Annual Conference Proceedings – 2007
First Meeting
Monday Morning, April 23, 2007, 10:00 AM
The 124th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church was called to order at 10:00 AM by the Chairman, Randall A. Grossman, at Pinebrook Bible Conference. He led the conference in prayer.
Richard B. Ravis, Worship Leader of the 124th Conference, led the conference in a time of worship beginning with the conference singing Rejoice, the Lord is King and leading in prayer. The conference then sang I Sing the Mighty Power of God and Come Thou, Almighty King. John R. LoRusso read Matthew 3:13-17. The conference then repeated the Apostles’ Creed, sang Gloria Patri and Holy, Holy, Holy. Chairman Randall A. Grossman spoke on the theme, and “Fellowship Enjoyed in Great Wonder,” using Genesis 1 as his main text.
Report of the Registrar
The following requested to be excused from part or all of the 124th Annual Conference: Walter E. Bortree, Bert N. Brosius, Leonard E. Buck, Wayne M. Chadwell, Brain H. Cooper, Albert J. Dommel, Allen Dorst, Willis I. Dowling, William J. Dunn, Donald Dyer, Michael P. Emrick, Jr., Ronald C. Erb, Carl Fitzgerald, David E. Gundrum, George E. Herb, Keith Howland, Robert A. Johnson, II, Kenneth D. Keeler, Donald T. Kirkwood, Jerry L. Moyer, Thomas A. Pollock, R. C. Reichenbach, L. James Roberts, A. L. Seifert, Austin G. Shelly, Gene W. Smith, Brian L. Snyder, Keith Splawn, Michael J. Tannous, Mark Twombly, John C. Vandegriff, Jr.
Resolved, that the requests for excuses be granted.
Resolved, that the tables with red tablecloths constitute the Conference Bar.
The role of the Annual Conference was established as follows:
Allentown, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Clifford B. Boone, David T. Allen, Ronald C. Erb, Glenn R.
(Cedar Crest) Felty*, Walter E. Bortree, Charles A. Bloomfield, William J. Walters
Bethlehem, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Brian H. Cooper, Robert K. Fields, Carl Ackerman, Mark W. Tress
Blandon, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Gary W. Saggio
Brooklyn, NY. . . . . . . . . . . . Ralph E. Ritter, Carl Fitzgerald
Camden, DE. . . . . . . . . . . . . Timothy J. Schmoyer*, Keith Splawn
Clinton Corners, NY. . . . . . . Gerald D. Clark, Wayne M. Chadwell
Coopersburg, PA. . . . . . . . . Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, David R. Vinson, Gary Sterner
Denville, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard D. Harris, Guy Warner
Emmaus, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . David N. Schoen, Ralph M. Soper, Robert W. Davies
Ephrata, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert B. Kramer (Probationer), Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . Byron Widger, Michael P. Emrick, Jr.
Fleetwood, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Roger J. Brush, James E. Mortland
Graterford, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Philip E. Yerrington, Douglas D. Bowne
Harleysville, PA. . . . . . . . . . Andrew T. Crossgrove, Alan G. Miller, Alfred G. Roberts
Harrisburg, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Carl K. Spackman, Mark E. Barninger*, Harold E. Snyder
Hatfield, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Howard N. Wells, Louis S. Curcio, S. Lester Moyer
Holmes, NY. . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant, Hans R. Waldvogel
Howell, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eric R. North, Alan R. Heinlein
Kutztown, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Allan R. Vivona, Byron G. Barnshaw
Lancaster, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . David A. Thomann, Gregory A. Uhrich, Horace A. Kauffman, Robert L. Yinger
Lebanon, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Calvin T. Reed, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Robert A. Johnson, II, Bruce A. Kellerman
Long Neck, DE. . . . . . . . . . . Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr., James Hart
Maple Glen, PA. . . . . . . . . . Louis Prontnicki, Keith Howland
Mt. Carmel, PA. . . . . . . . . . Philip G. Norris*, Bryan L. Snyder
Mt. Pocono, PA. . . . . . . . . . Timothy J. Bertolet*, Ronald E. Miller
Nazareth, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant, Rodney P. Plows
Newark, DE. . . . . . . . . . . . . William G. Schlonecker, Robert C. Kaatz
Newark, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Delbert R. Baker, II, Thomas J. Boose, Jr.
Old Bridge, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . Vacant, John C. Vandegriff, III
Oley, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arthur J. Simpson, Jr., Bob Kohler
Paradise, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Shan D. Cleck (Probationer), Jeff L. Hostetter
Philadelphia, PA. . . . . . . . . . G. Wayne Clapier, Bud Burroughs
Piscataway, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . Dennis M. Cahill, Richard B. Ravis, Mark D. Twombly
Poughquag, NY. . . . . . . . . . James A. Wickstead, Thomas Ward
Quakertown, PA. . . . . . . . . . Ronald L. Kohl*, L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Randall A. Grossman, Ronald W. Reed, Jim Stapleton
Red Hill, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael J. Tannous, William E. Blair
Royersford, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Jacob J. Susek, Jr., Orville E. Gibson
Shamokin, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Ferdie R. Madara (Probationer), Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr.
Sinking Spring, PA. . . . . . . . Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Harold P. Shelly, Bruce Pepperdine
Spring City, PA. . . . . . . . . . Kevin W. Clineff, Peter Gunderson
Stroudsburg, PA. . . . . . . . . . Davis E. Duggins*, Ed Coover
Sunbury, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Charles E. Cole, Robert H. Cox
Terre Hill, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Kevin W. Kirkpatrick, Robert L. Weaver, Sr.
Thompson, CT. . . . . . . . . . . Dennis W. Spinney, Mark R. Brodeur
Toms River, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . Dean A. Stortz, Allen Dorst
Wallingford, PA. . . . . . . . . . Richard E. Taylor, Timothy S. Cowen, Steven L. Piasecki
Walnutport, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Clyde D. Bomgardner, Timothy D. Weaber
Whitehall, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant, Rob J. Hodge
Whitehall**. . . . . . . . . . . . . Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Robert H. Zentz
Fellowship Community
York, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth D. Keeler, Roger L. Shambough
Zionsville, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . C. Larry Bennett, Donald Dyer
* contingent upon approval of recommendation of ordination
** contingent upon recognition as a Particular Church
Ordained Ministers Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
Daniel P. Allen, Pinebrook Bible Conference; Albert J. Dommel, Church Extension; Willis I. Dowling, Church Extension; Donald E. Kuntzman, Missions; David E. Gundrum, Church Extension; Ronald C. Mahurin, Conference Pastor; Mark L. Morrison, Church Extension; Elliot H. Ramos, Church Extension; John C. Vandegriff, Jr., Pinebrook Bible Conference; David R. Way, Church Extension; Dana E.Weller, Missions.
Ordained Missionaries
William C. Aukamp, Ronald K. Denlinger, William J. Dunn, Jim D. Head, Walter M. Johnston, David L. Manney, Philip E. Morrison, Duane E. Moyer, Jerry L. Moyer, Thomas A. Pollock, David W. Riddell, John C. Studenroth
Ordained Ministers Working in the Chaplaincy Under the Sponsorship of the BFC
David N. Heineman, Hospital; Kenneth J. Hurst, Military; David H. Jones, Military; Richard A. Moyer, Prison Ministry
Ordained Ministers Between Calls
Robert S. Commerford, J. Mark McCreary, Roger L. Reitz, Jeffery L. Ruhl
Ordained Ministers in Retirement
Kenneth F. Barber, James R. Batchler, Jr., James A. Beil, T. James Bigley, Jr., Bert N. Brosius, Leonard E. Buck, Terris L. Byrd, Alva C. Cassel, Carl C. Cassel, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Raymond R. Dotts, Robert L. Draper, John Dunn, Bruce A. Ellingson, Walter H. Frank, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Richard J. Gehman, Robert N. Gordon, J. Barclay Harley, Jansen E. Hartman, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, John H. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Ronald W. Hoyle, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, Barry J. Minsky, Edward K. Moyer, Edgar H. Munyan, D. Thomas Phillips, Keith E. Plows, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Austin G. Shelly, Gene W. Smith, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins, Harold C. Weaber, Daniel G. Ziegler, Paul G. Zimmerman
Resolved, that the following Alternate Delegate be seated: Douglas Files, Bethlehem.
Report of the Committee on Agenda and Program
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Arrangements (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the 125th Annual Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA, April 28-30, 2008, beginning at 10:00 AM on Monday.
Resolved, that all Study Committees, Committees and Agencies have their reports sent to the designated distribution point, 12 Pinebrook Road, E. Stroudsburg, PA 18301 or ebfc@ptd.net, by March 1, 2008.
Daniel P. Allen, Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, welcomed the members of Annual Conference to Pinebrook for these meetings.
David A. Thomann, Secretary of Annual Conference, appointed David T. Allen as Assistant Secretary and Daniel P. Allen, Donald E. Kuntzman and Robert W. Smock as Assistants to the Secretary.
The Chairman appointed the following:
Tellers: Keith E. Plows, Chairman; Andrew T. Crossgrove, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb, Robert A. Johnson, II, Bruce Kellerman, Kevin W. Kirkpatrick, Mark W. Tress, Hans R. Woldvogel
Resolutions: Elliot Ramos, Chairman; Jeff Hostetler, Timothy Weaber, Philip E. Yerrington
Auditing: Robert W. Gehret, Chairman; Horace A. Kauffman, Robert H. Zentz
Committee to Examine Annual Conference Minutes: Philip G. Norris, Chairman; Gary Saggio, Byron Widger
Timekeeper: Byron Barnshaw
Parliamentarian: Clifford B. Boone
Reporter: Carol Z. Snyder
The following new members were introduced to Annual Conference: Ferdie R. Madara, Shamokin: William Walters, Cedar Crest: Gary Sterner, Coopersburg: James A. Stapleton, Reading: Robert Yinger, Lancaster: Timothy Bertolet, Pocono Mountain: Robert Kramer, Ephrata: Edward Coover, Stroudsburg: Jim Hart, Long Neck, DE: Harold P. Shelly, Sinking Spring: Douglas Files, Bethlehem: Robert Kohler, Oley: Shan Cleck, Paradise.
Report of the Nominating Committee
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Howard N. Wells prayed asking for the Lord’s blessing on those who will be serving on the various boards and committees.
Report of the Credentials Committee (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended ordination for Mark E. Barninger, Raymond R. Bertolet, Timothy J. Bertolet, Scott B. Evans, Ronald L. Kohl, Philip G. Norris, and Timothy J. Schmoyer, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended prior ordination recognition for Davis E. Duggins and Glenn R. Felty, 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 Mark E. Barninger, Raymond R. Bertolet, Timothy J. Bertolet, Scott B. Evans, Ronald L. Kohl, Philip G. Norris, and Timothy J. Schmoyer be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church, and further
Resolved that the prior ordination of Davis E. Duggins and Glenn R. Felty to the gospel ministry be recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church, and further
Resolved, that the service of ordination be held Tuesday, April 24, 2007, at 7:30 PM at Annual Conference.
Whereas, we believe there are men that are called of God to serve as His servants as Pastors, and
Whereas, it is important for the gifts and calling that God has given these men to serve are to be recognized by fellow pastors, and
Whereas, we believe it is a tremendous encouragement for fellow pastors to show approval, support and unity for those being ordained, therefore be it
Resolved, that the Credentials Committee resolution at the 123rd Annual Conference, “that an ordination service be held Monday, May 21, 2007, at a place to be determined,” be rescinded, and further be it
Resolved, that the following two-tiered procedure for ordination be approved and instituted at this year’s 124th Annual Conference:
Ordination at Annual Conference:
• Introduction and testimony of the men
• A charge to the men
• The administration of the vows
• The laying on of hands and prayer
• Extending the right hand of fellowship by the members of the Credentials Committee and the ordained ministers of the BFC Annual Conference
Ordination Service at a Bible Fellowship Church:
The second part would be a service in the church where each man is serving. In that service, the man would:
• Affirm his vows of ordination by repeating them; the affirmation to be led by a member of the Credentials Committee.
• The elders of that church would pray for him.
• The pastors of that region would be expected to be present to extend the right hand of fellowship and greet the man.
• Someone, the ordinand’s recommendation, would preach an appropriate ordination sermon.
• All of this can be introduced by a time of worship and praise that would have meaning both to the man and the church.
This service would serve to point out the significance of ordinations in the local church and make them part of the process.
Resolved, that an Ordination Service be held Tuesday, April 29, 2008, at the 125th Annual Conference.
Resolved, that Grace BFC, Harrisburg, PA; New Life BFC, Long Neck, DE; Pocono Mt. BFC, Mount Pocono, PA; New Life BFC, Oley, PA; Grace BFC, Quakertown, PA, Bethany BFC, Mt. Carmel, PA; Camden BFC, Camden, DE; Berean BFC, Stroudsburg, PA and Cedar Crest BFC, Allentown, PA be encouraged to have a service in recognition of the ordination of Mark E. Barninger, Raymond R. Bertolet, Timothy J. Bertolet, Scott B. Evans, Ronald L. Kohl, Philip G. Norris, and Timothy J. Schmoyer and prior ordination of Davis E. Duggins and Glenn R. Felty respectively and that they be encouraged to invite the Credentials Committee to send representation to be present at the service.
Keith E. Plows, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, prayed and thanked the Lord for calling these men into the Pastoral Ministry in the Bible Fellowship Church.
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the list of men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee as of February 28, 2007, is as follows:
Probationers
Mark E. Barninger (2005). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Harrisburg PA
Raymond R. Bertolet (2005). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Millsboro DE
Timothy J. Bertolet (2004). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pocono Summit PA
David E. Brandt (2006). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lebanon PA
Shan D. Cleck (2006). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Strasburg PA
Steven J. DelDuco (2007). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Reading PA
Davis E. Duggins (2005). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stroudsburg PA
Scott B. Evans (2005). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oley PA
Glenn R. Felty (2005). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Allentown PA
Jonathan D. Forsythe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brigantine NJ
Ronald L. Kohl (2004). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Quakertown PA
Robert B. Kramer (2006). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ephrata PA
Frank E. Lenahan (2005). . . . . . . . . . . . Cape May Court House NJ
Ferdie R. Madara (2006). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Benton PA
Thomas H. Morrison (2005). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Las Cruces NM
Philip G. Norris (2004). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mt. Carmel PA
David W. Peters (2004). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Killeen TX
Timothy J. Schmoyer (2004). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dover DE
Colby A. Weinhofer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Akron PA
Daniel L. Williams (2006). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Parkside PA
Candidates
Mark R. Evans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Coopersburg PA
Shad A. Gilbert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockertown PA
James D. MacArthur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oley PA
Joshua P. Miller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Quakertown PA
David K. Schlonecker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Emmaus PA
Alphaus D. Stoltzfus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Downingtown PA
Aaron J. Susek. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Royersford PA
Applicants
Joshua M. Allen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . East Stroudsburg PA
Timothy G. Clark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sinking Spring PA
Samuel Claudio, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bethlehem PA
Raymond L. Cole. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newark DE
John C. Elias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bethlehem PA
Kurt P. Francis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Northumberland PA
David J. Gettel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Graterford, PA
Joshua P. Gibson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Northumberland PA
Troy S. Good. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Boyertown PA
Robert W. Green. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Newark DE
Peter J. Gunderson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Spring City PA
Ronald C. Hagy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Corning NY
Fred J. Hoffman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lewisburg PA
Jonathan H. King. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Schnecksville PA
John LoRusso. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alburtis PA
Marcos G. Ramirez. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Merida Yucatan Mexico
Carlos G. Rodriguez. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Reading PA
Mark A. Schaeffer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kinnelon NJ
Andrew J. Stapleton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reading PA
The following men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee were introduced to the Conference: Timothy J. Schmoyer, Fredie R. Mardara, Timothy J. Bertolet, Shan D. Cleck, Kurt P. Francis, Jonathan D. Forsythe, Steven J. DelDuco, Robert B. Kramer, David E. Brandt, Ronald L. Kohl, David E. Duggins, Colby A. Weinhofer, Raymond R. Bertolet, Joshua P. Gibson, Thomas H. Morrison, Daniel L. Williams, Carlos G. Rodriguez, Marcos G. Ramirez, John LoRusso, Joshua M. Allen, Timothy G. Clark, David K. Schlonecker, Joshua P. Miller, Mark E. Barninger, Glenn R. Felty, Shad A. Gilbert, Mark R. Evans.
Calvin T. Reed prayed for the men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 noon as Raymond R. Bertolet closed the first meeting of the 124th Annual Conference in prayer especially remembering John and Judy Pello with their serious physical needs.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Randall A. Grossman at 1:32 PM. Donald D. Mckinney opened the meeting with prayer.
Report of the Conference Pastor (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Church Extension (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Albert J. Dommel led the Conference in prayer, thanking the Lord for the ministry of Phil and Sandy Mitchell, an Aquilla / Pricilla team working at the Saucon Valley Church Plant. Phil recently passed away suddenly. He will be greatly missed
Resolved, that the Annual Conference ratify the election of David E. Gundrum as Executive Director of Church Extension Ministries for a term of three years.
Whereas, Fellowship Community Mission Church affords long-time members of the BFC who are now residents at Fellowship Community the opportunity to maintain their BFC membership and involvement in the local church, and
Whereas, it is important to establish a Particular Church at Fellowship Community in a timely manner because of the uniqueness of the situation and its prospective members, and
Whereas, the Board of Church Extension has insured that there are sufficient committed individuals and has appointed three elder designees to oversee the church, and
Whereas, the Board of Church Extension is of the opinion that the Fellowship Community Mission Church, Whitehall, PA, meets the qualifications of a Particular Church as specified in Article 18 of the Articles of Faith of the BFC, therefore, be it
Resolved, that Fellowship Community Mission Church, Whitehall, PA, be recognized as a Particular Church, and that its delegate be received into membership of the 123rdAnnual Conference of the BFC.
Robert H. Zentz was seated in the Conference Bar as the Delegate of Fellowship Community Mission Church, Whitehall, PA.
Report of the Director of Church Extension (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Mark Morrison, Assistant Director of Church Extension, addressed the Conference giving an update on his ministry in Church Extension and in Fellowship Community. Thomas H. Morrison gave an update on the Las Cruces, New Mexico, Mission work. David E. Gundrum introduced a new plan from Church Extension called, Missions Here and Now a Forward Plan for Planting New Bible Fellowship Churches 2006 to 2011.
Report of the Ethnic Church Planting Committee (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Pensions
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Missions (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, Dana E. Weller was appointed by the Board of Missions to be Director for a three year term, therefore be it
Resolved, that Dana E. Weller be ratified as Director of the Board of Missions for a three year term.
Resolved, that the Minutes of the Adjourned Session (ninth meeting) of the 122nd Annual Conference be approved.
Report of the Study Committee on Weak and Declining Churches (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following be adopted at Second Reading:
The Board of Church Health exists to serve the Particular Churches of the BFC by promoting strong church health.
Composition and Election
(1) The Board of Church Health shall consist of four ministers and four elders.
(2) They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I Two ministers and one elder
Class II One minister and two elders
Class III One minister and one elder
Duties of Board of Church Health
(1) The Board of Church Health shall monitor the health of Particular Churches.
(2) It shall approach, based on its discretion, Particular Churches to offer assistance for strengthening church health.
(3) It shall provide counsel and resources for the self-assessment of the health of Particular Churches.
(4) It shall provide a list of recommended consultants to Particular Churches needing assistance in moving toward stronger church health.
(5) It shall offer training and seminars to promote church health.
(6) It shall inform the Ministerial Relations Committee if a matter threatening the pastoral relationship becomes evident at a Particular Church receiving Board of Church Health assistance and shall assist a Particular Church at the request of the Ministerial Relations Committee.
(7) It shall in cooperation with the Board of Directors assist Particular Churches to close when necessary.
(9) In the event of a church closing it shall consult with the Board of Church Extension regarding the feasibility of planting a new church in the same area.
(10) It shall develop sources of financial assistance for Particular Churches who cannot afford church health resources.
(11) It shall receive and disburse monies designated for church health.
[SECOND READING]
Resolved, that the following be adopted at First Reading:
Duties of the Board of Church Health
(8) It shall provide a report on the closing of a Particular Church to Annual Conference.
[FIRST READING]
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 Gary E. Karch and Karen Stull for terms to end in 2009.
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 Directors of Victory Valley (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following was presented by the Board and Young Adults as Second Reading.
Resolved, that the following be adopted at Second Reading:
512-18.2
(1) The Board will be composed of five ministers and four laypersons.
(2) They will be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I two ministers, one layperson
Class II two ministers, one layperson
Class III one minister, two laypersons
[SECOND READING]
Report of the Board of Communications (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following were elected:
Board of Church Extension
Alfred G. Roberts (3 years)
William R. Singletary (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
Eric R. North (3 years)
John C. Studenroth (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley
Timothy J. Bertolet (3 years)
Strategic Planning Committee
Dana E. Weller (3 years)
Board of Youth and Young Adults
Regina S. Gotchel (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
Ralph E. Ritter (3 years)
Board of Pensions
David N. Schoen (3 years)
Special Appellate Judicatory
Charles Lavigna (3 years)
Secretary of Annual Conference
David A. Thomann (1 year)
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 PM as Thomas A. Pollock closed in prayer.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, 6:30 PM
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman, Randall A. Grossman, at 6:33 PM. Alfred G. Roberts led in prayer.
Report of the Registrar:
The following submitted excuses for all or part of the Conference: William E. Blair, Roger J. Brush, Alan G. Miller, R. C. Reichenbach, David B. Rothenberger
Resolved, that the requests for excuses be granted.
Resolved, that the minutes of the first meeting be approved.
Report of the Board of Christian Education (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Board of Youth and Young Adults (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Andrew T. Crossgrove prayed for the Board of Youth and Young Adults and for its vision of a Conference Youth Pastor to help with the needs of the youth ministries of the Bible Fellowship Churches.
Dana E. Weller, Director of the BFC Board of Missions, introduced the following BFC missionaries who are present at Annual Conference: Thomas and Becky Pollock, David and Rosemarie Manney, Jay and Ruth Burrington, Mark Bickel. Annette Kriner, John Pello, Byron Barnshaw, John C. Studenroth, Robert and Lois Draper, J. Barclay Harley, Ronald W. Hoyle, John LoRusso, Philip E. Yerrington, Raymond R. Bertolet, David K. Schlonecker and Kevin W. Kirkpatrick. Byron Widger read greetings from Chris Merrick.
Kenneth F. Barber prayed and thanked the Lord for His commission for us to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world.
Time was set aside for reports of the Lord’s blessings in the different regions. Ronald C. Mahurin served as host and representatives of the regions presented their praises and prayer requests. At the end of each report, prayer was offered for the work of the Lord in those churches.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 PM as Bryan L. Snyder closed in prayer.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning
April 25, 2006, 9:00 AM
The meeting was called to order by Chairman, Randall A. Grossman at 9:00 AM. Richard T. Paashaus led the Conference in, singing Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing and in prayer. He read Hebrews 7:22-25. The Conference then sang, Before the Throne of God Aboveand In Christ Alone. John H. Riggall prayed and thanked the Lord for those serving in the military chaplaincy and asked His best for them. Richard E. Taylor thanked the Lord for the gift of a newly born daughter, Elizabeth Mae to Timothy and A. J. Bertolet and also for Calvin A. Boyle, a long-time delegate from Bethany BFC, Whitehall, PA, who has suffered a stroke.
The Report of the Registrar:
The following requested to be excused, for portions of Annual Conference: Brian H. Cooper and Ronald W. Hoyle.
Resolved, that these requests be granted.
Resolved, that John H. Crouch be seated as Alternate Delegate of the Denville BFC.
Resolved, that the Minutes of the Second Meeting be approved.
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 Strategic Planning Committee (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
A request from the Board of Elders of Grace BFC, Nazareth, PA was received by the Secretary of Annual Conference. It states:
Article 103-5.5 (next to last sentence) which reads: “Remarriage is permissible for those who have been legitimately divorced or whose return to the former partner is determined by the elders to be impossible.”
While the preceding paragraphs of this Article correctly describe the grounds for legitimate divorce, it must be realized that this sentence places no restraints on any Board of Elders from declaring the correctness of an unbiblical remarriage. The phrase which follows the conjunction “or” allows the Elders to declare a basis for remarriage which is not Biblical.
Therefore, as resolved at our 13 March, 2006 meeting, the Board of Elders of Grace BFC, Nazareth, Pa., requests the 123rd BFC Annual Conference to examine Article 103-5.5 and amend it to restrict any particular Board of Elders from overextending its authority.
Resolved, that we receive the request from the Board of Elders of Grace BFC, Nazareth PA.
Resolved, that the Chairman appoint a committee of five to prepare a revision of Article 103-5.5 of the Biblical Principles of Living in order to satisfy the request of the Board of Elders of Grace BFC, Nazareth, PA.
The Chairman appointed: Jonathon W. Arnold, James A. Beil and Rodney P. Plows (members of the Board of Elders of Nazareth BFC) and Delbert R. Baker, II, and Daniel G. Ziegler (members of the committee who wrote this particular BPL).
Report of the Study Committee on Credentials and Multi Staff Churches (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following be adopted as Second Reading for inclusion into the Faith and Order: (This is to replace 204-1.2 The Qualification for the Ministry – Personal Qualifications.)
204-1.4 The Qualifications for the Ministry
Personal Qualifications
(1) The minister must have a love for the study of Scripture inasmuch as his primary function is to be pastor-teacher.
(2) The minister must possess qualities of leadership and administration, together with a willingness to assume responsibility inasmuch as he is an elder who numbers ruling among his duties.
(3) The minister, being accountable to God, must have a genuine love for people, exercise patience in dealing with them, be receptive to criticism and correction, and remain steadfast in his duties inasmuch as he is an under-shepherd of the flock of God.
(4) The minister must not be a lover of money inasmuch as he is to be a lover of God.
(5) The minister must be willing to forgo personal rights and privileges for the sake of ministering to others inasmuch as he is to be an example of a servant.
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 138; No – 5
Resolved, that the following be adopted as First Reading for inclusion into the Faith and Order:
401-1.1
The Board of Elders shall be composed of the pastoral staff and all of the active lay elders of the congregation. The active lay elders shall designate at least one individual of the pastoral staff as a voting member of the Board of Elders, and shall designate others of the pastoral staff as either voting or non-voting members. The lay elders shall be elected by majority vote of the congregation. They shall be mature men who meet the qualifications of Scripture (1Tim. 3; Titus 1; 1Pe. 5). If the congregation has more qualified elders than are needed to serve at one time, the number of active elders shall be determined by the congregation by ballot vote upon recommendation of the Board of Elders.
Note:
The bold – italicized above replaces – “The Board of Elders shall be composed of the minister and all of the active elders of the congregation . . .”
401-1.2
The Board of Elders shall elect one of its members to serve as chairman, and one of its members to serve as secretary. Two thirds of the membership of the board shall constitute a quorum.
Note:
The bold-italicized above replaces – “The minister shall serve as chairman of the Board of Elders; the board shall elect one of its members to serve as secretary . . .”
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 127; No – 12
Report of the Study Committee on Women in the Office of Deacon (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following be adopted as First Reading:
401-2. The Board of Deacons
401-2.1 The Board of Deacons shall be composed of all deacons duly elected by and from the congregation who meet the qualifications of the Scriptures. They shall be mature believers (replaces men) who demonstrate a spiritual wisdom and compassion so that they might serve the needy in a Christlike, merciful way.
204-3. Deacons
204-3.1 The office of deacon is presented in the Scriptures as an office not of ruling, but of service. A deacon should be a person (replaces man) of deep spiritual life, exemplary conduct, and sound judgment (1 Tim. 3; Acts 6:1-8). This (replaces His) office is one of sympathetic service to the church and to the distressed, friendless, or sick, after the example of our Lord Jesus Christ.
401-2.5 Election and Installation of Deacons. Each congregation may elect deacons in keeping with the qualifications set forth in Scripture. Deacons must be (delete male) members in full communion in the church in which they are to exercise their office.
The term of office shall be determined by the Particular Church by congregational vote, but shall not be less than three years, except when a Particular Church desires a probationary term of service for newly-chosen deacons. When possible the Board of Deacons shall be divided into not fewer than three classes as determined by congregational vote in each of the Particular Churches.
In the event of a vacancy by death, resignation, or removal, a member(replaces man) may be elected to fill the unexpired term of office….
Questions to the congregation – end of 401-2.5
(1) Do you, the members of this church, acknowledge and receive this brother (or sister) as a deacon?
(2) Do you promise to give him (or her) all the honor, encouragement, and support in the Lord to which this (replaces his) office entitles him (or her)?
After the members of the church have answered these questions in the affirmative by holding up their right hands, the minister shall proceed to set apart the candidate by prayer to the office of deacon and shall give to him (or her) and to the congregation an exhortation suited to the occasion.
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 101; No – 43
Carlos Rodriguez introduced his brother-in-law, Marcos Ramirez, who is visiting from Mexico. He is a church planter in Mexico. He has been in contact with David E. Gundrum about the possibility of planting an Hispanic Bible Fellowship Church in the United States. Elliot H. Ramos led the Conference in prayer for Marcos Ramirez and the Lord’s calling on his life.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
Stephen J. Kauffman (3 years)
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church
David T. Allen (3 years)
David J. Watkins (3 years)
Charles A. Lavigna (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
Kenneth D. Keeler (3 years)
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
Carol A. Gearhart (3 years)
Scott G. Ott (3 years)
Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc.
William H. Bartron (3 years)
Glenn D. Ruoss (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley
Rachel E. Norris (3 years)
Rodney P. Plows (3 years)
Board of Missions
Thomas P. Shorb (3 years)
Philip E. Yerrington (3 years)
Susanne R. Figard (3 years)
Robert W. Davies (2 years)
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference
Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr.(3 years)
Charles E. Cole (3 years)
Gerald L Schlonecker (3 years)
Hans R. Waldvogel (3 years)
Robert H. Zentz (3 years)
Strategic Planning Committee
Robert H. Zentz (3 years)
Robert T. Evans (1 year)
Board of Youth and Young Adults
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. (3 years)
William J. Dunn (3 years)
Board of Pensions
Jay H. Fasnacht (3 years)
Robert Gaugler (3 years)
Board of Communication
Allan R. Vivona (3 years)
Credentials Committee
Ralph M. Soper (3 years)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr. (3 years)
David E. Gundrum (3 years)
Historical Committee
Carl C. Cassel (3 years)
Jill Davidson (3 years)
Conference Judicatory
Dean A. Stortz (3 years)
Gregory A. Uhrich (3 years)
L. James Roberts, Jr. (3 years)
Ronald W. Reed (3 years)
Les Moyer (2 years)
Special Appellate Judicatory
John C. Studenroth (3 years)
Committee on Nominations
David R. Way (3 years)
Charles D. Bomgardner (3 years)
Chairman of Annual Conference
Randall A. Grossman (1 year)
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:18 PM as Rodney P. Plows closed in prayer.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 1:32 PM with Byron Barnshaw opening in prayer.
Resolved, that the minutes of the third meeting be approved.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted as First Reading:
Article 18 – The Church
Article 18-4.
A properly constituted local Church must include the ministry of God’s Word, the observance of the ordinances, the oversight by elders and the exercise of discipline. The overseers of the Church are to be prayed for, obeyed and honored.
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 136; No – 6
The following legislation was adopted at Second Reading:
Resolved, that the following paragraph be added to the F&O as §502-2.2:
In some instances, the time of probation for a man who is not previously ordained may be shortened by the Ministerial Candidate Committee to one year if he has served on the staff of a Bible Fellowship Church in a full-time capacity for two or more years prior to the effective date of his license. In no case will the probationary service be less than one year. The Ministerial Candidate Committee shall determine the length of the probationary service after evaluating the prior service of the probationer.
[SECOND READING]
The following legislation was adopted at Second Reading:
Resolved, that Article 402-2.3 be deleted from the F&O and that the subsequent articles be renumbered.
[SECOND READING]
Report of the Beneficiary Society (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
David E. Thomann led the Conference in prayer especially remembering John Dunn, living in Florida and missing his wife Cordelia who went home to be with the Lord this past year.
A service of recognition was held for Fellowship Community Bible Fellowship Church. David E. Gundrum represented the Board of Church Extension in the presentation of the resolution passed by Annual Conference in the second meeting of the 123rd Annual Conference. Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. represented the Church as Pastor, and Robert H. Zentz as Delegate. Richard E. Taylor prayed and thanked the Lord for this wonderful occasion and for His faithfulness to all generations. A time of welcome followed as members of Annual Conference greeted members of Fellowship Community BFC.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Candidate Committee
Howard N. Wells (1 year)
Board of Church Health
Carl K. Spackman (3 years)
Report of the Study Committee on the Process and Purpose of God’s calling People to Salvation (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following changes (found in bold type) in the “Articles of Faith” be adopted as First Reading:
Article 11 – Election
11-1 Election is a free act of the sovereign God in which from eternity, 1 for reasons known only to Himself, 2 and apart from any foreseen faith and/or goodnessfound in man, 3 He graciously chose from among the fallen mankind a people unto salvation, 4 that they might be conformed to Christ’s image. 4 Those so chosen He redeemed by His Son5 and seals by His Spirit. 6
1 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will (Eph.1:4,11).
2 “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him” (Mat.11:27).
3 Who has saved us and called us to a holy life–not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time (2 Tim.1:9). “For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom He predestined He also called, and those whom He called He also justified, and those whom He justified He also glorified.” (Rom. 8:29-30 )
4 Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ (Eph.4:13).
5 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth (2 Thes.2:13).
6 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit (Eph.1:13).
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 123; No – 22
Resolved, that the following changes (found in bold type) in the “Articles of Faith” be adopted as First Reading:
Article 9 – Sin
9-1. “Sin is any lack of conformity to the will of God1 or any transgression of the law of God. 2 Sin separates man from God, incurring His wrath and judgment, and is manifest in the selfishness, rebellion, unbelief and total depravity of man’sbeing.3 Sin is the cause of the curse on and defilement of the created universe.” 4
1 All wrongdoing is sin (1Jo. 5:17a). Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins (James 4:17).
2 Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness (1Jo. 3:4). For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it (James 2:10).
3 “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, (2) in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air. (3) All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath.” (Eph. 2:1-3). “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, (19) since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. (20) For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. (21) For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.” (Rom. 1:18-21). Also Rom. 3:10-12, Rom. 8:7-8.
4 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time (Rom.8:22). (See also Gen.3:17,18).
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 134; No – 8
Resolved, that the following changes (found in bold type) in the “Articles of Faith” be adopted as First Reading:
Article 12 – Salvation
12-1. Salvation is the work of God1 in which He reconciles fallen men to Himself,2ultimately removes the consequences of the curse, 3 and bestows upon His redeemed creation4 the riches of His grace, all to His glory. 5
12-2. Salvation is offered in the gospel to all men6 and is accomplished in all the elect.7 It is received by grace through faith and the instrumentality of the Holy Spirit,8apart from works or human merit.9 Salvation centers in a person, Jesus Christ, and receiving Him10 includes the remission of sins on the grounds of His shed bloodon the cross, 11 the imputation of His perfect righteousness,12 the reception of the Holy Spirit, 13 and the impartation of eternal life. 14
1 Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. (Heb. 7:25) Also Eph. 2:4-5, 8-9.
2 “Through Him to reconcile all things to Himself…” (Col. 1:20) For if, when we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life! (Rom. 5:10)
3No longer will there by any curse. (Rev. 22:3)
4 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. (Rom. 8:18-25)
5 I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for my own Sake, and remembers your sins no more. (Isaiah 43:25)
6 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
7 All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. (John 6:37) No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. (John 6:44) For you granted him authority over all people that He might give eternal life to all those you have given him. (John 17:2) When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all those who were appointed for eternal life believed. (Acts 13:48)
8 When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment (John 16:8).
9 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God–not by works, so that no one can boast (Eph.2:8,9).
10 Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God (John 1:12).
11 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace (Eph.1:7).
12 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God–that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption (1 Cor.1:30).
13 And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ (Rom.8:9b).
14 And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. (1 John 5:11, 12).
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 131; No – 14
Resolved, that the following changes (found in bold type) in the “Articles of Faith: be adopted as First Reading:
Article 13 – Repentance
13-1 Repentance unto life is a gift of God1 and a voluntary act of man,2 accomplished by the convicting power of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God. Repentance consists in a knowledge of sin,3 a sense of guilt and corruption that results in the confession and forsaking of sin, and a turning to God4 that results in loving,obedient service.5
1 Or do you show contempt for the riches of His kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance? (Rom. 2:4) When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.”(Acts 11:18) Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, (2 Tim. 2:25)
2 And repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem (Luke 24:47). In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30).
3 When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment (John 16:8).
4 For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God (1Thes.1:9).
5 For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Eph. 2:10) We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. (1Thes. 1:3)
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 137; No – 9
Resolved, that the following changes (found in bold type) in the “Articles of Faith” be adopted as First Reading:
Article 10 – Human Ability and Responsibility
10-1. In his original creation man was endowed with the ability to will and do good or evil and was accountable for his willing and doing.1 But through the fall of Adam man lost his ability, apart from God’s grace,2 to will and to do those things necessary for a right relationship with God;3 however, he is still accountable to God for obedience to all of His commands.4 Man has not lost his ability to make decisions,5 but unless regenerated6, he acts only in accordance with his fallen, sinful nature.7
10-2 Only by God’s infinite grace can man will or do anything necessary to his salvation.8 By that grace, God saves those men whom He causes to will and to do good;9 however, He does this without nullifying man’s ability to act responsibly.10
1 And the LORD God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die” (Gen.2:16,17).
2 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath (Eph.2:1-3).
3 There is no one who understands, no one who seeks God (Rom.3:11). Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God (Rom.8:8).
4 God “will give to each person according to what he has done.” To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile (Rom.2:6-10). In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30).
5 Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach. This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live (Deu.30:11,19).
6“He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” (Titus 3:5) “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins…(5) made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions…” (Eph. 2:1, 5)
7 As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one; All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one” (Rom.3:10,12). Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil (Jer.13:23). (See also footnote 2).
8 It does not, therefore, depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy (Rom.9:16).
9Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God – (13) children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. (John 1:12-13)
10 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed–not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence–continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose (Phil.2:12,13).
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 120; No – 24
The Committee will supply Annual Conference pastors and delegates with materials giving reason for their proposed changes.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 PM as Dean A. Stortz closed in prayer.
Sixth Meeting
Tuesday Evening, 6:30 PM
The meeting was called to order by Randall A. Grossman, Chairman, at 6:31 PM as Ronald Miller led in prayer.
The following was elected:
Vice Chairman of Annual Conference
Calvin T. Reed (1 year)
Richard T. Paashaus led the Conference in a time of worship. The Conference sang, I Worship You Almighty God. He read Titus 3:3 and led us in singing, How Deep the Father’s Love and closed in prayer. He then read John 17:6-12, the text for the evening message after which the Conference sang, Amazing Love. An offering was received for the Darlene Mahurin Fund, which is used by the Conference Pastor for the needs of pastors and their families. Richard T. Paashaus then read John 17:13-19, after which the Conference sang the first two verses of, The Church’s One Foundation. John 17:20-23 was read and the third verse of, The Church’s One Foundation was sung.
Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr. spoke on the theme “Our Reflection of God’s Glory” using John 17:6-23 as his text. We ended our worship time together by singing the last verse of The Church’s One Foundation and Richard T. Paashaus reading Ephesians 3:20-21.
Report of the Registrar:
The following have requested to be excused from all of Annual Conference: Roger L. Reitz and Leonard E. Buck.
Resolved, that these requests be granted.
Resolved, that Walter R. Wagonseller be seated as the Alternate Delegate from Blandon BFC.
Resolved, that the minutes of the fifth meeting of Annual Conference be approved.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes, 122nd. (see page)
Resolved, that the report be adopted.
Report of the Committee 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 Committee to answer the request from the Board of Elders of Grace BFC, Nazareth, Pa
Resolved, that the following (found in bold type) be adopted as First Reading:
Article 103-5.5
“Remarriage is permissible for those who have been legitimately divorced or whose return to the former partner is determined by the elders as they study the Scriptures to be impossible.” (addition found in bold type).
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 92; No – 39
Resolved, that the above is the answer of the 123rd Annual Conference to the request by the Board of Elders of Grace BFC of Nazareth Pa.
Report of the Board of Youth and Young Adults – financial report (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following was elected:
Board of Higher Education
Alan H. Russell (3 years)
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 PM. D. Thomas Philips prayed, asking the Lord for a victory of the Marriage Amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution that would establish marriage as the union of one man to one woman. Philip E. Yerrington also prayed, asking the Lord for Antonio and Eli a young couple from Dos Hermanas, Spain, whose thirteen year old son has disappeared. Randall A. Grossman closed in prayer remembering Barry J. Minsky, who is facing surgery today.
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday Morning
April 26, 2006, 9:00 AM
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 9:04 AM. Gene W. Smith opened the meeting in prayer.
Richard T. Paashaus led the Conference in singing All Hail the Power and then led in prayer. The Conference then sang Lord Most High. John 17:24-26 was read and the time was concluded with the singing of Hallelujah! What a Savior. Kenneth D. Keeler spoke on the theme, “Our Participation in God’s Glory,” using John 17:24-26 as his text. The Conference responded by singing Rejoice, the Lord is King and in receiving the Benediction from 1 Timothy 1:17.
Report of the Registrar:
The following requested to be excused from part of Annual Conference: Clifford B. Boone, Elliot H. Ramos, Richard G. Matthews, David E. Thomann and Jeff L. Hostetter.
Resolved, that these requests be granted.
J. Mark McCreary led the Conference in prayer for Vice Chairman, Clifford B. Boone who is ill and cannot attend the rest of these meetings.
The Chairman appointed William G. Schlonecker to serve as Vice Chairman in Clifford B. Boone’s absence and Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. to serve as Timekeeper in John C. Vandegriff, Jr.’s absence.
Report of the Study Committee on the Millennium (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that report of the Study Committee on the Millennium be sent back to Committee.
The Committee was instructed to address the issue of referring to material in the report as “Proposed Revisions” if indeed they are not proposing those changes and addressing the issue of how they will handle the paper submitted by Robert C. Kaatz, Elder/Delegate from the Bible Fellowship Church, Newark, DE, who is a member of the Study Committee on the Millennium.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:17 PM with Arthur J. Simpson closing in prayer.
Eighth Meeting
Wednesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 PM. R. C. Reichenbach led the Conference in prayer especially remembering John H. Riggall who has become ill.
The following were elected:
Board of Higher Education:
Charles A. Bloomfield (2 years)
Karen Stull (2 years)
Board of Church Health
Richard T. Paashaus (3 years)
Ronald W. Reed (3 years)
Robert C. Kaatz (2 years)
Robert H. Zentz (2 years)
Resolved, that the minutes of the sixth meeting be approved.
Report of the Committee on the Distinction Between the Office of Pastor and Elder with Reference to Divorce (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
After a lengthy discussion, Dana E. Weller prayed, asking that the Lord would give us His wisdom as we vote on the legislation dealing with pastors and divorce.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at First Reading:
Whereas, the Biblical evidence clearly teaches the equality of the office of elder and pastor, and
Whereas, there are no Biblical distinctions in the moral and spiritual qualifications for an elder or a pastor, and
Whereas, divorce alone does not automatically disqualify a man from being an elder, therefore, be it
Resolved, that this study committee recommends that the local church, the Ministerial Candidate Committee and the Credentials Committee give due consideration to this report in examining men for ordination and for candidating at a church, and further
Resolved, that Article 108-5 be added to the Faith & Order at first reading:
“Because of the qualifications and dignity of the office of Pastor, when considering a man for ordination, the Ministerial Candidate Committee and Credentials Committee shall give careful consideration to ensure that a man who has been divorced or who has married a divorced womanhas Biblically resolved the issues in family, the church, and community raised by the divorce, demonstrated since the divorce stability of character andis presently characterized as above reproach, and if married, faithful to and exclusively committed to his wife.”
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 94; No – 35
Resolved, that the following be adopted at First Reading:
Resolved, that the following addition (found in bold type) be made to Article 204-2.5 of the F&O.
Because of the qualifications and dignity of the office of Elder, each Particular Church shall give careful consideration to ensure that a man who has been divorced or who has married a divorced woman has Biblically resolved the issues in family, the church, and community raised by the divorce, demonstrated since the divorce, stability of character and is presently characterized as above reproach, and if married, faithful to and exclusively committed to his wife.”
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 117; No – 12
Report of the Study Committee on the Millennium (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Recommendations of the Nominating Committee
Whereas, the Faith and Order as a result of legislation approved at Second Reading in 2004 (2004 Yearbook, p.42) states in 510-1 (1) “there are three categories of nominees for election to boards and committees. They are ministers, elders, and laypersons.” and
Whereas, the Faith and Order in 204-4, as a result of legislation approved at Second Reading in 2005 (2005 yearbook, p. 20) states “the pastoral staff of a Particular Church is composed of, and limited to, those men who are serving as ministers in the BFC. For an individual to serve as a minister in the BFC, he must be ordained or have had his previous ordination recognized by the BFC or he must be under the care of the ministerial Candidate Committee.” and
Whereas, the remainder of 510 – General Rules of Elections and Resignations needs to be brought into conformity with this legislation; therefore be it
Resolved, that 510 – General Rules of Elections and Resignations be amended as follows:
510-2 Ministers (Delete “ordained”)
(1) Ministers (Delete “ordained”) who have been called to minister by the rules of Pulpit Supply or who are laboring in any agency of the BFC shall be eligible for election or appointment to conference offices, boards, or committees.
(2) A Minister (Delete “ordained”) 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 th list of Ordained Ministers working under the direction of the BFC.
(The remainder of 510 would remain unchanged.)
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 120; No – 0
Resolved, that the cost of the 2006 Yearbook be $ 8.50 per copy.
Resolved, that a contribution of three-hundred-twenty-five dollars ($325.00) for the conference year 2006 be given to the Board of Communications from each agency to help underwrite the cost of printing and distributing the Fellowship News.
Payments are to be made to the Board of Communications by December 31, 2006.
Resolved, that $1.75 per member of the Bible Fellowship Church for 2006 be forwarded to the Board of Communications from each church to help underwrite the cost of printing and distributing the Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Board of Communications at the 123rd Annual Conference.
Resolved, that Rachel Kistler be ratified to fill the position of Business Manager of Fellowship News to complete the unexpired term of Paul T. Rutman.
Resolved, that Scott G. Ott be ratified as the Webservant for a three-year term.
Resolved, that the recommended minimum salary for a pastor serving in the BFC for the calendar year 2007 be $30,000. In addition to his salary, the church must provide the pastor’s Social Security tax, parsonage and/or housing allowance, health insurance, and provision should be made for reimbursement for allowable car and professional expenses. The church must also contribute a minimum of 3% of the pastor’s salary for retirement to the ministers annuity fund, plus an additional 1% match if the pastor is voluntarily contributing 1%.
Note:
The above recommendation is considered the minimum. In establishing a fair and equitable salary and benefits package for the minister, consideration should be given to experience, education and the cost of living as per one’s location. In some areas, a higher figure would be more equitable. Additional information for the Pastoral Relations Committee can be found in the Yearbook. You can also contact the Reading BFC for added information.
Resolved, that the salary for the Conference Pastor be $26,000.00, and in addition we provide $6,200.00 for health insurance and $7,800.00 for car and professional expenses.
The following was elected:
Board of Church Health:
Byron Widger (2 years)
The following change in legislation was brought by the Ministerial Relations Committee:
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted as First Reading:
Article 409 – Pastoral Change Procedure
The orderly transition of pastoral leadership is crucial to the health of a church. As the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ should be invoked to provide for the care of His under shepherds, the pastors, and for the needs of His flock, the congregation. The Ministerial Relations Committee is responsible to provide guidance to both pastors and churches during this transition.
409-1 Instituting the Pastoral Relationship
409- 1.1 When a church is seeking a Pastor, the Board of Elders shall meet with representatives of the Ministerial Relations Committee to discuss the following:
(1) Temporary pulpit supply. The Board of Elders shall provide for temporary pulpit supply on an interim basis. Pastors serving in this capacity shall be in sympathy with the F&O of the BFC.
(2) Election of a pastoral search committee.
(3) Congregational self-study, pastoral profile, and candidate search procedures.
(4) Rules for calling a pastor.
409-1.2 The Board of Elders shall call a congregational meeting according to our rules (see §403) in order to elect a pastoral search committee. The Board of Elders shall recommend the composition, size and election of the pastoral search committee. The committee may vary from church to church, but in all cases shall be viewed as subordinate to the Board of Elders. Under normal circumstances, the chairman of the pastoral search committee shall be an elder.
409-1.3 The Pastoral Search Committee shall maintain regular communication with the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee concerning progress in the pastoral search. The Ministerial Relations Committee shall seek to provide guidance and advice to the Pastoral Search Committee in its work.
409-1.4 The Pastoral Search committee shall seek a candidate who is fitted to the needs of the church and is or will be licensed to serve as a pastor in the BFC. If a candidate is not licensed to serve as a pastor in the BFC, he shall be referred to the Ministerial Candidate Committee. Under ordinary circumstances, the candidate must gain final approval by regular procedures in order to be called by the church.
409-1.5 On certain exceptional occasions, it may be necessary to expedite the procedure for issuing a call to a man who is previously ordained but not licensed by the BFC.
These circumstances are when:
(1) geographic distance allows limited-direct-contact.
(2) the demands of current ministry do not allow for the normal process.
(3) the church applies for special consideration because of urgent circumstances.
The expedited process is as follows:
(1) The church shall request the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee to use the expedited process. He, in consultation with the chairman of the Ministerial Candidate Committee, approves or disapproves the request.
(2) If the request is approved, the Ministerial Candidate Committee shall interview the man. If he is approved as a candidate under our rules (see 512-13.4), he shall be given the Open Book Examination.
(3) Upon the satisfactory completion of the Open Book Examination, the church may seek to issue a call, which is provisional.
(4) After the provisional call is issued, the man shall complete all other examinations and requirements of the Ministerial Candidate Committee before beginning the new ministry or moving into church-provided housing.
(5) When all examinations and requirements are satisfactorily completed, the Ministerial Candidate Committee will approve the man as a licensed probationer (see §514-13.4), effective on the date of the approval of his final examination. The Ministerial Relations Committee will recognize the provisional call as the formal call on the same date.
409-1.6 When the Pastoral Search Committee had completed its work, it shall recommend a candidate to the Board of Elders. The Board of Elders shall conduct any other research or interviews it deems necessary, including establishing the terms of the call.
409-1.7 When the Board of Elders is ready to present a candidate to the congregation, it shall inform the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee of the name and of the terms of the call. The purpose of this consultation is to protect the candidate, the church, and the BFC from unnecessary difficulties. The Ministerial Relations Committee shall have one week to approve or disapprove of the presentation of the candidate to the congregation.
409-1.8 If the Ministerial Relations Committee approves the presentation of the candidate, the Board of Elders shall call a congregational meeting according to our rules (see §403) for the purpose of calling a pastor.
409-1.9 The congregational meeting shall be led by the First Delegate or, at his request, a member of the Ministerial Relations Committee. Following the report of the pastoral search committee and/or the Board of Elders, the congregation shall vote on the question, “Are you ready to proceed to the calling of a pastor?” If a majority of members present and voting approve, a vote shall be taken to call the pastor. This vote shall be by written ballot. Absentee ballots are not allowed. The leader of the meeting shall announce the outcome of the vote and inform the congregation that the next step in the process is the approval or disapproval of the call by the Ministerial Relations Committee.
409-1.10 The Ministerial Relations Committee shall be informed of the outcome of the vote. The purpose of this consultation is to advise the Board of Elders concerning the issuing of a call and to approve or disapprove it. If the vote is approved by a strong majority, the Elders will be advised to proceed with the issuing of a call. If the vote is not approved by a strong majority, the Elders may be advised to consider options other than issuing a call. The Ministerial Relations Committee shall have the final authority to approve or disapprove the call.
409-1.11 Upon receiving the approval of the Ministerial Relations Committee, the Board of Elders may proceed to issue a call to the pastor as follows:
The (name) Church, of (city and state) , believing that you are well-qualified to serve as our pastor for the glory of God and our spiritual benefit, invite you,
(name of candidate) to accept this call to serve as our (title of pastor) promising you all proper support, encouragement, and obedience in the Lord.
In order to provide for your needs, we promise to pay you an annual salary of $ together with additional benefits as follows; (other benefits may include parsonage use, housing allowance, educational or professional allowances). We also will provide (number of weeks) vacation each year.
We also will pay into your Minister’s Annuity Fund the percentage of your salary established by Annual Conference.
We will also pay you a sum equivalent to your self-employment tax (FICA).
We will also provide health insurance for you and your family, equivalent to a standard set by the BFC Board of Directors and agreed on by you and the church.
And we promise to review with you the adequacy of this compensation annually. We, the elders of Church, sign our names to this call on (date).
409-1.12 Upon receiving the approval of the Ministerial Relations Committee (see 409-1.9), the Board of Elders or Agency Board may proceed to issue a bi-vocational call as follows:
The (church / agency) , believing that you are well-qualified to serve as pastor for the glory of God and the benefit of His church, invite you (name of candidate) to accept this call to serve in the office of (position / title) , promising you all proper support, encouragement and obedience in the Lord.
In order to help provide for your needs, we promise to pay you an annual salary of
$ , housing allowance, together with additional benefits as follows: (other benefits may include parsonage use, educational or professional allowances). We also will provide (number of weeks) vacation each year.
We also will pay into your Ministers Annuity Fund the percentage of your salary established by Annual Conference.
We also will pay you a sum equivalent to your self-employment tax (FICA).
(The following clause is optional.)
We also will provide health insurance agreed on by you and the (church / agency) .
This is a call to serve bi-vocationally, that is, with the understanding that you will provide part of your support through other employment than the ministerial position to which we are calling you.
We promise to review with you the adequacy of this call and its conditions each year, to increase our provision for your support as we are able, and to provide full support for you as soon as it is possible.
We sign our names to this call on (date) .
409-1.13 An Agency of the BFC may call a person to serve in its ministry. In such cases the board of directors of the Agency shall act in the place of the Board of Elders, Pastoral Search Committee, and Congregation. As in the case of a call to a Particular Church, the Ministerial Relations Committee shall approve the name, the terms, and the call of the candidate. The form of the call shall be modeled after the form for particular churches (see 409-10).
409-1.14 Upon receiving the call from the church or agency, the candidate has three weeks to accept or reject the call in writing. If the candidate accepts the call, the Ministerial Relations Committee shall set the effective date in consultation with the pastor and the church.
[FIRST READING]
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:24 PM as Raymond R. Dotts closed in prayer.
Ninth Meeting
Wednesday Evening, 6:15 PM
The meeting was called to order by the chairman at 6:15 PM as Clyde D. Bomgardner led the Conference in prayer.
Report of the Registrar:
The following requested to be excused from the rest of Annual Conference: Gregory A. Uhrich, Gene E. Smith and Rob J. Hodge.
Resolved, that these requests be granted.
The following were elected:
Board of Church Health
Robert A. Sloan, Jr. (1 year)
Clyde W. Snyder (1 year)
The following First Reading material was presented by the Ministerial Relations Committee:
Resolved, that the following be adopted as First Reading:
409-2 Dissolving the Pastoral Relationship (omit present 409-2, 409-2.1, 409-2.2)
(omit paragraph following title of 409-3)
409-2.1 An Uncontested Resignation
(2) Ordinarily . . . The action of the Board of Elders shall be communicated to the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee prior to the effective date of the resignation. (omit “. . . by the secretary . . . cannot be reached.”).
(omit paragraph (3) and replace (4) with the following:)
(3) The Board of Elders shall call a congregational meeting according to our rules (see 403) in order to consider the resignation of the pastor. When the congregation approves the resignation of the pastor, this information shall be communicated to the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee within one week. The special provisions made for the pastor’s transition (see 2.1 above), may be announced by the Board of Elders or, if they so decide, approved by the Congregation, by a separate resolution at the same meeting.
409-2.2 A Contested Resignation
(1) Replace final sentence beginning “Rules for communicating the results . . .” with “This decision shall be communicated to the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee within twenty-four hours.
409-2.3 Churches Desiring Dissolution of the Pastorate
(1) If the issues leading to a desire by the church to dissolve the pastorate involve moral or doctrinal charges against the pastor, the church shall follow the procedure outlined in the Book of Discipline (see section 300).
(2) No changes
409-3.4, 409-3.5, 409-3.6 Omit
[FIRST READING]
512-14 Ministerial Relations Committee
The purpose of the Ministerial Relations Committee is to foster a healthy relationship between pastors and churches, to help to resolve problems in the pastoral relationship, and to assist churches in calling pastors.
512-14.1 Composition and Election
Omit (3)
512-14.2 Duties
(1) The committee shall provide counsel and advice to churches and pastors upon their invitation. The committee may be invited to assist a church in this way upon request of the Board of Elders, the Pastoral Relations Committee of the church, an individual Elder or Elders, or the Pastor.
(2) The committee may initiate involvement and call a meeting with the Pastor, Pastoral Relations Committee, or Board of Elders, if the committee concludes there are matters threatening the health of the pastoral relationship which are not being adequately addressed by the Particular Church. This request for a meeting shall be in writing, stating the reasons that the Ministerial Relations Committee has for requesting it.
(3) The committee shall seek to resolve difficulties in the pastoral relationship whether they have been invited or have initiated involvement in the Particular Church. This involvement may take the form of meetings with the Pastor, Elders or Members, with the Pastoral Relations Committee, with the Board of Elders, or with the Congregation.
(4) The committee shall oversee the resignation of a pastor according to our rules.
(5) The committee shall meet with the Elders and/or Pastoral Search Committee with respect to temporary pulpit supply, the pastoral search process, and the calling of a pastor. It shall oversee the calling of a pastor according to our rules.
(6) The committee shall refer any problems concerning pastoral relationships that it cannot resolve to Annual Conference for final resolution. This referral may or may not have recommendations concerning resolution.
(7) The committee shall submit a report to Annual Conference, including recommendations concerning the minimum salary package for pastors called under our rules.
(8) The committee shall elect and oversee the Conference Pastor.
[FIRST READING]
Resolved, that the rate of mileage reimbursement for conference business conducted in 2006 be 27¢ per mile effective May 1, 2006.
Resolved, that the Administrative Budget for January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2006 be adopted.
Administrative Budgets
2006
Budget
1. Beneficiary Fund 500
2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 100
3. Ministerial Convention 1,000
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 60,000
5. Annual Conference
a. Conference Entertainment 7,000
b. Conference Expense 4,100
6. Fund to Assist Churches 100
7. Board of Communications 5,000
8. Expenses of Committees
a. Chaplaincy Expenses 700
b. All other Expenses 8,000
9. Expenses, Board of Directors 3,000
10. M.C.C. Internship Fund 250
11. Historical Committee 1,000
12. Conference Pastor 40,000
13. ONE Voice 3,000
Total Budget 133,750
Resolved, that the Administrative Budget for January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007 be approved for submission to the churches for their pledges.
Proposed
2007
Budget
1. Beneficiary Fund 500
2. Ministers’ Assistance Fund 100
3. Ministerial Convention 1,000
4. Ministers’ Retirement Fund 63,000
5. Annual Conference
a. Conference Entertainment 7,000
b. Conference Expense 4,100
6. Fund to Assist Churches 100
7. Board of Communications 5,000
8. Expenses of Committees
a. Chaplaincy Expenses 700
b. All other Expenses 8,000
9. Expenses, Board of Directors 3,000
10. M.C.C. Internship Fund 250
11. Historical Committee 1,000
12. Conference Pastor 40,000
13. ONE Voice 3,000
Total Budget 136,750
The following First Reading material was presented by the Credentials Committee (changes are found in bold type):
Resolved, that the following material be adopted as First Reading:
Whereas, the Committee on Credentials has been placing ministers in differing categories to determine their eligibility as voting members of Annual Conference, and
Whereas, one of the categories used does not appear in the F&O, and
Whereas, there has been confusion as to who is eligible to be a voting member of Annual Conference, and
Whereas, there have been men in certain Advisory member categories for an indefinite period of time, therefore be it
Resolved, that the following replace Article 512-11.3 in the F&O (changes in bold)
512-11.3 Categories of Ministry
All ordained men who hold Ordination Credentials with the BFC shall be members in good standing in a Particular BFC and shall subscribe annually to the F&O.
The categories of ministry are as follows:
(1) Ordained Ministers Working Under the Direction of the BFC
(2) Ordained Ministers Working Under the Direction of the Board of Missions of the BFC
(3) Ordained Ministers Working in (omit: the Military) Chaplaincy Ministries Under the Sponsorship of the BFC. The BFC qualifies to have men with its ministerial credentials to serve under the U.S. Armed Forces Chaplains Board under the endorsement of the National Conference of Ministry to the Armed Forces; as well as other Chaplain ministries such as the prison and hospital. Applications for such ministries shall be made through the Credentials Committee.
(4) Ordained Ministers in Retirement. These are men who have retired under the provisions of Section 503. A minister must serve a minimum of five years (cumulative) as an ordained minister in the BFC and be under the care of the Credentials Committee at retirement to be a member of Annual Conference as a “Minister in Retirement.”
(5) Ordained Ministers Between Calls. When a minister leaves his church or ministry without a call to another Bible Fellowship Church, he may be placed in either the “Between Calls” or “Leave of Absence” category, as determined by the Credentials Committee. A Minister who is in the “Between Calls” category is one who is presently seeking a call from a Bible Fellowship Church. He may remain in this category for a maximum of two years. A written request for an extension will be reviewed and may be granted by the Credentials Committee.
(6) Ordained Minister on Leave of Absence. (Omit present statement and replace with): A minister who is in the “Leave of Absence” category is not currently open to receiving a call from a Bible Fellowship Church. He may remain in this category for a maximum of two years. A written request for an extension will be reviewed and may be granted by the Credentials Committee. The combination of “Leave of Absence” and “Between Calls” in any consecutive period shall not exceed five years total, except under unusual circumstances as determined by the Credentials Committee.
(7) Ordained Inactive Ministers. A minister who has exhausted his stay in the “Between Calls” and/or “Leave of Absence” categories will be placed in the “Ordained Inactive Ministers” category. He may remain in this category for a period not to exceed ten years of which time spent in the “Between Calls” and/or “Leave of Absence” categories is counted. At the end of ten years he loses his credentials with the Bible Fellowship Church. If he wishes to return to active ministry within the BFC, he must reapply to the Ministerial Candidate Committee.
NOTE: Present article 512-11.3 (5) – “Ordained Ministers Working in Other Christian Ministries” is eliminated.
[FIRST READING]
Whereas, the MRF annuity rate for 2006 is $213 per year of service, and
Whereas, partial cost-of-living adjustments are part of the long-term phase out strategy of the MRF, therefore be it
Resolved, that the MRF annuity rate for calendar year 2007 be $215 per year of service.
Resolution Relating to Rental/Housing Allowances for Retired or Disabled Ministers of this Conference for Calendar Year 2007
Whereas, the religious denomination known as The Bible Fellowship Church has and functions through Ministers of the Gospel who are duly ordained or licensed; and
Whereas, the practice of The Bible Fellowship Church is to provide a parsonage or a rental allowance as part of the gross compensation for each of its active ordained or licensed ministers; and
Whereas, pensions paid to retired and disabled ordained or licensed ministers of The Bible Fellowship Church are considered as deferred compensation and are paid to said retired and disabled ordained or licensed ministers in consideration of previous, active service; and
Whereas, the Internal Revenue Service has recognized that The Bible Fellowship Church is the appropriate organization to designate a housing/rental allowance for retired and disabled ordained or licensed ministers who are members of this Conference;
Resolved,
1. An amount equal to 100% of the pension payments received during the year of 2007 be and is hereby designated as a rental/housing allowance for each retired and disabled ordained or licensed minister of The Bible Fellowship Church who is or was a member of the Bible Fellowship Church Minister’s Retirement Fund.
2. This rental/housing allowance shall apply to each retired and disabled ordained or licensed minister who has been granted the retired relationship or placed on disability leave by the Bible Fellowship Annual Conference and whose name and relationship to the conference is recorded in the Yearbook of the Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church and in other appropriate records maintained by the conference.
3. The pension payment to which this rental/housing allowance applies shall be the pension payment resulting from all service of such retired or disabled ordained or licensed minister from all employment by any local church, Annual Conference or institution of The Bible Fellowship Church or of any former denomination that is now a part of The Bible Fellowship Church, or from any other employer who employed the minister to perform services related to the ministry and who elected to make contributions to the pension funds of The Bible Fellowship Church for such retired minister’s pension.
Note: The rental/housing allowance which may be excluded from a minister’s gross income is limited to the lesser of (1) the amount of the rental/housing allowance designated by the minister’s employer or other appropriate body, (2) the amount actually expended by the minister to provide his or her housing, or (3) the legally-determined fair rental value of the parsonage or other housing provided. As specified in Rev. Rul. 71-290 C.B. 92, “the only amount that will qualify for exclusion under section 107(2) of the Code as a ‘rental allowance’ is an amount equal to the fair rental value of the home, including furnishings and appurtenances such as a garage, plus the cost of utilities.”
Report on the Committee on Statistics (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report on the Committee on Auditing
The Committee on Auditing has reviewed the financial reports of Conference Agencies and Boards. All reports were found to be in compliance with Article 511-2.1 of the Faith & Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministerial Relations Committee has reported establishment of ten pastorates, therefore be it
Resolved, that we offer praise to God for His gracious provision of pastors for our churches.
Whereas, Pastors John C. Vandegriff, Jr. and Ronald C. Erb have resigned from their positions of ministry, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord for their ministry and service at their particular churches and pray for God’s guidance as they seek to serve the Lord with the calling and gifts that He has given them, and be it further,
Resolved, that we praise God for Ron C. Erb’s current ministry at Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, Gerald D. Clark and Donald E. Kuntzman were approved for ordination, and
Whereas, Robert K. Fields was approved to have his prior ordination recognized by the BFC, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank God for the calling and gifts of these men and that we be steadfast in prayer for them.
Whereas, the Boards and Committees of the BFC have labored diligently during this past year, and
Whereas, they have reported faithfully to the 123rd Annual Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we recognize their service and ask God to give them strength for the coming year.
Whereas, BFC Homes Inc., Pinebrook Bible Conference, and Victory Valley Camp continue to provide services that meet the needs of people at their respective campuses, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for the leadership and consistent progress He has provided.
Whereas, David E. Gundrum has been ratified by the 123rd Annual Conference as the Executive Director of Church Extension Ministries for a term of three years, therefore be it
Resolved, that we pray to our sovereign God to grant David E. Gundrum wisdom, direction and strength as he continues to serve the Lord expanding the borders of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, Mark L. Morrison was called as Assistant Director of Church Extension Ministries, therefore be it
Resolved, that we pray that God would provide the finances for the support of Brother Morrison, and further be it
Resolved, that we pray that our sovereign Lord would grant Mark L. Morrison wisdom, direction and strength as he serves at his new ministry.
Whereas, the Bible Fellowship Church seeks to become an expanding fellowship of churches, and
Whereas, the Lord has sovereignly given a plan for the development of the vision of Church Extension Ministries; “Missions Here and Now!”, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for the vision and ministry of Church Extension Ministries, and pray that each church may prayerfully consider partnering with Church Extension Ministries to carry out the “Mission Here and Now!” plan of Church Extension Ministries.
Whereas, the Lord is sovereignly working in establishing His witness within Fellowship Community, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for the reception into membership of the 123rd Annual Conference of Fellowship Community Church as a Particular Church, and further
Resolved, that the members of the 123rd Annual Conference, encourage each of our churches to continue to pray diligently for the success of this new church.
Whereas, Dana E. Weller has been ratified by the 123rd Annual Conference as the Director of the Board of Missions for a three year term, be it
Resolved, that we continue to pray God to grant Dana E. Weller wisdom, direction and strength as he continues to serve the Lord in the Bible Fellowship Church.
Whereas, in the providence of God, resolution has been made in the disposition of the lawsuit in Holmes, NY, therefore be it
Resolved, that we praise God for His kindness, and be it further
Resolved, that we pray that all parties involved would experience God’s love and care, and be it further
Resolved, that we prayerfully encourage Faith Bible Fellowship Church, Holmes, NY in its future ministry.
Whereas, Pastor Marcos G. Ramirez Montalvo has traveled from the city of Merida, in Mexico, to bring greetings from Iglesia Biblica La Roca, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for what He is doing in the Yucatan Peninsula, and further
Resolved, that the Members of the 123rd Annual Conference pray to our Lord for direction and guidance in regards to how the Bible Fellowship Church can connect with Iglesia Biblica La Roca de Merida.
Whereas, it has pleased God to call to Himself our dear Brothers and longtime Elders and Delegates from Hatfield, Lee E. Boyles; from Harrisburg, Paul T. Rutman; from Stroudsburg, Sal Roseti; and Saucon Valley, Philip J. Mitchell, and
Whereas, Lee E. Boyles served faithfully on the Pinebrook Bible Conference Board since its inception, Paul T. Rutman served faithfully for many years on the Board of Communications, Sal Roseti served faithfully on the Elder board of Mt. Pocono Bible Fellowship Church early in the development of this church, and Philip J. Mitchell served faithfully as a key part of the administrative team for Saucon Valley Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord for these men of God whose gracious lives and service to Annual Conference and its committees exemplified lives dedicated to giving God all the glory.
Whereas, since our last Annual Conference, the Lord saw fit to call home to Glory our sister Cordelia Dunn, wife of retired pastor John Dunn, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for her life, and pray for God’s comfort for her loved ones.
Whereas, our brother William H. Bartron was not able to attend Annual Conference due to his battle with cancer, therefore be it
Resolved, that we pray for God’s leading and guidance for the Lord to open new opportunities for William H. Bartron to glorify his God in his situation, and further
Resolved, that we pray for the Lord to bestow wisdom on him needed to make decisions related to his future care and treatment.
Whereas, the Mount Pocono, Ephrata, Paradise, Shamokin, Holmes, and Cottrell Corners churches are in need of a pastor, therefore be it
Resolved, that we pray for wisdom and guidance for each church in their pastoral search and further,
Resolved, that we pray that God would raise up new pastors and elders from our own denomination who are qualified to serve in our churches.
Whereas, the Board of Youth and Young Adults has recommended the establishment of the position of Conference Youth Pastor, therefore be it
Resolved, that we beseech the Lord for His will as we pursue His direction.
Whereas, the staff and volunteers of Pinebrook Bible Conference along with some wives of our pastors and delegates have readily and cheerfully served the members of the 123rd 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, Headpage, Raymond L. Cole, Assistant Head Page, Daniel L. Williams, Mark E. Barninger, Raymond R. Bertolet, Steven J. DelDuco, Scott B. Evans, Glen R. Felty, Joshua P. Gibson, Robert W. Green, Ferdie R. Madara, Thomas H. Morrison, Stephen J. Morton, David S. Mumma, Carlos G. Rodriguez, David K. Schlonecker, and Colby A. Weinhofer have humbly, readily and cheerfully enabled the work of the 123rd Annual Conference to function smoothly, therefore be it
Resolved, that we acknowledge our appreciation for their service and fellowship with a round of applause.
Whereas, Daniel P. Allen, Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr., and Kenneth D. Keeler have served Annual Conference as our devotional speakers, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord for their gift of wisdom and their insight into His Word, and be it further
Resolved, that each be awarded $50 for their labors.
Whereas, the study committees spent a great deal of time and effort to research their given topics, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for their faithful work.
Whereas, Richard T. Paashaus has served the Annual Conference as Worship Leader and was ably assisted by several others, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord for their leading us in worship of our great God.
Whereas, the Annual Conference Secretary and his assistants have served with spectacular effectiveness, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for their faithful service and be it further
Resolved, that each man be awarded $50 for their labors.
Whereas, Randall A. Grossman has served outstandingly as Chairman of the 123rd Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that the members of Annual Conference show their appreciation for Brother Grossman with a standing ovation.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
L. James Roberts, Jr. addressed the Conference and noted the faithfulness of Horace A. Kauffman, 52 years, and Robert W. Gehret, 54 years, of consecutive attendance and service at Annual Conference. The Conference members responded with a standing ovation.
The Chairman made the following appointments:
Registrar:
J. Mark McCreary
Assistant Registrar:
Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr.
Agenda and Program Committee:
David A. Thomann (Chairman), Randall A. Grossman, Calvin T. Reed, Michael J. Tannous, Philip E. Yerrington, Thomas P. Shorb
Arrangements Committee:
David A. Thomann (Chairman); Daniel P. Allen, J. Mark McCreary, Thomas P. Shorb, Randall A. Grossman
Committee on Statistics:
LeRoy S. Heller (Chairman); Hugh C. Coulburn, Jr., David N. Schoen, David A. Thomann, Gregory A. Uhrich
Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches:
Ralph M. Soper (Chairman); William H. Bartron, C. Larry Bennett, Ronald C. Erb, Jacob J. Susek, Jr., Allan R. Vivona.
The corporate and official denominational address will be: 3000 Fellowship Drive Whitehall, PA, 18052. The Secretary of the Conference Judicatory is Gregory A. Uhrich. The Secretary of the Appellate Division of the Conference Judicatory is David J. Watkins.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:33 PM with William G. Schlonecker, acting Vice Chairman, closing the sessions in prayer.