Annual Conference Proceedings – 1997
First Meeting
Monday Morning, April 28, 1997, 10:00 AM
The 114th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church was called to order by the Chairman, James A. Beil, at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA. The chairman led the body in the opening prayer. Richard B. Ravis, worship leader for the conference, led the group in singing, “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”, “O For a Thousand Tongues”, and “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”. Dennis W. Spinney preached on the topic, “Humility: The Character of Our Lord” from Philippians 1:27-2:11. David R. Way presided at a service of the Lord’s Supper. Following the reading of I Corinthians 11:23-32, the Lord’s death was remembered through the bread and the cup. The service closed with the singing of, “And Can It Be”.
Report of the Registrar:
RESOLVED, that the tables with red tablecloths constitute the Conference Bar.
The roll of the Annual Conference was established as follows:.
Allentown, Cedar Crest Ronald C. Mahurin, John Elias, John Deily
Bethlehem (Probationer), Mark Tress
Blandon Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Gary W. Saggio
Camden, DE (Vacant), Raymond R. Dotts
Coopersburg Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, Clyde W. Snyder
Denville, NJ Richard D. Harris, Steven C. Boepple
Edison, NJ Dennis M. Cahill, Richard B. Ravis, Ken Zimmerman
Emmaus Ralph M. Soper, David N. Schoen, Ralph Weaver, Gerald Schlonecker
Ephrata Daniel P. Allen, Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ Byron Widger, Herbert Heilmann
Fleetwood R. Jerome Brush, James E. Mortland
Graterford David J. Watkins, W. Robert Buckwalter
Harleysville W. David Armstrong, Jr., Alfred G. Roberts
Harrisburg Allan R. Vivona, Harold E. Snyder
Hatfield Howard N. Wells, Lee E. Boyles
Holmes, NY Robert S. Commerford, Hans Waldvogel
Howell, NJ Harold C. Weaber, Vito Paratore
Kutztown John C. Studenroth, Byron Barnshaw
Lancaster David A. Thomann, Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon Calvin T. Reed, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton William H. Bartron, Bruce A. Kellerman
Maple Glen Louis Prontnicki, Kenneth J. Hurst
Mt. Carmel Alva C. Cassel, James J. Fetterolf
Nazareth Keith E. Plows, Henry U. Sandt
Newark, DE William G. Schlonecker, R. Roger Cole
Ocean County, NJ Dean A. Stortz, David M. Markuson
Oley Kenneth F. Barber, Clayton E. Weber
Paradise (Probationer), Charles Lewis
Philadelphia, Wissinoming G. Wayne Clapier, Eric F. Staudt
Pleasant Valley, NY (Probationer), Wayne Chadwell
Pocono Mt. Ronald C. Erb, Edward Breen
Poughquag, NY James A. Wickstead, Thomas L. Ward
Quakertown David E. Gundrum, L. James Roberts
Reading Randall A. Grossman, Ronald W. Reed, Charles Lavigna
Red Hill (Probationer), D. Thomas Phillips, Clifford W. Luft
Royersford Jacob J. Susek, Kenneth Bowman
Shamokin Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Jere D. Snyder
Sinking Spring Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Donald McKinney
Spring City Carl T. Martin, Douglas Wynne
Stroudsburg Carl C. Cassel, J. Mark McCreary, Robert D. Carroll
Sunbury (Probationer), Dennis J. Lawrence, Timothy Brosious, Robert Cox
Terre Hill Steven L. Trommler, James Wetzler
Wallingford Richard E. Taylor, William R. Singletary
Walnutport Jonathan Tait, Stanley Stahler
Whitehall Gene W. Smith, Calvin A. Boyle
York Kenneth L. Good, Roger L. Shambough
Zionsville Gregory A. Uhrich, Gary E. Karch
Ordained Men Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
Delbert R. Baker, II, James A. Beil, Bert N. Brosius, Barry J. Minsky, Roger L. Reitz, Ralph E. Ritter, Dennis W. Spinney, John C. Vandegriff, Jr., David R. Way, Dana E.Weller, Daniel G. Ziegler
Ordained Men Between Calls
James R. Batchler, Thomas J. Beil, Terris L. Byrd, Bernard N. Coble, Albert J. Dommel, John H. Herb, David H. Jones, James E. Neher
Ordained Missionaries
William C. Aukamp, Clifford B. Boone, Richard J. Gehman, W. Neil Harding, Jim Head, Ronald W. Hoyle, Walter M. Johnston, Herbert K. Lea, Philip E. Morrison, Edward Moyer, Jerry L. Moyer, David W. Riddell, Philip E. Yerrington, Paul G. Zimmerman
Ordained Ministers in Retirement
Leonard E. Buck, Brian H. Butler, Willard E. Cassel, Robert L. Draper, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, Harvey J. Fritz, Jansen E. Hartman, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Robert F. Johnson, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, C. Leslie Miller, William W. Mull, Edgar H. Munyan, R.C.Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A.L.Seifert, Austin G. Shelly, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, Harold D. Yarrington
Probationers Serving as First Pastors of Churches
Brian H. Cooper, Ronald K.Denlinger, Mark L. Morrison, David N. Heineman, Charles Cole, Donald R. Hibbs
The Registrar reported the following requests for excuses:
David E. Gundrum, R.C. Reichenbach, Ronald C. Erb, William C. Aukamp, Clifford B. Boone, Richard J. Gehman, W. Neil Harding, Walter M. Johnston, Herbert K. Lea, Philip E. Morrison, David W. Riddell, Jerry L. Moyer, James Wetzler, R. Jerry Brush, G. Wayne Clapier, Eric F. Staudt, Donald R. Hibbs, Thomas J. Beil, Bernard N. Coble, James G. Koch, J. Barclay Harley, James E. Neher, A.L. Seifert, Leonard E. Buck, Herbert Heilman, Frank L. Herb, George E. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, L. James Roberts, Jere Snyder, Gene W. Smith, Thomas L. Ward, Douglas Wynne.
Resolved, that the excuses be granted.
Report of the Committee on Agenda and Program
Resolved, that the agenda be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Arrangements (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Bert N. Brosius, Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, welcomed the pastors and delegates to the grounds of the conference.
Randall A. Grossman, Secretary of the 114th Annual Conference, appointed the following assistants: Robert W. Smock, Assistant Secretary; Daniel P. Allen and David A. Thomann, Assistants to the Secretary.
The chairman appointed the following committees and positions:
Tellers: Keith E. Plows, Chairman; LeRoy S. Heller, D. Thomas Phillips, William H. Bartron, LeRoy O. Herb, Clyde W. Snyder, Harold E. Snyder, Mark Tress
Communications: Alva C. Cassel, Chairman; Byron Barnshaw, W. Robert Buckwalter, Charles F. Webb
Resolutions: Byron Widger, Chairman; Steven L. Trommler, Dennis M. Cahill, Robert H. Cox, Alfred G. Roberts
Auditing: Robert W. Gehret, Chairman; Horace A. Kauffman, Lee E. Boyles, Henry U. Sandt
Committee to Examine Annual Conference Minutes: Gregory A. Uhrich, Chairman; Gary Karch, Howard N. Wells
Reporter: David N. Schoen
Timekeeper: R. Jerome Brush
Parliamentarians: Jansen E. Hartman and John C. Studenroth
The new members of Annual Conference introduced themselves to the assembly.
Report of the Nominating Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted. Thomas P. Shorb led the conference in prayer for the upcoming elections.
Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, 1:30 P.M.
Randall A. Grossman offered opening prayer.
Report of the Committee on Credentials (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Jonathon W. Arnold and Ronald K. Denlinger for ordination, and
Whereas, these brethren have served acceptably as ministers of the Bible Fellowship Church for the required period of time or the equivalent thereof, and
Whereas, after examination, the Credentials Committee 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 Jonathon W. Arnold and Ronald K. Denlinger be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Resolved, that the service of ordination be held Tuesday, April 29, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. at Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA.
These men were seated in the conference bar.
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The men under the care of the committee introduced themselves to the conference.
Resolved, that the list of men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee as of February 28,1997, be approved as follows:
Probationers (year of licensure in parenthesis)
Jonathon W. Arnold (1994) Reading
Douglas D. Bowne Pottstown
Charles E. Cole (1996) Sunbury
Brian H. Cooper (1996) Bethlehem
Ronald K. Denlinger (1994) Red Hill
Willis I. Dowling Chesapeake, VA
David N. Heineman (1996) Stanfordville, NY
Donald R. Hibbs (1991) Saylorsburg
Kenneth J. Hurst Horsham
Mark L. Morrison (1996) Leola
Richard A. Moyer (1995) Linwood, NJ
Thomas A. Pollock (1996) Puposky, MN
Jeffrey L. Ruhl Nazareth
David H. C. Sng Lansdale
Candidates
Edwin W. Ahlum, Jr. Mt. Pocono
Robert E. Andrews, Jr. Newark, DE
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. Reading
Darryl B. Forsythe Sinking Spring
James W. Harris Quakertown
Donald E. Kuntzman Center Valley
Bruce D. McIntosh York
Duane E. Moyer Guadeloupe, F. W. I.
Robert Patterson, Jr. Saskatchewan, Canada
Hal J. Russell Elmer, NJ
Vinton A. N. Upham Harleysville
Applicants
Timothy S. Cowen Wallingford
John Elias Coopersburg
Peter A. Fessler Lebanon
David J. Parsons York Haven
Report of the Board of Church Extension (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Board of Church Extension is of the opinion that the Aberdeen (Bayshore), New Jersey Mission meets the qualifications of a Particular Church as specified in Article 18 of the Articles of Faith of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Aberdeen (Bayshore), New Jersey Mission be recognized as a Particular Church, and that its delegate be received into membership of the 114th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, the Board of Church Extension is of the opinion that the Scranton, Pennsylvania Mission meets the qualifications of a Particular Church as specified in Article 18 of the Articles of Faith of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Scranton, Pennsylvania Mission be recognized as a Particular Church, and that its delegate be received into membership of the 114th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Report of the Board of Missions (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
A progress report was presented concerning the sale of the former Pinebrook Junior College property and the anticipated debt remaining to the Annual Conference. The conference resolved itself into a committee of the whole. The committee reported and presented the following recommendations which were adopted by the conference:
Resolved, that the Board of Directors prioritize the financial obligations incurred through the closing of Pinebrook Junior College.
Resolved, that the Board of Directors present a plan to this conference for repayment of this debt.
Report of the Board of Higher Education (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc. (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Victory Valley Camp (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Phil Atkins, Director of Victory Valley Camp, made a brief oral report to the conference.
Report of the Board of Pensions (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Richard J. Volpe, member of the Board of Pensions, made a presentation on the investment opportunities available to pastors.
Report of the Stewardship Council (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Strategic Planning Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following persons were elected:
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church
Bert N. Brosius (3 years)
David J. Watkins (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
Robert W. Schaeffer (3 years)
William R. Singletary (3 years)
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc.
William H. Bartron (3 years)
Dennis W. Spinney (3 years)
Strategic Planning Committee
William R. Singletary (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
John C. Studenroth (3 years)
Stewardship Council
Gary E. Karch(3 years)
Resolved, that we adjourn. Robert W. Smock offered a closing prayer at 5:05 P.M.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, 6:30 P.M.
The meeting began with prayer led by David E. Thomann.
Resolved, that the minutes of the first and second meeting be approved.
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
A presentation was made concerning the preparation of a web-site for the Bible Fellowship Church. Options were presented for particular church involvement in this web-site.
Dana E. Weller, Director of Missions introduced the missionaries in attendance. Bringing brief greetings were Byron Barnshaw, Jennifer Bechtel, Ronald Hoyle, Totoram and Felicia Baran, Richard Warner, Paul and Julie Zimmerman, Jim and Lynne Head, Chris and Beckie Merrick, Robert and Lois Draper.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
General Rules of Elections and Resignations
There are three categories of nominees for election to boards and committees. They are ordained ministers, elders, and lay persons.
Ordained ministers who have been called to minister by the rules of Pulpit Supply or who are laboring in any agency of the Bible Fellowship Church shall be eligible for election or appointment to Conference offices, boards, or committees.
An ordained minister who is without a call to a church is eligible to serve in an elective office and on Conference boards and committees as long as he remains on the list of Ordained Ministers Working Under the Direction of the Bible Fellowship Church.
A minister who is granted a leave of absence may serve as a minister in any elected or appointed position only until the next Annual Conference, when a successor will be elected or appointed to fill the unexpired term.
All retired ministers willing to serve are eligible for election to Boards and Committees.
(The next paragraph is replaced by the following):
Elders are men who are serving or who have served and remain eligible for service on the Board of Elders of a Bible Fellowship Church.
Laypersons are men or women who are members in good standing of a Bible Fellowship Church. Laypersons are eligible to serve on a board or committee unless the bylaws of the board or committee limit eligibility to ministers and/or elders. Laypersons need not be members of the Annual Conference in order to serve. The Nominating Committee shall seek assistance from the pastors and boards of elders in obtaining capable candidates for these positions.
(The remainder of the article is unchanged)
(Yes- 105, No- 4) [SECOND READING]
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
1. Ministerial Relations Committee (p. 140, §512-14)
Delete “laymen who are” from the first sentence
Change “layman” to “elder” in the three Classes.
2. Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church (p.141, §512-1)
§1. Composition – Change “laymen” to “elders”.
Change “layman” and “laymen” to “elder” and “elders” in the three Classes.
3. Board of Church Extension (p.157, §512-4)
Change “five laymen” to “five elders” in the first sentence of Composition and Election.
Change “layman” and “laymen” to “elder” and “elders” in the three Classes.
4. Board of Victory Valley (p.165, §512-10)
Change “laymen” to “laypersons” in the first sentence.
Change “laymen” to “laypersons” in the three classes.
5. Board of Publication and Printing (p.166, §512-9)
Change “laymen” to “laypersons” in the Composition and Election paragraph.
Change “layman” to “layperson” in the three Classes.
6. Board of Pensions (1992 Yearbook, §512-7)
Change “four laymen in good standing with their local churches” to “four laypersons” in the paragraph on Composition and Election.
Change “layman” and “laymen” to “layperson” and “laypersons” in the three classes.
7. Nominating Committee (p.175, §512-15)
Change “layman” to “layperson” in the three Classes.
8. Strategic Planning Committee (§512-17)
Delete “layman who are” from the first sentence of Composition and Election. Change “layman” to “elder” in the three Classes.
[SECOND READING]
A brief service of recognition was conducted for the new congregations at Aberdeen (Bayshore), NJ and Scranton.William G. Schlonecker, Secretary of the Board of Church Extension, read the resolutions by which the two missions were received into Annual Conference as particular churches. Chairman Beil reported that these resolutions were adopted by unanimous votes. Registrar Willard Cassel certified that the new churches had elected delegates, who were introduced, with other elders in attendance, to the assembly.E. Davis DeRonde IV is the delegate from Aberdeen, John F. Moran from Scranton. Roger L. Reitz, organizing pastor of the Scranton church, made remarks to the conference. Aberdeen organizing pastor John C. Vandegriff, Jr. also addressed the conference. Several members of the Aberdeen church presented a short dramatic sketch to the conference, which was followed by the greeting of the members of the new churches in attendance by the members of Annual Conference.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned. Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr. closed the meeting with prayer at 8:45 P.M.
The Strategic Planning Committee supervised regional prayer groups for pastors and delegates.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, 9:00 A.M.
The meeting was called to order by the chairman. A time of worship including singing, Scripture, and prayer began the session.
Report of the Registrar
The following men submitted requests to be excused: Paul G. Zimmerman, Stanley Stahler, Jonathon W. Arnold, Kenneth F. Barber, Calvin T. Reed.
Resolved, that we grant the excuses.
The following persons were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee
Keith E. Plows (3 years)
Lee E. Boyles(3 years)
Board of Church Extension
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Homes, Inc.
Glenn D. Ruoss (3 years)
Karen L. Uhrich (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley Camp
Carl J. Fischer, Jr. (3 years)
Jonathan D. Reynolds (3 years)
David L. Weller (3 years)
Board of Missions
Thomas P. Shorb (3 years)
David R. Way (3 years)
Gerald L. Schlonecker (3 years)
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference
Robert F. Johnson (3 years)
Calvin T. Reed (3 years)
Lee E. Boyles (3 years)
John F. Moran (3 years)
Gerald L. Schlonecker (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
Raymond R. Dotts (3 years)
Board of Pensions
Dennis M. Cahill (3 years)
Robert Gaugler (3 years)
William R. Singletary (3 years)
Credentials Committee
James A. Beil (1 year)
Dennis M. Cahill (1 year)
LeRoy S. Heller (1 year)
Keith E. Plows (1 year)
David A. Thomann (1 year)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
David A. Thomann (3 years)
Daniel G. Ziegler (3 years)
Nominating Committee
James H. Herrold (3 years)
Report of the Board of Christian Education (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Historical Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Conference Judicatory (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Director of Church Extension (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes (see page )
Resolved, that the report be adopted.
Report of the Committee on Examination of the Minutes of Particular Churches (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Ministerial Convention Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following persons were elected:
Board of Christian Education
James Harris (3 years)
Annette E. Kuhns (3 years)
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Resolved, that the phrase “Ratification by the congregation of the valuation of church property” be deleted from the Suggested Format for Congregational Meetings, (4). Report of the Board of Elders (Faith and Order, §403-3)
[SECOND READING]
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Required Committees: The Board of Elders of every church shall designate a Pastoral Relations Committee composed of Elders.
PASTORAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
PURPOSE:
1. Encourage the Pastor in his endeavor to minister to the congregation.
2. Promote good relationships between the Pastor and the congregation.
DUTIES
1. Meet at least twice annually.
2. Conduct an annual review with the pastor. The annual review (1994 Yearbook, p.172-177) may be used as a guideline.
3. Receive communication and be a liaison between the pastor, his staff, and the congregation.
4. Annually review with each member of the pastoral staff the adequacy of his compensation and submit a proposed budget for salary and benefits.
[SECOND READING]
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Resolved, that the following legislation replace duty 1 in the Faith and Order (1986 edition) p. 140. Subsequent duties will be renumbered.
1. The committee’s role is to consult and advise churches and pastors in regard to initiating and maintaining the pastoral relationship. The Committee becomes involved in the affairs of a particular church or pastor upon request of:
a. the Board of Elders of the Particular Church.
b. individual elder or elders of the Particular Church.
c. the Pastoral Relations Committee of the Particular Church.
d. the pastor of the Particular Church.
2. The committee may initiate involvement and call a meeting with a pastor, Pastoral Relations Committee, or Board of Elders if the Committee concludes that there are matters threatening the health of the pastoral relationship which are not being adequately addressed by the Particular Church.
a. This request for a meeting shall be in writing.
b. Reasons for the meeting shall be given in writing, if requested by the pastor, Pastoral Relations Committee, or Board of Elders.
[SECOND READING]
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Faith and Order, §512-1.5 Miscellaneous Regulations, replace paragraph (1) with the following:
(1) Primary place of business- The primary place of business of the Corporation shall be designated by the Board of Directors and listed annually in the Yearbook.
[SECOND READING]
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Resolved, that Article I: The Officers of the Church of the Bylaws for Particular Churches (Faith & Order, 1986 Update, p.1 and Faith & Order, 1996 Edition, 401-1.7) be revised to read:
The Board of Elders shall be the channel of communication between the particular church and the fellowship of churches and its organizations. The Elders shall nominate from their number and the congregation shall elect the appropriate number of delegates and alternate delegates based on congregational membership as follows:
1-299 members 1 delegate
300-499 members 2 delegates
500-749 members 3 delegates
750-999 members 4 delegates
1000 and over members 5 delegates
When congregations have more than one delegate, the Board of Elders shall designate one delegate as “First Delegate” for the purposes of pulpit supply procedures. In the event of death, resignation, or removal of the First Delegate, another First Delegate shall be designated from among the remaining delegates.
and be it further
Resolved, that Article V: Members of Annual Conference (Faith & Order, 1986 Update, p.2 and Faith & Order, 1996 Edition, 505-1(6)) be revised to read:
f. Delegates from every properly-constituted church based on congregational membership as follows:
1-299 members 1 delegate
300-499 members 2 delegates
500-749 members 3 delegates
750-999 members 4 delegates
1000 and over members 5 delegates
If a Delegate(s) is unable to attend the Annual Conference or some meetings of Annual Conference, the Alternate Delegate(s), with the permission of the Conference, shall be seated for the Conference or those specified meetings. Unexcused absences shall result in the church forfeiting its representation by an Alternate Delegate during the unexcused absence of the Delegate.
[SECOND READING]
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
Resolved, that we delete the material in the Faith & Order pp. 153 through 157 from “A. Board of Missions — Purpose” through “I. Contributions” and replace with the following (First Reading):
THE BOARD OF MISSIONS
A. 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.
B. Composition
The Board of Missions shall be composed of ten members; namely, the Director, the Financial Secretary, four ordained ministers, and four laypersons.
C. Election
The Director, who must be either an ordained minister or elder, shall be elected for a term of three years by the Board of Missions subject to ratification by the Annual Conference.
The Financial Secretary shall be elected for a term of three years by the Board of Missions, but not necessarily from the Board. If he is elected from outside the Board, he is subject to ratification by the Annual Conference and only then becomes a voting member of the Board of Missions.
Four ordained ministers and four laypersons shall be elected by Annual Conference for terms of three years in the following classes:
I. One minister and one layperson
II. Two ministers and one layperson
III. One minister and two laypersons
The Chairman and Vice-Chairman (who both must be either ordained ministers or elders), Secretary, and Treasurer of the Board of Missions shall be elected annually by and from the Board of Missions at its organizational meeting. The Director is not eligible to serve in these offices.
The Officers of the Board and the Director shall comprise the Executive Committee of the Board of Missions.
D. Duties of the Board of Missions
1. To formulate objectives and policies for the missions program of the Bible Fellowship Church.
2. To interview and examine all prospective candidates for missionary service and to make decisions pertaining to approval and support of individuals who are committed to follow the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.
3. To cooperate with the elders of a Particular Church, the Credentials Committee and the Ministerial Candidate Committee (for men holding ordination or license within the Bible Fellowship Church) and sending agency, in the oversight and spiritual care of the missionaries and appointees serving under the direction of the Board of Missions.
4. To maintain, within the missions program of the Bible Fellowship Church, standards compatible with the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.
5. To supervise and care for financial and administrative matters pertaining to the Board of Missions. It shall solicit, receive, safeguard, and disburse funds related to its mission program.
6. To promote interest and involvement in missions in conjunction with the Particular Churches (e.g., assisting Missions Committees and missionary organizations within the local church).
7. To submit a written report to Annual Conference.
8. To appoint committees as needed for regional and Conference-Wide missionary meetings and/or events.
E. Duties of the Chairman of the Board of Missions
He shall be responsible to convene and preside over meetings and to initiate implementation of policies and decisions made by the Board of Missions and to carry out the responsibilities as outlined in the Policy Handbook of this Board.
F. Duties of the Vice-Chairman of the Board of Missions
He shall fulfill the duties of the Chairman in the absence of the Chairman.
G. Duties of the Director of the Board of Missions
He shall be responsible under the supervision of the Board of Missions for the development of vision, strategy and mobilization for world evangelization among Bible Fellowship Churches and to carry out the responsibilities as outlined in the Policy Handbook of this Board.
H. Duties of the Financial Secretary of the Board of Missions
Under the Director and the Board of Missions, he shall be responsible for overseeing monies received, disbursed, and invested, and to circulate appropriate statements and other reports as directed by the Board of Missions.
I. Contributions
All financial contributions shall be made payable to “BFC Board of Missions” and sent to the Board of Missions.
[SECOND READING]
Philip E. Yerrington, missionary from Spain, brought greetings to the conference.
Report of the Committee to Study the Role of the Ministerial Relations Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the legislation presented by this committee be referred back to the committee.
Resolved, that the Strategic Planning Committee study the administrative structure of the Bible Fellowship Church and bring recommendations to the Annual Conference.
Resolved, that we adjourn. The meeting was dismissed with prayer led by Kenneth L. Good at 12:05 p.m.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, 1:30 p.m.
The meeting was called to order and Ronald W. Reed led in prayer, especially remembering Kinzy
Reed, a former delegate and father of Calvin T. Reed, who has taken a serious fall this morning.
The minutes of the third meeting were accepted.
The following legislation was adopted at second reading:
512-12 Historical Committee
512-12 Composition and Election
(1) It shall be composed of the archivist and five persons (ministers, elders, or laypersons) elected by Annual Conference
(2) They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I – Two Persons
Class II – Two Persons
Class III – One Person
512-16 Stewardship Council
512-16.2 Composition and Election. The Council shall be composed of:
(1) one representative from and chosen by each agency of the Bible Fellowship Church that chooses to be part of the Stewardship Council.
(2) three members at large representing the particular churches of the Bible Fellowship Church and elected by Annual Conference. These persons (ministers, elders, or laypersons) shall be elected to a term of three years, with their terms of office expiring in consecutive years.
[SECOND READING]
Kenneth F. Barber, pastor of the Oley church, read a letter of request from the Oley board of elders.
Whereas, the elders of New Life Bible Fellowship Church, Oley, PA have requested the 114th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church to divide the issues of water baptism and local church membership, accepting into membership those showing evidence of the new birth and spiritual life, therefore be it
Resolved, that a Study Committee on baptism and church membership be formed, composed of a pastor and an elder from the Oley congregation and five members elected by Annual Conference, to study the relationship of baptism and church membership and report to the 115th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, and be it further
Resolved, that this action be the answer of the Annual Conference to the elders of the Oley church.
Byron Barnshaw, delegate from the Kutztown church, presented a request from the Kutztown board of elders to the Annual Conference.
The following persons were elected:
Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church
Raymond R. Dotts (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
W. David Armstrong (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
Dennis J. Lawrence (3 years)
Richard T. Paashaus(3 years)
Board of Missions
Donald S. Faust (1 year)
Strategic Planning Committee
Dana E. Weller (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
Alan H. Russell (1 year)
Board of Publication and Printing
Jonathan P. Tait (3 years)
Conference Judicatory
Carl C. Cassel (5 years)
Robert H. Zentz (5 years)
Committee on Nominations
Roger L. Reitz (3 years)
Report of the Study Committee on Inter-Cultural Ministries (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Luis Philip Martinez, an Hispanic church planter, addressed the conference. He is serving as a consultant for the committee in seeking to form Hispanic Bible Fellowship congregations.
Whereas, monies are needed to plant ethnic Bible Fellowship Churches, and
Whereas, the Committee believes that God has provided opportunities and desires the church to reach the differing people groups in our land, therefore be it
Resolved, that each Pastor and Delegate of Annual Conference, if they have not established a line item in their budgets for ethnic church planting, work with their churches to budget monies for ethnic church planting in this year , which may be forwarded to the Board of Missions.
Whereas, the work of the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee is not yet complete,
Resolved, that the 114th Annual Conference direct the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee to continue its work.
Whereas, the prospects for planting Hispanic Bible Fellowship churches are becoming a reality and,
Whereas, a number of Bible Fellowship Churches are ministering in areas where Hispanic communities exist,
Resolved, that the Board of Publication and Printing be prepared to publish the “Articles of Faith” in Spanish in 1997.
Whereas, we believe the “Biblical Principles for Living” represent God’s intended principles by which we should live, and
Whereas, we believe that the “Biblical Principles for Living” should be urgently and diligently taught to our congregations,
Resolved, each pastor and delegate seek ways to implement the teaching of the “Biblical Principles for Living” to their congregations and further,
Resolved, that as “Biblical Principles for Living” are studied and taught, any discovery of problem areas, suggestions for additions, or clarifications of text, should be communicated to this Committee for consideration prior to Second Reading. These communications should be addressed to David E. Gundrum, Secretary of the Committee.
The following was adopted at First Reading:
The Family
The family was divinely ordained by God at creation and is basic in God’s dealings with man. God’s revealed pattern for the family is the marriage of one man and one woman and includes their children and others who may reside with them. Each marriage establishes a new family1.
The foundation for right relationships in the family is submission one to another out of reverence for Christ2. The husband is the head of the family as Christ is the head of the church. As such, he should fear the Lord; love, nurture, and encourage his family; provide materially for them; take the lead in burden bearing and problem solving; and through godly living and prayer give them wise and effective spiritual leadership3. He is to love his wife and live with her in a compassionate and understanding way4. The wife should fear the Lord5, submit to and respect her husband as the church is to submit to Christ6, and demonstrate loving and diligent concern for her household7.
The biblical pattern for a married couple is to have children and to manage the home8. Some may elect not to have children for valid reasons. Other couples may be providentially prevented from having children. In either case the church must not be judgmental9. Where married couples choose to use artificial birth control, great care must be exercised to use only those forms which clearly do not cause an abortion10.
When more than one income seems necessary and added employment is considered, the couple must carefully evaluate the impact on their relationship and children11. The decision should be made only after prayer, interaction12, and mutual consent13.
Within the church there exist family units that require special attention and mercy from the church. With prayer, loving support, wise counsel, and God’s abundant grace these families can be nurtured14. The church must gladly and unwaveringly supply comfort, encouragement, affirmation, and deep fellowship for all family units.
Children are gifts and blessings from God15. The family is the primary setting in which to nurture children in the faith. Great care is to be exercised by parents, and by fathers in particular, to build Christian families and lead them in worship16. The father is not to exasperate his children17, but to bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord18.
The instruction and guidance of children is the duty of parents19. Fathers are primarily responsible for exercising leadership in the maturing of children20, and preparing them for service in the churchand for living all of life for the glory of God21. Mothers share with husbands the raising of children22. The Scriptures also encourage grandparents to assist in the training and instruction of their grandchildren23.
Children are to obey their parents in respect and love24. As long as they live, sons and daughters are to honor their parents with loving concern and material care25.
Christian homes are manifestations of the kingdom of God and each believing family member is an ambassador of the King, to call lost men, women, and children to reconciliation26. We should open our homes in vigorous and sustained hospitality to the unsaved as well as to the saved27. Genuine compassion and Christian service will involve taking carefully measured risks28, but such risks are never a legitimate excuse for cold-heartedness.
1 Gen.2:23, 24; Mat. 19:4-6
2 Eph. 5:21
3 Pro.4:1-4, 10, 20-23; Eph.5:22-33; 1 Tim.5:8
4 1 Pet.3:7; Eph.5:25
5 Pro.31:30
6 Eph.5:22; 1 Pet. 3:1
7 Pro.31:27
8 Gen.1:27, 28; 1 Tim.5:14; Tit.2:3-5
9 Rom.14:1-23; 1 Cor.7:1, 7, 8
10 Exo.20:13
11 1 Tim.5:8
12 Pro.11:14; 15:22
13 1 Pet.3:1-9
14 Psa.10:14; Rom.15:1, 2; Gal.6:10
15 Gen.4:1; 33:5; Psa.113:9; 127:3-5
16 Josh.24:15
17 Eph.6:4; Col.3:21
18 Pro.22:6; 29:15; Eph.6:4; Col.3:21
19 Deu.5:28, 29; 6:1-9
20 Isa.38:19; Eph.6:4; Col.3:21
21 1 Tim.3:4, 5, 12; Col. 3:17,23
22 Pro.1:8; 6:20
23 Deu.4:9; Psa.78:4-7; 2 Tim.1:5
24 Exo.20:12; Eph.6:1-3
25 Mark 7:9-13; 1 Tim.5:4, 8
26 2 Cor.5:18-21
27 Pro.11:30; Gal.6:10; Heb.13:2; 1 Pet.4:7-11
28 Mat.25:14-30 (Yes 117, No 10) [FIRST READING]
Resolved, that we adjourn. The meeting was dismissed with prayer led by Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. at 5:15 p.m.
Sixth Meeting
Wednesday Morning, 9:00 a.m.
The meeting was called to order. “Revive Us Again” was sung and prayer was led by Richard T. Paashaus. Following the singing of “Jesus, Lover of My Soul”, Robert S. Commerford addressed the conference on the theme, “Humility: The Proper Worship of God”.
Report of the Registrar
The following men submitted requests to be excused: Vito Paratore, Mark Morrison, Charles Lewis.
Resolved: that we grant the excuses.
The minutes of the fourth meeting were approved.
The following persons were elected:
Historical Committee
Daniel G. Ziegler (3 years)
Chairman of Annual Conference
Randall A. Grossman (1 year)
The following was adopted at first reading:
Civil Government
God, the King of Kings, has established civil government to be under His authority, over people for the public good, and to carry out His sovereign will1. He has revealed in His Word how this government should function in order to provide for a peaceful, orderly society in which the Gospel might spread2; protect the law-abiding people from the law-breakers by punishing the evildoers3; and bring justice and help to the defenseless, poor, and needy of society4.
God requires all people to submit to the civil government. People must pay taxes for the support of government functions5; they must give respect and honor to government officials6; and they must be obedient and helpful citizens of society7.
Christians have special responsibilities toward the civil government, including praying for those in authority over them8, exposing corruption and wickedness in government9, and bringing a godly influence to bear upon the government10. This means setting a godly example as a citizen, raising a biblical voice on issues, accepting positions of leadership when appropriate, and, under a democratic government, voting wisely. The exercise of these responsibilities should demonstrate a Christian’s sensitive consideration of the views of others in love without violence and without forsaking biblical principles or the priority of glorifying God.
A Christian’s ultimate allegiance must be to God, for the government’s authority over the believer is limited by God’s prescribed boundaries11. Therefore, a believer may find it necessary at times to disobey human authority in order to heed God’s higher laws, bearing the cost or sacrifice involved12.
All Christians have dual citizenship; they are citizens of an earthly nation, and of the kingdom of God13. Both of these citizenships have their privileges and responsibilities, and it is possible to cooperate with civil government without compromising biblical principles14. Yet, when the believer is forced to choose between the two, he must submit to Jesus as Lord. For one day, every knee will bow to Him, and even today, he rules sovereignly over the affairs of civil government15.
1 Psa.24:1; Pro.21:1; Dan.4:31-37; Mat.28:18; John 19:11; Acts 17:24; Rom.13:1-4; 1 Pet.2:13, 14
2 1 Tim.2:1-4
3 Gen.9:6; Rom.13:3-5; 1 Pet.2:14; Pro.24:23-25
4 Pro.29:14; 31:8-9
5 Rom.13:6, 7; Mat.22:15-22
6 Rom.13:7; 1 Pet.2:17
7 Gen.41:46-57; Jer.29:7; Tit.3:1, 2
8 1 Tim.2:1, 2
9 Pro.25:5; Dan.4:27; Luke 3:19
10 Pro.11:11; Dan.2:40-49; Mat.5:13-16; Luke 3:12-14
11 Exo.20:1-7; Deu.6:4-5; Luke 20:25; Rom.13:1, 2
12 Dan.3:8-18; Acts 5:29
13 Jer.29:7; Phil.3:20
14 Dan.1-6
15 Pro.21:1; Isa.43:13; Phil.2:9-11; 1 Pet.3:22 [FIRST READING]
The following was adopted at first reading:
Shared Life
Each believer belongs to Jesus Christ and to every other believer1. This belonging is a relationship to God the Father2, God the Son3, God the Holy Spirit4 and to all who belong to God5. This relationship is not the result of human effort, but begins with being born from above6 and is the living out of the divine nature7 under the Lordship of Christ and the authority of His revealed Word8. It unites all believers to one another and causes them to be different from their world9.
The union with the Lord and with one another is spiritual. The relationship of each believer with the Lord is the basis for the relationship between believers10 in sharing truth11, love12, and possessions13. It is dependence not self-sufficiency and interdependence not independence14. Participation in this life affects every believer and church15 and impacts their ministry in the world and to the world16.
Shared life is a privilege and a responsibility17. The life of the church, therefore, must be a renewing, God-glorifying celebration of life in Christ and a spiritual participation with other believers18. Sharing this life in the presence of God is worship19 and demands the loving exercise of spiritual gifts20 as well as realization that we are responsible to one another before God21. The exercise of these gifts builds up one another and equips the saints for the Lord’s work22. Because this responsibility and accountability are necessary for the church to grow in godliness23, discipline must be practiced in every community of believers24. Not to do so brings the very name of Christ into dishonor25.
Responding in mercy, carrying each other’s burdens26, is also a responsibility and privilege of all believers to one another, and causes them to love, care, share, and be involved with one another27. All believers, and the church as a body, must recognize, accept, and practice the spiritual responsibilities of being one in Christ, no matter how deeply a fellow believer has fallen into sin or the miseries of this world28.
Every believer is a member of the body of Christ and must be joyfully and personally responsible to live a life of loyalty to the Lord of the church29, to His Word30 and involvement in its minstry31 and purpose32. This responsibility, although primarily focused on the local body, extends beyond the particular church to other bodies of believers33. Because this is true, the shared life of the church breaks down the barriers of race, class, culture, ethnicity, gender, and geography, for all believers are one in Christ34.
1 Rom.1:6; 12:4,5
2 1 John 1:3
3 Rom.6:3,4
4 1 Cor.12:13
5 1 Pet.2:9,10
6 John 3:3,5
7 1 Pet.1:4
8 1 John 1:7
9 1 Cor.10:14-22; 2 Cor.6:14,15
10 Eph.2:11-16; Rom.15:5-7
11 Eph.4:14-16
12 1 John 3:13-18
13 Acts 4:32-35; 2 Cor.8:1-5
14 1 Cor.12:14-27
15 Acts 2:44-47
16 2 Cor.8:23; Phil.1:5; Phi.6; Heb.13:16
17 Gal.5:13-16
18 1 John 1:1-4
19 Rom.12:1,2
20 1 Pet.4:10
21 Rom.12:3-13:10
22 Eph.4:11-16
23 1 Tim.6:11,12
24 1 Cor.5:12,13
25 Acts 5:11
26 Gal.6:2; Heb.13:16
27 Eph.4:31-5:2
28 2 Cor.2:7,8; Gal.5:25-6:2; Phi.10,11,15,16
29 1 Cor.12:6-11
30 John 10:3-5
31 Phil.1:27
32 Acts 11:19-26; Phil.4:14-16; Col.2:1,2; 1 Pet.5:9
33 Acts 13:1-4
34 Gal.3:27,28; Eph.2:14-16 [FIRST READING]
The above articles are to be placed in the appendix to the Faith & Order entitled, “Biblical Principles for Living.”
Report of the Beneficiary Society (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Basile Corporation is proceeding with clearing the contingencies in the contract dated December 30, 1996, for the purchase of 5.711 acres at Pinebrook Junior College; and
Whereas, they have requested a thirty-day extension of the period of investigation to May 30 and delay of settlement to July 30 because of the problems created by the sewer moratorium; and
Whereas, the Board of Directors has no resources with which to meet operating expenses on the property; and
Whereas, the Annual Conference has requested a more concise prioritization of the debt on this property; therefore be it
Resolved, that as previously indicated the debts remaining be paid in the following order:
(1) Debts to banks
(2) Debts to other individuals and organizations not part of BFC organizations
(3) Debts to ourselves; and further
Resolved, that in order that money be received now to cover carrying costs of the property and the accumulation of further debt be reduced, each pastor and delegate commit himself to urge his Board of Elders to pay, in 1997, 115% of their church pledge to the 1997 Conference Administration Budget; and further
Resolved, that we authorize the Board of Directors to obtain a line of credit through interest-free loans and/or assessments from BFC agencies to pay operating costs until complete liquidation of this property; and further
Resolved, that the Board of Directors be instructed to make plans for the complete liquidation of all remaining debt.
Several men led in prayer that God would grant wisdom and provide guidance to resolve this problem.
The following persons were elected:
Historical Committee
Jill Davidson (3 years)
Vice Chairman of Annual Conference
Carl C. Cassel (1 year)
Secretary of Annual Conference
David A. Thomann (1 year)
Study Committee on Baptism and Church Membership
Carl C. Cassel
Donald T. Kirkwood
Calvin T. Reed
Ronald W. Reed
John C. Studenroth
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned. The meeting was adjourned at 12:05 p.m.
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday Afternoon, 1:30 p.m.
Calvin T. Reed opened the meeting with prayer. The chairman also prayed and invited those whose hearts the Lord had moved to pledge or give a gift to meet the need the conference is facing concerning the debt from Pinebrook Junior College’s closing.
The minutes of the fifth meeting were approved.
The following legislation was adopted at first reading:
512-14.3 Conference Pastor
The Conference Pastor shall be an ordained minister of the Bible Fellowship Church. He may, at the discretion of the Ministerial Relations Committee, serve either full-time or part-time.
He shall be elected for a three-year term by the Ministerial Relations Committee and his election shall be ratified by the Annual Conference. He shall not be a member of the Ministerial Relations Committee but shall serve under the direction of the committee, where full authority shall reside.
Duties
(1) He shall, in the performance of his duties, work according to policies and directives of the Ministerial Relations Committee.
(2) He shall, as requested by the committee, represent the Ministerial Relations Committee in its dealings with pastors and churches.
(3) He shall be a pastor to the pastors in order to encourage the men and to maintain a harmonious relationship between each church and pastor.
(4) He shall meet with boards of elders and pastoral search committees to aid them in their search for a pastor. He shall:
(4.1) Be knowledgeable of men available as potential candidates, including men newly licensed by the Ministerial Candidate Committee.
(4.2) Communicate to potential candidates information on open churches.
(4.3) Keep pastoral search information current.
(5) He shall encourage ongoing ministry training for pastors, including regional ministeriums for pastors and wives.
(6) He shall be available as a resource to local pastoral relations committees in the fulfillment of their duties.
(7) He shall be available to meet with boards of elders for consultation, evaluation, and advice.
(Yes-88, No-22) [FIRST READING]
Resolved, that the recommended minimum salary for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including benefits, be $22,725 for 1997 (a 3.0% increase).
Resolved that an Ordination Service be held Tuesday, April 28, 1998 at the Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA during the 115th Annual Conference.
Resolved that Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Reading, and the Community Bible Fellowship Church,, Red Hill, be encouraged to have services acknowledging the Ordination of Jonathon W. Arnold and Ronald K. Denlinger respectively and that they be encouraged to invite the Credentials Committee to send representation to be present at the services.
Resolved, that the rate of mileage reimbursement remain at 22¢ per mile.
Resolved, that the revised Administrative Budget for January 1, 1997 to December 31, 1997 be adopted.
Resolved, that the revised proposed Administrative Budget for January 1, 1998 to December 31, 1998 be approved for submission to the churches for their pledges.
Proposed Administrative Budgets
Pledged
Jan.1, 1997 to Jan.1, 1998 to Dec.31, 1997 Dec.31, 1998
1. Beneficiary Fund $ 500 $ 500
2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 500 500
3. Ministerial Convention 1,000 1,000
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 28,000 30,000
Total $ 30,000 $ 32,000
1a. Conference Entertainment $ 5,000 $ 5,000
1b. Conference Expense 3,750 3,750
2. Moving Fund 0 0
3. Fund to Assist Churches 100 100
Total $ 8,850 $ 8,850
1. Publication & Printing $ 4,000 $ 3,500
2. Expenses of Committees
a. Chaplaincy Expenses 700 700
b. Stewardship Council 0 0
c. All other Expenses 6,000 6,000
3. Expenses, Board of Directors 1,200 1,200
4. M.C.C. Internship Fund 750 750
5. Historical Committee 1,000 1,000
6. Contingencies $ 14,611 $ 13,000
Total $ 28,261 $ 26,150
PJC Debt 10,566 21,200
Total Budget $ 77,677 $ 88,200
Resolved, that the Annual Conference ratify the election to the Pinebrook Educational Foundation of Keith W. Johnson, Robert C. Newman, and Olivia Barnes, for terms expiring in 2000, 2000, and 1999, respectively.
Whereas, the MRF annuity rate for 1997 was $190.00 per year of service, and
Whereas, partial cost of living adjustments are part of the long-term phaseout strategy of the MRF, therefore be it
Resolved, that the MRF annuity rate for calendar year 1998 be $194 per year of service.
Whereas, it is God’s will that the ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church be strengthened to more effectively minister to our nation and our world, and
Whereas, numerical growth as well as the expansion of the geographical perimeters of the Bible Fellowship Church require change in leadership structures to carry out such ministry, and
Whereas, growth and leadership potential can be enhanced by the joining of mutually-connected churches within our larger fellowship of churches, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the 114th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church direct the Strategic Planning Committee to prepare legislation for regionalization in the Bible Fellowship Church at first reading for the 115th Annual Conference.
Addition to the Report of the Strategic Planning Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the addition to the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the Proposed Budget of the Board of Publication and Printing for conference year January 1 to December 31, 1998 be adopted.
1998 Proposed Budget
Receipts:
Subsidy – Administration Budget $ 4,500
From Boards & Committees 1,800
From Churches 10,000
Fellowship News Sponsors 2,000
Yearbook Sales 4,400
Yearbook Sponsors 1,000
Faith & Order Sales 500
Church Supplies 830
Internet Income 770
Interest 100
Total Income $ 25,900
Expenditures:
Fellowship News
Layout & Design $ 2,300
Printing 9,800
Mailing 1,500
Editor’s Expense 200
Editor’s Honorarium 1,000
Annual Conference Expenses 500
Business Manager Expenses 100
Honorariums 200
Board Expenses 600
Church Supplies 2,500
Faith & Order Updates 400
Yearbook 5,500
On-line Services 770
Warehouse 300
Contingencies 230
Total Expenses 25,900 Resolved, that a contribution of three-hundred dollars for the conference year 1998 be given to the Board of Publication and Printing from each Agency to help underwrite the cost of printing and distributing the Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Business Manager, by December 31, 1997.
Whereas, the Board of Publication has not sought an increase in the Fellowship News contribution in several years, and
Whereas, the amount presently received is not covering the cost, and
Whereas, in the 1996 Yearbook (page 128) the Board inadvertently noted the wrong Conference year, therefore be it
Resolved, that one-dollar-and-fifty cents per member of the Bible Fellowship Church for 1997 be forwarded to the Board of Publication and Printing from each church to help underwrite the cost of printing and distributing the Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Business Manager at the 114th Annual Conference.
Resolved, that the price of the 1997 Yearbook be $7.00 per copy.
The following legislation was adopted at first reading:
512-9.2 (4) It shall receive revenue from Fellowship News subscriptions and sponsors, contributions from boards contributing to the publication of Fellowship News, sale and sponsors of Annual Conference Yearbook or other Conference literature authorized to be produced and sold by Annual Conference, and an appropriation from the Annual Conference Administrative Budget.
[FIRST READING]
The following legislation was adopted at first reading:
Whereas, it is preferable for the reports of the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches and Committee on Statistics to be compiled in time for insertion in the Report Book, therefore be it
Resolved, that 403-1.5 be changed to read: [change in bold]
403-1.5 The secretary shall keep adequate and accurate minutes of all congregational meetings. The Board of Elders shall ensure that a copy of the minutes of all congregational meetings held during the year is sent to the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches. The copy(ies) shall be delivered to the designated address by the date set by Annual Conference.
Resolved, that 511-1.3 be changed to read:
(3) “It shall meet prior to Annual Conference.”
Resolved, that 511-1.4 be changed to read:
(3) “It shall meet prior to Annual Conference . . .”
[FIRST READING]
Whereas, it is preferable for the reports of the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches and Committee on Statistics to be compiled in time for insertion in the Report Book for the next Annual Conference, therefore be it
Resolved that by the rule of exception the proposed changes be implemented for the 115th Annual Conference, and further
Resolved, that the arrival date of the Pastor’s Statistical Report and Congregational meetings’ minutes be changed to March 1. (Yes- 101, No-10)
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, Committees and Agencies have their reports to the designated distribution point by February 28, 1998.
Resolved, that the 115th Annual Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA, April 27-29, 1998 beginning at 10:00 AM on Monday.
The minutes of the sixth meeting were approved.
Whereas, the Elders of the Kutztown Bible Fellowship Church have requested the guidance of Annual Conference in clarifying the intended meaning of Article 103-1.1 regarding “stated meetings” and whether those listed are mandatory for every local congregation and
Whereas, the list of stated meetings – Sunday School, Morning Worship, Evening Service, and Prayer Meeting – is a list of services that have been typical in Bible Fellowship congregations, but it is unclear whether the list was intended to be considered mandatory, and
Whereas, Annual Conference has not brought congregations under discipline which have not included all these services in their schedule, and
Whereas, this legislation was prepared before particular churches came to be ruled by a local Board of Elders, and
Whereas, it is the responsibility of the Board of Elders in a particular church to structure services and ministries that fulfill the commands of Scripture and that effectively serve the people in the congregation and the community, therefore be it
Resolved, that the phrase “which include Sunday School, Morning Worship, Evening, and Prayer Meeting” be deleted from 103.1-1 at First Reading and be it further
Resolved, that the board of elders of a particular church shall determine which services and ministries best minister to the spiritual needs of the congregation and community, and be it further
Resolved, that this be the answer of the Annual Conference to the request of the Kutztown elders.
Report of the Committee on Statistics
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Auditing (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Communications (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions
Whereas, our brother, Dr. George K. Monroe, went home to be with Jesus on August 23, 1996 after a life of dedicated Christian service as a Christian professor at Kutztown University, as an elder and delegate from the Kutztown Bible Fellowship Church, as a charter member of our Board of Higher Education, and as an ever-cheerful grammarian for legislation drafted at Annual Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks for the grace of God that redeemed and transformed this man into a model servant to his wife, family, local church, denomination, and many others, including many Kutztown University students, and further
Resolved, that we honor the memory of Dr. George Monroe by encouraging donations to the Pinebrook Educational Foundation Memorial Scholarship Fund, and further
Resolved, that we remember his widow, Phyllis, and his children, Karl and Becky, in our prayers.
Whereas, a significant portion of the Pinebrook Junior College property remains unsold and
Whereas, the proceeds from the pending sale of a portion of the property will not be sufficient to pay all the debt incurred in maintaining the property once occupied by Pinebrook Junior College, and
Whereas, it is urgent that the remaining debt be retired, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for His provision and urge our congregations to pray fervently for God’s wisdom in the disposal of the remaining property and in the complete payment of all debt related to it.
Whereas, the Pinebrook Educational Foundation utilizes its endowments and resources to promote Christian higher education, therefore be it
Resolved, that we promote this organization in our churches and encourage those seeking Christian higher education to consider the Foundation’s resources.
Whereas, the Board of Higher Education continues to seek ways to promote Christian higher education and
Whereas, one effort involved the “Pastoral Intern Partnership”, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the first official intern under this program, Peter Gunderson, and for Carl T. Martin, his supervisor
Whereas, Jonathon W. Arnold and Ronald K. Denlinger were ordained Tuesday evening to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we offer praise to the Lord for these gifted men He has called and be steadfast in praying for them.
Whereas, both the Aberdeen (Bayshore) NJ mission and the Scranton mission were recognized as Particular Churches, therefore be it
Resolved, that we rejoice in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church, and in His gracious work of adding these local churches to fulfill His mandate of making disciples.
Whereas, the pastors of both the Aberdeen, NJ (Bayshore) and Scranton, PA churches gave praise to the Lord for the part that other Bible Fellowship Churches played in their growth and
Whereas, our denomination is a fellowship of churches committed to helping each other, therefore be it
Resolved, that as churches within the fellowship we seek to help each other whenever possible and continually pursue the spiritual well-being of our sister churches.
Whereas, the Director of Church Extension has expressed great hope in the potential of the Bible Fellowship Church to expand in Pennsylvania and others states, and
Whereas, the Director has indicated that funds for such expansion are not readily available, therefore be it
Resolved, that each church carefully and prayerfully consider giving at least 5% of its budget to Church Extension.
Whereas, there is a growing ethnic diversity in many of our communities and churches and
Whereas, the gospel is intended for all nations and peoples and
Whereas, the Department of Church Extension, the Board of Missions, and the Intercultural Study Committee have expressed a continuing burden for ethnic ministry, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the growing ethnic diversity of the Bible Fellowship Church and further,
Resolved, we continue to support and pray for the work of ethnic church planting and ministry in the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, Salem Bible Fellowship Church in Allentown has closed after 95 years of faithful service to our Lord, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the ministry of Salem Bible Fellowship Church and further be it
Resolved, that we pray for the wise use of the properties and assets of the Salem church in the furtherance of God’s Kingdom.
Whereas, there is presently one Bible Fellowship Church without a pastor, Camden, DE, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for providing shepherds for His flock and further be it,
Resolved, that we pray that He would provide a pastor for the Camden church.
Whereas, the mission in Brooklyn, NY has requested and been accepted as a mission under the Church Extension Department, and
Whereas, the Brooklyn, NY mission is a vibrant and growing work and
Whereas, this new congregation is in need of a pastor, therefore be it
Resolved, that we pray that the Lord would provide a pastor for that congregation.
Whereas, the Lord provided for Victory Valley Camp through the rebuilding of Victory Hall, and
Whereas, Victory Valley was enabled by our God and through the generosity of God’s people to acquire a new property which enhances the ministry of the camp and provides for the needs of Director, Phil Atkins’, family, therefore be it
Resolved, that we praise the Lord for His faithful provision for His people.
Whereas, Jansen E. Hartman has served on the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church for 45 years, and
Whereas, Carl C. Cassel has served as a member of the Ministerial Candidate Committee for 38 years beginning in 1958, and
Whereas, R.C. Reichenbach has promoted the spread of the good news of Jesus Christ as chairman for the last 26 of his 27 years of service on the Board of Missions, and
Whereas, Jay H. Fasnacht, after 19 years on the Board of Directors, has retired, and
Whereas, John and Edna Moran and David E. and Polly Thomann have worked and volunteered for Pinebrook Bible Conference for many years, and
Whereas, Robert W. Smock has served on the Board of Church Extension for over a quarter-century, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the faithful service, able leadership, and humble participation of these saints under the headship of Jesus Christ in the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, the conference-wide Women’s Missionary Society has been ably served by Reba Deily, Kathlyne Stortz and Polly Thomann, officers who resigned due to health reasons, and
Whereas, Robert Breitegam retired after 40 years of faithful service to the Board of Missions, and
Whereas, four veteran missionary couples, Barclay and Judy Harley, Len and Nina Buck, and Brian and Maureen Butler, Roy and Diane Hertzog retired during the past year, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the service of these to the cause of world missions and pray God’s blessing upon them.
Whereas, James G. Koch has faithfully served our Lord through the Bible Fellowship Church and
Whereas, prior to the 114th Annual Conference he retired from ministry with the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we rejoice together and give thanks for the partnership of Brother Koch in the gospel.
Whereas, the staff and volunteers of the Pinebrook Bible Conference have readily and cheerfully served the members of the 114th Annual Conference, and
Whereas, the youth group from Lebanon Bible Fellowship Church helped clean Pinebrook Bible Conference on Sunday so we could comfortably hold Annual Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we note with thanksgiving the helpful service of these who have labored to care for us.
Whereas, the pages (J. Mark McCreary, Head Page; Clyde D. Bomgardner, Assistant Head Page; Robert E. Andrews, Jonathon W. Arnold, Timothy S. Cowen, William J. Dunn, James W. Harris, Jeffrey L. Ruhl, Mark S. Tait, William J. Whalen) have served our conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we acknowledge to them our appreciation for their efforts and give thanks to the Lord for their fellowship in His service.
Whereas, the Secretary of Annual Conference and his assistants have labored diligently to prepare the Yearbook, therefore be it
Resolved, that the Board of Publication and Printing give an honorarium of $50 each to the secretary and his assistants.
Whereas, James A. Beil has again served with distinction as Chairman of the 114th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that the members of Annual Conference show their appreciation of brother Beil with a standing ovation.
Whereas, God’s grace continues to uphold our Conference and God has granted us opportunity to serve Him, therefore be it
Resolved, that the members of the 114th Annual Conference express gratitude to the Lord for His care and determine to humbly labor together by the strength He allows.
The following appointments were made:
Registrar
Willard E. Cassel
Assistant Registrar
J. Mark McCreary
Annual Conference Advisory Committee
Thomas P. Shorb, Carl C. Cassel
Agenda and Program Committee
David A. Thomann, Randall A. Grossman, Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, Richard D. Harris, Carl C. Cassel
Arrangements Committee
David A. Thomann, Daniel P. Allen, Thomas P. Shorb, Randall A. Grossman, Willard E. Cassel, J. Mark McCreary, James A. Beil
Committee on Statistics
LeRoy S. Heller, Willard E. Cassel, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Calvin T. Reed, David A. Thomann, Daniel G. Ziegler, W. David Armstrong, Frank L. Herb, Jr.
Committee on the Minutes of Particular Churches
Ralph M. Soper, Ronald C. Erb, Thomas J. Beil, Jacob J. Susek, Ralph E. Ritter, Jonathan P. Tait
The Secretary for the Conference Judicatory for 1997 is Ronald C. Mahurin.
Resolved, that we adjourn. The 114th Annual Conference was adjourned with prayer led by Randall A. Grossman at 3:55 p.m.
Willard E. Cassel led in a closing prayer at 12:05 P.M.