each participant and sponsor an up-to-date report which includes contributions to the account during the year and present value of the account.
4. To recommend annually to Annual Conference the rate of payment for annuities under the Ministers’ Retirement Fund.
5. To approve all depositories for Ministers’ Annuity Fund individual accounts.
6. To review annually the MRF and MAF to determine their adequacy, and, when they deem it advisable, to recommend changes in the plans to the Annual Conference.
7. To submit to the Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church a written report and audited financial report which shall include certification that each account has been credited with the required annual contribution.
8. To establish criteria for hearing petitions concerning the fulfillment of pension requirements, to receive such petitions, and to make decisions in response to them.
Pensions Secretary
Election: The Pensions Secretary shall be elected by and from the Board of Pensions.
Duties
1. The Pensions Secretary shall conduct the day-to-day business of the Board of Pensions.
2. The Pensions Secretary shall represent the Board of Pensions in matters having to do with dissemination of information to plan participants, churches and agencies and is the person to contact should participants or sponsors have questions relating to the plan.
3. The Pensions Secretary shall have the authority delegated to that office by the Board of Pensions.
(SECOND READING)
RESOLVED, that the alternate delegate from Maple Glen, Kenneth J. Hurst, be seated.
The following transitional legislation was adopted at second reading:
Transitional Legislation: The legislation which follows consists of Ministers’ Retirement Fund provisions which remain in force, revised MRF provisions, and miscellaneous clarifications.
1. All credit for service under the Ministers’ Retirement Fund is frozen on January 1, 1993.
2. Final determination of years of MRF credited service will be calculated based on years of MRF eligible service for which the fully mandated contribution has been received by the Board of Directors of the BFC before January 1, 1993.
3. Each Ministers’ Annuity Fund participant who is also eligible for benefits from the Ministers’ Retirement Fund shall have his years of MRF service frozen on January 1, 1993. Upon retirement such a participant may draw from the Ministers’ Annuity Fund account in his name, and shall also receive annuities for years of service under the Ministers’ Retirement Fund, and shall receive any cost of living increases granted to Ministers’ Retirement Fund annuitants.
4. Contributions from the Conference Administrative Budget to MRF shall continue, as needed, to complete all commitments to MRF. The Board of Pensions shall annually recommend level of support.
5. Resolution of issues raised by persons directly affected by the decision to create the Ministers’ Annuity Fund and phaseout the Ministers’ Retirement Fund shall be the responsibility of the Board of Pensions. Definition of “persons directly affected” is limited to those in the following categories January 1, 1993: retirees receiving an annuity, widows of retirees receiving an annuity, and MRF participants. The problem-solving process is:
A. The concern shall first be directed to the Pensions Secretary who shall seek to resolve the matter by applying relevant rules to the situation. If the concern is not satisfactorily resolved by the Pensions Secretary the concerned party proceeds as follows:
B. The matter shall be addressed to the Board of Pensions in writing. If Ministers’ Annuity Fund or Transitional Legislation addresses the issue the Board of Pensions shall resolve it according to that legislation. If the matter is not clearly addressed there, provisions of the Ministers’ Retirement Fund in effect as of the 109th Annual Conference (1992) shall be taken into account in resolving the problem. If the concern is not satisfactorily resolved by the Board of Pensions the concerned party may:
C. Appeal to the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church or the Annual Conference.
6. All members of the Ministers’ Retirement Fund less than 55 years of age and having less than 15 years of service on January 1, 1993 shall cease to be members of the Ministers’ Retirement Fund on that date. The terms of their separation from the MRF are:
All money contributed on behalf of the individual plus six percent interest compounded annually (partial-year interest will be calculated in relevant cases) from the first year of service until the last day of participation in MRF is the value of the member’s participation in MRF. The contribution plus interest is credited to the individual’s Ministers’ Annuity Fund account.
7. A Ministers’ Retirement Fund member who is less than 65 yrs old and has completed 15 years, but less than 25 years of credited service, and is not in active service on January 1, 1993 shall, within 60 days, inform the Board of Pensions in writing of his irrevocable decision to: a. have MRF money credited to his MAF account refunded; or, b. retain his account in the MRF and be eligible to receive a MRF annuity at age 65.
8. No minister, after having accepted a refund from MRF, who is not working under direction of Annual Conference on January 1, 1993 shall be eligible, upon returning to ministry under direction of Annual Conference, to return the refund and gain retirement credit, or be credited with interest under rules established by Ministers’ Annuity Fund legislation.
9. An active minister who has earned at least 15 years of MRF credit when the Ministers’ Annuity Fund becomes operational may retire at any time, but is not eligible to receive a Minister’s Retirement Fund annuity until age 65.
10. Disability: A minister with 25 years or more of active service under MRF to the Bible Fellowship Church is eligible for an MRF annuity at the end of the month in which he becomes totally and permanently disabled. Decision of Social Security Administration shall be given consideration in determining disability.
11. The annuity for a retired minister under MRF shall be calculated at the rate established annually by Annual Conference upon recommendation of the Board of Pensions by a two-thirds majority vote at one reading.
12. If at any time the money in the MRF account is insufficient to pay the annuities in full, the Board of Pensions shall determine the amount of monthly installments pro rata.
13. Widows:
a. The widow of a deceased minister who has complied with the provisions of the Fund shall receive MRF annuities beginning at the time of death of the husband, provided that the widow shall have attained the age of 65 years, or beginning at the time she shall attain the age of 65 years.
b. A widow’s MRF annuity shall be calculated at 7/12th the rate for pastor’s annuities for each year she was the wife of a minister during which he was in active service in the Bible Fellowship Church up to the total number of MRF credited years, but no more that 40 years.
c. The MRF annuity shall cease if the widow remarries.
14. All MRF annuities shall cease at the time of the death of the primary annuitant or his eligible widow.
(SECOND READING)
The following resolution was adopted at second reading.
WHEREAS, the Annual Conference has adopted the Ministers’ Annuity Fund in place of the Ministers’ Retirement Fund as its retirement plan for ministers, and,
WHEREAS, Ministers’ Retirement Fund regulations which need to remain in effect during the phaseout of the MRF are contained in Ministers’ Annuity Fund, Board of Pensions, and, Transitional Legislation adopted today, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That pages 3-7 of the 1987 Update of the Faith & Order (see 1987 Yearbook, pp. 22-27) be removed from the Faith & Order and be replaced by the legislation on Ministers’ Annuity Fund, Board of Pensions, and those parts of the Transitional Legislation deemed by the Secretary of Annual Conference to have ongoing importance, to be placed in the Faith & Order between Board of Publication and Printing and the Committee on Credentials. (SECOND READING)
The following persons were elected:
Committee on Nominations
Bert N. Brosius (3 years)
Dean A. Stortz (3 years)
Secretary of Annual Conference
Randall A. Grossman (1 year)
WHEREAS, the legislation regarding Ministers’ Annuity Fund and the Board of Pensions has been approved at Second Reading, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the election of the Board of Pensions be implemented as follows:
Elect Class I for 3 years
Elect Class II for 2 years
Elect Class III for 1 year
RESOLVED, that the minutes of the third meeting be adopted as corrected.
WHEREAS, the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee has completed its review of the Standards of Worship & Life as directed by the 108th Annual Conference; and
WHEREAS, the Committee has identified Standards that do not express culturally transcendent biblical truths and values in language that is applicable to all cultures without bias; and
WHEREAS, it has been deemed necessary by the Committee to formulate biblical value statements that are culturally transcendent; therefore be it,
RESOLVED, that the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee be directed by Annual Conference to develop culturally transcendent biblical “Value Statements” for consideration at Annual Conference, and further,
RESOLVED, that the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee be allowed to ask members of the Bible Fellowship Church to assist in the task of developing these “Value Statements.”
Report of the Study Committee on Mandatory Retirement Age (see page 180)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
The following legislation was adopted at first reading:
(Material in brackets is to be deleted, material in italics is new material)
Article III: Retirement from the Ministry (pp. 123-24)
[Any minister of the Bible Fellowship Church who has attained the age of 65 years or who has completed at least 40 years of eligible service with the Bible Fellowship Church may retire from active service and receive retirement benefits.
Any minister of the Bible Fellowship Church who has attained the age of 72 years must retire from active service by the end of the month in which he becomes 72 years of age.
Any minister of the Bible Fellowship Church who has rendered at least 25 years of eligible service to the Bible Fellowship Church, and who has not attained 65 years of age, may retire early from active service, but shall not receive retirement benefits until he has attained 65 years of age.
Years of eligible service shall be calculated beginning with the date of licensing and ending with the effective date of retirement set by the Credentials Committee, or in the case of mandatory retirement, at the end of the month in which the retiree becomes 72 years of age. Any years of active service for which the minister has failed to make required payments into the fund shall not be considered eligible service.]
A. Any minister of the Bible Fellowship Church may retire at any time under the provisions of the Ministers’ Annuity Fund (pp. xxx-xxx).
B. Any minister holding credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church and seeking retirement shall notify the Credentials Committee of the Bible Fellowship Church at least 90 days prior to the effective date of his retirement. The Credentials Committee shall set the effective date of the retirement, change the status of the minister on the conference records, and notify the Board of Directors of the effective date of the retirement. [The Board of Directors shall determine the starting date and the amount of benefits to be received according to the rules of the Ministers’ Retirement Fund.] Those ministers pastoring a church shall dissolve the pastoral relationship through the rules of Pulpit Supply.
Page 170, under Categories of Ministry
IV. Ordained Ministers in Retirement
[A. These men draw retirement benefits from the Bible Fellowship Church.
1. A minister of the Bible Fellowship Church who has attained the age of 65 years may retire from active service.
2. A minister must retire at the end of the month in which he attains the age of 72 years.
3. A minister who has given 30 years or more of service to the Bible Fellowship Church may retire from active ministry prior to age 65 and be eligible for an annuity at age 65.]
These are men who have retired under the provisions of Article III: Retirement from the Ministry (pp. 123-24).
(Yes, 102; No, 20) (FIRST READING)
Report of the Committee on Auditing (see page 183)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Communications (see page 184)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
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 Committees and Agencies have their reports to the designated distribution point by September 20th.
RESOLVED, that the 110th Annual Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, October 18 – 20, 1993, at 8:00 PM with organization and the keynote worship service, preceded by registration at 7:00 PM.
RESOLVED, that the Committee on Agenda and Program provide full morning and afternoon sessions for business and evening sessions for worship and fellowship for the 110th Annual Conference.
RESOLVED, that we extend the time.
RESOLVED, that, should it be necessary to have an adjourned session of the 110th Annual Conference that it be held at the Ebenezer BFC, Bethlehem, PA, on Saturday, November 20, 1993, beginning at 9:00 AM.
RESOLVED, that we cast a ballot and then adjourn.
Robert W. Smock dismissed the meeting with prayer at 12:25 PM.
Fifth Meeting
Wednesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The meeting was called to order at 1:30 PM.
Robert A. Sloan, Jr., pastor of the Sinking Spring church, presented the request of the Board of Elders of that church concerning Article X, A “Alcoholic Drinks” of the Standards of Worship and Life.
WHEREAS, we recognize the Word of God as our only rule of faith and life, and
WHEREAS, our current restrictions add man made rules to the biblical instructions, and demean our stand on the scriptures as our only rule for faith and life,
RESOLVED, that Article X – A, Alcoholic Drinks (page 47), of the Standards of Worship and Life be amended as follows:
The use of alcoholic beverages is one of the most serious 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 alcoholic 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 alcoholic 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; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:18-21
(2) Proverbs 20:1, 23:31-35
(3) Matthew 18:6-7; Romans 14:20-21; 1 Cor. 8:9-11,13
(Yes – 88, No – 42, Abstained – 2) (FIRST READING)
The following persons were elected:
Board of Pensions
Frank L. Herb, Jr. (3 years)
David J. Watkins (3 years)
Keith E. Plows (2 years)
Chairman of Annual Conference
James A. Beil (1 year)
Vice Chairman of Annual Conference
Carl C. Cassel (1 year)
Committee on Nominations
Harold R. Crider (3 years)
Report of the Strategic Planning Committee (see page 185)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
RESOLVED, that we extend the time.
RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the 109th Annual Conference appoint a committee of four pastors and three laymen in order to continue the work of the Strategic Planning Committee until the 110th Annual Conference.
The Chairman appointed the following committee:
Strategic Planning Committee
Ronald W. Reed, David N. Schoen, Carl C. Cassel, Raymond R. Dotts, Neil E. Montgomery, Richard T. Paashaus, Robert A. Sloan, Jr.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn.
Willard E. Cassel led the conference in a closing prayer at 5:20 PM.
Sixth Meeting
Wednesday Evening, 6:30 PM
The meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM.
The following persons were elected:
Board of Pensions
Dennis M. Cahill (1 year)
Willard E. Cassel (2 years)
Richard J. Volpe (3 years)
WHEREAS, the Lord has blessed our conference with a spirit of unity and cooperation in His Name, be it
RESOLVED, that we the members of the 109th Annual Conference give praise to the Lord for this spirit of oneness and commit ourselves to continued harmonious cooperation.
WHEREAS, there has been a concerted effort to facilitate the operation of Annual Conference through the work of the Committee on Agenda and Program, the Committee on Arrangements, the Committee to Develop a Guide to Parliamentary Procedure, and the Chairman of Annual Conference, James A. Beil therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we thank these men for their hard work in helping us to use our time wisely and in a manner pleasing to the Lord.
WHEREAS, the Lord has supplied, in a miraculous way, a building for the Community Bible Fellowship Church in the Upper Perkiomen Valley, and,
WHEREAS, our churches were encouraged, by resolution of the 108th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, to pray for the success of this new work, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we gratefully thank the Lord for an answer to prayer in providing a building in Red Hill.
WHEREAS, this body has received both the Edison, New Jersey, mission and the Holmes, New York, mission into the Annual Conference as fully organized churches, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we praise the Lord for His gracious working in raising up these congregations of believers.
WHEREAS, the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee has continued to faithfully work towards the goal of establishing an ethnic church planting manual and model; and
WHEREAS, the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee believes enthusiastically that planting ethnic churches is a worthy goal to pursue; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we ask the Lord of the Harvest to give us wisdom and His clear guidance in ministering the gospel to ethnic people groups in our midst.
WHEREAS, many missionary applicants under the purview of the Board of Missions have been in deputational ministry, some for as long as two years, and
WHEREAS, there is a biblical mandate for the Church to respond to the Great Commission, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the 109th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church earnestly beseech our Lord to meet the financial needs of these missionary appointees who are in deputational ministry, to the end that they will be active in their fields of service by the time of the 110th Annual Conference.
WHEREAS, the Board of Church Extension is severely limited in carrying out its mandate and reaching its established Wider Horizon goals because of limited funding, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that each pastor, board of elders and congregation make this need a frequent matter of prayer, and be it further
RESOLVED, that each church consider increasing its giving to the Agency.
WHEREAS, Jill Atkins, the daughter of Phil Atkins our director of Victory Valley Camp, is still very ill, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we continue to remember Jill and her family in prayer.
WHEREAS, the Committee on Credentials has presented Clifford B. Boone, R. Jerome Brush and Howard N. Wells for ordination; and John C. Studenroth for the recognition of prior ordination, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we praise God for these fine servants of Christ, and commit ourselves to prayer for these men and their congregations as they begin their formal ministries with our fellowship.
WHEREAS, the Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, Bert N. Brosius, has faithfully discharged his duties in hosting the 109th Annual Conference and
WHEREAS, the staff and volunteers of Pinebrook Bible Conference have graciously accommodated the members of the 109th Annual Conference, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we thank the Director, staff and volunteers for serving the 109th Annual Conference.
WHEREAS, our pages Clyde D. Bomgardner, David C. Butler, Walter A. Davis, Daniel F. Delozier, Ronald K. Denlinger, Kevin K. Gehman, Jimmy D. Head, Dennis J. Lawrence, J. Mark McCreary, Jerry L. Moyer, Jonathan P. Tait and Ronald R. Vining have served our conference expeditiously, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we thank God for their fine service to our Lord and His Church.
WHEREAS, the Secretary of Annual Conference and his assistants have worked diligently to prepare the Yearbook, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Board of Publication and Printing give an honorarium of $50.00 each to the Secretary of Annual Conference and his assistants.
WHEREAS, James A. Beil has served with honor as Chairman of the 109th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the members of Annual Conference express their appreciation for Brother Beil with a standing ovation.
Report of the Committee on Statistics
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
The Chairman appointed the following committees:
Agenda and Program: Randall A. Grossman, Thomas P. Shorb, David J. Watkins, Ronald C. Erb, Chairman of Annual Conference
Committee on Arrangements: David A. Thomann, Thomas P. Shorb, Daniel P. Allen, Randall A. Grossman, Registrar
Statistics: LeRoy S. Heller, Daniel G. Ziegler, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Calvin T. Reed, Willard E. Cassel, David A. Thomann, Warren L. Zimmerman
Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches: Ralph M. Soper, Ronald C. Erb, Dennis M. Cahill, David H. Jones, Larry M. Smith
Conference Advisory Committee: Thomas P. Shorb, Vice Chairman of Annual Conference
Registrar: Philip E. Morrison
Assistant Registrar: Willard E. Cassel
RESOLVED, that the adjourned session of the 109th Annual Conference be held at the Quakertown BFC on Saturday, November 21, 1992, beginning at 9:00 AM.
The following legislation was adopted at first reading:
WHEREAS, there seems to be sound reason to maintain a balance of ministers and laymen on the Conference Judicatory, and
WHEREAS, the present legislation and election procedure ( 1987 Update, Faith and Order, p.2) does not assure that balance, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Book of Discipline, Chapter II – Jurisdiction, 3. Churches or Agencies, page 2 of the 1987 Update to the Faith and Order, be amended to read as follows (changes are depicted in italics):
3. Churches or Agencies. Original jurisdiction over particular churches or agencies of the denomination belongs to a judicatory elected by the Annual Conference, called the Conference Judicatory. The Conference Judicatory shall be composed of 5 ordained ministers who are voting members of Annual Conference and 5 laymen who are voting members of Annual Conference at the time of their election. Laymen on the Conference Judicatory who are no longer voting members of Annual Conference may continue to serve their term of office as long as they remain members in good standing of a Bible Fellowship Church. The Annual Conference shall elect the members of the Judicatory for five year terms in five classes as follows:
Class I one minister and one layman
Class II one minister and one layman
Class III one minister and one layman
Class IV one minister and one layman
Class V one minister and one layman
When a case is presented to the Conference Judicatory, all ten members shall designate which five shall hear the case and shall designate which one of the five shall serve as moderator. All charges shall be presented to the secretary who shall be chosen by the ten members from among their number. The name of the secretary shall be announced at Annual Conference and included in its minutes.
[FIRST READING]
The Secretary of the Conference Judicatory for 1992-1993 is Thomas P. Shorb. Any communication to the Conference Judicatory shall be directed to him.
WHEREAS, we believe it is the Scriptural responsibilities of the church to adequately meet the needs of its Pastors (Matthew 10:10; I Corinthians 9:7-15; Galatians 6:6; Philippians 4:10-19; I Timothy 5:17-18); therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we encourage each church to increase its Pastor’s salary commensurate with the general economic condition in the nation and local community, with the Consumer Price Index as a suggested means of measurement; and further
RESOLVED, that the minimum salary adequate for a Pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church including benefits is $20,950.00 for the year 1992-1993.
RESOLVED, that the service of Installation of a Pastor of the Bible Fellowship Church be added to the Faith & Order under IV Appendices; B. Suggested Forms; Installation of a Pastor p. 202.
RESOLVED, that the Ordination Service be held Tuesday, October 19, 1993 during the 110th Annual Conference at the Stroudsburg Bible Fellowship Church.
RESOLVED, that a particular church be encouraged to have a service acknowledging the Ordination of their Pastor and that they be encouraged to invite the Committee on Credentials to send representation to be present at the service, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Committee on Credentials prepare a form for the recognition of the ordination of a pastor for the local church.
RESOLVED, that the men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee be accepted as listed below:
Probationers (Year of licensing in parenthesis)
Clifford B. Boone Tanzania, East Africa (1989)
Douglas D. Bowne Pottstown, PA
R. Jerome Brush Fleetwood, Pa (1988)
Daniel F. DeLozier Lancaster, PA
Arthur J. Frisbie* Newark, DE (1976)
W. Neil Harding, Jr. Philadelphia, PA (1983)
Donald R. Hibbs Sciota, PA (1991)
Barnabas Marshall Staten Island, NY
Christopher J. Morrison Spencer, MA (1988)
Jerry L. Moyer Wallingford, PA (1992)
Ralph E. Ritter Staten Island, NY (1991)
Brent E. Robinson** Baltimore, MD (1988)
Gene W. Smith Catasauqua, PA (1991)
David H. C. Sng Lansdale, PA
Dennis W. Spinney Dudley, MA (1984)
John C. Studenroth Kutztown, PA (1991)
Allan R. Vivona Harrisburg, PA (1992)
David R. Way Pleasant Valley, NY (1989)
Howard N. Wells Hatfield, PA (1990)
Candidates
Thomas J. Beil Upper Darby, PA
William Crowell Limerick, PA
Wayne A. Davidson Schwenksville, PA
Jimmy D. Head Bethlehem, PA
Kevin K. Gehman Lancaster, PA
Dennis J. Lawrence Sunbury, PA
J. Mark McCreary Stroudsburg, PA
Philip J. Mitchell Allentown, PA
Duane E. Moyer Guadeloupe, West Indies
Thomas A. Pollock Puposky, MN
Jonathan P. Tait Royersford, PA
Thomas F. Templeton Somers Point, NJ
Ronald R. Vining Allentown, PA
Daniel J. Vitalo Reading, PA
J. Richard Vroman Edison, NJ
Applicants
Clyde D. Bomgardner Graterford, PA
Peter C. Fessler Lebanon, PA
Scott Fetterolf Mt. Carmel, PA
Harold F. Noyes Cambridgeport, VT(* Now retired / ** On leave of absence.)
RESOLVED, that payments from the Ministers’ Retirement Fund beginning October 1, 1992 be made at the rate of $174.00 per year of service up to 40 years of service for which the retiree is eligible.
RESOLVED, that the rate of mileage reimbursement remain at $0.20 per mile.
RESOLVED, that the Administrative Budget for October 1, 1992 to September 30, 1993 be adopted. (see page 80)
RESOLVED, that the proposed Administrative Budget for October 1, 1993 to September 30, 1994 be approved for consideration by the churches and agencies for their pledge support, to be made by April 15, 1993. (see page 80)
RESOLVED, that the Conference fiscal year be changed to the calendar year effective January 1, 1994, and that churches and agencies comply if possible.
A service of worship was conducted at 8:00 PM. The congregation joined in singing “Our Great Savior”. LeRoy O. Herb, delegate from our Lebanon church, read Revelation 1:4-8 and led in prayer. Calvin T. Reed then delivered a message based on Revelation 2-3 entitled, “What Christ Thinks of the Church.”
Richard E. Taylor, Secretary of the Board of Church Extension, read the resolution recommending the missions in Holmes, NY, and Edison, NJ, to the Annual Conference to be recognized as Particular Churches. Chairman James A. Beil declared that the vote had been unanimous, and Registrar Willard E. Cassel certified that the delegates had been duly elected. Testimonies and introductions were given, as well as remarks by pastor Robert S. Commerford from Holmes and pastor Dennis M. Cahill from Edison. The chairman led in a prayer of thanksgiving to God.
WHEREAS, the three year term of Charles J. Albert, Jr. as Financial Secretary of the Board of Missions has been completed; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Missions has re-elected him to his second term at the May 19, 1992 Board meeting; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we ratify the election of Charles J. Albert, Jr., as Financial Secretary of the Board of Missions.
RESOLVED, that a memorial for Fred Gibbon be included in the 1992 Year Book.
The Chairman appointed the Board of Missions to prepare the memorial for Fred Gibbon to appear in the first page of the report section in the 1992 Year Book.
The following legislation was adopted at first reading:
NOTE: [ ] Bracketed material is to be deleted. Italic material is to be added.
A. Purpose
Board Of Missions. Purpose. The Board of Missions is delegated by Annual Conference to direct and promote the Missions program of the Bible Fellowship Church and to select, oversee, and care for its missionaries who serve in foreign countries and in the United States of America in ministries other than Bible Fellowship Churches and Agencies, except where cooperative ventures in cross-cultural church planting have been developed with the Board of Church Extension.
C. Election
(Change in last paragraph only.)
The Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Board of Missions shall be elected annually by and from the board of Missions at its organizational meeting. The Chairman, the Executive Secretary, and the Financial Secretary shall [constitute] comprise the Executive Committee of the Board of Missions.
E. Duties of the Chairman of the Board of Missions
1. He shall serve as Chairman of the Executive Committee.
[2. He shall prepare an agenda for each Board meeting in consultation with the Executive Committee.]
2. He shall call Board and Executive Committee meetings and preside at the same.
3. He shall appoint committees as necessary and monitor their progress.
[5. He shall arrange for applicants to be interviewed by the Board of Missions.]
[6. He shall arrange for all missionaries to be interviewed periodically by the Board of Missions.]
4. He shall be responsible to see that the Board’s decisions and policies are implemented.
F. Duties of the Vice-Chairman
He shall fulfill the duties of the Chairman in the absence of the Chairman.
G. Duties of the Executive Secretary of the Board of Missions
1. He shall call for and conduct the election of the Chairman.
2. He shall prepare an agenda for each Board meeting in consultation with the Chairman.
3. He shall arrange for all applicants to be interviewed by this Board.
4. He shall arrange for all missionaries to be interviewed by this Board.
[2]5. He shall [keep] be responsible for an accurate record of the proceedings of this Board’s meetings and [distribute] the distribution of the same to all Board members.
[3]6. He shall be the custodian of the minutes and records of this Board and of the files of the applicants, appointees, and missionaries.
[4]7. He shall be responsible for all correspondence with particular churches, applicants, appointees, missionaries, and others, except correspondence pertaining to financial matters.
[5]8. He shall receive all inquiries and applications for missionary service.
[6]9. He shall be responsible for public relations for this Board and seek to promote interest and involvement in missions among the constituency of the Bible Fellowship Church.
[7]10. He shall seek to know and to minister to the spiritual needs of the missionaries.
[8]11. He shall represent the missionaries and their needs to this Board and to the particular churches.
[9]12. He shall annually submit the Board of Missions Report to the Annual Conference.
[10]13. He shall personally interview missionaries on furlough at the earliest possible time.
(FIRST READING)
WHEREAS, the social and political upheaval in the former Soviet Union (now the C.I.S.) and Eastern Europe has created great opportunities for the proclamation of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; and
WHEREAS, there has been a desperate cry for help from evangelical church leaders for cooperative assistance from evangelicals; and
WHEREAS, history and present world circumstances indicate that these opportunities may only be open for a short time; and
WHEREAS, there are cooperative efforts of evangelical mission boards to develop and to implement strategies to make disciples and to plant churches; and
WHEREAS, the BFC and its particular churches can fully identify with and cooperate with these efforts; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that each pastor and delegate return to their particular church with the challenge to prayerfully regard the opportunities for involvement in the several cooperative efforts of evangelical missions to make disciples and to plant churches in the C.I.S. and Eastern Europe; and be it further
RESOLVED, that each pastor and delegate communicate this urgent need to their Board of Elders and/or Missions Committee to ascertain interest and involvement and to communicate any serious interest and possible participation with the Board of Missions by December 31, 1992.
The following legislation was adopted at first reading:
Duties of the Board of Directors:
1. The Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference shall formulate the objectives and establish the policies for the ministry and operation of the conference.
2. The Board shall be responsible to execute all legal transactions of the conference and manage all business affairs in accord with their own by-laws and subject to the Faith & Order and By-Laws of the Bible Fellowship Church.
3. The Board shall elect a Director who will be responsible for the immediate supervision and operation of the conference.
4. The Chairman shall appoint any necessary committees or sub-committees to carry out their responsibilities.
5. The Board shall hire or terminate all the full-time personnel upon recommendation of the Director and the Personnel Committee.
6. The Board shall establish all full-time personnel salaries and shall approve an annual budget as recommended by the Director and the Finance Committee.
(FIRST READING)
The above material is to be placed in the Faith & Order on p.166.
RESOLVED, that the following legislation be adopted:
h. Each church shall make an annual contribution to Pinebrook Bible Conference. Checks shall be made payable to Pinebrook Bible Conference and sent to the Director, PO Box 1, Stroudsburg, PA 18360.
RESOLVED, that it be placed in the Faith & Order on page 102 according to the provision on amendments on page 183 in the Faith & Order.
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 Bible Conference, and the Board of the Homes.
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 to be made to the Business Manager by December 31, 1992.
RESOLVED, that the cost of the 1992 Year Book be $ 5.50.
RESOLVED, that we recommend that each church pay for its pastor(s) and his wife to attend the 1993 Ministerial Convention of the Bible Fellowship Church.
WHEREAS, the Federal and State governments have adopted legislation entitling any person to draw up legal documents known as Advance Directives in which a person can declare his desires relative to future health care, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc. believes that Christians should declare such directives based on Biblical principles, and
WHEREAS, the Bible Fellowship Church is in a position to offer guidance to its members relative to preparing Advance Directives; therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the Annual Conference appoint a Committee on Advance Directives consisting of seven (7) members, three (3) of which shall come from the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc. and four(4) from the denomination at large. This Committee shall prepare a position paper on the utilization of Advance Directives relative to heroic medical measures and recent trends on euthanasia and shall submit a report to the next Annual Conference.
The chairman appointed the following committee:
Study Committee on Advance Directives
James A. Beil, William G. Schlonecker, Glenn D. Ruoss, Phyllis Clapier, Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Donald T. Kirkwood, George Priestly.
WHEREAS, Pinebrook Junior College closed its educational program on September 30, 1992 after 42 years of distinguished service for the Lord, and
WHEREAS, Pinebrook Junior College is still in the process of selling its remaining property, and thus continues to incur expenses, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that each particular church continue to support the college through diligent prayer and financial giving as needed, and be it further
RESOLVED, that the members of the 109th Annual Conference continue to pray for Pinebrook Junior College, that God would provide a buyer for its remaining property as well as giving wisdom in the conclusion of the work of the college.
WHEREAS, the Cornerstone Bible Fellowship Church of Bangor, PA, has disbanded during the year, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we note with sadness the closing of the Cornerstone Bible Fellowship Church.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches (see page 188). An appended report was presented.
RESOLVED, that the appended report be accepted.
The following person was elected:
Board of Pensions
Joseph L. Dugan (2 years)
RESOLVED, that final payments to the Ministers’ Retirement Fund be made for one/fourth of a year (October, November, and December, 1992) at the rate of 3%. (Note: If the minimum is being paid, the amount to be paid is $157.13).
Report of the Committee to Develop a Guide to Parliamentary Procedure (see page 189)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
RESOLVED, that the paper entitled A Concise Guide to Parliamentary Procedure and the slide rule which is offered be considered the fulfillment of the directives of the 108th Annual Conference for a committee “to develop and distribute a guide on parliamentary procedure for use at Annual Conference.”
RESOLVED, that the paper entitled A Concise Guide to Parliamentary Procedure be published in booklet form by the Board of Publication and Printing.
The following persons were elected:
Board of Pensions
Wayne A. Davidson (1 year)
Jay H. Fasnacht (1 year)
RESOLVED, that we adjourn.
The meeting was dismissed at 10:35 PM with prayer led by R. C. Reichenbach and Richard B. Ravis.
Seventh Meeting
Saturday Morning, November 21, 1992, 9:00 AM
The meeting was called to order at 9:30 AM.
Allan R. Vivona led the conference in singing “Now Thank We All Our God”. Roger L. Reitz read Psalm 103 and led in prayer. Special prayer was offered for the spiritual needs of missionaries Bill Campbell and Shirl Harriman.
Report of the Registrar
Registrar Willard E. Cassel called the roll.
The following men submitted requests for excuses: David A. Thomann, Gilbert J. Vining, James E. Neher, Gregory A. Uhrich, David N. Schoen, Robert S. Commerford, John Dawson, Richard D. Harris, Steven C. Boepple, C.E.Kirkwood, Ralph M. Soper, David Eisenhower, Kenneth F. Barber, Lamar Fetterman, LeRoy S. Heller, James G. Koch, George A. Priestly, Thomas Ward, Timothy D. Cole, Gene W. Smith.
RESOLVED, that we grant all the excuses.
RESOLVED, that the minutes of the fourth, fifth and sixth meeting be adopted as corrected.
Report of the Study Committee on Higher Education (see page 203)
RESOLVED, that the report be accepted.
RESOLVED, that a Committee be appointed, including representation from the Higher Education Study Committee and the Pinebrook Foundation Committee, to prepare legislation for an ongoing Board of Higher Education, which will provide for the support of higher education on both the undergraduate and graduate level through the establishment of the Pinebrook Educational foundation.
RESOLVED, that the same committee be authorized by Annual Conference to negotiate a draft document for an affiliation with Biblical Theological Seminary which may initially include no more than board of trustees representation, Bible Fellowship Church course offerings, and a chaplaincy program. This affiliation shall be further developed by the Board of Higher Education, subject to the approval of Annual Conference.
RESOLVED, that any remaining assets of Pinebrook Junior College, as determined by the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church, be reserved until the establishment of the Pinebrook Educational Foundation.
RESOLVED, that we extend the time.
RESOLVED, that for calendar year 1993, the Board of Pensions be funded by $50,000.00 from the Conference Administrative Budget and a 4% contribution from Churches and Agencies. The 4% contribution will be divided as follows: 1% for Ministers’ Retirement Fund and 3% for Ministers’ Annuity Fund.
WHEREAS, the one hundred eighth (108th) Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church passed the following resolution in its regular session at Pinebrook Bible Conference in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania on October 24, 1991:
“RESOLVED, that all Boards, Committees of Annual Conference and each particular church review the Faith & Order of the Bible Fellowship Church and propose to the 109th Annual Conference changes they desire to have made.” and
WHEREAS, the scope of such a project is beyond the purview of the Board of Publication and Printing to accomplish fully and accurately by itself, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the 109th Annual Conference appoint an Advisory Committee On Revising the Faith & Order consisting of up to five (5) members to assist in coordinating the assembling of the necessary revisions to the Faith & Order and be it further
RESOLVED, that this committee have its work completed by April 30, 1993.
The Chairman appointed the following committees:
Advisory Committee on Reviewing the Faith & Order
Randall A. Grossman, Robert W. Smock, Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, Kenneth L. Good.
Committee to Formulate the Board of Higher Education and Pinebrook Education Foundation
Raymond R. Dotts, Carl C. Cassel, Robert H. Zentz, George K. Monroe, Calvin T. Reed
WHEREAS, the Grace Bible Fellowship Church of Quakertown, PA has graciously hosted the Adjourned Session of the 109th Annual Conference, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that we thank the church for providing for the needs of the Adjourned Session of the 109th Annual Conference.
RESOLVED, that we adjourn.
The 109th Annual Conference was dismissed with prayer by Jansen E. Hartman at 12:50 PM.
Unexcused: Alan Abel, Raymond G. Burnett, Robert Buck, Harold L. Snyder, Jr., Robert Cox, Carl Weaver, Bernard N. Coble, Terris L. Byrd, Albert J. Dommel, John H. Herb, Charles J. McConnell, Austin G. Shelly