Annual Conference Proceedings – 2015
Monday, April 27, 2015 – Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Minutes, as well as Committee Reports, Indexes, and Statistics are in the 2015 Yearbook
First Meeting
Monday, April 27, 2015, 6:45 P.M.
Conference Moderator Randall A. Grossman called the 132nd BFC Conference to order at 6:45 P.M. The Moderator welcomed the members of conference, introduced the theme, noted an increased emphasis on prayer, and then offered a prayer of adoration, confession of sin and thanksgiving, requesting God’s blessings and guidance for the meetings to come. In prayer, he also focused on “the worldwide mission of the gospel,” anticipating this year’s theme, “Expanding the Church by Focusing on Our Mission(s).”
Resolved, that the tables with the green tablecloths constitute the Conference Bar for the 132nd BFC Conference.
The roll of the 132nd BFC Conference was established as follows:
Allentown, PA Clifford B. Boone, Ronald C. Erb, Glenn R. Felty, W. Scott Kappes*, Jonathan H. King, Peter J. Everett, Nelson K. Randolph, John E. Schleicher
Bethlehem, PA Timothy D. Gibson, Richard F. Bickings, Jr., Mark R. Culton*, W. Wayne Batten, Scott G. Holwick
Blandon, PA Alan G. Miller, Jordan K. Eyster, James C. Fisher
Brooklyn, NY Ralph E. Ritter, R. Edward Snyder-Ritter
Camden, DE Daniel R. Wagner (probationer), Albert F. Biddle, Jr.
Carmel, NY (Vacant), Hans R. Waldvogel
Clinton Corners, NY Allen R. Mickle Jr. (probationer), Wayne M. Chadwell
Coopersburg, PA Matthew R. Lynskey, Mark R. Evans, Richard T. Paashaus, David R. Vinson, Michael J. Zettlemoyer
Dauphin, PA Mark E. Barninger, Harold E. Snyder
Denville, NJ Richard D. Harris, Guy Warner
Emmaus, PA David N. Schoen, Joshua D. Edwards, David K. Schlonecker*, Gary E. Karch
Ephrata, PA Jason L. Hoy, Michael P. Rebman
Finesville, NJ Byron Widger, Bert R. Roling
Fleetwood, PA R. Jerome Brush, Beau E. Coffman (probationer), Jeffrey A. Cutler
Graterford, PA Mark R. Orton, Robert L. Gaugler
Harleysville, PA Andrew T. Crossgrove, Michael W. Walker*, Glendon R. LeSuer
Harrisburg, PA Joshua P. Miller, Steven J. DelDuco, William C. Verdon, Richard W. Prensner
Hatfield, PA Howard N. Wells, Joel B. Klase (probationer), S. Lester Moyer
Hellertown, PA Keith A. Strunk, John J. Hanner
Howell, NJ Eric R. North, Alan R. Heinlein
Kutztown, PA (Vacant), Nickolas T. Timpe
Lagrangeville, NY Dennis W. Spinney, Charles F. Webb
Lancaster, PA David A. Thomann, Keith M. Long, Gregory A. Uhrich, Neil J. Franklin, Steven R. Groff, Sr.
Las Cruces, NM (Vacant), Dan Dunwell
Lebanon, PA Calvin T. Reed, David E. Brandt, LeRoy S. Heller, Jack S. Herb, Jr.
Lehighton, PA Robert A. Johnson, II, Charles A. Shearer (probationer), Bruce A. Kellerman
Long Neck, DE Andrew W. Barnes*
Maple Glen, PA Louis Prontnicki, Keith R. Howland
Merida, MEXICO Marcos G. Ramirez, Edgar Navarro
Mt. Carmel, PA Philip G. Norris, Bryan L. Snyder
Mt. Pocono, PA (Vacant), Ronald E. Miller
Nazareth, PA Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Henry U. Sandt
Newark, DE William G. Schlonecker, Richard C. Dodson*, Robert C. Kaatz, Kenneth J. Klein
Newark, NJ (Vacant), Thomas J. Boose, Jr.
Old Bridge, NJ Thomas H. Morrison, Herbert Mitchell
Oley, PA (Vacant), Jeff Keller
Paradise, PA David J. Peters, Bruce H. Zurbrick
Philadelphia, PA Justin L. Hunter, Bud Burroughs
Piscataway, NJ Dennis M. Cahill, Richard B. Ravis, J. Richard Vroman
Quakertown, PA Ronald L. Kohl, Michael D. Roberts, L. James Roberts
Reading, PA Randall A. Grossman, Ronald W. Reed, Glenn D. Ruoss
Red Hill, PA James R. Arcieri, William E. Blair
Royersford, PA Andrew T. Gysi, Michael Gangwer
Shamokin, PA Ferdie R. Madara, Russell Burd
Sinking Spring, PA Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Stanley P. Lauterback, Ronald Higley, Thomas Maurer, Donald McKinney
Spring City, PA Kevin W. Clineff, Douglas Wynne
Steelton, PA David A. Smith, Edwin B. Suthers
Stroudsburg, PA Davis E. Duggins, Robert D. Carroll
Sunbury, PA Charles E. Cole, Joshua P. Gibson*, Douglas A. Gaugler
Terre Hill, PA Kevin W. Kirkpatrick, Andrew S. Littlejohn
Toms River, NJ (Vacant), John Bentham
Wallingford, PA Richard E. Taylor, Mark A. Bickel, Timothy S. Cowen, Scott B. Simmons
Whitehall, PA Timothy J. Schmoyer, Aaron D. Smith (probationer), Jason P. Musselman
Whitehall, PA (Fell. Comm.) Philip E. Yerrington, Richard J. Drosnock
Woodbury Heights, NJ Daniel L. Williams, Timothy R. Nessler (probationer), John Maricle
York, PA Timothy J. Bertolet
Zionsville, PA Bryan C. McNally*, Kevin D. Derr
Ordained Ministers Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
David T. Allen, BFC Executive Director; Raymond R. Bertolet, Church Extension; Joshua A. Dupiche (probationer), Church Extension; Miguel Gonzalez, Church Extension; David E. Gundrum, Church Extension; Donald E. Kuntzman, Board of Missions; Ronald C. Mahurin, Conference Pastor; Mark L. Morrison, Church Extension; Duane E. Moyer, Board of Missions; Carlos G. Rodriguez, Church Extension; Ronald B. Smith, Church Extension; Aaron J. Susek, Church Extension; R. Scott Wright, Church Extension; Timothy M. Zuck, Church Extension
Ordained Missionaries
Daniel P. Allen, William C. Aukamp, Scott B. Evans, James D. Head, Walter M. Johnston, Frank E. Lenahan, John R. LoRusso,* Philip E. Morrison, Jerry L. Moyer, Thomas A. Pollock, David W. Riddell, John C. Studenroth, Colby A. Weinhofer
Ordained Ministers Working in the Chaplaincy Under the Sponsorship of the BFC
Kenneth J. Hurst, Richard A. Moyer, Jeffrey L. Ruhl, Jacob J. Susek, Jr.
Ordained Ministers in Retirement
Delbert R. Baker, Kenneth F. Barber, James R. Batchler, Jr., T. James Bigley, Jr., Leonard E. Buck, Terris L. Byrd, Alva C. Cassel, Carl C. Cassel, G. Wayne Clapier, Hugh C. Coulbourn, Raymond R. Dotts, Bruce A. Ellingson, 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, Edward K. Moyer, Edgar H. Munyan, Keith E. Plows, Roger L. Reitz, John H. Riggall, Austin G. Shelley, Thomas P. Shorb, Gene W. Smith, Ralph M. Soper, Carl K. Spackman, Dean A. Stortz, John C. Vandegriff, Jr., Alan R. Vivona, David J. Watkins, David R. Way, Harold C. Weaber, Dana E. Weller, Daniel G. Ziegler, Paul G. Zimmerman
Ordained Ministers Between Calls
Albert J. Dommel
Additional Lay Members of BFC Executive Board
Robert T. Evans, Jay H. Fasnacht, Stephen J. Kauffman, Charles A. Lavigna
* pending approval of ordination.
Report of the Committee on Agenda and Arrangements: (page 44)
Resolved, that the report be accepted and that the agenda for the 132nd Conference be accepted as the guide for the deliberations of the 132nd BFC Conference.
Resolved, that the 133rd BFC Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, April 25-27, 2016.
Resolved, that committee reports for the 133rd BFC Conference be sent in digital format to the BFC Executive Board by February 15, 2016.<bfcexecbrd@aol.com>
Conference Host Nathan B. Brosius, Director of Operations at Pinebrook Bible Conference, welcomed the pastors and delegates to the 132nd BFC Conference.
Duane E. Moyer, Director of the Bible Fellowship Church’s Board of Missions, greeted Conference and welcomed visiting missionaries, who were then given an opportunity to briefly introduce themselves and share their respective areas of ministry.
The following were introduced to BFC Conference: Sam & Melissa Adams, Dan Allen, Larry & Nancy Allen, Bill Aukamp, Lisa Barnshaw, Scott Evans, Ondrej & Milina Franka, Frank & Sandy Lenehan, John LoRusso, Chris & Beckie Merrick, Nelson Randolph, Norm & Amanda Reynolds, John & Laura Studenroth.
Unable to attend due to circumstances, but expressing their greetings through Duane Moyer, were Bill & Lois Early, Tom & Becky Pollock, and Walt & Sue Johnston.
Vice Moderator Clifford B. Boone, who led Conference in concerted times of prayer, used Psalm 145 to introduce times of corporate and small-group prayer. “I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You and praise Your name forever and ever. Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable.” (Psalm 145:1-3)
Musical worship was led by Mark R. Evans, Jeremy Harkins and Aaron Susek as Conference sang “Worthy, You are Worthy,” “Come, Thou Almighty King,” “May the Mind of Christ, My Savior” and “Cornerstone.”
Keynote speaker Dr. Mark Young, President of Denver Seminary, addressed the subject “The Biblical Mandate of Focusing on Missions.” Young, who describes himself as “a missionary trapped in a President’s office,” said, “If you cut me, I bleed mission.”
Dr. Young quoted Emil Brunner: “Where there is no mission there is no church. Where there is no mission and no church, there is no faith.” Using his own words, he added, “Fundamentally, we the people of God are the people of God’s mission.”
The object of Dr. Young’s opening message was the answering of three questions: Who are we? Why are we who we are? When are we who we are?
Drawing Conference’s attention to 1 Peter 2:9-10, he noted similarities between that passage (God’s people as “a royal priesthood”) and Exodus 19 (God’s people as “a kingdom of priests”) as the charter that will describe Israel as “a nation among the nations.” Dr. Young began to trace Israel’s history through Abram/Abraham as God told him to leave his people, his country, his security and his gods. God’s commands to Abraham: (1) “Get up and go;” (2) “Be a blessing.”
In support of that, God provides three promises to provide for Abraham, contingent upon the latter’s obedience: (1) God will make him into a great nation; (2) God will bless him; and (3) God will make his name great.
God’s people are to be “a display-case nation,” a treasured possession – treasured by God more than anything else – which displays the greatness of the One who owns all things. We are called to mediate the very presence of God to all the world. This is who we are.
Why we are who we are is found in 1 Peter 2:9 – “…that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” “We, the people of God, are brought into existence so that this glorious God will be known,” Dr. Young said.
First Peter 2:12 says we are to display God’s excellencies “among the Gentiles” – among those who could just as easily be called infidels or pagans: unbelievers, in other words. We are to create a wholly God-honoring life, one that is worthy of being “a holy nation.” As we live good lives and do our best to mirror the character of God and reflect His holiness, we will be accused of doing wrong (1 Peter 2:12). But when we are accused of doing wrong, others “may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.”
Dr. Young says there are many in our congregations who are asking questions like, “Is it worth it to be the people of God?” “Is it worth it to be accused of doing wrong?” But it is worth it, “because the One who has created us and is shaping us, who is the object of our hearts and the person we adore most is excellent in every way,” Dr. Young said. “He is worth it. He is worthy of our lives and our praise.”
Who are we? We are the people of God, created at His initiative and given the privilege of mediating Him to the world around us. We don’t exist to have success. We exist to declare the praises of Him who has created us.
“Mission is not an appendage to the church,” he concluded. “Mission is, in fact, the identity of the church.”
Clifford B. Boone closed the first session in prayer at 8:30 P.M. A reception followed in Pinebrook’s Dining Hall.
Second Meeting
Tuesday, April 28, 2015, 9:00 A.M.
Timothy S. Cowen opened the morning session of Conference by reading Psalm 121 and then praying. Musical worship, led by Mark R. Evans, Jim Arcieri, Jeremy Harkins and Aaron Susek, featured the songs “Come, Christians, Join to Sing,” “Bless the Lord (10,000 Reasons)” and “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty.”
Dr. Mark Young presented his second address: “The Biblical Mandate of Focusing on Our Mission.” He introduced the topic with this statement: “Mission is, in fact, the rationale for all that we do as the people of God.”
The speaker sought to answer the final question he asked on Monday night: When are we who we are? Turning Conference’s attention to Acts 1, he began to talk about the kingdom of God in relation to Jesus’ disciples, describing the kingdom as “that time when everything that’s wrong will be made right, when everything that is broken will be made whole, and when everything that is ugly will be made beautiful – because God reigns.”
During the 40 days Jesus spent with his disciples after the Resurrection, He talked with them about the kingdom of God. His disciples wondered, “Is now the time of the kingdom?” Acts 1:6 records their question: “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”
Jesus’ answer focused on their witness and essentially gives us, His followers, our marching orders: “It is time for the people of God, empowered by the Spirit of God, to testify to the Son of God and to fulfill the mission of God throughout all the earth.”
Now that we know what time it is, Dr. Young noted, we also know what we are called to do – to fulfill the mission of God. The truth of the gospel and the truth of Jesus’ return is the motivating force for our mission.
The Secretary of the 132nd BFC Conference, Ronald L. Kohl, made the following appointments: David E. Brandt, Assistant Secretary; Donald E. Kuntzman and Timothy J. Schmoyer, Assistants to the Secretary.
The Moderator appointed the following:
Tellers: LeRoy S. Heller, Chairman; Andrew T. Gysi, Jason L. Hoy, Jonathan H. King, Ferdie R. Madara, Mark R. Orton, David J. Peters, Timothy M. Zuck
Resolutions: Steven J. DelDuco, Chairman; Mark A. Bickel, Joshua P. Miller
Examination of BFC Conference Minutes (132nd): Philip G. Norris, Chairman; Daniel P. Allen, Michael D. Roberts, Richard E. Taylor, Byron Widger
Parliamentarian: Timothy J. Bertolet
Timekeeper: Mark L. Morrison
Resolved, that the appointments be ratified.
The following new members of BFC Conference were introduced:
Jeffrey Cutler, Faith BFC, Fleetwood, PA; Edgar Navarro, La Roca, Merida, Mexico; John Maricle, New Beginnings BFC, Woodbury Heights, NJ; Michael Rebman, Ephrata BFC, Ephrata, PA; Thomas Maurer, Calvary BFC, Sinking Spring, PA; Daniel Wagner, Camden BFC, Wyoming, DE; Ethan Hester, Grace BFC, Las Cruces, NM; Ezekiel Mack, Kutztown BFC, Kutztown, PA; Allen Mickle, Jr., Cornerstone BFC, Clinton Corners, NY; Nickolas Timpe, Kutztown BFC, Kutztown, PA.
Report of the Nominating Committee.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following were elected:
BFC Executive Board:
Robert A. Sloan (elected to a term as Executive Board President)
Robert T. Evans (3 years)
Hans R. Waldvogel (3 years)
Credentials Committee:
Ralph M. Soper (3 years)
Ministerial Candidate Committee:
Andrew T. Crossgrove (3 years)
David E. Gundrum (3 years)
Committee on Nominations:
Rachel Schmoyer (3 years)
Conference Judicatory:
Thomas P. Shorb (3 years)
Dean A. Stortz (3 years)
Ronald W. Reed (3 years)
L. James Roberts, Jr. (3 years)
Appellate Judicatory:
John C. Studenroth (3 years)
Charles A. Lavigna (3 years)
Ministerial Relations Committee:
Robert Vaughn (3 years)
Officers for BFC Conference
Moderator of 133rd BFC Conference
Randall A. Grossman (1 year)
Vice moderator of 133rd BFC Conference
Clifford B. Boone (1 year)
Secretary of 133rd BFC Conference
Ronald L. Kohl (1 year)
David E. Brandt prayed for the upcoming elections.
Report of the Executive Board: (page 47)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
BFC Executive Director David T. Allen thanked Randall A. Grossman for his steadfast service as Executive Board President. Brother Grossman is stepping down from his position as President. Conference gave him a rousing applause.
In a time of increasing persecution, Conference was urged to pray for those whose lives are being cut short for the testimony for Jesus Christ. Col. David H. Jones led Conference in prayer for believers whose lives are in jeopardy.
The Executive Director provided a synopsis of some important events that took place over the past year, including a rebuilding of our York BFC, which has benefited from the ministry of pastors Ralph M. Soper and Timothy J. Bertolet. He briefly discussed the changes in how churches and pastors do ministry due to issues raised by the Affordable Care Act. He then discussed the need for pastors and elder boards to work together on succession and retirement plans for the pastors.
Jay H. Fasnacht presented both a revised budget for 2015 and a proposed budget for 2016.
Resolved, that the 2015 revised Executive Board budget be adopted by the 132nd BFC Conference. (page 60)
Resolved, that an assessment rate of two (2.0) percent be adopted by the 132nd BFC Conference for 2016 (based on assessable receipts for 2014). (page 61)
Resolved, that the 2016 proposed Executive Board budget be adopted by the 132nd BFC Conference. (page 61)
Pension Fund
Resolution Relating to Rental/Housing Allowances for Retired or Disabled Ministers of this Conference for Calendar Year 2015:
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, be it
Resolved,
1. An amount equal to 100% of the pension payments received during the year of 2016 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 BFC Conference and whose name and relationship to the conference is recorded in the Yearbook of BFC Conference 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, BFC 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 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.”
The Executive Director provided a brief review of Pinebrook Bible Conference’s recent history, especially as it pertains to finances. He provided details of facility improvements that have taken place at Pinebrook since Nathan B. Brosius became Director of Operations. Newly-elected Executive Board President Robert A. Sloan conducted an informal discussion about the value of Pinebrook Bible Conference to the Bible Fellowship Church and how Pinebrook fits into the BFC’s future.
Report of Board of Missions: (page 64)
Duane E. Moyer, addressing Conference for the first time in his capacity as Director of the BFC Board of Missions, spoke about the need for a refreshed vision for missions in the Bible Fellowship Church. He talked about the BFC’s new focus: “The collective activities of our churches that are outwardly focused, aimed at (1) proclaiming Christ to those who have the least opportunity to know Him; (2) leading them to follow Him wholeheartedly in community with other believers; (3) and equipping them to propagate the gospel by making disciples themselves.”
Brother Moyer introduced missionary Walt Johnston, who was unable to attend Conference on Monday night – he touched upon the many internationals, including large numbers of students, who live in our respective communities. Cited with thanksgiving for their faithful ministries were retiring missionaries Bill Aukamp and Dana Weller (former Director of the Board of Missions); the homegoings of longtime missionaries Bill Campbell (widow Holly), Ed Moyer (widow Ruth) and Barclay Harley (widow Judy) were also noted.
Ralph M. Soper prayed for the work of missions in the Bible Fellowship Church.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:25 P.M.
Third Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, April 28, 2014, 1:30 P.M.
The Moderator called the meeting to order at 1:30 P.M. Joshua P. Miller, Secretary of the Study Committee on Human Sexuality & Marriage, opened in prayer prior to introducing Michael Geer, President of the Pennsylvania Family Institute, and Randall L. Wenger, the PA Family Institute’s Chief Counsel. The PA Family Institute exists “to strengthen families by restoring to public life the traditional, foundational principles and values essential for the well-being of society.”
Geer and Wenger discussed many aspects of law and where law appears to be headed in connection with same-sex marriage, gender issues and our faith as Christians. They noted several instances of prosecution and interrogation of those who believe strongly in religious freedom and traditional biblical teaching. They also provided the following suggestions that will help protect churches:
- Are you opening up yourself/your church against charges of same-sex discrimination when you rent out your church facilities?
- Have a good facilities usage policy in place for your church.
- “Gender Identity and Sexual Expression” – the real issue should be that privacy matters to all of us.
- Employment law limits your ability to choose who you hire in several categories, but there is a ministerial exception. It is important for churches to develop a legal definition of what a minister is. Churches need well thought-out job descriptions.
- It is imperative for churches to have written discipline policies.
- We need to be positive in stating our positions, for it is Christians who are truly tolerant.
The Moderator prayed for the ministry of the PA Family Institute and for the issues raised during the previous hour.
Report of Church Extension Ministries: (page 73)
David E. Gundrum thanked our churches, not just for their financial support, but for their increasing desire to support kingdom work, which encompasses evangelism and evangelistic church planting. He discussed the fact that several established churches that are great distances from our general BFC “nucleus” have indicated interest in joining the Bible Fellowship Church and spoke of means by which existing churches can connect with these prospective BFC churches.
Richard E. Taylor prayed for the work of Church Extension Ministries.
Report of Pinebrook Bible Conference: (page 85)
Charles E. Cole, Chairman of the Pinebrook Board, talked about Pinebrook’s summer ministry plans and asked pastors and delegates to advertise the ministry of Pinebrook Bible Conference in their respective churches. “We’ve had our challenges,” he admitted. “There are challenges in any ministry like Pinebrook, because Satan doesn’t like any ministry like Pinebrook…which is passionate about the Word of God.” He asked for prayer for the ministry and for its summer servants.
Hans R. Waldvogel led Conference in prayer for Pinebrook Bible Conference and its ministry.
Report of Victory Valley Camp: (page 86)
Camp Director Douglas J. Manwiller spoke about Victory Valley’s ministry, which is entering its 60th summer season. He rejoiced in what the Lord has done in the past and spoke with anticipation about the future. “We’re very excited,” Manwiller said, unveiling plans for a potential new dining hall.
“We are very deliberate about what we do at Victory Valley Camp,” he said after reading a letter from one of the representatives of Merida, Mexico, who was able to spend time on-site during 2014 summer camp and came away encouraged to begin a similar ministry at home.
Victory Valley Camp Board Chairman Timothy J. Schmoyer prayed for the Valley’s ministry, its staff and for the upcoming summer season.
Report of the Ministerial Credentials Committee: (page 100)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended ordination for Mark R. Culton II, Joshua P. Gibson, W. Scott Kappes, John R. LoRusso, Bryan C. McNally and Michael W. Walker for ordination, and has recommended Andrew W. Barnes and Richard C. Dodson for recognition of previous ordination, and
Whereas, these brethren have served acceptably as ministers of the Bible Fellowship Church for the required period of time or the equivalent thereof, and
Whereas, after examination, the Ministerial 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. Culton II, Joshua P. Gibson, W. Scott Kappes, John R. LoRusso, Bryan C. McNally and Michael W. Walker be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church, and further
Resolved, that Andrew W. Barnes and Richard C. Dodson be recommended for recognition of previous ordination.
Resolved, that an Ordination Service be held at the 132nd BFC Conference.
Resolved, that Ebenezer Bible Fellowship Church of Bethlehem, PA; Emmanuel Bible Fellowship Church of Sunbury, PA; Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Church of Allentown, PA; the Bible Fellowship Church of Zionsville, Zionsville, PA; and Faith Bible Fellowship Church of Harleysville, PA be encouraged to have a service in recognition of the ordinations of Mark R. Culton II, Joshua P. Gibson, W. Scott Kappes, John R. LoRusso, Bryan C. McNally and Michael W. Walker, respectively, and that New Life Bible Fellowship Church of Long Neck, DE and the Bible Fellowship Church of Newark, DE be encouraged to have a service in recognition of previous ordination for Andrew W. Barnes and Richard C. Dodson, respectively, and that they be encouraged to invite the Ministerial Credentials Committee to send representation to be present at the service.
Report of the Study Committee on Human Sexuality: (page 124)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Legislation to be considered at First Reading
Whereas, the Study Committee on Human Sexuality is convinced that the Bible Fellowship Church, in order to adequately address present matters of sexuality and sexual expression, needs a clear and complete standard of God’s design for sexual holiness, and
Whereas, our current Biblical Principles for Living (BPL) do not contain a statement on the biblical standard of sexual holiness, be it
Resolved, that Article 103-3 “Sexual Holiness” be included in the Bible Fellowship Church Biblical Principles for Living, and the subsequent BPLs be renumbered accordingly.
103-3 Sexual Holiness
103-3.1 A life of sexual holiness is a life lived by faith, believing that what God says about the purposes and parameters of sexual expression is both true and good.1 When a believer’s thoughts and actions are not in conformity to the revealed will of God, they are to repent of their sin, submit to His lordship, and pursue delight in what God has ordained.
103-3.2 The purpose of sexual expression has been given to mankind by his Creator. The sexual union between a man and a woman was created, in part, to image the unity of the Godhead and God’s covenantal relationship with His people.2 In addition, sexual union was given for the procreation of children and for the mutual enjoyment of husband and wife.3
God created the human race into two complementary sexes (“male and female”). This distinction is the first fact mentioned in connection with mankind being made in the image of God.4 The first marriage, and thus the first sexual act, was a recognition, expression, and celebration of this complementary distinction. God designed sexual union such that two complementary sexual halves, one man and one woman, come together and become a sexual whole. The Bible refers to this sexual union as becoming “one flesh.” This “one flesh” sexual union between the first man and his wife establishes the pattern and standard of sexual expression for all of humanity.5 The participation in, or promotion of, any sexual act other than this “one flesh” union, within the marriage covenant,6 or the willful neglect of this sexual union is a sinful disregard of its intended purpose and fails to glorify God in our bodies.7
Sexual expression is authorized within the bond of marriage between male and female. God’s name is glorified when the sexual union between male and female within the bond of marriage is honored and protected.8 God is dishonored when His design for sexual union is disregarded and perverted, and He will not allow this perversion to go unpunished.9 In addition, sexual expression outside the biblical standard corrupts the ideal in human relationships and prevents human flourishing.10
103-3.3 There is hope in Jesus Christ for the sexual sinner, not only for forgiveness but also for the transformation and redirection of life.11 The battle against improper sexual desires may persist until our weak and fallen bodies are raised anew with Christ, but the present resurrection power of the indwelling Holy Spirit enables the repentant sinner to overcome the controlling influences of sinful fleshly impulses.12 When a person comes to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, he is freed from sin’s guilt through forgiveness and liberated from sin’s tyrannical power by the Holy Spirit.13
103-3.4 We are to approach all sin, including sexual sin in the Church, with humility and sacrificial resolve.14 We need to recognize and convey that we are all fallen creatures15 whose present joy and hope lies in the result of Christ’s persistent and tender mercy on our behalf. We need to demonstrate that same mercy with one another as we heal and grow together as rescued sinners into the fullness of Christ. In love, we must also exhort all who profess faith in Christ to obey His commands and pursue His holiness in all facets of their lives. If that appeal is rejected and sexual sin persists without repentance, we must be willing to pursue loving discipline with the hope of restoring the sinner and guarding the life of Christ’s body.16
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1 Gen. 1:27, 2:24; 1 Cor. 6:19-20.
2 Gen. 2:24; Mark 10:6-9 (cf. Deut. 6:4); Mal. 2:14-15; 1 Cor. 6:14-19; Eph. 5:30-32.
3 Gen 1:27-28; Song of Solomon 7:6.
4 Gen 1:27.
5 Gen. 2:24; Mal. 2:14; Matt. 19:4; Mk. 10:7-8; 1 Cor. 6:16; Eph. 5:31.
6 Mal. 2:14.
7 1 Cor 6:20, 7:2-5.
8 Gen. 2:24; 1 Cor. 7:1-5; 1 Cor. 6:9-11, 13, 18-20; Eph. 5:30-32; Heb. 13:4.
9 Lev. 18:1-30; Ex. 20:14; Matt. 5:28; Rom. 1:25-27; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Eph. 5:3; Col. 3:5-6; 1 Thess. 4:3-8; 1 Tim. 1:10; Heb. 13:4; Jude 7; Rev. 21:8, 22:15.
10 Gen. 19:30–38; 2 Sam. 11:3–12:23; Ps. 51; 2 Sam. 13; Matt. 14:1–12; Mk. 6:14-29.
11 1 Cor.6:11.
12 Gal. 5:16-25; Titus 2:11-14.
13 Rom 8:1-2.
14 Gal. 6:1.
15 Rom. 3:9, 23; Prov. 20:9.
16 Matt. 18:15-17.
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 165; No – 2.
Whereas, Article 154, “Homosexuality,” isolates and elevates only one perversion of the biblical standard of sexual holiness, be it
Resolved, that Article 154, “Homosexuality,” be replaced with Article 154, “Sexual Immorality.”
Article 154 – Sexual Immorality (rewrite)
154-1 God’s Word declares that the expression of sexual relations is authorized only in the union of male and female within the bond of marriage.1 Any sexual act outside this biblical standard is sinful in God’s sight.
154-2 The Bible teaches that activities such as adultery, bestiality, fornication, homosexuality (i.e. indulging in a lust for or engaging in a sexual act with a member of the same sex), incest, polygamy and sexual lust are perversions of God’s created order.2
154-3 It is a violation of the Word of God to admit into church membership or office any unrepentant man or woman engaged in sexual immorality because such unrepentance invalidates a Christian profession of faith.3 When a church member yields to sexual immorality, the Bible requires that fellow believers use the means of church discipline in order to urge the individual to repent and be restored.4
__________________
1 Gen.2:24.
2 Ex. 20:14,17; Lev. 18:6-23, 20:13; Matt. 19:4-6; Rom. 1:25-27; 1 Cor. 6:9-10, 7:3-5,9; Heb. 13:4; Rom. 13:13-14, Matt. 5:27-28.
3 1 Cor. 6:9-10.
4 Matt.18:15-17.
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 148; No – 1.
The following were elected:
BFC Executive Board:
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
Committee on Nominations:
Keith A. Strunk (3 years)
Ministerial Relations Committee:
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m. as David A. Thomann closed in prayer.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Evening, April 28, 2014, 6:30 P.M.
The Moderator called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M. Clifford B. Boone turned Conference’s attention to Psalm 66. He then led Conference in a time of concerted prayer that included petitions for our nation’s leaders, for those who were about to be ordained as pastors, and for assistance from God in areas of weakness and sin.
Times of prayer were interspersed with the singing of “Glorify Thy Name,” “O Great God,” “Spirit of the Living God” and the chorus to “The Solid Rock.”
Immediately upon the conclusion of this time of prayer, pastors, delegates and guests reconvened for a service of ordination that saw eight men ordained to the gospel ministry. Newly-ordained men included Mark R. Culton II, Joshua P. Gibson, W. Scott Kappes, John R. LoRusso, Bryan C. McNally and Michael W. Walker. Andrew W. Barnes and Richard C. Dodson had their previous ordinations recognized.
After the ordination service, each pastor and his family was greeted by the other pastors, and a time of celebration followed with fellowship and food.
Fifth Meeting
Wednesday Morning, April 29, 2015, 9:00 A.M.
The Moderator called the meeting to order at 9:00 A.M. Andrew W. Barnes opened in prayer, especially remembering Church Extension Aquila and Priscilla team members Harry & Sandra Workman as Sandra is being treated for cancer.
Timothy C. Cowen read Psalm 122 and prayed before Conference entered into musical worship that included the singing of “O, How Good It Is,” “Hail to the Lord’s Anointed” and “Rejoice, the Lord is King.”
Duane E. Moyer, who shared that he has 52 years of missionary service in Guadeloupe, both as a child of missionaries and as a missionary himself, spoke on the subject of “A Renewed Focus on Missions.” He introduced the Latin term missio Dei – the mission of God – which is intended “to help us to set aside these clichés [missions, for example, defined by Rudyard Kipling’s term “the white man’s burden”] as we talk about God’s mission in the world He has created.” Missio Dei, Moyer said, may be paraphrased as “God fetches.”
Missio is not something the church does, but something that God does because of who He is and what He does – God acting to “fetch people back.” In John’s gospel, Jesus uses the term “sent” 40 times to describe what Jesus was called by God the Father to do.
In turn, John 20:21 tells us that our Lord entrusted the missio of the Father to others: “As the Father has sent Me, even so I am sending you.” The church, Moyer said, is “the servant of the missio.” The whole church is sent – not just a part of the church.
Moyer engaged Conference in the meanings of biblical terms that have been translated as the word “church.” He noted how drastically the meaning of the word ekklesia has changed from an original intention of being outside: a called-out gathering for the purpose of sharing missio Dei. The church, he said, bears little resemblance to that original meaning. “Everything that is important to them [the church] is done behind closed doors in what we call our sanctuary – the Lord’s house. Does this sound like ekklesia?”
Concerning the Great Commission in Matthew 28, Moyer noted that most of the terms in the passage are participles, not verbs, and therefore not commands. The only command in the passage, he added, is that of “make disciples.” The emphasis is not on going far away, but on what we do as we go – we invite people to follow Jesus as His disciples, just as those to whom Jesus originally gave the Great Commission were invited to go outdoors to invite people to follow the Lord. Missions, then, is about meeting people where they are, just as Jesus did.
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee: (page 98)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the list of Probationers, Candidates and Applicants be approved.
The following men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee were introduced to the BFC Conference:
Jeremy Field, Royersford, PA; Stephen Morton, Newark, DE; Jules Hull, Sunbury, PA; Allen R. Mickle, Jr., Clinton Corners, NY; Timothy Nessler, Wenonah, NJ; Aaron D. Smith, Walnutport, PA; Marc Sweet, Howell, NJ; Alexandro Ordonez, Merida, Mexico; Joel B. Klase, Hatfield, PA; Ethan Hester, Las Cruces, NM; Stephen A. Diaz, Allentown, PA; Charles A. Shearer, Lehighton, PA; R. Daniel Wagner, Wyoming, DE; William C. Verdon II, Harrisburg, PA; Ezekiel Mack, Kutztown, PA; Freddy Chi, Merida, Mexico; Timothy S. Hogan, Reading, PA; Ben Martin, Doylestown, PA; R. Edward Snyder-Ritter, Brooklyn, NY; James MacArthur, Oley, PA; and Ronnie Burgess, Maplewood, NJ.
Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee: (page 111)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Conference Pastor: (page 90)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Ronald C. Mahurin asked Conference to remember Delbert R. Baker II and Alan R. Vivona, who are experiencing serious health issues. Prayers were offered by various members of Conference in memory of (and for the families of) our late brothers and faithful servants Joshua M. Allen, Bert N. Brosius, D. Thomas Phillips and R.C. Reichenbach, who was called home to glory just 15 days before his 100th birthday.
Report of the Church Health Committee: (page 114)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Richard T. Paashaus introduced a video focusing on the ministry and needs of our Hope-Philadelphia church and Pastor Justin L. Hunter.
Report of the Committee on the Multi-Cultural Church: (page 83)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
David E. Gundrum spoke about the Committee’s ongoing work and the targeting of different people groups within our respective communities.
Legislation to be considered at Second Reading:
Ministerial Relations Committee – Duties
Resolved, we change 511-6.3(7) to read “(7) The committee shall submit a report to BFC Conference, including recommendations concerning compensation for pastors called under our rules.”
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 185; No – 2.
Proposed Revision to the Faith & Order on How the Ministerial Credentials Committee Handles Minor Reservations on the Annual F & O Questionnaire
Whereas, historically the Ministerial Credentials Committee has allowed for minor reservations of certain Articles of Faith, and
Whereas, Article 511-5.2 (4) states that “No minister shall have his name placed on the Eligibility List who does not subscribe to our F & O in its entirety,” and
Whereas, it is not our desire to remove the credentials of men who serve with minor reservations, therefore be it
Resolved, that we replace the sentence “No minister shall have his name placed on the Eligibility List who does not subscribe to our F & O in its entirety” [511-5.2 (4)] with “No minister shall be allowed to hold credentials in the Bible Fellowship Church who does not subscribe to our Articles of Faith, except as allowed by the Ministerial Credentials Committee. Those who are allowed to hold reservations must teach in accordance with the Articles of Faith. Ministers must endeavor to follow the Rules of Order.”
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 160; No – 28.
Proposed Revision to the Faith and Order, Article 304-8, on the Recording of the Proceedings of a Trial
Whereas, in the present Article it states, “In any trial the judicatory shall preserve a complete and accurate transcript of the proceedings. This record shall include the charges, objections made and exceptions taken by the accused during the trial, the testimony of witnesses and all rulings and findings of the judicatory. This record shall be certified by the trial judicatory to another judicatory in cases of appeal. The accused shall be supplied one copy of the record at the expense of the judicatory; other copies may be supplied at the expense of the accused,” and
Whereas, we held a trial in which we followed the above instructions of preserving a complete and accurate transcript, and
Whereas, we found this procedure to be extremely time-consuming and costly, therefore be it
Resolved, we change the wording in Article 304-8 to read, “In any trial the judicatory shall preserve a complete and accurate record of the proceedings. This record shall include the charges, objections made and exceptions taken by the accused during the trial, the testimony of witnesses and all rulings and findings of the judicatory. This appeal shall be certified by the trial judicatory to another judicatory in cases of appeal. If the trial is appealed, the accused and the appellate judicatory shall be supplied one written copy of the record at the expense of the judicatory; other copies may be supplied at the expense of those who request a copy.”
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 185; No – 1.
Revision of the Categories of Ordained Men: Ordained Ministers Working in Non-BFC Churches
Whereas, ordained men serving in other Christian ministries, and those serving in non- BFC churches, have been placed in the same category, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee sees those ordained men serving in other Christian organizations to be distinct from those serving in non-BFC churches, therefore be it
Resolved, that we add a category called “Ordained Ministers Working in Non-BFC Churches.” And further
Resolved, that all ordained ministers working in non-BFC churches be placed in this new category, and further
Resolved, that this category be listed as “Advisory Members” in 505-2 (1), and further
Resolved, that the description for this category and its numbering in 511-5.3 be as follows:
(9) Ordained Ministers Working in Non-BFC Churches. An ordained minister of the BFC, consistent with his ordination vows and without prejudice to his ministerial standing, may properly, under certain circumstances and conditions, and approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee, labor in churches other than those of the BFC. He may remain in this category for a period not to exceed ten years. A written request can be submitted each year for an extension which will be reviewed and may be granted by the Ministerial Credentials Committee.
The following rules must be adhered to in such cases: Such labor shall not require the performance of functions inconsistent with his ordination vows required of ministers and other provisions of the F & O. They shall not be regarded as under the sole jurisdiction of the church in which they serve. Such a church must recognize that those who hold credentials with the BFC are under its discipline in their faith and life.
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 179; No – 9.
Revision of the Categories of Ordained Men: Ordained Ministers Working in Other Christian Ministries
Whereas, ordained men serving in other Christian ministries have been Advisory members of the BFC Conference, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee has observed that many ordained men serving in other Christian organizations have kept themselves engaged in the current activities and organizations of the BFC, and
Whereas, the BFC Conference could benefit from the insight and input of those who have kept current, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee would have criteria to evaluate those who have kept current with BFC happenings to determine if they can vote at the BFC Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that the category “Ordained Ministers Serving in Other Christian Ministries” would be listed under “Voting Members” in 505-1 (4) and change the subsequent numbers as appropriate, and further
Resolved, that the Ministerial Credentials Committee would be responsible to send the criteria to the men in this category each year to determine if they can vote at the BFC Conference, and further
Resolved, that the Ministerial Credentials Committee be responsible to inform the Conference Registrar of those who can vote, and further
Resolved, that the description for this category and its numbering in 511-5.3 be as follows and change the subsequent numbers as appropriate:
(4) Ordained Ministers Working in Other Christian Ministries
An ordained minister of the BFC, consistent with his ordination vows and without prejudice to his ministerial standing, may properly, under certain circumstances and conditions, and approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee, labor in organizations other than those of the BFC. He may vote at the BFC Conference if approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee.
The following rules must be adhered to in such cases: Such labor shall not require the performance of functions inconsistent with his ordination vows required of ministers and other provisions of the F & O. They shall not be regarded as under the sole jurisdiction of the organization in which they serve. Such an organization must recognize that those who hold credentials with the BFC are under its discipline in their faith and life.
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 187; No – 1.
Revision of the Categories of Ordained Men: Ordained Ministers in Retirement
Whereas, there have been some retired ordained men who have moved some distance away or have health conditions that have kept them from attending the BFC Conference on a regular basis, and
Whereas, some retired men might not be keeping current with the BFC, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee has observed retired men who have kept themselves engaged in the current activities and organization of the BFC, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee would have criteria to evaluate those who have kept current with BFC happenings to determine if they can vote at the BFC Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that the Ministerial Credentials Committee would be responsible to send the criteria to the men in this category each year to determine if they can vote at the BFC Conference, and further
Resolved, that the Ministerial Credentials Committee be responsible to inform the Conference Registrar of those who can vote, and further
Resolved, that the description for this category and its numbering in 511-5.3 be as follows:
(5) Ordained Ministers in Retirement
These are men who have retired under the provisions of 501-5. A minister must serve a minimum of five years (cumulative) as an ordained minister in the BFC and be under the care of the Ministerial Credentials Committee at retirement to be a member of BFC Conference as a “Minister in Retirement.” He must also be involved in the ministry of the BFC where possible, as determined by the Ministerial Credentials Committee, in order to be a voting member of the BFC Conference.
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 183; No – 4.
Wording Change on the Interpretation of the Faith & Order
Whereas, there has been some question as to who can interpret the Faith & Order of the BFC, and
Whereas, the wording in 502-2 was changed in recent years, and
Whereas, this wording change gives the appearance that only the BFC Conference can authoritatively interpret the F & O, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee does not think that was the intent of the wording, therefore be it
Resolved, that the word “final” be inserted as follows:
502-2 The BFC Conference performs the legislative function of our denomination. As such, it alone has the power to amend and the final authority to interpret the F & O. By this means it governs the affairs of the Particular Churches, and receives requests and petitions from the Particular Churches. Although it has these powers, it shall not subvert the autonomy of the Particular Churches.
[SECOND READING]
Yes -185; No -2.
Ministerial Credentials Committee – Duties
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee has the responsibility to oversee ordained men, which includes interpreting the Faith & Order, and
Whereas, the Conference Judicatory has stated that the Ministerial Credentials Committee has the authority to interpret the F & O as it relates to ordained men (2013 Yearbook, Page 110), therefore be it
Resolved, that the following be inserted in 511-5.2 (6), and further
Resolved, that in every place in the F & O where the Credentials Committee is referenced, the word “Ministerial” be inserted before “Credentials.”
511-5 Ministerial Credentials Committee
511-5.2 Duties
(6) It shall deal with charges brought against any ordained minister. The BFC Conference delegates to the Ministerial Credentials Committee the right to authoritatively interpret the Faith & Order as it relates to ordained men. Charges brought against any minister of the BFC must be in writing and presented to the Ministerial Credentials Committee. It shall request that the accused minister be present during the hearing of the case. If these charges involve departure from any doctrine or practice of the BFC, or any improper conduct, a thorough investigation shall be made. If the charge is of sufficient magnitude in the judgment of the Ministerial Credentials Committee, the accused minister may temporarily be suspended by the Committee and his name withheld from the Eligibility List for Pulpit Supply. A report of this action, with appropriate recommendations for disposition of the case, shall be made to the Conference Judicatory. The accused party shall have the right of appeal to the Conference Judicatory. If appeal is made to the Conference Judicatory by the accused minister, his name shall remain on the Eligibility List until the Conference Judicatory has passed judgment on the case.
[SECOND READING]
Yes – 183; No – 5.
The following was elected:
BFC Executive Board:
Randall A. Grossman (2 years)
David L. Manney closed the session in prayer at 12:40 P.M.
Sixth Meeting
Wednesday afternoon, April 29, 2015, 1:30 P.M.
The Moderator called the meeting to order at 1:30 P.M. The singing of “He is Exalted,” “As the Deer,” “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us” and “O Church Arise” helped focus Conference in a time of prayer as pastors and delegates read Psalm 63 and meditated on the truths found there.
Report of the Study Committee on Immigration: (page 121)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, Bible Fellowship Churches exist in varying geopolitical situations, and
Whereas, in the United States, where the majority of our churches are, there is great flux and redefinition of illegal/undocumented workers, and
Whereas, our greatest allegiance is to be to the Kingdom of God and the furtherance of its work and not to a political entity, and
Whereas, the relocation of those without the gospel to proximity to biblically-based churches provides great opportunities for Gospel outreach, be it
Resolved, that we add the attached article to the BFC Biblical Principles for Living (BPLs).
150 – Declarations on Particular Issues
Article 156 – Immigration
156-1 – God has a special love and compassion for the alien—whether an immigrant, stranger, or outsider in our midst.1 He created all human beings in His image, and therefore all people from all cultural backgrounds are dignified.2 Mary, Joseph, and Jesus as a child escaped into Egypt, per God’s instructions.3 Our Savior understands the plight of refugees, who leave hostile conditions.
156-2 – Jesus equated welcoming a stranger with welcoming Him. He gave special attention to people who were not accepted4 and spent time with those on the fringes of society. His mission included bringing good news to the captives, broken-hearted, and oppressed.5 The New Testament writers challenge the church to break down barriers of hostility and to recognize that we too are strangers and aliens.6
156-3 – People migrate for many reasons, including economics, armed conflicts, and family needs. Such migration provides gospel opportunities which might not otherwise exist. The church should seek ways to reach the alien with the good news of Christ and disciple the new believer in a way that will honor the Lord and obey the laws of government.7
156-4 – Christians are to obey the laws of government8 except in cases where a regulation is in conflict with the law of God.9 In faithfulness to God, Christians should stand against injustice and be a voice for the oppressed. Circumstances vary from country to country; however, a believer should attempt to follow the legal process in order to remain in the country. Christian employers who have found an employee to be an illegal immigrant should make every effort to comply with the law10 while seeking ways to minister to the employee in accordance with our Gospel mission.
156-5 – The church must understand the priority of its heavenly citizenship.11 The church must not allow political issues to surpass her mission of gospel-centered ministry.12 Pastors and church leaders should give biblical counsel to those illegally residing in a country, proclaim the truth, and pray for the Holy Spirit to work in the believer’s life.13 The church should assist believers seeking legal status.
156-6 – Not all are aliens of their own volition. They are victims of human trafficking and slavery, unwillingly working in situations as diverse as the commercial sex trade and child labor. They are found in places as varied as restaurants, factories, brothels, laundries, and sweatshops. The church needs to stand against this evil by praying and advocating for such victims. The church should be ready to minister to them.14
__________________
1 Lev. 19:9-10, 24:19-22; Deut. 10:17-19, 14:28-29, 24:17, 26:12-13
2 Gen. 1:26-27; I Cor. 11:7; Jas. 3:9
3 Matt. 2:13-18
4 Matt. 25:31-46; Lk. 17:11-19, 19:1-10
5 Isa. 61:1; Mk. 7:24-30; Lk. 4:18-20
6 Acts 10:28; Eph. 2:11-22
7 Mt. 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Heb. 13:1-2
8 Rom. 13:1; Tit. 3:1
9 Acts 5:29
10 I Pet. 2:13-20
11 Phil. 3:20; Tit. 2:14
12 I Cor. 2:2
13 Heb. 4:12; I Pet. 5:1-2
14 Philemon 16
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 136; No – 11.
Carlos Rodriguez prayed for wisdom for the Bible Fellowship Church as we deal with those who come, as immigrants, into our country and into our churches.
Report of the Study Committee on Domestic Abuse as a Biblical Ground for Divorce: (page 138)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
After much discussion, the committee’s proposed revision to Article 103-5.1 of the Biblical Principles for Living, which was initially intended to come to a vote at first reading, was instead referred back to committee for further study.
David E. Gundrum led Conference in prayer, asking God to provide pastors with wisdom as they counsel their people in difficult situations. He prayed that God would protect victims of abuse and asked that the Lord would grant wisdom to this committee as it continues its work.
Consideration of a petition from Paradise Bible Fellowship Church, Paradise, PA.
Whereas, our God desires fellowship with and communication from His chosen people, and
Whereas, Scripture emphasizes this fellowship and communication through the realm of prayer and
Whereas, God himself teaches His people how to pray, and
Whereas, the Bible Fellowship Church rightfully puts a great deal of emphasis on prayer, and
Whereas, we believe prayer is essential in our dependence on God and trusting Him for guidance to do His will, and
Whereas, there are different views in the world on what is prayer and who we pray to, and
Whereas, our Biblical Principles for Living (BPL) state, “The BFC acknowledges the Scriptures as the supreme and final authority of faith and conduct and the Holy Spirit as the source of power and guidance for the believer, and
Whereas, we do not have a statement in our Articles of Faith or in our BPLs on prayer, therefore be it
Resolved, that Paradise Bible Fellowship Church petitions the 132nd BFC Conference to appoint a study committee to develop an article on prayer for inclusion in the Faith and Order, and further
Resolved, that the study committee report to the 133rd BFC Conference.
Resolved, that the petition was received.
The Moderator was directed to appoint a committee of five men to prepare a response to the petition from Paradise BFC.
Consideration of a request from the Board of Elders of Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Quakertown, PA
Grace Bible Fellowship Church’s request is as follows:
It is a given that the BFC holds that baptism is to be reserved for those who make a profession of faith. And it is also a given that unity among the visible church is something that Christ himself asked of God. These produce a question that we are requesting five men to study:
“Cannot the BFC, which ascribes to believer’s baptism by immersion, accept into membership one who also ascribes to believer’s baptism and who agrees with our Articles of Faith, but has previously undergone the mode of pouring, without such a one being required to be re-baptized by immersion? And further, can we do so as a denomination without disturbing the unity of the BFC and without depreciating or compromising our current position on baptism?”
We want to make very plain two items we are NOT asking the study committee to undertake:
1. We are not asking the study committee to address the question of believer’s baptism versus the practice of paedobaptism. That matter is well-settled by the action taken at the 119th Conference, and is ascribed to by the Board of Elders at Quakertown.
2. We are not asking the study committee to address the question of the meaning of baptism as relating to membership. That subject was also well-defined in the study presented to and voted upon at the 119th Conference.
Therefore, what we are asking for is a study confined to the questions pertaining to the unity of our churches within the BFC and the possible negative impact that receiving into membership those who, having been baptized as believers, but not by immersion, might have on the BFC denomination.
Resolved, that the request be received.
Conference voted (Yes – 77; No – 55) to refer the elders of our Quakertown church to the findings of previous study committees as our answer to Quakertown’s request for a study committee. The following constitutes Conference’s response:
Whereas, the Board of Elders of Grace Bible Fellowship Church Quakertown has presented a request to the 132nd BFC Conference with an inquiry as to whether we can “accept into membership one who also ascribes to believer’s baptism and who agrees with our Articles of Faith but has previously undergone the mode of pouring without such a one being required to be re-baptized by immersion” and “can we do so as a denomination without disturbing the unity of the BFC and without depreciating or compromising our current position on baptism?”
Resolved, that the 132nd BFC Conference offers the following response to our brethren at Grace Bible Fellowship Church (Quakertown):
According to our Article 20 of the Articles of Faith of the Bible Fellowship Church, the only valid form of baptism is by immersion. This was affirmed by the 1999, 2000, and 2002 study committee reports of the Study Committee on Baptism and Membership. For example, Appendix 1 of the 1999 report B provided “A Biblical example of how baptism properly administered was a safeguard for doctrinal purity and completeness.”
Furthermore, the BFC Conference has already determined that an individual cannot be a member of the BFC church without being legitimately baptized, which is by immersion alone.
We respect the question brought by the brother elders of the Quakertown church and submit that the answer from the 132nd Conference is that the unity of the church is impinged upon and the meaning of baptism is potentially compromised if we accept into membership individuals who have not been baptized by immersion. We believe that previous study committees have affirmed this answer and that the issue has been settled by the BFC Conference.
Resolved, that we adjourn. Richard D. Harris closed the meeting in prayer at 5:15 P.M.
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday evening, April 29, 2015, 6:15 P.M.
The Moderator called the meeting to order at 6:15 P.M. John R. LoRusso prayed for the proceedings to follow.
Ministerial Relations Committee “Pastor as Elder” Legislation for Consideration at First Reading
Whereas, 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” (511-6.1); and
Whereas, some of the members of pastoral staffs of some local churches, if the proposed wording changes take effect, would be required to gain or lose their voting status on the Board of Elders; and
Whereas, we hope to clarify the pastor-as-elder decision for men called or hired in the future without unnecessarily disrupting the church’s relationship with current pastoral staff; therefore be it
Resolved, that BFC Conference allow those present members of pastoral staffs in our local churches, if the proposed wording changes take effect, to preserve their current voting status with their local church Board of Elders.
Changes to the Faith & Order
NOTE: Italicized and underlined denotes the changes
Pastoral Staff
PROPOSED [an entirely new paragraph, not a replacement to an existing one]
204-3.2 Churches have distinct relationships with their various pastoral staff members. A Senior Pastor is called by the elders subsequent to an affirmative congregational vote and he serves as a voting member of the Board of Elders. The Faith & Order may at times refer to the Senior Pastor as “the minister.” Associate Pastors are likewise called by the elders subsequent to an affirmative congregational vote and serve as voting members of the Board of Elders. Assistant Pastors are called or hired by the elders but do not serve as voting members of the Board of Elders, though the elders may wish them present for elders meetings. In all cases, the pastoral staff serves the congregation under the direction of the Board of Elders.
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 87; No – 34.
Ministerial Credentials Committee Legislation for Consideration at First Reading
ORDAINED MINISTERS WORKING IN CHAPLAINCY MINISTRIES UNDER THE SPONSORSHIP OF THE BFC
Whereas, those in “Other Christian Ministries” (if passed at second reading) can vote at Conference if approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee, but those in the “Chaplaincy” can vote and do not have to be approved, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee views these two categories to be of the same importance, and
Whereas, we noticed some inaccurate wording in 511-5.3(3), therefore be it
Resolved, that we add “Chaplains may vote at the BFC Conference if approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee,” and further
Resolved, that the Ministerial Credentials Committee would be responsible to send the criteria to the men in this category each year to determine if they can vote at the BFC Conference, and further
Resolved, that the Ministerial Credentials Committee be responsible to inform the Conference Registrar of those who can vote, and further
Resolved, that we delete the inaccurate wording, “under the endorsement of the National Conference on Ministry to the Armed Forces”, and further
Resolved, that the description for this category and its numbering in 511-5.3(3) be as follows:
511-5.3 Categories of Ministry
The categories of ministry are as follows:
(3) Ordained Ministers Working in 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 on Ministry to the Armed Forces, as well as other Chaplain ministries such as prison and hospital. Applications for such ministries shall be made through the Ministerial Credentials Committee. Chaplains may vote at the BFC Conference if approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee.
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 119; No – 3.
Proposed Revision to Article 511-5.2 Duties (4)
Whereas, the BFC Conference believes having credentials in the BFC is necessary for serving in our churches, and
Whereas, holding credentials signifies a minister’s belief and commitment to the BFC and its doctrines, and
Whereas, to hold credentials, a minister must be a member in good standing in a particular BFC church (511-5.3), and
Whereas, a minister in the BFC must sign that he is in agreement with our Faith and Order to continue to hold credentials, and
Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee (MCC) believes a minister in the BFC should be attending and supporting a local BFC church (if possible) for accountability and encouragement, and
Whereas, the MCC has historically held this position without it being in our Faith and Order, therefore be it
Resolved, that we add the following additional sentence to Article 511-5.2 Duties (4.2), “No minister shall be allowed to hold credentials in the Bible Fellowship Church who does not attend a BFC church where possible as determined by the Ministerial Credentials Committee. A written request for an exception can be submitted, which will be reviewed and may be granted by the Ministerial Credentials Committee.”
[FIRST READING]
Yes – 116; No – 7.
Resolved, that the Church Health Committee retains its elected representative members for one more year (by rule of exception).
Report of the Conference Judicatory: (page 120)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Ministerial Convention Committee: (page 158)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Examination of 131st BFC Conference Minutes: (page 117)
Resolved, that the report be adopted.
Report of the Committee to Examine Minutes of Particular Churches: (page 119)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Registrar
1. The following alternate delegates were seated for part or all of the 132nd Conference.
Andrew N. Brimer, John Crouch, James Gresh
Resolved, that their seating be approved.
2. The following delegates requested to be excused from part or all of the 132nd Conference:
Russ Burd, Robert D. Carroll, Daniel Dunwell, John Hanner, Allen Heinlein, Scott Holwick, Jeff Keller, L. James Roberts, Bryan L. Snyder, David R. Vinson, J. Richard Vroman, Guy Warner
Resolved, that these requests for excuses be granted.
3. The following licensed and ordained pastors requested to be excused from part or all of the 132nd Conference. These requests were approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee.
Delbert R. Baker, Leonard E. Buck, T. James Bigley, G. Wayne Clapier, Davis E. Duggins, Bruce A. Ellingson, Richard J. Gehman, James D. Head, Roy A. Hertzog, Ronald W. Hoyle, Kenneth J. Hurst, Stanley P. Lauterback, Jerry L. Moyer, Thomas A. Pollock, Roger L. Reitz, David W. Riddell, Jeffry L. Ruhl, David A. Smith, Ronald B. Smith, Jacob J. Susek, David J. Watkins, Colby A. Weinhoffer, Byron Widger, R. Scott Wright, Paul G. Zimmerman
The Committee on Resolutions reported the following resolutions:
Whereas, Dr. Mark Young refreshed and challenged us with the message that it is time for us, the people of God, to be empowered by the Spirit of God, to testify to the Son of God, to fulfill the mission of God throughout all the earth, and
Whereas, Duane E. Moyer encouraged us to consider how each person can take up God’s missio Dei, being sent by God with His purpose, therefore be it
Resolved, that we express our appreciation to the Lord for their Spirit-filled ministry among us and be it further
Resolved, that we strive, through the enablement of the Holy Spirit, to remain steadfastly committed to God’s mission.
Whereas, Mark R. Culton II, Joshua P. Gibson, W. Scott Kappes, John R. LoRusso, Bryan C. McNally and Michael W. Walker were ordained at the 132nd BFC Conference, and the previous ordinations of Andrew W. Barnes and Richard C. Dodson were recognized, therefore be it
Resolved, that we praise God for raising up gifted and passionate men for the ministry of the gospel, and that we be steadfast in prayer for them and the churches they serve.
Whereas, Dana E. Weller and Thomas P. Shorb have retired from their positions of ministry, and
Whereas, Timothy Bertolet, Arthur J. Simpson, Keith A. Strunk, and Albert J. Dommel, 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.
Whereas, the following calls were issued according to the Rules of our Faith & Order: Clinton Corners, NY – Pastor Allen R. Mickle, Jr; Church Extension – Timothy M. Zuck; Director, BFC Board of Missions – Duane E. Moyer; Board of Missions – Daniel Istrate; Camden, DE – R. Daniel Wagner; Woodbury Heights, NJ – Timothy Nessler; Hellertown, PA – Keith A. Strunk; LaGrangeville, NY – Dennis W. Spinney; Howell, NJ – L. Marc Sweet; Kutztown, PA – Ezekiel Mack; therefore be it
Resolved, that praise be given to our God for the provision of these men to their respective callings.
Whereas, there are a number of churches seeking pastors, and
Whereas, we are to pray for the Lord of the Harvest to send forth laborers, therefore be it
Resolved, that we pray for the Lord to raise up gifted, Spirit-filled shepherds for our churches in Carmel, NY; Coopersburg, PA; Las Cruces, NM; Mt Pocono, PA; Newark, NJ; Oley, PA; Wallingford, PA; and York, PA; and be it further
Resolved, that we pray for these churches during their times of transition.
Whereas, the Board of Church Health has encouraged us to give particular consideration to the needs of Hope-Philadelphia Church in Wissinoming, PA and New Community Church in Brooklyn, NY, therefore be it
Resolved, that the BFC Conference commit itself to pray for, support, and look for opportunities to partner with these churches.
Whereas, Cedar Crest BFC celebrated its 125th anniversary, York BFC celebrated its 100th anniversary, and Ephrata BFC celebrated its 25th anniversary in its building and 50th anniversary as a church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for His faithfulness to these congregations and seek His blessing on the years to come.
Whereas, Joshua M. Allen, Bert N. Brosius, D. Thomas Phillips, and R.C. Reichenbach, upon living lives of such faith-filled service to Christ’s Church, have joined the saints eternal in the great rest and joy of their King, therefore be it
Resolved, that we offer sincerest thanks to the head of the Church, who nurtured this fellowship and advanced our cause through the commitment of these men, and be it further
Resolved, that we labor on, following their demonstration of love for Christ and surrender to His Kingdom purpose, eagerly awaiting our participation together with them in the resurrection.
Whereas, Bill Aukamp and Dana & Lynette Weller have retired from their positions as missionaries with the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that thanksgivings and prayers be offered up to the Lord for their years of faithful service.
Whereas, R.C. Reichenbach (former chairman of the Board of Missions), Joyce Musselman (worker for Board of Missions who established a daily prayer calendar), Reba Deily (former chair of the Women’s Missionary Society who also established the BFC Missions Rally), and missionaries Bill Campbell, Edward Moyer, and J. Barclay Harley were called home to their Lord and Savior, having fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith, therefore be it
Resolved, that we offer up sacrifices of praise to the One who sustained their faith to the end and endeavor to follow them with the same measure of perseverance; and be it further
Resolved, that prayers be offered up for surviving widows Hilda Reichenbach, Holly Campbell, Ruth Moyer, and Judy Harley.
Whereas, the Boards, Departments, Committees and Study Committees of the BFC have served with diligence during this past year, and
Whereas, they have fulfilled well their responsibilities by reporting to the Executive Board and to the 132nd BFC Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for their faithful service and ask God to give them strength and guidance for the coming year.
Whereas, our Departments faithfully pursue the collective will of the BFC to serve our church and reach our world with the gospel of Jesus Christ, therefore be it
Resolved, that we offer prayer and practical assistance to the Departments, our missionaries and church planters, and that their endeavors may be blessed with spiritual progress and glorify the cause of Christ.
Whereas, Michael Geer and Randy Wenger of the Pennsylvania Family Institute warned about encroachments on our religious freedoms, and provided resources for us to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves as we live as exiles in a foreign land, therefore be it
Resolved, that prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all who are in high positions so that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way, and be it further
Resolved, that we seek appropriate and winsome ways to speak to these issues.
Whereas, the Executive Board has worked tirelessly and sacrificially in the performance of its duties and
Whereas, David T. Allen has served faithfully and diligently as Executive Director of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we express our appreciation to the Lord for the hard work of our Executive Director and the Executive Board and extend our thanks to our brothers for their service and leadership.
Whereas, Mark R. Evans has served the 132nd BFC Conference by leading us in the singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, being ably assisted by several others, and
Whereas, Clifford B. Boone directed us in times of corporate prayer, therefore be it
Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord for their leading us in the worship of His mighty Name.
Whereas, the staff and volunteers of Pinebrook Bible Conference, along with wives and family members of our pastors and delegates, have readily, cheerfully, and faithfully served the members of the 132nd BFC Conference, therefore be it
Resolved, that we extend our earnest gratitude for their wonderful ministry to those attending the 132nd BFC Conference.
Whereas, the BFC Conference Secretary, Ronald L. Kohl, and his Assistant, David E. Brandt, and the Assistants to the Secretary, Donald E. Kuntzman and Timothy J. Schmoyer, have served willingly and faithfully, therefore be it
Resolved, that we thank the Lord for their service during our proceedings.
Whereas, Head Page Joel B. Klase, and Pages Timothy S. Hogan, Steven J. Morton, S. Wayne Rissmiller, Stephen A. Diaz, Ben Triestman, Ben Martin, Gregory W. Carder, Frank Podlasinski, L. Marc Sweet, and Jules Hull have diligently, humbly and gladly served the 132nd BFC Conference, enabling it to function smoothly, therefore be it
Resolved, that we express our appreciation for their service and fellowship with a round of applause.
Whereas, Randall A. Grossman has served faithfully and more than capably as President of the Bible Fellowship Church from 2009-2015, and
Whereas, Randall A. Grossman has served outstandingly as Moderator of the 132nd Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we offer up thanksgiving to the Lord for providing us with this able and willing servant, and further
Resolved, that the members of the BFC Conference show their appreciation for Brother Grossman with a standing ovation.
Whereas, on the basis of the reports, testimonies, and proceedings of this 132nd Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, we believe that Christ’s Spirit is actively advancing His cause in and through us, therefore be it
Resolved, that we press on in the challenging work before us with joy and humility, and be it further
Resolved, that we will remain steadfast in carrying out the Lord’s mission, faithfully and untiringly proclaiming to the lost our great hope and being intentional in making disciples of Jesus Christ and be it further
Resolved, that we will, in all things, give glory to our great and gracious, merciful and sovereign God.
The following were appointed by the Moderator for the 133rd BFC Conference:
Registrar: Davis E. Duggins
Assistant Registrar: Robert A. Johnson III
Committee on Agenda and Arrangements: Ronald L. Kohl, Chairman; Randall A. Grossman, David T. Allen, Thomas P. Shorb, Clifford B. Boone
Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches: Kevin Kirkpatrick, Chairman; Jason L. Hoy, Mark R. Orton, David J. Peters, Ralph M. Soper, Howard M. Wells
Appointment of Prayer study committee: David J. Peters (Convener); Allen R. Mickle, Jr., Mark L. Morrison, Dennis W. Spinney, Michael Zettlemoyer, Gary Lowe (adjunct committee member)
It was announced that Thomas P. Shorb will serve as Secretary of the Conference Judicatory while the Secretary of the Special Appellate Judicatory is Hans R. Waldvogel.
Ronald C. Mahurin was pleased to report that the offering for the Darlene J. Mahurin Memorial Fund totaled $5,400.
Resolved, that we adjourn. The 132nd BFC Conference was closed in prayer at 7:45 P.M. by Clifford B. Boone.