[view printable 2010 Yearbook]
127th BFC Conference Proceedings – 2010
First Meeting
Monday Morning, April 26, 2010, 10:00 AM
The 127th BFC Conference was called to order at 10:00 a.m. by Moderator Randall A. Grossman at Pinebrook Bible Conference. He welcomed the members of Conference. The Moderator read Hebrews 12:1-2 and led the conference in prayer.
Mark E. Barninger served as worship leader of the 127th BFC Conference. He led the conference in singing Rejoice, the Lord is King, My Heart is Filled, How Great is Our God. He read Philippians 2:3-8, then led in singing Servant Song and closed in prayer. Assisting the worship leader were Richard B. Ravis (guitar), Eric R. North (keyboard), James R. Arcieri (mandolin), and Byron G. Barnshaw (bass).
Alan G. Miller read Hebrews 11:29 – 12:2. Moderator Randall A. Grossman shared a message on the theme of The Unity of the Bible Fellowship Church. He reminded us of the witness set before us by those who suffered for their faith. We are connected with them, as a great oak tree, and they serve as an encouragement to us along the way.
Report of the Registrar
Resolved, that the tables with the Pinebrook green tablecloths constitute the Conference Bar.
The following requested to be excused from part or all of the 127th Conference: William C. Aukamp, Kenneth F. Barber, James R. Batchler, T. J. Bigley, Terris L. Byrd, Clyde D. Bomgardner, Bud Burroughs, G. Wayne Clapier, Ronald K. Denlinger, Willis I. Dowling, Robert K. Fields, Richard J. Gehman, Daniel A. Hernandez Gongora, W. Neil Harding, J. Barclay Harley, James D. Head, Frank L. Herb, George E. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Kenneth J. Hurst, Robert A. Johnson, Walter M. Johnston, Carl T. Martin, Jerry L. Moyer, Philip E. Morrison, Thomas H. Morrison, Duane E. Moyer, Richard A. Moyer, Thomas A. Pollack, R. C. Reichenbach, Roger L. Reitz, David W. Riddell, Burt R. Roling, Austin G. Shelley, Steven L. Trommler, Harold C. Weber, James A. Wickstead, Andy Whittemore, Paul G. Zimmerman
Resolved, that the requests for excuses be granted.
Resolved, that the following alternate delegates be seated: Ray Lucente, Walnutport and Robert T. Evans, Wallingford.
The roll of the Annual Conference was established as follows:
Allentown, PA………………… Clifford B. Boone, Ronald C. Erb, Glenn R. Felty,
(Cedar Crest)……………… Charles Bloomfield, Ronald Sprankle, William J. Walters
Bethlehem, PA………………… (Vacant), Andy Brimer, Michael Capaldi
Blandon, PA……………………. Alan G. Miller, Mike Littlejohn
Brooklyn, NY………………….. Ralph E. Ritter, Lewis O. Willard
Camden, DE……………………. (Vacant), Albert Biddle, Jr.
Carmel, NY…………………….. Steven J. DelDuco, Hans R. Waldvogel
Clinton Corners, NY………… Gerald D. Clark, Wayne M. Chadwell
Coopersburg, PA……………… Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, Mark R. Evans*, Gary A. Sterner, Michael J. Zettlemoyer
Denville, NJ…………………….. Richard D. Harris, Guy Warner
Emmaus, PA……………………. David N. Schoen, Joshua D. Edwards (Probationer), Robert W. Davies
Ephrata, PA…………………….. Robert B. Kramer, William Early
Finesville, NJ…………………… Byron Widger, Bert R. Roling
Fleetwood, PA………………… Roger J. Brush, David Rothenberger
Graterford, PA………………… Mark R. Orton (Probationer), Douglas D. Bowne
Harleysville, PA………………. Andrew T. Crossgrove, R. Scott Wright (Probationer), Alfred G. Roberts
Harrisburg, PA………………… Carl K. Spackman, Harold E. Snyder
Hatfield, PA……………………. Howard N. Wells, Louis S. Curcio, S. Lester Moyer
Howell, NJ……………………… Eric R. North, Alan R. Heinlein
Kutztown, PA…………………. Allan R. Vivona, Byron G. Barnshaw
LaGrangeville, NY…………… James A. Wickstead, Thomas L. Ward
Lancaster, PA………………….. David A. Thomann, Gregory A. Uhrich, Neil J. Franklin, Jr., Steven R. Groff, Sr.
Las Cruces, NM………………. (Vacant), M. E. Brown
Lebanon, PA…………………… Calvin T. Reed, LeRoy S. Heller, David E. Brandt, LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton, PA…………………. Robert A. Johnson, II, Bruce A. Kellerman
Long Neck, DE……………….. Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr., James C. Hart
Maple Glen, PA……………….. Louis Prontnicki, Keith Howland
Merida, Mexico……………….. Marcos G. Ramirez (Probationer), Daniel A. Hernandez
Mt. Carmel, PA……………….. Philip G. Norris, Bryan L. Snyder
Mt. Pocono, PA……………….. Timothy J. Bertolet, Lee S. Annable
Nazareth, PA…………………… Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Ralph K. Spicer
Newark, DE……………………. William G. Schlonecker, Robert C. Kaatz
Newark, NJ…………………….. Delbert R. Baker, II, Thomas J. Boose, Jr.
Old Bridge, NJ………………. David J. Peters (Probationer), Steve Ziegler
Oley, PA…………………………. Arthur J. Simpson, Jr., Tim Spacek
Paradise, PA……………………. Shan D. Cleck, David W. Eisenhower
Philadelphia, PA………………. G. Wayne Clapier, Bud Burroughs
Piscataway, NJ………………… Dennis M. Cahill, Richard B. Ravis, J. Richard Vroman
Quakertown, PA……………… Ronald L. Kohl, Joshua P. Miller*, L. James Roberts
Reading, PA……………………. Randall A. Grossman, Ronald W. Reed, Glenn D. Ruoss
Red Hill, PA……………………. James R. Arcieri (Probationer), William Blair
Royersford, PA……………….. Jacob J. Susek, Jr., Andrew Whittemore
Shamokin, PA…………………. Ferdie R. Madara, Mark Leshinskie
Sinking Spring, PA…………… Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Donald McKinney, Harold P. Shelly
Spring City, PA……………….. Kevin W. Clineff, Bruce Gerhard
Stroudsburg, PA………………. Davis E. Duggins, Robert D. Carroll
Sunbury, PA……………………. Charles E. Cole, Kurt P. Francis, Robert Mitchell
Terre Hill, PA………………….. Kevin W. Kirkpatrick, Robert L. Weaver, Sr.
Thompson, CT…………………. Dennis W. Spinney
Toms River, NJ………………… (Vacant), Allen Dorst
Wallingford, PA………………. Richard E. Taylor, Timothy S. Cowen, Mark A. Bickel (Probationer), Steven L. Piasecki
Walnutport, PA……………….. (Vacant), Robert Salzmann
Whitehall, PA………………….. Timothy J. Schmoyer
Whitehall, PA………………….. Philip E. Yerrington, Richard J. Drosnock
(Fellowship Community)
York, PA………………………… Kenneth D. Keeler, Roger L. Shambough
Zionsville, PA………………….. C. Larry Bennett, Kevin D. Derr
Ordained Ministers Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
Daniel P. Allen, Pinebrook Bible Conference; David T. Allen, BFC ExecBd; Mark E. Barninger, Church Extension; Raymond R. Bertolet, Church Extension; David E. Gundrum, Church Extension; Donald E. Kuntzman, Missions; Ronald C. Mahurin, Conference Pastor; Mark L. Morrison, Church Extension; Elliot H. Ramos, Church Extension; Carlos G. Rodriguez*, Church Extension; Aaron J. Susek (probationer), Church Extension; John C. Vandegriff, Jr., Pinebrook Bible Conference; Dana E. Weller, Missions; Daniel L. Williams, Church Extension; Timothy M. Zuck (probationer), Church Extension.
* pending approval of ordination
Ordained Missionaries
William C. Aukamp, Ronald K. Denlinger, James D. Head, Walter M. Johnston, Philip E. Morrison, Duane E. Moyer, Jerry L. Moyer, Frank E. Lenahan*,Thomas A. Pollock, John C. Studenroth
Ordained Ministers Working in the Chaplaincy Under the Sponsorship of the BFC
Robert K. Fields, David N. Heineman, Kenneth J. Hurst, David H. Jones, Richard A. Moyer, Michael D. Roberts (Probationer)
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, Raymond R. Dotts, Robert L. Draper, Bruce A. Ellingson, Walter H. Frank, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Richard J. Gehman, J. Barclay Harley, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, John H. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Ronald W. Hoyle, David L. Manney, 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, Dean A. Stortz, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins, Harold C. Weaber, Daniel G. Ziegler, Paul G. Zimmerman
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 128th BFC Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, East Stroudsburg, PA, the week of April 24, 2011.
Resolved, that all Study Committees, Committees and Departments have their reports sent to the designated distribution point, 12 Pinebrook Road, E. Stroudsburg, PA 18301 or ebfc@ptd.net, by March 1, 2011.
Daniel P. Allen, Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, welcomed the members of the BFC Conference to Pinebrook for these meetings.
David A. Thomann, Secretary of the BFC Conference, appointed Ronald L. Kohl as Assistant Secretary and Daniel P. Allen and Donald E. Kuntzman as Assistants to the Secretary.
The Moderator appointed the following:
Tellers: Keith E. Plows, Chairman; Byron G. Barnshaw, Charles E. Cole, Howard N. Wells, LeRoy S. Heller, Robert A. Johnson, II, Robert D. Carrol, C. Larry Bennett, Hans R. Waldvogel
Resolutions: Timothy J. Schmoyer, Chairman; Timothy S. Cowen,
Dean A. Stortz
Auditing: L. James Roberts, Jr., Stephen J. Kauffman, David J. Watkins
Committee to Examine BFC Conference Minutes: Philip G. Norris, Chairman; Timothy J. Bertolet, Kurt P. Francis
Timekeeper: John C. Vandegriff, Jr.
Parliamentarian: Clifford B. Boone
Reporter: Ronald L. Kohl
The following was adopted at Second Reading:
Whereas, the voting status of certain categories of ministry is not clearly stated in 504-1 and 504-2, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the following be approved at first reading:
Article 504 – Members of BFC Conference
504-1. Voting Members. The voting members of BFC Conference shall answer to the call of the roll. They shall be:
(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 endorsed by the BFC working in the DELETE military chaplaincy.
(4) ordained ministers in retirement.
INSERT
(5) ordained ministers between calls .
(6) probationers who have been licensed by the Ministerial Candidate Committee.
(7) delegates from every properly-constituted church based on congregational. membership as follows:
1-299 members 1 delegate
300-499 members 2 delegates
500-749 members 3 delegates
750-999 members 4 delegates
1000 and over members 5 delegates.
If a delegate(s) is unable to attend the BFC Conference or some meetings of BFC Conference, the alternate delegate(s), with the permission of the Conference, shall be seated for the conference or those specified meetings. Unexcused absences shall result in the church forfeiting its representation by an alternate delegate during the unexcused absence of the delegate.
504-2. Advisory Members. Advisory members of BFC Conference shall not be included in the call of the roll. They shall not participate in the deliberations of the session except by permission of the Moderator.
Advisory members of BFC Conference shall include:
(1) ordained ministers working in other Christian ministries.
(2) ordained ministers on leave of absence.
(3) probationers who have not been licensed.
(4) missionaries who hold membership in one of the churches and are under the supervision of the Board of Missions.
INSERT
(5) ordained ministers who are inactive.
[First Reading]
Whereas, it is our desire that the men affected by the change in the category 504-1 AVoting Members of Annual Conference@ be seated at the bar in the 127th Annual Conference,
Resolved, that by rule of exception we seat them.
Resolved, that the following be adopted at Second Reading:
Article 505-1 Voting Members Add:
(8) all members of the BFC Executive Board
[Second Reading]
Report of the Credentials Committee (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended ordination for Mark R. Evans and Joshua P. Miller, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended prior ordination recognition for Carlos G. Rodriguez, 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 R. Evans and Joshua P. Miller be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church, and further
Resolved that the prior ordination of Carlos G. Rodriguez to the gospel ministry be recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church.
Resolved, that an Ordination Service be held at the 128th Annual Conference.
Resolved, that Calvary Bible Fellowship Church, Coopersburg, PA, Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Quakertown, PA, and La Roca de Reading Bible Fellowship Church, Reading, PA be encouraged to have a service in recognition of the ordination of Mark R. Evans and Joshua P. Miller, and prior ordination of Carlos G. Rodriguez, respectively, and that they be encouraged to invite the Credentials Committee to send a representative to be present at the service.
Report of the Nominating Committee
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Ray Bertolet prayed, asking for the Lord=s blessing on those who will be serving on the various boards and committees.
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following list of men under the direction of the Ministerial Candidate Committee be approved:
Probationers
(Year license issued in parenthesis)
Arcieri, James (2009)…………………………………………………………………………. Pennsburg, PA
Bickel, Mark A. (2009)……………………………………………………………………. Wallingford, PA
Bickings, Jr., Richard F. ……………………………………………………………………… Nazareth, PA
Edwards, Joshua D. (2008)…………………………………………………………… Old Zionsville, PA
Evans, Mark R. (2008)……………………………………………………………………. Coopersburg, PA
Gonzalez, Miguel (2010)……………………………………………………………………….. Reading, PA
Hunter, Justin L. (2010)…………………………………………………………………… Philadelphia, PA
Jensen, Jr., Richard S……………………………………………………………………………. Perkasie, PA
Krebs, Larry B…………………………………………………………………………………. Millersville, PA
Lynskey, Matthew L. (2009)……………………………………………………………. Tanzania, Africa
Meyer, Philip G…………………………………………………………………………… Perkiomenville, PA
Miller, Joshua P. (2007)…………………………………………………………………… Quakertown, PA
Orton, Mark R. (2009)………………………………………………………………………….. Perkasie, PA
Peters, David J. (2008)…………………………………………………………………………. Matawan, NJ
Ramirez, Marcos G. (2008)…………………………………………………. Colonia San Pedro Uxmal
Roberts, Michael D. (2008)……………………………………………………………… Quakertown, PA
Rodriguez, Carlos G. (2008)………………………………………………………………….. Reading, PA
Susek, Aaron J. (2008)……………………………………………………………………. New Oxford, PA
Suthers, Edwin B…………………………………………………………………………….. Camp Hill, PA
Weinhofer, Colby A. (2007)…………………………………………………………………… Paxinos, PA
Wright, Robert Scott. (2009)………………………………………………………………. Souderton, PA
Zuck, Timothy M. (2008)………………………………………………………………….. Hellertown, PA
Candidates
Carder, Gregory W………………………………………………………………………. West Reading, PA
Clark, Timothy G…………………………………………………………………………………. Reading, PA
Fields, Sidney C…………………………………………………………………………………… Reading, PA
Istrate, Daniel……………………………………………………………………………………… Lansdale, PA
Lauterback, Stanley P……………………………………………………………………….. Shillington, PA
Long, Keith……………………………………………………………………………………… Millersville, PA
MacArthur, James D………………………………………………………………………………….. Oley, PA
Martin, Daniel C………………………………………………………………………………. Royersford, PA
Podlasinski, Francis…………………………………………………………………………… Bethlehem, PA
Schlonecker, David K…………………………………………………………………………… Emmaus, PA
Smith, David A………………………………………………………………………………… Harrisburg, PA
Applicants
Allen, Jason M………………………………………………………………………… East Stroudsburg, PA
Allen, Joshua M………………………………………………………………………………. Las Cruces, NM
Armstrong, Benjamin J……………………………………………………………………….. Lancaster, PA
Brunner, Steven N………………………………………………………………………………… Ephrata, PA
Cole, Raymond L…………………………………………………………………………………. Newark, DE
Gibson, Joshua P………………………………………………………………………. Northumberland, PA
Goward, Sean L……………………………………………………………………………………… Dover, DE
Green, Robert W………………………………………………………………………………….. Newark, DE
Hoy, Jason L…………………………………………………………………………………………. Coplay, PA
Kappes, W. Scott………………………………………………………………………………. Catasaqua, PA
King, Jonathan H………………………………………………………………………………. Allentown, PA
LoRusso, John R…………………………………………………………………………….. Tanzania, Africa
Morton, Steven…………………………………………………………………………………………. Bear, DE
Rissmiller, S. Wayne……………………………………………………………………………. Bernville, PA
Smith, Ronald B……………………………………………………………………………….. Hockessin, DE
Stapleton, Andrew J………………………………………………………………………… Jenkintown, PA
Tibbetts, Scott……………………………………………………………………………………… Red Hill, PA
The men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee who were present introduced themselves to the conference: Joshua M. Allen, Jim Arcieri, Mark A. Bickel, Richard F. Bickings, Timothy Clark, Joshua D. Edwards, Miguel Gonzalez, Jason L. Hoy, W. Scott Kapper, Jonathan H. King, Stanley P. Lauterback, Joshua P. Miller, Mark R. Orton, David . Peters, Frances Podlasinski, Marcos G. Ramirez, S. Wayne Rissmiller, Michael D. Roberts, Carlos G. Rodriguez, David A. Smith, Aaron J. Susek, Edwin B. Suthers, R. Scott Wright, Timothy M. Zuck
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting adjourned at 12:15 p.m. with prayer by Steven J. DelDuco, who thanked the Lord for the provision of the food.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The meeting was called to order by the Moderator at 1:30 p.m. with William Early leading in prayer.
The following new members of BFC Conference were introduced: Lee S. Annable (Mt. Pocono, PA), Ralph K. Spicer (Nazareth, PA), Glenn D. Ruoss (Reading, PA), Michael Capaldi (Bethlehem, PA), Andrew Briner (Bethlehem, PA), Miguel Gonzalez (Reading, PA), Edwin Suthers (Harrisburg, PA), Ray Lucente (Walnutport, PA).
Report of the Executive Board of the Bible Fellowship Church
Resolved, that the report be approved.
Resolved, that 512-1.1(4) be deleted. (First Reading)
Resolved, that the proposed Bible Fellowship Church budget for 2011 (funded by a church assessment of 2%) be adopted.
512-1 The Bible Fellowship Church Executive Board
Resolved, thatthe following be amended as First Reading: (New section in bold)
The Bible Fellowship Church Executive Board (BFC Executive Board) performs the executive function of the denomination. It shall have and exercise in the name and on behalf of the corporation all rights and privileges conferred by the charter creating the corporation. This activity must always be in conformity with the Faith and Order and with the rules, decisions, and directives of BFC Conference. It shall provide leadership for the BFC by proposing strategic direction to the BFC Conference, implementing direction through the oversight of the BFC departments, and monitoring progress in the direction approved by the BFC Conference. It shall have the authority between the meetings of the BFC Conference to execute the decisions made by that body.
Resolved, that the following be deleted as First Reading:
512-1.1 Composition, Election, and Terms of Office
Delete this paragraph
(4) The Director of each department shall serve as a non-voting member.
Resolved, that the following be amended as First Reading:
Church Extension Ministries
512-4.2 Composition and Election
From:
(1) – The Board of Church Extension will be composed of the Executive Director of Church Extension Ministries, five ministers and five elders. Classes shall be formed as follows:
Class I Two ministers and two elders
Class II Two ministers and two elders
Class III One minister and one elder
Change to:
(1) – The Board of Church Extension will be composed of the Director of Church Extension Ministries, and selected ministers and members of BFC churches.
From
(2) The Executive Director shall be called by the Board of Church Extension.
Change to:
(2) The Director shall be appointed by the BFC Executive Board.
From
(3) Each class of the Board of Church Extension shall be elected in turn annually by ballot by the Board of Church Extension, subject to ratification by the BFC Conference.
Change to:
(3) The Board of Church Extension will select members to serve on the board who have a heart for Church Extension Ministries and can provide valuable assistance to the board. The number of members will be determined by the Director after consultation with the BFC Executive Board. Members will be presented to the BFC Executive Board for ratification to a three year term of office before beginning service on the board. All members must be members in good standing of a Bible Fellowship Church.
(4) – Delete
512-4.3 Duties
From
(10) It shall make a written report of its activities to BFC Conference.
Change to:
(10) It shall make a written report of its activities to the BFC Executive Board.
512-4.4 Director (Delete Executive) of Church Extension Ministries
From
The Executive Director of Church Extension Ministries shall be an ordained minister of the BFC. He shall, by virtue of his office, be a member of the Board of Church Extension and shall be accountable to the Board of Church Extension for his ministry.
Change to:
The Director of Church Extension Ministries shall be an ordained minister of the BFC. He shall, by virtue of his office, be a member of the Board of Church Extension and shall be accountable to the BFC Executive Board.
Yes – 148. No – 14.
Resolved, that the following be amended as First Reading:
512-6.3 Election
From
(1) The Director, who must be either an ordained minister or elder, shall be elected for a term of three years by the Board of Missions subject to ratification by the BFC Conference
Change to:
(1) The Director shall be appointed by the BFC Executive Board.
From
(2) The Financial Secretary shall be elected for a term of three years by the Board of Missions, but not necessarily from the Board. If he is elected from outside the Board, he is subject to ratification by the BFC Conference and only then becomes a voting member of the Board of Missions.
Change to:
(2) The Financial Secretary shall be selected by the Board of Missions in consultation with and subject to ratification of the BFC Executive Board.
From
(3) Four ordained ministers and four laypersons shall be elected by BFC Conference for terms of three years in the following classes:
Class I One minister and one layperson
Class II Two ministers and one layperson
Class III One minister and one layperson
Change to:
(3) The Board of Missions will select members to serve on the board who have a heart for missions and can provide valuable assistance to the board. The number of members will be determined by the Director after consultation with the BFC Executive Board. Members will be presented to the BFC Executive Board for ratification to a three year term of office before beginning service on the board. All members must be members in good standing of a Bible Fellowship Church.
512-6.4 Duties of the Board of Missions
(1) – Add to the end of the first sentence:
To formulate objectives and policies for the missions program of the BFC as directed by BFC Executive Board.
(7) – change – ABFC Conference@ to ABFC Executive Board.@
From
To submit a written report to BFC Conference.
Change to:
To submit a written report to BFC Executive Board.
512-6.5 Duties of the Board Officers
(4) – Financial Secretary – change ABoard of Missions@ to AExecutive Board.@
From:
Financial Secretary. Under the Director and the Board of Missions, he shall be responsible for overseeing monies received, disbursed, and invested, and to circulate appropriate statements and other reports as directed by the Board of Missions.
Change to:
Financial Secretary. Under the Director and the Executive Board, he shall be responsible for overseeing monies received, disbursed, and invested, and to circulate appropriate statements and other reports as directed by the Executive Board.
Yes -152. No – 8.
Resolved, that the following be amended as First Reading:
512-8 Board (Delete of Directors) of Pinebrook Bible Conference
512-8.1 Composition and Election
From:
(1) It shall be composed of five ministers and eight laymen and the Bible Conference Director.
(2) The ministers and laymen shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I Two ministers and three laymen
Class II Two ministers and three laymen
Class III One minister and two laymen
Change to:
(1) Pinebrook Bible Conference Board is composed of a Director and a Board.
(2) The Director shall be appointed by the BFC Executive Board.
(3) The Pinebrook Board will select members to serve on the board who have a heart for Pinebrook Bible Conference and can provide valuable assistance to the board. The number of members will be determined by the Director after consultation with the BFC Executive Board. Members will be presented to the BFC Executive Board for ratification to a three year term of office before beginning service on the board. Because of the various ministries of Pinebrook Bible Conference, the Board shall be composed of persons with at least 2/3rds who are members in good standing of a Bible Fellowship Church and the remaining persons must be insympathy with the Articles of Faith and are members in good standing of a Bible-believing church.
512-8.2 Duties
From:
(3) It shall hire a director who will be responsible for the immediate supervision and operation of the Conference.
Change to:
(3) It will assist the Director who is responsible for the immediate supervision and operation of the Conference.
From:
(6) It shall establish all full time personnel salaries and shall approve an annual budget as recommended by the director and the Finance Committee.
Change to:
(6) Other than the Director=s compensation package, it shall establish all full time personnel salaries and shall approve an annual budget as recommended by the director and the Finance Committee.
Yes – 145. No – 17.
Resolved, that the following be amended as First Reading:
510-10.1 Composition and Election
From:
(1) The Board shall be composed of four ministers and five laypersons.
(2) They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I Three laypersons
Class II Three ministers
Class III One minister and two laypersons
Change to:
(1) The Board is composed of a Director and other members.
(2) The Director shall be appointed by the BFC Executive Board.
(3) The Victory Valley Board will select members to serve on the board who have a heart for Victory Valley and can provide valuable assistance to the board. The number of members will be determined by the Director after consultation with the BFC Executive Board. Members will be presented to the BFC Executive Board for ratification to a three year term of office before beginning service on the board. Because of the various ministries of Victory Valley Camp, the Board shall be composed of persons with at least 2/3rds who are members in good standing of a Bible Fellowship Church and the remaining persons must be in sympathy with the Articles of Faith and members in good standing of a Bible-believing church.
510-10.2 Duties
From:
(5) It shall secure and provide for the training of the camp staff.
Change to:
(5) Along with the Director it shall secure and provide for the training of the camp staff.
From:
(9) It shall report to BFC Conference.
Change to:
(9) Through the director, it shall bring a written report to the BFC Executive Board.
Yes – 138. No – 14.
Whereas, the immediate implementation of this legislation will enable the four departments to begin functioning more efficiently under the new structure, therefore be it
Resolved, that by rule of exception, we implement the legislation for this year until it is considered at second reading next year.
Resolved, that David T. Allen be ratified as Bible Fellowship Church Executive Director for a three year term of service.
Proposed changes to the F&O
512-1 The Bible Fellowship Church Executive Board
Resolved, that the following be amended as First Reading: (New section in bold)
The Bible Fellowship Church Executive Board (BFC Executive Board) performs the executive function of the denomination. It shall have and exercise in the name and on behalf of the corporation all rights and privileges conferred by the charter creating the corporation. This activity must always be in conformity with the Faith and Order and with the rules, decisions, and directives of BFC Conference. It shall provide leadership for the BFC by proposing strategic direction to the BFC Conference, implementing direction through the oversight of the BFC departments, and monitoring progress in the direction approved by the BFC Conference. It shall have the authority between the meetings of the BFC Conference to execute the decisions made by that body.
David J. Watkins offered prayer for new BFC Executive Director David T. Allen and the BFC Executive Board.
Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee: (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Conference Pastor (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
This past year John Dunn and Robert W. Smock went home to be with the Lord. David A. Thomann and Daniel P. Allen gave words of remembrance of John Dunn and Robert W. Smock, respectively.
Report of the Board of Church Health: (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Church Extension (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Director of Church Extension (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The Director, David E. Gundrum, introduced David Smith and Ed Suthers of Grace Fellowship Church, Harrisburg. This is an inter-cultural, inner city church looking for a relationship with the BFC.
Carlos Rodriguez introduced Mark Landis, who mentored Carlos and was very instrumental in helping Carlos understand his calling to the gospel ministry.
The following were elected:
Board of Christian Education
Michael D. Roberts (3 years)
David J. Peters (3 years)
J. Richard Vroman (3 years)
Richard Mastronardo (3 years)
Whereas, the Nominating Committee has had a challenge in finding suitable candidates for the lay position of the Committee of Church Health and
Whereas, Article 510-1 sub section 2 would not allow for the nomination of Jason L. Hoy because of his current position on staff at Ebenezer Bible Fellowship Church in Bethlehem, Pa and
Whereas, Jason L. Hoy is currently only at the applicant level with the Ministerial Candidate Committee and is expected to be there for more than one year therefore be it
Resolved, by the rule of exception that Jason L. Hoy be allowed to be nominated for the lay position of the committee of Church Health.
The following were elected:
Executive Board
L. James Roberts (3 years)
Steven J. Kauffman (3 years)
Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc.
C. Larry Bennett (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
Raymond R. Dotts (3 years)
Charles A. Bloomfield (3 years)
David Bossard (3 years)
Committee for Pensions
Keith E. Plows (3 years)
Thomas P. Shorb (3 years)
Ellis L. Hostetter (3 years)
Committee on Credentials
Dennis M. Cahill (3 years)
LeRoy S. Heller (3 years)
Committee on Ministerial Candidates
Howard N. Wells (3 years)
Committee on Nominations
Vonnie Allen (3 years)
Conference Judicatory
Calvin T. Reed (3 years)
Douglas D. Bowne (3 years)
Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
Special Appellate Judicatory
Randall A. Grossman (3 years)
Richard G. Matthews (3 years)
Harold Schoonover (3 years)
Historical Committee
Ronald W. Hoyle (3 years)
Harold P. Shelly (3 years)
Ministerial Relations Committee
Randall A. Grossman (3 years)
Ronald W. Reed (3 years)
Moderator for the 128th Annual Conference
Randall A. Grossman (1 year)
Vice-Moderator for the 128th Annual Conference
Clifford B. Boone (1 year)
Secretary for the 128th Annual Conference
David A.Thomann (1 year)
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m. with Alan R. Vivona closing in prayer.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, 6:45 PM
The Moderator called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. as Aaron J. Susek led in prayer.
Dana E. Weller introduced the following missionaries under the care of the Board of Missions: John & Karen Elias, London, UK; Glenn Blauser, JAARS, Waxhaw, NC; Nelson Randolph, BOM; Sam Adams, CMTS; Francisco & Eliane De Souza, FIM; William Early, TWR; Dave & Georgina Solt, LAM; Carrie Ziegenfuss, Tanzania; Joe Walsh, CMTS; Becky Masessa, Tanzania; Chris & Beckie Merrick, BOM; Dave Manney, Retired, HCJB Global; Bob & Lois Draper, Retired, AIM; John Studenroth, Collegiate Outreach; Frank E. Lenahan, BCM – Western NY; Byron Barnshaw, Christar.
Dana E. Weller prayed for the missions ministry of the BFC. He mentioned the special request brought by David and Georgina Solt about the fire bombing of the village near Lillian Solt. Many families have been affected.
The conference took the time for a short installation service for David T. Allen, who was ratified as the first Executive Director of the Bible Fellowship Church. Ronald C. Mahurin and Robert A. Sloan prayed for David Allen; for his ministry and life. David was accompanied by his wife, Donna.
David addressed the Conference with a light air, but one which also challenged Conference to instill a culture of excellence. He sees his ministry as a practical one, helping the BFC to stop doing church and start being the church. He sees himself as one who guides, coaches and comes alongside you to get done what we’re called to do.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m. in prayer by Robert Evans. The conference recessed into a service of ordination.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, 9:00 AM
The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Randall A. Grossman at 9:01 a.m. John H. Riggall, who was attending his 65th BFC Conference, led the conference in prayer. An offering for the Darlene Mahurin fund to assist pastors was received.
Mark Barninger and the BFC Praise Band led the conference in singing praises to the Father. We sang Great Is Thy Faithfulness, In Christ Alone, Lion of Judah and How Deep the Father=s Love.
Robert A. Sloan, Jr., spoke of the Uniqueness of the Bible Fellowship Church. He noted that we are unique in many ways – in our doctrine, in the path we took to get where we are today, in our unity, in past leadership, and in the direction we believe God is leading us. Brother Sloan drew the connection of our unity to the words Paul spoke in Acts 17:24-28, noting that our unity lies in many factors taken together. We are the Bible Fellowship Church, he explained. We are a unique organization.
We are developing a unique focus, he concluded. I can’t wait to see what it becomes, because we aren’=’t there yet, but we are on that road. This road, he added, is founded on the Word of God and devoted to making disciples.
Report of the Registrar
The following requested to be excused from all or part of the Annual Conference: James A. Beil, Richard D. Harris, David H. Jones, Arthur J. Simpson, David N. Schoen and Guy Warner.
Resolved, that these excuses be granted.
Resolved, that the following alternate delegates be seated: Robert A. Adams, Long Neck, DE; John H. Crouch, Denville, NJ; John W. Bentham, Toms River, NJ; and Charles F. Webb, LaGrangeville, NY.
The following were elected:
Board of Church Health
David N. Schoen (3 years)
Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
Jason L. Hoy (1 year)
Board of Communication
Daniel P. Allen (3 years)
Byron G. Barnshaw (3 years)
Executive Board
Dennis M. Cahill (3 years)
Carl C. Cassel (3 years)
Board of Youth and Young Adults
Steven J. DelDuco (3 years)
Mark R. Evans (3 years)
Beth Wiegand (3 years)
Committee on Nominations
Donald E. Kuntzman (3 years)
Report of the Joint Committee on Ethnic Church Planting (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted
Report of the Board of Missions (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted
The Board of Missions presented a promotion video on the Tanzania Project encouraging us to be involved in prayer, giving and seeking those whom the Lord would call to this work. Ralph M. Soper, Chairman of the Board of Missions, prayed for the ministry and the missionary family of the Bible Fellowship Church.
LeRoy S. Heller, Chairman of BFC Homes, Inc., presented a verbal report of this affiliate ministry. One of the Chaplains and Pastor of Fellowship Community BFC, Philip E. Yerrington, prayed for the ministry of Fellowship Community.
Report of Pinebrook Bible Conference Board (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Daniel P. Allen, Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, presented a Powerpoint presentation about the progress Pinebrook has been making especially in regards to finances. He noted that Pinebrook continues to see many salvations and called Pinebrook a redemption center. Alva C. Cassel, former director of Pinebrook Bible Conference and current Chairman, led the conference in prayer, thanking God for His goodness in and through the ministry of Pinebrook.
Report of Victory Valley Board (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Douglas Manwiller gave a verbal update on the ministry of Victory Valley Camp. Timothy J. Bertolet, Chairman of the Board of Victory Valley, prayed for the director, Douglas Manwiller and staff of Victory Valley and its ministry.
The following was elected:
Executive Board
Ronald L. Kohl (3 years)
Report of the Board of Communications (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the cost of the 2010 Yearbook be $ 9.00 per copy.
Resolved, that a contribution of three hundred and fifty dollars ($350.00) for the conference year 2010 be given to the Board of Communications from each BFC Department and Affiliate to help promote the work of the ministry and underwrite the cost of printing and distributing the Fellowship News.
Report of the Board of Christian Education (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Youth and Young Adults (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Higher Education (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the 127th Conference ratify the election to the Pinebrook Educational Foundation of Raymond R. Dotts and Jay H. Fasnacht for terms to end in 2013.
Whereas, the Board of Higher Education has found limited opportunities in recent years to provide services according to its stated purpose except for its supervision of the Pinebrook Educational Foundation; therefore be it
Resolved, that the 127th Conference takes steps to dissolve the Board of Higher Education and transfer oversight of the Pinebrook Educational Foundation to the BFC Executive Board (ExecBd) to be governed according to ‘512B5.7 (Pinebrook Educational Foundation) of the BFC F&O.
Report of the Board of Pensions (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the MRF annuity rate for 2010 is $221 per year of service, and
Whereas, partial cost-of-living adjustments were part of the long-term, phase-out strategy of the MRF, and
Whereas, the final phase-out was for calendar year 2010, be it
Resolved, that the MRF annuity rate for calendar year 2011 be $221 per year of service.
Resolution Relating to Rental/Housing Allowances for Retired or Disabled Ministers of this Conference for Calendar Year 2011
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 2011 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 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.
Resolved, that the minutes of the first meeting be approved.
Report of the Committee to Examine the Minutes of the 126th Annual Conference (see page)
Resolved, that the report be adopted.
Report of the Committee to Examine the Minutes of Particular Churches (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:21 p.m. Steve Ziegler closed the meeting in prayer.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:33 p.m. with prayer by Wayne Chadwell.
Resolved, that the minutes of the Second Meeting be approved.
Resolved, that the minutes of the Third Meeting be approved.
Report of the Beneficiary Society (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following be adopted at one reading in the appendix of the F&O under the section of the Beneficiary Society.
Resolved, that Under 701-1.3 Rules and Regulations B Membership, modify second sentence of the second paragraph to read:
Ministers of the BFC who are working with other Christian ministries and inactive ministers are not members of the Beneficiary Society and are not eligible for benefits from the fund.
Resolved, that the third paragraph under Membership be moved and modified to be the second paragraph under Dues, and the modified paragraph would read:
Ministers receiving Ministers’ Retirement Fund benefits, ministers on disability, and ministers under the Ministers’ Annuity Fund who have retired at age 65 or later are members of the Society but are exempt from dues. Members who continue on active service are exempt from dues after they have paid dues for forty years. Ministers over age 65 who choose to continue to serve as pastors or under ministries of the BFC must pay dues until they reach the age of 72 or have paid dues for forty years. Ministers who retire before age 65 are required to pay dues until age 65.
Resolved, that the second sentence under first paragraph of Dues be removed since it was modified and is now included in the second paragraph.
Resolved, that the following be added between the second and third sentences of the paragraph under Benefits:
If a pastor-member of the Beneficiary Society is called home to be with the Lord, his children are covered until their nineteenth birthday. The coverage of a pastor-member‘s wife shall continue after the death of her husband until her death or remarriage. Wives of ministers who were retired and receiving benefits under the MRF or MAF at the time of marriage shall not qualify for death benefits.
Resolved, that the following be deleted from the last paragraph under Miscellaneous Rules which now reads:
Each probationer/ordained man upon re-entering the membership of the Society must pay an equal amount of money equivalent to the number of years he was licensed up to the present year. This amount will be the total amount that was to be paid for the years that he was not a paying member of the Society.
Report of the Ministerial Convention Committee
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministerial Convention Committee sees it necessary to add one additional member to the committee to ensure the continuity of leadership and to aid in planning multiple years ahead, be it therefore
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted as First Reading
701.2.2 Composition and Election
(1) replace five with six
(3) Class III Two Pastors
Resolved, that Article 403-1 be amended to read as follows and adopted as First Reading:
AThe Board of Elders shall appoint the chairman of the congregational meeting.
[FIRST READING]
Report of the Study Committee on the Kingdom (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the recommended minimum salary for a pastor serving in the BFC was set at $33,000 at the 2009 Annual Conference, and,
Whereas, the MRC recognizes the difficult financial challenges facing many of our congregations during the present economic climate of our nation, now therefore be it,
Resolved, that as of our 2010 BFC Conference, our particular churches be advised to maintain no less than the current recommended minimum salary of $33,000 while striving to give appropriate increases as finances may warrant, and further,
Resolved, that in addition to his salary, the church must provide half of the pastor’s Social Security tax, parsonage and/or housing allowance (which would include utilities, repair costs, etc.), 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%.
Resolved, that Ronald C. Mahurin be ratified as Conference Pastor for another three-year term of service.
Proposed Changes to Article 512-11.2(8)
Resolved, that the following amendment be adopted as first reading:
Whereas, Article 512-11.2(8) instructs the Credentials Committee to notify the Board of Directors of the dates of pastors retiring, and
Whereas, the Board of Directors has been replaced by the Executive Board, and
Whereas, the President of the Executive Board has indicated it is not necessary to notify them of a retirement date, and
Whereas, it is necessary to inform the Board of Pensions, Beneficiary Society and the Conference Pastor of the effective date of a pastor seeking retirement, therefore be it
Resolved, that we adopt the following change as first reading:
512-11.2(8) It shall receive all requests from those seeking retirement from ministry in the BFC. It shall set the effective date of the retirement, change the status of the minister on the conference records, and notify the Board of Pensions and the Beneficiary Society and the Conference Pastor (added) of the effective date of retirement.
[FIRST READING]
Whereas, the Faith and Order makes no statement regarding Ministers and divorce; and
Whereas, it needs such a statement; and
Whereas, the New Testament usage of the term elder is reflected in the F&O ‘204 by declaring Elders (ruling elders or lay elders) and Ministers (teaching elders, pastors) are subdivisions of the same positions; and
Whereas, BFC Conference has approved allowing Elders to serve despite a divorce provided certain issues have been biblically resolved; and
Whereas, request was made for Biblical evidence showing moral and spiritual qualifications for Ministers to be different from the moral and spiritual qualifications for Elders and
Whereas, the study reported that Scripture makes no such distinction (Yearbook 2006, p. 43); therefore be it
Resolved, that we approve the following for the F&O ‘204-2.3 (6):
(6) Because of the qualifications and dignity of the position of minister, when considering a man for ordination, the Ministerial Candidate and the Credentials Committees 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 – 112; No – 41
And further
Resolved, that we approve the following addition (bold type is the only addition) to the F&O ‘204-1.6: Because of the qualifications and dignity of the position of elder, including minister, 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 and is presently characterized as above reproach, and if married, faithful to and exclusively committed to his wife.
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 118; No – 33
Daniel P. Allen gave an update on the situation surrounding the death of Doc M. E. Brown’s daughter. The trial has been postponed and no new date set. Brother Allen prayed for the Brown family and for the young man facing trial for their daughter’s death.
Report on the Committee on Statistics (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report on the Committee on Auditing (see page)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report on the Committee on Resolutions
Whereas, the brothers of Grace Fellowship Church of Harrisburg have been led by God to partner with the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, the Lord has confirmed this in the hearts and minds of the brethren of the Church Extension Department, and
Whereas, this is the first corporate gathering in which God has blessed us to fellowship with one another, therefore be it
Resolved, that we praise God for the brothers and sisters of the Grace Fellowship Church, for His providence in bringing us into fellowship with one another, and for their vision of reaching the lost in central Harrisburg, and be it further
Resolved, that we send our greetings as a Conference of Churches to the brethren of that local church.
Whereas, God has privileged His servants John Dunn and Robert W. Smock to join that great cloud of witnesses with Him in the glory of the heavenly places, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give deepest thanks to the Lord of the Church for their lives and service to the Kingdom of God and their example to the BFC of commitment and faith, and be it further
Resolved, that we take up the mantle of their legacies and run with endurance this race set before us, unentangled and with perseverance.
Whereas, the 127th Conference of the BFC has ratified the appointment of David T. Allen to the position of Executive Director of the BFC, and
Whereas, this is a new position for both the Conference and brother Allen, be it therefore
Resolved, that we commit to praying regularly for our brother in his new ministry.
Whereas, Mark R. Evans and Joshua P. Miller were ordained at the 127th BFC Conference and the prior ordination of Carlos G. Rodriguez was recognized, be it
Resolved, that thanks be given to God for these ministers of the Gospel and prayer be made for the success of their respective ministries.
Whereas, the following pastorates were established according to the Rules of our F&O: Church Extension – Miguel Gonzalez and Whitehall – Timothy J. Schmoyer, therefore be it
Resolved, that praise be given to our God for the provision of these pastorates, and further
Resolved, that prayer be made to God for the following churches that are seeking a pastor or additional pastoral staff: Bethlehem, PA; Camden, DE; Coopersburg, PA; Las Cruces, NM; Toms River, NJ; Walnutport, PA and Carmel, NY.
Whereas, 127th BFC Conference has ratified Ronald C. Mahurin as Conference Pastor for a term of three years, therefore be it
Resolved, that we offer up constant prayer for our brother as he diligently serves the pastors and churches of our Conference.
Whereas, the Departments, Boards, Committees, and Study Committees of the BFC have served with diligence during this past year, and
Whereas, they have reported faithfully to the 127th BFC Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we recognize their service and ask God to give them strength for the coming year.
Whereas, the staff and volunteers of Pinebrook Bible Conference, along with wives and family members of our pastors and delegates, have readily and cheerfully served the members of the 127th BFC Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we express our appreciation for their ministry to the Conference Members.
Whereas, Randall A. Grossman and Robert A. Sloan, Jr., have served this Conference in ministering the Word to us, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord for their ministry in the proclamation of God=s Word, and be it further
Resolved, that each be presented $50.00 for this ministry, and be it further
Resolved, that we will put into practice all that we have been privileged to receive from God through His precious Word.
Whereas, the BFC Conference Secretary, David A. Thomann, and his Assistants, Daniel P. Allen, Ronald L. Kohl, and Donald E. Kuntzman, have served faithfully, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for their service during our proceedings and, be it further
Resolved, that each man be awarded $50.00 for his labors.
Whereas, the Conference was led into worship of Almighty God and His Lamb by the musical talent of several brothers with Mark E. Barninger as Worship Leader, therefore be it
Resolved, that we commend our glorious Savior who has given gifts to His people through the power of His Spirit, and be it further
Resolved, that we thank our brothers for their musical contribution to our praise of the Great I AM.
Whereas, Overseer of the Pages: Daniel L. Williams, Head Page: Raymond L. Cole, and Pages: Joshua M. Allen, Sidney C. Fields, Robert W. Green, Justin L. Hunter, W. Scott Kappes, Jonathan H. King, Keith M. Long, Francis Podlasinski, and Ronald B. Smith have diligently, gladly, and humbly aided the work of the BFC Conference to function smoothly, therefore, be it
Resolved, that we acknowledge our appreciation for the service of our Pages on behalf of the Conference with a round of applause.
Whereas, Randall A. Grossman has served exceptionally well as Moderator of the 127th Annual Conference of the BFC, therefore be it
Resolved, that the members of the BFC Conference show their appreciation for Brother Grossman=s service with a standing ovation.
The following were appointed by the Moderator:
Registrar: Davis E. Duggins
Assistant Registrar: Jonathon W. Arnold, Jr.
Committee on Agenda and Program: David A. Thomann, Chairman; David T. Allen, Clifford B. Boone, Randall A. Grossman, Thomas P. Shorb
Committee on Arrangements: David A. Thomann, Chairman; Daniel P. Allen, Thomas P. Shorb, Davis E. Duggins, Randall A. Grossman
Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches: Ralph M. Soper, Chairman: Ronald L. Erb, Shan D. Cleck, Dean A. Stortz, Allan R. Vivona
Committee on Statistics: Leroy S. Heller, Chairman: David A. Thomann, Gregory A. Uhrich, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., C. Larry Bennett
It was announced that Gregory A. Uhrich is the secretary of the Conference Judicatory and Raymond R. Dotts is the secretary of the Special Appellate Judicatory.
Dr. M. E. Brown thanked the conference for their prayers and e-mails over this past, most difficult year. Joshua M. Allen prayed for the Brown family.
It was announced that the address of the primary place of business of the corporation known as Bible Fellowship Church is 3000 Fellowship Drive, Whitehall, Pa. 18052.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The 127th BFC Conference adjourned at 4:17 p.m. as Vice-Moderator, William G. Schlonecker, closed in prayer.