Annual Conference Proceedings – 1998
First Meeting
Monday Morning, April 27, 1998, 10:00 AM
The 115th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church was called to order by the Chairman, Randall A. Grossman, at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA. The chairman led the body in the opening prayer. Richard T. Paashaus, worship leader for the conference, led the group in singing: “We Bring the Sacrifice of Praise” and “O, For a Thousand Tongues to Sing.” He was accompanied by organist, Robert W. Gehret, pianist, Carol Snyder and a brass quintet. LeRoy S. Heller and Frank L. Herb prayed for the pastors and the churches of the Bible Fellowship Church. The conference sang “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” David E. Thomann and Roy A. Hertzog prayed for the agencies and missionaries of the Bible Fellowship Church. Richard T. Paashaus read from Exodus 3:1-15. The conference sang “Great is the Lord.” The Chairman spoke on “Confidence in God’s Character.” Carl C. Cassel led in prayer.
The Chairman appointed J. Mark McCreary to serve as Registrar and Jonathon Arnold, Sr. as Assistant Registrar for the 115th Annual Conference.
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:.
Aberdeen (Bayshore), NJ John C. Vandegriff, Jr., E. Davis DeRonde
Allentown, Cedar Crest Ronald C. Mahurin, John Elias, David T. Allen
Bethlehem *Brian H. Cooper, Mark Tress, Rick Davis
Blandon Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Gary W. Saggio
Brodheadsville (Probationer), Randy Sheagley
Camden, DE Dennis J. Lawrence, 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, Joseph Knorr
Emmaus David N. Schoen, Ralph M. Soper, 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, Douglas Bowne
Harleysville W. David Armstrong, Jr., Steve Kauffmann
Harrisburg Allan R. Vivona, Harold E. Snyder
Hatfield Howard N. Wells, Lee E. Boyles
Holmes, NY Robert S. Commerford, Hans Waldvogel
Howell, NJ (Vacant), 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, Lawrence Morris
Mt. Carmel Alva C. Cassel, James J. Fetterolf
Nazareth Keith E. Plows, Henry U. Sandt, Jr.
Newark, DE William G. Schlonecker, Kenneth J. Klein
Ocean County, NJ Dean A. Stortz, David M. Markuson
Oley (Vacant), Jan Musser
Paradise (Probationer), Charles Lewis
Philadelphia, Wissinoming G. Wayne Clapier, (No delegate elected)
Pleasant Valley, NY *David N. Heinemann, Wayne Chadwell
Pocono Mt. Ronald C. Erb, Edward Breen
Poughquag, NY James A. Wickstead, Thomas L. Ward
Quakertown David E. Gundrum, L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading Randall A. Grossman, Jonathon W. Arnold, Ronald W. Reed, Charles Lavigna
Red Hill Ronald K. Denlinger, D. Thomas Phillips, Clifford W. Luft
Royersford Jacob J. Susek, Kenneth Bowman
Scranton Roger L. Reitz, John Moran
Shamokin Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., David A. Lahr
Sinking Spring Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Donald McKinney
Spring City (Vacant), Donald Stauffer
Stroudsburg Carl C. Cassel, J. Mark McCreary, Robert D. Carroll
Sunbury *Charles Cole, Timothy Brosious, Robert Cox
Terre Hill Steven L. Trommler, James Wetzler
Wallingford Richard E. Taylor, William R. Singletary
Walnutport Jonathan P. Tait, Stanley Stahler
Whitehall Gene W. Smith, Craig Montgomery
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, Ralph E. Ritter, Dennis W. Spinney, David R. Way, Dana E.Weller, Daniel G. Ziegler
Ordained Men Between Calls
Kenneth F. Barber, James R. Batchler, Jr., 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, 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, Jr., Jansen E. Hartman, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Ronald W. Hoyle, 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 C. Weber, Harold D. Yarrington
Probationers Serving as First Pastors of Churches
Brian H. Cooper, Mark L. Morrison, David N. Heineman, Charles F. Cole, Donald R. Hibbs
The Registrar presented excuses for the following: William C. Aukamp, Clifford B. Boone, Richard J. Gehman, W. Neil. Harding, Walter M. Johnston, Hertbert K. Lea, Edward Moyer, Jerry L. Moyer, David. W. Riddell, Philip E. Yerrington, Jim D. Head, Dana E. Weller, T. James Bigley, James G. Koch, Bernard N. Coble, Robert L. Draper, Harold C. Weaber, Leonard E. Buck, Kenneth F. Barber, Thomas J. Beil, Herb Heilmann, Willard E. Cassel, Byron Barnshaw, Jansen E. Hartman, David E. Gundrum, Alva C. Cassel, David J. Watkins, L. James Roberts, Jr., David N. Schoen, Roy A. Hertzog, Wayne Chadwell, R. C. Reichenbach, James J. Fetterolf, Terris L. Byrd, Thomas Ward, George E. Herb, Frank L. Herb, Jr., James R. Batchler, Jr., Michael Emerick, Clifford W. Luft, J. Barclay Harley, A. L. Seifert, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Randy Sheagley, and Paul G. Zimmerman.
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. Nathan Brosius, who will serve as interim director in light of Bert’s retirement, also welcomed the delegation to Pinebrook.
David A. Thomann, Secretary of the 115th Annual Conference, appointed the following assistants: Robert W. Smock, Assistant Secretary and Daniel P. Allen and David T. Allen, Assistants to the Secretary.
The chairman appointed the following committees and positions:
Tellers: Keith E. Plows, Chairman; William H. Bartron, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb, D. Thomas Phillips, Clyde W. Snyder, Harold E. Snyder, Thomas Ward
Communications: Jonathan P. Tait, Chairman; Delbert R. Baker, II, Ralph E. Ritter, Hans Waldvogel
Resolutions: Dennis M. Cahill, Chairman; R. Jerome Brush, David M. Markuson, Ralph M. Soper, Mark Tress
Auditing: Robert W. Gehret, Chairman; Lee E. Boyles, Horace A. Kauffman, Gary W. Saggio
Committee to Examine Annual Conference Minutes: Howard N. Wells, Chairman; John C. Studenroth, Byron Barnshaw
Reporter: Clyde W. Snyder
Timekeeper: Ronald C. Erb
Parliamentarian: James A. Beil
The new members of Annual Conference introduced themselves to the assembly.
Report of the Nominating Committee
Resolved, that the report be accepted. Raymond R. Dotts led the conference in prayer for the upcoming elections.
Report of the Credentials Committee (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Brian H. Cooper for ordination; and
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended prior ordination recognition for Charles E. Cole and David N. Heineman; 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 and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church; therefore be it
Resolved, that Brian H. Cooper be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church and further;
Resolved, that the prior ordination of Charles E. Cole and David N. Heineman to the gospel ministry be recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church and further;
Resolved, that the service of ordination be held Tuesday, April 28, 1998, at 7:30 p.m. at Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA.
Resolved, that an Ordination Service be held Tuesday, April 27, 1999, at the Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA., during the 116th Annual Conference.
Resolved, that Emmanuel Bible Fellowship Church, Sunbury, PA and Ebenezer Bible Fellowship Church, Bethlehem, PA and Pleasant Valley Bible Fellowship Church, Pleasant Valley, NY be encouraged to have services acknowledging the Ordination of Charles E. Cole, Brian H. Cooper and David N. Heineman respectively and that they be encouraged to invite the Credentials Committee to send representation to be present at the services.
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, 1998, be approved as follows:
Probationers (year of licensure in parenthesis)
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. (1997) Reading, PA
Douglas D. Bowne Pottstown, PA
Charles E. Cole (1996) Sunbury, PA
Brian H. Cooper (1996) Bethlehem, PA
Timothy S. Cowen (1997) Wallingford, PA
Willis I. Dowling Chesapeake, VA
David N. Heineman (1996) Poughkeepsie, NY
Donald R. Hibbs (1991) Saylorsburg, PA
Kenneth J. Hurst Horsham, PA
Mark L. Morrison (1996) Lancaster, PA
Richard A. Moyer (1995) Mays Landing, NJ
Thomas A. Pollock (1996) Puposky, MN
Jeffrey L. Ruhl (1997) Nazareth, PA
David H. C. Sng Lansdale, PA
Candidates
David T. Allen Kutztown, PA
Robert E. Andrews, Jr. Newark DE
William J. Dunn Emmaus PA
Darryl B. Forsythe Sinking Spring, PA
James W. Harris Quakertown, PA
Duane E. Moyer Bananier, Guadeloupe, West Indies
Elliott H. Ramos Harrisburg, PA
Vinton A. N. Upham Harleysville PA
Applicants
Jason R. Beisell Lancaster, PA
David C. Butler Shamokin, PA
Andrew T. Crossgrove Harleysville, PA
John Elias Coopersburg, PA
David Karn Wyomissing, PA
Donald E. Kuntzman Center Valley, PA
Jeffrey D. LaSpina Dunmore, PA
James MacArthur Suriname, S. A.
Bruce D. McIntosh York, PA
Thomas Maurer Sinking Spring, PA
Vincent S. Russ Staten Island, NY
William J. Whalen Lancaster, PA
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned in prayer by Horace A. Kauffman at 11:55 AM.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
Jonathan P. Tait offered opening prayer.
Report of the Board of Church Extension (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the term of Daniel G. Ziegler as Director of Church Extension expires at the 115th Annual Conference, and
Whereas, the Board of Church Extension has just concluded an extensive re-evaluation and re-defining of this position as it relates to the fulfillment of the Board’s responsibilities into the 21st century, and
Whereas, an effective transition of leadership is essential to the ongoing oversight of existing missions and the establishment of new missions, therefore, be it
Resolved, that Daniel G. Ziegler be ratified for a one year term extension as Executive Director of Church Extension, and further
Resolved, that members of Annual Conference pray for the Lord’s wisdom in the search for a new Executive Director.
Gratitude was expressed to churches who helped the mission works with facility needs and with ministry needs over the past year.
Alan R. Vivona led the conference in prayer for the Lord’s wisdom in the search for a new Executive Director of Church Extension.
Report of the Executive Director of Church Extension (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Ralph E. Ritter prayed for the congregation in Brooklyn, NY in its search for a pastor.
Report of the Board of Missions (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Higher Education (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the Annual Conference ratify the election to the Pinebrook Educational Foundation of Raymond R. Dotts and Jay H. Fasnacht for terms expiring in 2001.
Report of the Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc. (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Ronald C. Mahurin offered thanks to God for the work of James A. Beil who has served as President of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc. He will retire on July 1, 1998.
Report of the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Bert N. Brosius described a property that is adjacent to Pinebrook Bible Conference that was under consideration for purchase. Lee E. Boyles led the conference in prayer for the wisdom of the Lord concerning the possible purchase.
Report of the Board of Victory Valley (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Phil Atkins, Director of Victory Valley, addressed the conference giving an update on the work being done on the premises and also the ministry of Victory Valley.
Report of the Board of Pensions (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministers’ Retirement Fund (MRF) annuity rate for 1998 was $194 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 1999 be $197 per year of service.
Whereas, Willard E. Cassel has served as Pension Secretary since the inception of the Board of Pensions, and
Whereas, Willard E. Cassel has resigned from the Board of Pensions due to his impending move to Florida, therefore be it
Resolved, that we express our appreciation to Willard E. Cassel for his faithful service and assure him of our prayers for him as he enters a new phase of his retirement.
Report of the Stewardship Council (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Conference Judicatory (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Historical Committee (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of Publication and Printing (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Christian Education (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
An update was given concerning the sale of the property of the former Pinebrook Junior College. Donald T. Kirkwood prayed for God’s intervention and a quick resolve. Discussion was held concerning a plan by the Board of Directors to help with the payback of the Fund to Promote Church Extension. Thomas P. Shorb prayed concerning a meeting that will be held Monday, April 27, 1998 to seek resolution to the sewer moritorium situation.
Report of the Strategic Planning Committee (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following persons were elected:
Board of Church Extension
W. Robert Buckwalter (3 years)
Robert H. Zentz (3 years)
Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc.
David W. Cole (3 years)
John W. Trauch (3 years)
Strategic Planning Committee
Gary L. Spangenburg (3 years)
Board of Pensions
Ellis L. Hostetter (3 years)
Keith E. Plows (3 years)
David E. Thomann (3 years)
Board of Publication and Printing
Byron G. Barnshaw (3 years)
Nominating Committee
Betty M. Herb (3 years)
Resolved, that we adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 4:50 PM with Phil Atkins, Director of Victory Valley, offering prayer for a special request concerning the physical needs of Kari Denlinger, daughter of Ronald and Joan Denlinger of Red Hill, PA.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, 6:30 PM
The meeting was called to order as Paul G. Zimmerman led the conference in prayer.
The minutes of the first meeting were approved.
The following legislation was adopted at Second 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.
[SECOND 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 . . .”
[SECOND READING]
Report on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes (See page)
Resolved, that the report be adopted.
Report on Examination of 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.
Report of the Beneficiary Society (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following legislation was adopted at Second Reading:
512-14.3 Conference Pastor
Election
(1) 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.
(2) 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 may 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 approved as probationers 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.
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 89, No – 23
An optimistic update on the physical condition of Roger L. Reitz was given. Ronald W. Reed prayed for strength and healing for Roger. The meeting was adjourned at 7:36 PM
The conference went into a session of worship. Richard T, Paashaus led the conference in singing “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High” and “What a Mighty God We Serve.” The following missionaries introduced themselves to the Annual Conference: Kevin Kirkpatrick, Barbara Chappell, Craig and Mary Tress, Frances Sears, Tom Maurer, Paul and Julie Zimmerman, Phil and Jan Morrison, Chris and Becky Merrick, Todd Zimmerman, Art Reyes, Gary and Sue Homsher. The Chairman of the Board of Missions, Ralph M. Soper, led in prayer for the missionaries. The conference sang: “How Firm a Foundation”, read a responsive reading, and sang, “Break Thou the Bread of Life.” Philip E. Morrison spoke on our “Confidence in God’s Word.” Following the singing of “No Other Plea,” the conference was led in the celebration of the Lord’s Supper by Richard D. Harris, R. C. Reichenbach and William W. Mull. The Doxology was sung and the conference was dismissed to meet with the members of their region churches for prayer
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, 9:00 AM
The Chairman, Randall A. Grossman, called the meeting to order at 9:00. Richard T. Paashaus, the worship leader, led the conference in singing “When Morning Gilds the Skies.” Carl C. Cassel sang “Immortal, Invisible.” The conference read in unison an affirmation of our faith and then sang, “Crown Him With Many Crowns.” James R. Batchler sought the Lord’s favor in behalf of Edna Moran who was taken to the hospital last evening.
The Registrar reported excuses for the following: Jonathan W. Arnold, Robert D. Cawell, Ronald Derr, Albert J. Dommel, Donald R. Hibbs, Kenneth J. Klein, Charles Lewis, Mark L. Morrison, Steven L. Trommler, James Wetzler
Resolved, that these excuses be accepted.
The Registrar also reported the seating of the following alternate delegates: Ronald Derr, Terre Hill, Michael P. Emrick, Jr., Finesville, NJ, Larry Kellerman, Scranton, Mark Lessig, Kutztown.
The minutes of the second meeting were approved as corrected.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee
Randall A. Grossman (3 years)
Harold L. Snyder, Jr. (3 years)
Board of Directors of BFC
James A. Beil (3 years)
Carl C. Cassel (3 years)
Robert W. Gehret (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
David N. Schoen (3 years)
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. (3 years)
Filomena Reed (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
Kenneth L. Good (3 years)
Richard E. Taylor (3years)
Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc.
Roger L. Reitz (3 years)
Dean A. Stortz (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley
Gary W. Saggio (3 years)
Steven D. Schlegel (3 years)
Timothy D. Weaber (3 years)
Board of Missions
William W. Mull (3 years)
Donald S. Faust (3 years)
James W. Harris (3 years)
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference
Daniel P. Allen (3 years)
James A. Wickstead (3 years)
Carl Ackerman (3 years)
Kermit K. Gehman (3 years)
John M. Stengele (3 years)
Strategic Planning Committee
Richard T. Paashaus (3 years)
John C. Vandegriff (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
Robert C. Newman (3 years)
James N. Smock (3 years)
Board of Publication and Printing
Daniel P. Allen (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)
Historical Committee
Donald E. Kuntzman (3 years)
Harold P. Shelly (3 years)
Conference Judicatory
James A. Beil (5 years)
Lee E. Boyles (5 years)
Stewardship Council
Richard J. Volpe (3 years)
Daniel G. Oswald (1 year)
Nominating Committee
Richard B. Ravis (3 years)
Secretary of Annual Conference
David A. Thomann (1 year)
The following legislation was passed at Second Reading:
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 Service, and Prayer Meeting” be deleted from §103-1.1.
[SECOND READING]
Report of the Committee to Study Baptism and Church Membership (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the determination of the 113th Annual Conference, sitting as a committee of the whole, was that the New Life Church in Oley, PA did not have the freedom to separate baptism, from church membership unless the Faith & Order be amended and
Whereas, the 114th Annual Conference formed the Committee to Study Baptism and Church Membership to answer the Oley BFC, therefore be it
Resolved, that the New Life Bible Fellowship Church of Oley, PA, and all other particular churches of the Bible Fellowship Church, be instructed to continue to refrain from admitting new members into their fellowship who have not submitted to believers’ baptism by immersion in water until the issue of whether or not to amend § 202 – 3.1 of the form of Government of the Faith & Order be resolved by the Annual Conference.
Report of the Intercultural Ministries Study Committee (See page)
David E. Gundrum, Secretary of the Intercultural Ministries Study Committee, introduced Elliot Ramos who addressed the conference. The Bible Fellowship Church is seeking to begin an Hispanic work in the South Allentown area with Brother Ramos as organizing pastor, using the facilities that formerly housed Salem BFC. Kenneth L. Good offered prayer for God’s blessing on this new work.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
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 on their budgets for ethnic church planting, work with their church to budget monies for ethnic church planting in this year.
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 and further,
Resolved, that we encourage lesson plans be developed and submitted to David E. Gundrum for ideas in the development of Teacher guides for teens and adults.
Ronald C. Mahurin introduced Alfred Ndaro, an evangelist and church planter from the Africa Inland Church, Tanzania. He and his wife work with Cliff and Becky Boone in Tanzania. He addressed the conference bringing greetings from the Boones, the LoRussos and Kim Stengele. William W. Mull led the conference in prayer for Alfred Ndaro and his ministry.
Carl C. Cassel gave an update on the meeting last evening concerning the sewer moratorium. Several steps are beginning to take place to proceed with approval for sewer hookup.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. addressed the conference, giving us an update on his physical condition. The Lord has touched him physically to which he gives God the praise.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned in prayer by Robert W. Smock who thanked God for His wonderful working in the life of our brother Harvey Fritz.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
A. L. Seifert opened the fifth meeting with prayer.
The minutes of the third meeting were approved.
The following were elected:
Board of Christian Education
Ralph E. Ritter (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
David J. Watkins (3 years)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
Delbert R. Baker, II (3 years)
Chairman of Annual Conference
Randall A. Grossman (1 year)
The following were adopted at first reading:
Marriage & Singleness
Marriage is the joining together of one man and one woman in a covenant union instituted and ordained by God1. The purpose of this union is to glorify God, demonstrate the relationship between Christ and the Church2, provide companionship, and perpetuate the human race3. It is holy in God’s sight and is to be a bond until the death of one partner4. For this reason, marriage partners are commanded to be committed to each other physically, emotionally, and sexually, and to have no other than their marriage partner5. Although God did not specifically condemn polygamy in every instance and sometimes blessed the individuals involved in polygamous relationships in the Old Testament, the Old Testament standard is always one man married to one woman6. This standard is reinforced by the teaching of our Lord during His earthly ministry and the New Testament writers7. The intimacy of marriage includes mutual rights and mutual obligations of each partner to the other8. Sexual relations outside of the marriage bond by either of the marriage partners is adultery and degrades the spiritual and physical oneness and permanence God reserved for marriage9. For a Christian to marry a non-Christian is a violation of the Word of God10.
God has revealed in Scripture that His will is for some people to remain single; in such cases singleness fulfills the plan of God11. Those who can control their sexual desires may remain unmarried to the glory of God12. In fact, the single believer may have undivided loyalty and may be more free to serve the Lord and His church13. Abstinence from impure sexual activity prior to marriage and outside of the marriage union is the Biblical standard14. Sexual intercourse is to be experienced only in the marriage union; all sexual intercourse outside that union, including homosexual relations, is sin in God’s eyes15.
1Gen.2:23-24
2Eph.5:22-23
3Gen.1:26-28; 2:18-25
4Rom.7:2; 1 Cor.7:39
5Heb.13:4
6Eph.5:31
7Mat.19:4-6; Mark 10:6-9; 1 Cor.6:16; Eph.5:31-33
81 Cor.7:1-5
91 Cor 6:16-18
101 Cor.7:39; 2 Cor.6:14-16
111 Cor.7:7,8,17
12Mat.19:11-12; 1 Cor.6:13; 7:9
131 Cor.7:32-35
141 Thes.4:3-8
151 Cor.6:18; Eph.5:3; Heb.13:4 [FIRST READING]
Humanity in God’s Image
The human race exists as a result of an instantaneous creative act of God1. Humanity shares many characteristics with other creatures, but is unique in that each individual bears the image or likeness of God2. This image makes possible the worship of God3, relationships between persons4, and responsibility to rule over God’s creation5. Only God confers this image, and it cannot be removed by any created being. Originally God’s image in humanity included true righteousness and holiness; but by the entrance of sin into humanity these have been lost6 and the image distorted yet not destroyed7.
Because human beings are made in God’s image, every person has an unique identity, individual worth, and purpose to live for God’s glory8. The image of God is also the basis for the dignity of every person. All human life should be cherished and protected, not neglected, despised or abused. God forbids the unlawful destruction of human life, both murder and suicide, and provides the strongest of sanctions, including capital punishment, to protect it9. The killing of the weak and defenseless by means of abortion, infanticide, and euthanasia is a crime against both those persons and the God whose image they bear. Christians should exert every effort to oppose these evils in our society, and other evils as defined and condemned by Scripture such as: racism; cultural bias; gender discrimination; ignoring the poor, disabled, aged; and every other form of injustice against human beings10. They should recognize the image of God in any person despite the sins of that person or the consequences of those sins11. They should also work to protect the dignity of every human being12.
1Gen.1:27; 2:7, 21-22
2Gen.5:1
3Gen.3:8-9; Acts 17:26-28
4Gen.2:18,23
5Gen.1:28; 2:15; Psa.8:3-8
6Eph.4:24; Col.3:10
7James 3:9
8Psa.139:1-18
9Ex.20:13; Gen.9:6
10Prov.24:11-12
111 Cor.6:9-11; James 3:9
12Rom.13:8-10; Rom. 12:10 [FIRST READING]
The above articles are to be placed in the appendix of the Faith & Order entitled, “The Biblical Principles for Living.”
Whereas, the work of the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee is not yet complete,
Resolved, that the 115th Annual Conference direct the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee to continue its work.
The following were elected:
Board of Higher Education
G. Wayne Clapier (1 year)
Vice Chairman of Annual Conference
James A. Beil (1 year)
A request from the Elders of the Community Bible Fellowship Church, Red Hill, PA was presented to the 115th Annual Conference to recognize by the rule of exception the acceptance into membership of their congregation a particular man who is physically incapable of being immersed (see page ).
Resolved, that the request from the Elders of the Community Bible Fellowship Church , Red Hill, PA, be received.
Whereas, the reasons for this request to Annual Conference have been amply communicated to Annual Conference (see page ) by Community Bible Fellowship of Red Hill, be it therefore
Resolved, that Annual Conference, by rule of exception, in reference to section 202-3.1, hereby recognizes that a frail, infirm man who was not immersed is a member of Community Bible Fellowship Church, Red Hill, PA.
Yes – 116, No – 7
Dennis W. Spinney asked the Lord’s blessing on this brother from Red Hill and for the gathering of believers there.
A request from the Board of Elders of the Bible Fellowship Church, Royersford, PA related to Elders and divorce was presented (see page).
Resolved, that the request from the Elders of the Bible Fellowship Church of Royersford, PA be received.
Whereas, the Board of Elders of the Royersford Bible Fellowship Church has requested that Annual Conference elect a study committee of five (5) ordained ministers presently serving Bible Fellowship Churches to study forbidding divorced men and those married to a divorced woman, from serving as an Elder in our churches, therefore be it
Resolved, that a study committee of five (5) ordained ministers presently serving a Bible Fellowship church be elected to study divorce and the eldership and to report to the 116th Annual Conference.
A request from the Board of Elders of the Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Nazareth, PA related to leadership of the Elder Board was presented.
Resolved, that the request from the Board of Elders of the Grace Bible Fellowship Church of Nazareth, PA, be received.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Whereas, the Faith & Order, Section 401-1.2 provides only for the pastor to chair the meetings of the Board of Elders, and
Whereas, a particular Board of Elders may have one or several gifted men who are well able to chair these meetings, and
Whereas, other churches have found this model profitable for leadership of their governing bodies, therefore be it
Resolved, that Section 401-1.2 shall be revised to read as follows (First Reading):
The Board of Elders shall elect by and from its members a chairman and a recording secretary. The chairman may be, but does not have to be, the Senior Pastor.
The preceding motion failed: Yes – 41; No – 65
Resolved, the meeting be adjourned. The meeting was adjourned at 5:19 PM with John H. Riggall closing in prayer.
Sixth Meeting
Wednesday Morning, 9:00 AM
The meeting began with the conference singing, “Holy, Holy, Holy.” Various members led in prayer asking for God’s blessings on the proceedings of the day. The conference then sang, “I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord.” Richard T. Paashaus read Acts 15:22-31. Richard E. Taylor addressed the conference on “Confidence in God’s Church.” The conference responded by singing, “Shine, Jesus Shine.”
The Registrar reported requests for excuses for the following: Vito Paratore, Stanley H. Stahler and Barry J. Minsky.
Resolved, that the excuses be granted.
The following Alternate Delegates were seated: Garry S. Waddell, Stroudsburg; Timothy Moyer, Kutztown; and Robert Andrews, Newark, DE.
The minutes of the fourth meeting were approved as corrected.
Resolved, that the recommended minimum salary for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including benefits, be $23,400 for 1998 (a 3.0% increase).
Whereas, it is important that there be continuity in the membership of the Credentials Committee and
Whereas, this committee has no provision for election in classes; therefore be it
Resolved, that the material in the Faith & Order, §512-11.1 be deleted and replaced by the following: (FIRST READING)
512-11. Credentials Committee
512-11.1 Composition and Election
(1) The Credentials Committee shall be composed of five ordained ministers.
(2) They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I Two Ordained Ministers
Class II Two Ordained Ministers
Class III One Ordained Minister
Resolved, that the Chairman of Annual Conference appoint a committee of five to prepare revisions of the Faith & Order that recognize the presence of multiple pastoral staffs in our churches.
The following were appointed: Dennis M. Cahill, David A. Thomann, L. James Roberts, Jr., Brian H. Cooper and John Elias.
Resolved, that the appointment be ratified.
Whereas, the Credentials Committee is recognized by the United States Military as the endorsing agent for Bible Fellowship Church Chaplains serving in the military, and
Whereas the Ministerial Candidate Committee and the Credentials Committee have interviewed Kenneth J. Hurst and have found him in agreement with the Faith & Order, therefore be it
Resolved, that the Credentials Committee, in behalf of Annual Conference, function as the calling agent to render a call for his service in the Military Chaplaincy, and be it further
Resolved, that the Ministerial Relations Committee and the Ministerial Candidate Committee be hereby authorized to recognize the call issued by the Credentials Committee.
John Deily, delegate from the Cedar Crest Church led the conference in prayer for our Chaplains.
Resolved, that the rate of mileage reimbursement for conference business in 1998, be 22¢ per mile.
Resolved, that the administrative budget for January 1, 1998 to December 31, 1998 be adopted.
Resolved, that the administrative budget for January 1, 1999 to December 31, 1999 be approved for submission to the churches for their pledges.
Administrative Budgets
Proposed
1998 Budget 1999 Budget
1. Beneficiary Fund 100 100
2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 100 100
3. Ministerial Convention 1,000 1,000
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 30,000 30,000
Total 31,200 31,200
1a. Conference Entertainment 5,000 5,000
1b. Conference Expense 2,500 2,500
2. Fund to Assist Churches 100 100
Total 7,600 7,600
1. Publication & Printing 4,500 3,500
2. Expenses of Committees
a. Chaplaincy Expenses 700 700
b. All other Expenses 6,500 6,000
3. Expenses, Board of Directors 1,000 900
4. MCC Internship Fund 250 250
5. Historical Committee 500 500
6. Contingencies 4,995 4,550
Total 18,445 16,400
PJC Debt 25,000 30,000
Total Budget 82,245 85,200
% of previous budget 121.98 103.59
Whereas, the projected debt in the sale of the Pinebrook Junior College property is over $300,000 to agencies outside of the Board of Directors of BFC, and
Whereas, we have a moral obligation to repay our debts, therefore be it
Resolved, that we commit ourselves to one another and to the Lord to contribute 1% of the offerings of the particular churches and organized missions for a period of up to 4 years beginning in 1999 to retire this debt.
Whereas, a proposal has been presented to this Conference for repayment of the indebtedness remaining from Pinebrook Junior College, by which we would seek to repay all money borrowed and owed with the possible exception of a major portion of the indebtedness to the Fund to Promote Church Extension, and
Whereas, this proposal, if enacted, will likely reduce radically the worth of that fund, and
Whereas, the proposal has been presented to this Conference without consultation with, or consideration by, the Board of Church Extension, therefore,
Resolved, that matters in the proposal pertaining to the Fund to Promote Church Extension be tabled in order to allow the Board of Church Extension opportunity to confer with the Board of Directors before the next session of the Annual Conference.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
The conference paused as William G. Schlonecker prayed for a sense of unity within the denomination of meeting the financial challenge to erase the debt on the Pinebrook Junior College property.
Resolved, that following consultation with the Board of Church Extension, the Board of Directors present a plan to fully repay the indebtedness to the Fund to Promote Church Extension to the 116th Annual Conference.
Resolved, that we adjourn. We adjourned at 12:30 PM with David N. Schoen leading in prayer.
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
Robert A. Sloan opened the seventh meeting with prayer remembering Oliver Beil, the father of James A. Beil, who is ill.
The minutes of the fifth meeting were approved.
The following were elected to serve on the Study Committee on Eldership and Divorce:
G. Wayne Clapier, Brian H. Cooper, Richard B. Ravis, William G. Schlonecker, Jacob J. Susek, Jr.
Resolved, that we limit debate concerning the resolution brought by the Board of Pinebrook Bible Conference to 10 more minutes.
The following legislation was presented for First Reading:
Change the Faith & Order 512-8.1 as follows:
(1) eight Laypersons changed from laymen
(2) Laypersons changed from laymen
Class I three Laypersons from laymen
Class II three Laypersons from laymen
Class III two Laypersons from laymen
The motion failed: Yes – 75; No – 42
Whereas, there is a potential liability to Bible Fellowship Church in the establishment of gift annuities by agencies and particular churches of Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, the Stewardship Council of Bible Fellowship Church is able to provide advice and assistance in the prudent structuring of these contracts, and
Whereas, this advice and assistance should help to avoid any future, unplanned liabilities of Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that all agencies and particular churches of Bible Fellowship Church must consult with the Stewardship Council prior to the establishment of any gift annuities.
Whereas, there are presently gift annuity obligations contracted by agencies and particular churches of Bible Fellowship Church, be it
Resolved, that details of all such gift annuities be disclosed annually to the Stewardship Council to help provide early warning of any potential problems with the payment of such obligations, and be it further
Resolved, that the particular churches list these obligations on their balance sheets for annual reporting to their congregations, and be it further
Resolved, that the agencies list these obligations on their financial report to Annual Conference.
The following legislation was adopted at First Reading:
Resolved, that Article 407 – Miscellaneous Bylaws include the following addition:
407-5 Congregations shall consult with the Stewardship Council prior to establishing any gift annuities and shall list all annuity obligations annually in their financial report to the congregation. [FIRST READING]
The following legislation was adopted at First Reading.
Resolved, that Article 509 – Agencies of Annual Conference include the following addition:
509-7 Agencies shall consult with the Stewardship Council prior to establishing any gift annuities and shall list all gift annuity obligations annually in their financial report to Annual Conference. [FIRST READING]
Roger L. Reitz lead the conference in prayer remembering the physical needs of the mother-in-law of Charles LaVigna, John Stengele, Willard E. Cassel and Harold C. Weaber.
Whereas, there have been problems with gift annuity contracts within Bible Fellowship Church and other denominations, and
Whereas, agencies and particular churches of Bible Fellowship Church have entered into these contacts in the past, and are presently soliciting and entering into this type of contract, and
Whereas, decisions made by agencies and particular churches of Bible Fellowship Church have the potential to affect the overall financial health and ministry of Bible Fellowship Church, be it further
Resolved, that by the rule of exception, implementation of this legislation shall begin in 1998, before a second reading takes place.
Resolved, that the proposed budget of the Board of Publication and Printing for conference year January 1 to December 31, 1999 be adopted as presented.
1999 Budget
Receipts:
Subsidy – Administration Budget $ 3,500
From Boards & Committees 1,950
From Churches 10,700
Fellowship News Sponsors 2,000
Yearbook Sales 5,000
Yearbook Sponsors 750
Faith & Order Sales 500
Articles of Faith 300
Church Supplies 450
Shipping 50
Web Site Services 770
Total Income $ 25,970
Expenditures:
Fellowship News
Layout & Design $ 2,800
Printing & Mailing 12,500
Editor’s Expense 200
Editor’s/ Proofing Honorarium 1,300
Annual Conference Expenses 300
Business Manager Expenses 100
Board Expenses 700
Faith & Order 450
Yearbooks 6,000
Church Supplies 550
Warehouse 200
Web Site Services 670
Contingencies 200
Total Expenses 25,970
Resolved, that a contribution of $325.00 for the conference year 1999 to be given to the Board of Publication and Printing from each agency to help underwrite the cost of printing and distribution of the Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Business Manager, Paul T. Rutman, by December 31, 1998, upon receipt of a bill from the Board of Printing and Publication.
Resolved, that $1.75 per member of the Bible Fellowship Church for 1998 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, Paul T. Rutman, at the 115th Annual Conference.
Resolved, the appointment of Paul T. Rutman, Business Manager of the Fellowship News, be ratified.
Whereas, it is important that each 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 sent to the designated distribution point, PO Box 299, Ephrata, PA 17522, by March 1.
Resolved, that the 116th Annual Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA, April 26-28, 1999 beginning at 10:00 AM on Monday.
Phil Atkins gave an update concerning some staffing needs for this summer. Mark Tress prayed for the coming summer ministry and for the staffing needs of Victory Valley.
The minutes of the Sixth Meeting were approved.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at first reading:
Section 506-6 becomes 506-6.1 – insert “lay” between Any and member.
[FIRST READING]
Any pastor desiring to be excused from any meeting must present in writing the reason for such absence to the Secretary of the Committee on Credentials no later than two weeks prior to the commencement of Annual Conference (emergency excuses being the lone exception to the two week advance notice) and the Committee on Credentials will report to Annual Conference stating the validity of such excuses.
[FIRST READING]
This is to be inserted as Section 506-6.2
Resolved, that a denomination-wide gathering be scheduled for April 30, 2000, with the goal of strengthening the corporate identity, fellowship and unity of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, relative proximity and affinity with other churches is the most logical alignment of Regions, therefore be it
Resolved, that the initial configuration of the Regions of the BFC be as follows:
Lehigh Valley: Bethlehem, Cedar Crest, Coopersburg, Emmaus, Finesville, Nazareth, Walnutport, Whitehall, Zionsville
New York/New England: Beacon, Holmes, Pleasant Valley, Poughquag, Thompson
Berks County: Blandon, Fleetwood, Kutztown, Oley, Reading, Sinking Spring
Pocono District: Brodheadsville, Lehighton, Pocono Mountain, Scranton, Stroudsburg
North-West: Mt. Carmel, Shamokin, Sunbury
South Central: Graterford, Harleysville, Hatfield, Quakertown, Red Hill, Royersford, Spring City
Capital: Ephrata, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon, Paradise, Terre Hill, York
New Jersey: Aberdeen, Denville, Edison, Howell, Newark, NJ, Staten Island, Tom’s River,
Southeast: Camden, DE, Maple Glen, Newark, DE, Wallingford, Wissinoming
Whereas, the Strategic Planning Committee has led the way in the concept of regionalization, therefore be it
Resolved, that we follow the guidelines as presented in the report of the Strategic Planning Committee to the 115th Annual Conference (See page).
Whereas, the 114th Annual Conference charged the Strategic Planning Committee to study the administrative structure of the Bible Fellowship Church and bring recommendations to the Annual Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we endorse the reorganization concepts (See page) pertaining to the Chairman of Annual Conference and the Board of Directors.
The Chairman, Randall A. Grossman, wishing to speak to the issue, asked the Vice Chairman, Carl C. Cassel to take the chair.
Resolved, that we refer the concept of a Conference Executive Committee back to the Strategic Planning Committee for further work.
Resolved, that the Strategic Planning Committee be charged with the responsibility of developing the legislation necessary for the implementation of the following: (a) Formation of Regions; (b) Additional duties for Chairman of Annual Conference; (c) Additional duties for Board of Directors of the BFC; (d) Any other related issues, and further
Resolved, that they may engage the services of other members of Annual Conference to assist them in this task, and further
Resolved, that they present legislation for First Reading to the 116th Annual Conference (April 1999).
Whereas, the 115th Annual Conference has established the position of Conference Pastor, and
Whereas, it may be beneficial to involve a man in this position prior to the convening of the 116th Annual conference; then be it
Resolved, that the Ministerial Relations Committee be permitted to consider the possible engagement of a man prior to the 116th Annual Conference on an interim basis and further that any funds necessary for this position be provided for by new sources of revenue and forwarded to the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church for this purpose.
Report of the Committee on Statistics (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Auditing Committee (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report on the Committee on Communications (See page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the staff and volunteers of the Pinebrook Bible Conference have readily and cheerfully served the members of the 115th Annual Conference, and
Whereas, the youth group from Emmanuel Bible Fellowship Church, Sunbury, helped clean Pinebrook Bible Conference so we could comfortably hold Annual Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we note with thanksgiving the helpful service of those who have labored to care for us.
Whereas, the Pages (Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr., Head Page; Robert E. Andrews, Raymond L. Cole, Timothy S. Cowen, Andrew T. Crossgrove, William Dunn, Darryl B. Forsythe, James W. Harris, David R. Karn, Thomas L. Maurer, Jeffery L. Ruhl, Bret E. Sunday, William J. Whalen) have served our conference with diligence and efficiency, 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, Elliot Ramos believes God is calling him to minister to Hispanics at our South Allentown mission, and
Whereas, he is presently in the credential process, working full-time, and studying full-time with C.U.T.S., therefore be it
Resolved, we assure Elliot Ramos of our prayers, support, and encouragement as he continues to work with the Ministerial Candidate Committee.
Whereas, Alfred Ndaro ministers closely with our missionaries in Tanzania, and
Whereas, he was able to be with us during the 115th Annual Conference, and
Whereas, he expressed his love for the Lord and us, therefore be it
Resolved, that we express our love for the Lord and for Alfred Ndaro, and affirm to him our prayers for his ministry in Tanzania.
Whereas, on Tuesday evening, April 28, Brian H. Cooper was ordained to the Gospel Ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church, and the previous ordination of Charles E. Cole and David N. Heineman was recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the calling and gifts of these men and that we be steadfast in praying for them.
Whereas, the Ministerial Relations Committee has reported that the Oley and Spring City churches in Pennsylvania and the Howell church in New Jersey are without pastors, 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 pastors for the Oley, Spring City, and Howell churches.
Whereas, the mission located in the Flatland’s section of Brooklyn, NY is a congregation in need of a pastor, therefore be it
Resolved, that we pray that the Lord would provide a pastor for that congregation.
Whereas, the Director of Church Extension has expressed great hope in the potential of the Bible Fellowship Church to expand through new churches, 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 annual budget to Church Extension.
Whereas, Community Church of Red Hill, PA and Faith Church of Holmes, NY have graduated from the Department of Church Extension, therefore be it
Resolved, that we continue to pray for our sister churches and applaud publicly our appreciation for God’s gracious provision for each of them.
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, Pinebrook Bible Conference is endeavoring to purchase adjoining property, and
Whereas, that property could be very significant to the continued ministry of Pinebrook Bible Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we ask the Lord to give wisdom to Pinebrook Bible Conference in its efforts to acquire that property.
Whereas, we understand the importance and need of world evangelization, and
Whereas, the financial obligation by our Board of Missions to care for our missionary family is ever increasing, and the Board of Missions is operating at a deficit, and
Whereas, the Chairman of the Board of Missions has asked for prayer and suggestions to help resolve deficit spending, therefore be it
Resolved, that we assure the Board of Missions of our prayer and support to assist it.
Whereas, the Pinebrook Junior College property is not yet sold and
Whereas, there is a buyer for a significant portion of that property and
Whereas, the sale has been hindered by a sewer moratorium, and
Whereas, it is urgent that the property be sold and any debt retired, therefore be it
Resolved that we urgently pray to the Lord for the completion of this impending sale and ask the Lord to provide a buyer for the entirety of the property.
Whereas, Bert N. Brosius has announced his resignation as Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference effective May 1, 1998 and
Whereas, he has become Director in Retirement, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the progress made in the ministry of Pinebrook Bible Conference under his leadership.
Whereas, James A. Beil has ministered for twenty-four years as President of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc., therefore be it
Resolved, that we praise our Lord for his faithful service and further
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for what has been accomplished through his years of faithful leadership.
Whereas, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., had been seriously ill and
Whereas, brother Fritz has testified that the Lord has miraculously healed him, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Great Physician for His grace in our brother’s life.
Whereas, two veteran missionary couples, Ronald and Doris Hoyle and David and Georgina Solt retired during the year after many years of service, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for their faithful service to the cause of world missions and pray for God’s blessing upon them.
Whereas, Harold C. Weaber has faithfully served our Lord through the Bible Fellowship Church and
Whereas, he has retired from ministry with the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we rejoice together and give thanks for his partnership in the gospel.
Whereas, Willard E. Cassel has served as Pension Secretary since the inception of the Board of Pensions, and
Whereas, he has resigned from the Board of Pensions, entering a new phase of his retirement, therefore be it
Resolved, that we express our appreciation for his faithful 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, Randall A. Grossman has served with distinction as Chairman of the 115th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that the members of Annual Conference show their appreciation of Brother Grossman 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 115th Annual Conference express gratitude to the Lord for His care and determine to humbly labor together by the strength He allows.
Resolved, that we adopt the above resolutions.
The following appointments were made:
Registrar
J. Mark McCreary
Assistant Registrar
Jonathon Arnold, Sr.
Agenda and Program Committee
David A. Thomann, Randall A. Grossman, James A. Beil, Jacob J. Susek, Jr. Gregory A. Uhrich
Arrangements Committee
David A. Thomann, Daniel P. Allen, James A. Beil, Clyde D. Bomgardner, J. Mark McCreary, Thomas P. Shorb
Committee on Statistics
LeRoy S. Heller, W. David Armstrong, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Calvin T. Reed, David A. Thomann, Daniel G. Ziegler
Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches
Ralph M. Soper, Ronald K. Denlinger, Ronald C. Erb, Ralph E. Ritter, Jonathan P. Tait
The chairman also appointed Byron Widger to replace Kenneth F. Barber on the Study Committee on Baptism and Church Membership.
Resolved, that the appointments be ratified.
The Secretary of the Conference Judicatory for 1998 is Ronald C. Mahurin.
The denominational address is: 3000 Fellowship Drive, Whitehall, PA. 18052
Resolved, that we adjourn. We adjourned at 5:13 PM as Randall A. Grossman closed the 115th Annual Conference in prayer.