2018 Annual Conference Minutes

Annual Conference Proceedings – 2018

Monday, April 23, 2018 – Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Minutes, as well as Committee Reports, Indexes, and Statistics are in the 2018 Yearbook

First Meeting

Monday, April 23, 2018, 6:30 P.M.

The 135th BFC Conference was called to order at 6:30 P.M. by the Conference Moderator, Randall A. Grossman, who welcomed pastors, delegates, and guests to Pinebrook Bible Conference’s Fellowship Hall.

The Conference Moderator introduced this year’s theme of “Onward and Outward,” which focuses on the 70th anniversary of Church Extension Ministries. He noted that all of this year’s addresses will be presented by our men.

Citing Psalm 127:1 (“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain”), the Moderator led Conference in a prayer asking God for strength and guidance for the proceedings to follow.

Resolved, that the tables with the green tablecloths constitute the Conference Bar for the 135th BFC Conference.

The roll of the 135th BFC Conference was established as follows:

Allentown, PA (Cedar Crest) Clifford B. Boone, Glenn R. Felty, Jonathan H. King, Benjamin J. Triestman*, John Colabroy, William J. Walters, Rick D. Whitmire

Bethlehem, PA Timothy D. Gibson, Richard F. Bickings, Jr., Scott G. Holwick, Philip G. Norris

Blandon, PA Daniel L. Williams, R. Jerry Brush, James Fisher

Camden, DE Daniel R. Wagner, Albert F. Biddle, Jr.

Carmel, NY (Vacant), Hans R. Waldvogel

Clinton Corners, NY (Vacant), Wayne M. Chadwell

Coopersburg, PA David J. Peters, Richard T. Paashaus, Timothy S. Hogan, Michael J. Zettlemoyer, David Guttman

Dauphin, PA Mark E. Barninger, Dennis L. Souder

Denville, NJ Richard D. Harris, John H. Crouch

Emmaus, PA David A. Smith, David N. Schoen, David K. Schlonecker, Gary Karch

Ephrata, PA Jason L. Hoy, Daniel Krall (Probationer), Michael P. Rebman

Exeter, PA Stan P. Lauterback, David Rhoads

Finesville, NJ Byron Widger, Bert R. Roling

Graterford, PA Mark R. Orton, Robert L. Gaugler

Harleysville, PA Andrew T. Crossgrove, Michael W. Walker, Jim Diamond

Harrisburg, PA Joshua P. Miller, Steven J. DelDuco, Bryan Strahan

Hatfield, PA Howard N. Wells, Joel B. Klase, Harold Schoonover

Hellertown, PA Keith A. Strunk, Mark Edwards

Howell, NJ L. Marc Sweet, Brian Michlich

Kutztown, PA Ezekiel R. Mack*, Nickolas T. Tempe

LaGrangeville, NY Dennis W. Spinney, Thomas L. Ward

Lancaster, PA David A. Thomann, Keith M. Long, Robert L. Yinger, John Kilby

Las Cruces, NM (Vacant), Dan Dunwell

Lebanon, PA Calvin T. Reed, David E. Brandt, Jarrod J. Cruise, Jack S. Herb, Jr.

Lehighton, PA Robert A. Johnson II, Richard Gross

Long Neck, DE Andrew W. Barnes, Ken Wohltmann

Maple Glen, PA Louis Prontnicki, Mark W. Sanders

Merida, MEXICO Marcos G. Ramirez, Freddy A. Chi, Edgar Navarro

Mt. Carmel, PA (Vacant), Donald Dyer

Mt. Pocono, PA W. Scott Kappes, Ronald E. Miller

Nazareth, PA Carl J. Fischer, Jr., John B. Wilson

Newark, DE William G. Schlonecker, Richard C. Dodson, Stephen J. Morton, Daniel W. King, Robert C. Kaatz, Ronald L. Bove

Newark, NJ Ronnie Burgess*, Thomas J. Boose, Jr.

Oley, PA Jason W. Blair, Todd Heath

Paradise, PA (Vacant), Mark L. Morrison, Amos Kinert

Philadelphia, PA Ralph E. Ritter, Joseph P. Specht, Jr.

Piscataway, NJ Dennis M. Cahill, Richard B. Ravis, J. Richard Vroman

Quakertown, PA Ronald L. Kohl, Timothy S. Radcliff, Mark S. Matson

Reading, PA Randall A. Grossman, Ronald W. Reed, Glenn D. Ruoss

Reading, PA (La Roca)** Carlos G. Rodriguez, William Lopez

Red Hill, PA James Arcieri, William E. Blair

Royersford, PA Ronald C. Erb, Tony Zook

Shamokin, PA Ferdie R. Madara, Russell Burd

Sinking Spring, PA S. Wayne Rissmiller*, Gregory W. Carder*, Sean Fox (probationer), Donald McKinney, John Yoder, Eric McNutt

Spring City, PA (Vacant), Sean McNamara

Steelton, PA (Vacant), Jayonn Folks

Stroudsburg, PA Beau E. Coffman, Matthew Brown

Sunbury, PA Joshua P. Gibson, Jules J. Hull, Douglas A. Gaugler

Terre Hill, PA Kevin W. Kirkpatrick, Andrew S. Littlejohn

Townsend, DE Ronald B. Smith, Troy A. Geiger

Wallingford, PA Aaron J. Susek, Mark A. Bickel, Timothy S. Cowen, Scott B. Simmons

Walnutport, PA (Northern Lehigh)** Aaron D. Smith, Jason P. Musselman

Whitehall, PA (Bethany) Timothy J. Schmoyer, Mark Hargrove

Whitehall, PA (Fell. Comm.) Philip E. Yerrington, Robert Zentz

Woodbury Heights, NJ Timothy R. Nessler, John Maricle

York, PA Timothy J. Bertolet, Matthew Furhman

Zionsville, PA Bryan C. McNally, James Pruitt

Ordained Ministers Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries:

David T. Allen, BFC Executive Director; Raymond R. Bertolet, Church Extension; Brad Boyer*, Church Extension; Stephen A. Diaz, Church Extension; Joshua A. Dupiche, Church Extension; Jason A. Filbert (probationer), Church Extension; David E. Gundrum, Church Extension; Donald E. Kuntzman, Board of Missions; Ralph M. Soper, Conference Pastor; Duane E. Moyer, Board of Missions; Elliot H. Ramos, Church Extension; James D. Reff, (probationer) Church Extension; R. Scott Wright, Church Extension; Timothy M. Zuck, Church Extension; John J. Hanner (probationer), Church Extension

Ordained Missionaries:

Daniel P. Allen, Scott B. Evans, Larry Davies, Jimmy D. Head, Walter M. Johnston, 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 Working in Other Christian Ministries:

Clyde D. Bomgardner Jr., Willis I. Dowling, Jordan K. Eyster, Dennis J. Lawrence, Michael J. Tannous

Ordained Ministers in Retirement:

William C. Aukamp, Delbert R. Baker, James R. Batchler, Jr., T. James Bigley, Jr., Terris L. Byrd, Leonard E. Buck, Carl C. Cassel, G. Wayne Clapier, Charles E. Cole, Hugh C. Coulbourn Jr., Raymond R. Dotts, Bruce A. Ellingson, Richard J. Gehman, LeRoy S. Heller, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, John H. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Ronald W. Hoyle, David H. Jones, Ronald C. Mahurin, David L. Manney, Philip G. Norris, Keith E. Plows, Roger L. Reitz, Austin G. Shelly, Thomas P. Shorb, Robert A. Sloan, Gene W. Smith, Carl K. Spackman, Dean A. Stortz, Richard E. Taylor, John C. Vandegriff, Jr., Gregory A. Uhrich, David R. Way, Harold C. Weaber, Dana E. Weller, Daniel G. Ziegler, Paul G. Zimmerman

Ordained Ministers Between Calls:

Joshua D. Edwards, Frank E. Lenahan, Carl T. Martin, Thomas H. Morrison, Eric R. North

Additional Lay Members of BFC Executive Board:

Robert T. Evans, Jay H. Fasnacht, Stephen J. Kauffman, Charles Lavigna, L. James Roberts

* Pending approval of ordination.

**Pending reception as a Particular Church

Report of the Committee on Agenda and Arrangements: (see page 62)

Resolved, that the agenda for the 135th BFC Conference be accepted and that it serve as the guide for our deliberations.

Whereas, the date for the beginning of BFC Conference has been, by precedent, on the Monday after the fourth Sunday of April, and

Whereas, the date for Easter in 2019 is April 21, and it is not preferable to begin BFC Conference on the day after Easter, therefore be it

Resolved, that the 136th BFC Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, April 29-May 1, 2019.

Resolved, that committee reports for the 136th BFC Conference be sent in digital format to the BFC Conference Secretary by February 15, 2019 at sportspastor@juno.com

Musical worship was led by Mark E. Barninger with assistance from James Arcieri, Elliot H. Ramos, Richard B. Ravis, and Aaron J. Susek. Conference sang, “I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord” and “I Will Rise.”

Keynote speaker William G. Schlonecker addressed the subject of “Expanding the Church by Church Planting,” with Elliot H. Ramos serving as translator for Spanish-speaking attendees and those viewing Conference via live stream.

“This conference is one of both celebration and commemoration,” Schlonecker said, noting that the reception of two new Particular Churches testifies to the multi-ethnic nature of growth in the Bible Fellowship Church.

He noted that Conference will hear six different “little stories” throughout the three days of BFC Conference from six different speakers. Taken together, they highlight the many different ways that church planting has taken place within the BFC. But Schlonecker noted that while each individual story boasts a different context, the focus needs to be on the “same bigger story” of God’s faithfulness and guidance that has produced 70 years of Church Extension work.

Acts 9:31, this year’s “theme text,” provides a fitting framework for discussing the “Onward and Outward” nature of church planting. “So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.”

The work of both planting churches and being churches that honor God is difficult because of growing opposition. Resistance to the growth of the church, Schlonecker said, comes from both outside and inside the church. Increasing secularism is a constant challenge from outside while apathy, Schlonecker noted, is one of the primary challenges from inside the church as we settle for being “nice churches.”

“I’m tired of being a ‘nice’ church. I’m tired of preaching ‘nice’ sermons,” Schlonecker said. “Because God doesn’t call us to be nice. He calls us to engage our world with a radical Jesus.”

The keynote speaker pointed to analogies from farming: from cultivating seeds and providing nourishment and sustenance as plants grow. “We need to cultivate and create an environment in which church planting can grow and thrive,” he said. That begins with cultivating an image of a big God.

Schlonecker, making frequent references to the story of the early church as told in Acts, cited several individuals from a variety of communities; in each case, they had been appointed by the Holy Spirit to eternal life. Each name he mentioned represented sheep that Jesus said He must bring. “Because Jesus must bring them also, it follows that we must go. We must be faithful in expanding our gospel to reaching new communities and territories,” he said.

So why don’t we go? What reasons are frequently given for our refusal to participate in the work of the gospel? Schlonecker noted a few: cynicism, unbelief, jaded attitudes. We need, he said, a view of a big God who is still in the ministries of soul-saving and church-establishing.

How big a God do we need to embrace in order to accomplish this gigantic mission? “A God big enough to attract a searching and skeptical world,” Schlonecker described. “A God big enough to satisfy those who are desperately seeking something to quench their thirsty souls. Big enough to heal those whom the world has broken and caused to be disillusioned. Big enough to hold up to the skeptical scrutiny of those who grow up in what we call an LGBT world…A big God who stands up to the scrutiny that this generation, a young generation, brings to it.”

We must also cultivate a desperate dependence on the Holy Spirit. Such a dependence, Schlonecker said, results in “endurance in the face of weariness, commitment in the face of opposition, and passion in the face of complacency.”

“We need the comfort of the Holy Spirit to enable us in the hard work of both church planting and pastoring,” Schlonecker said. He urged those in attendance to not fall prey to the “success snare” of nearby works that enjoy the hallmarks of what we normally call success while our ministries, by comparison, seem to be struggling. “I know it sounds like a cliché, but we need to stop looking around at everyone else and fix our eyes on Jesus,” he stressed, adding that God alone determines growth and there will be many “success stories” in eternity of faithful pastors who spent their entire ministries serving in numerically small churches.

Finally, Schlonecker emphasized the paramount importance of prayer. “Leverage God’s promises through prayer. Don’t just talk about prayer; pray! Have your people pray. Lead your people in prayer. Pray with your people.”

He concluded by thanking God for the work of church planting over the past 70 years, and then challenging Conference to a “renewed vision, renewed courage, and faith in a big God.”

Following the keynote address, David E. Gundrum, Director of Church Extension Ministries, introduced recommendations to receive La Roca de Reading and Northern Lehigh as new particular churches of the BFC. Gundrum also noted that, after several years of working to help re-energize a struggling work in Long Neck, DE, that church has been released from Church Extension and is now standing vibrantly on its own, having grown from 12 members back to a congregation of over 80. “We believed that with God, nothing is impossible,” Gundrum said. “We praise God that we can come here tonight and say that God is faithful.”

Northern Lehigh, he noted, was the result of a vision that came from Whitehall to a church that had closed but was restarted, rebuilt, and now stands ready to graduate. La Roca de Reading, he explained, has grown from one Hispanic family of four – the Carlos G. Rodriguez family of Guadalajara, Mexico – who knew no one in Reading when they started but ministered to the city of Reading one person and one family at a time until the church was built over the course of 14 years.

Whereas, the Board of Church Extension has assessed the elder candidates and committed participants, and has reviewed the financial reports of La Roca de Reading and Northern Lehigh Bible Fellowship Mission Churches, and

Whereas, Church Extension affirms that both La Roca de Reading and Northern Lehigh Bible Fellowship Mission Churches each have sufficient men qualified to be elders, and a sufficient committed participant group who will sign as charter members of each church, and

Whereas, the financial reports of La Roca de Reading and Northern Lehigh Bible Fellowship Mission Churches have been reviewed, therefore be it

Resolved, that La Roca de Reading Mission Church and Northern Lehigh Mission Church be received into the BFC Conference, and be recognized as Particular Churches.

The motions to receive La Roca de Reading and Northern Lehigh BFC as new particular churches passed unanimously, and with enthusiasm. “We’ve got two new churches!” the Conference Moderator exclaimed.

Both churches are, in a sense, daughter churches: Northern Lehigh from Whitehall, and La Roca de Reading from the churches of the Berks Region.

Aaron D. Smith, Pastor of Northern Lehigh BFC, asked the question many young parents have asked over untold generations: “When should we have a baby?” Smith applied this to Whitehall’s decision to undertake replanting a church in Northern Lehigh.

“To do such an action as this requires faith. It requires sacrifice. It requires trials and difficulties,” Smith said, noting that his family had to say goodbye to friends when the decision was made for Whitehall to undertake such a project and Smith was tabbed to be the church-planting pastor. The decision was made to close the existing church in Walnutport; the nucleus for the new church plant would come from the surviving members of the Walnutport church and a group that would make the move from Whitehall to Northern Lehigh.

After a summer VBS in 2013, a grand launch was held that October. At present, weekly attendance is around 70, and God has provided a former restaurant as the church’s new home. The church’s mission statement is one it still shares with Whitehall BFC: “Introducing ordinary people to extraordinary, every-growing life in Jesus our Savior.”

Smith introduced Anthony Kutzler, whose former life of drug and alcohol addiction has been transformed through the gospel as presented by the ministry of Northern Lehigh BFC. “Thanks to grace, thanks to Jesus, I don’t have to live in that sin anymore,” he said. “That’s pretty much what the church plant and God have done for me.” Also addressing Conference was Northern Lehigh’s delegate, Jason P. Musselman, a sixth generation BFC member whose roots date back to Bethel- Allentown and Cedar Crest.

Several representatives from the Northern Lehigh church family came forward and posed for a photograph as Conference applauded.

Pastor Carlos G. Rodriguez, with translating assistance from his son Diego Rodriguez, introduced the ministry at La Roca de Reading via verbal testimony and a multi-media presentation. “We are here to celebrate that, by the grace of God, La Roca de Reading is the first Spanish-speaking particular church in the U.S,” he said.

“Thank God that He put it in the heart of the BFC to start Spanish-speaking churches. There is a lot of work to do,” Pastor Rodriguez said, noting that census statistics suggest that by 2050, one out of every three residents of the United States could be Hispanic. He thanked many members of his family, praising God for the encouragement he has received. “Thank you for so much love and support all these years, even though you are very far away.”

Many others, including several BFC pastors, received thanks for their help in leading to La Roca de Reading’s reception as a particular church. Special thanks were given to Grace Bible Fellowship Church in Reading, which houses the La Roca congregation.

“Thank God for this beautiful family of the BFC,” Pastor Rodriguez said. “And to finish, thank God for the church of La Roca de Reading. We have seen God’s redeeming grace in many lives and families…We can all say that God is our rock.”

William Lopez, a U.S. Navy veteran of two terms of service in Iraq who is one of La Roca’s elders, testified to God’s work in his life. He came to saving faith in 2004 as he came to know Pastor Rodriguez. “From then it’s been a journey of picking up my cross and following Him.”

Lopez praised God for ethnic church planting in the BFC. “I pray that one day there will be a Bible Fellowship Church in my hometown in Puerto Rico.”

A worship team from La Roca de Reading led Conference in singing “At the Cross,” first with traditional English musical stylings and then as a rousing number sung in Spanish and blended with “God is so Good.” “I Will Call Upon the Lord” also received a peppy treatment in both Spanish and English.

Most of the La Roca congregation made the trip from Reading to Pinebrook to share in the celebration, making wide-angle photography necessary.

Richard E. Taylor, Chairman of the Department of Church Extension Ministries, closed the meeting in prayer at 9:05 p.m. after introducing longtime Church Extension Ministries director Daniel G. Ziegler (who is now a member of the Northern Lehigh congregation). Following adjournment, a reception in honor of the two new particular churches was held in Pinebrook’s dining hall.

Second Meeting

Tuesday, April 24, 2018, 8:45 A.M.

The Conference Moderator called the morning’s first session to order at 8:45 a.m. as Carl J. Fischer Jr. prayed. Conference immediately engaged in praise of our great God as Mark E. Barninger and several pastor-accompanists led in the singing of “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” and “Shout to the North.”

Timothy J. Bertolet continued the theme of “Onward and Outward” by directing Conference’s attention to Ephesians 4:11-16. His theme, “Building a Church with a Building,” connects with the story of Faith BFC in York, a church that survived a painful split that caused the majority of the congregation to leave the BFC.

Bertolet, who has served as the York church’s pastor since mid-2014, admitted he asked his congregation how to best describe York’s pathway back to being a healthy BFC church. Their response to Bertolet was, “Tell them, ‘God did the work.’”

How does God build a church? A thumbnail sketch of Acts reveals many instances where God used His Word to achieve His purposes. “God uses the Word to grow the church,” Bertolet said. God used the ministry of the apostles to proclaim the life-giving gospel as they proclaimed the Word to build and build up the early church. “They stuck to the most basic thing of all: the preaching of the Word.”

It is important to note that the Lord builds His church by ministering the Word through pastors. The New Testament highlights the delegation of responsibilities within the church so that pastors can focus on the ministry of the Word and of prayer.

“…the shepherds and teachers” in Ephesians 4, Bertolet noted, share one definite article. “These two things go hand-in-hand in the life of the body: shepherding God’s people and teaching them the Word of God.” The pastor is not to be a hireling but is instead called to shepherd the flock entrusted to his care. He best feeds his flock through the ministry of the Word of God, administering it to their particular needs and doing so carefully and compassionately because the shepherd knows his sheep.

A faithful pastor ministers to hurting people, as Bertolet and others did at York as the Lord bound up the wounds and dealt with lingering scars caused by the York church’s fracture.

Ephesians 4:12 focuses on the role of pastor as equipper. His role is “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” so that the body of Christ may be built up. “Your goal and my goal, pastors, is to minister the gospel and to faithfully preach the Word of God.”

At York, it was determined, very early in Bertolet’s ministry, to hone in on the proclamation of God’s Word. No nursery, no children’s ministry, bare-bones music…but a strong emphasis on preaching. “We were going to focus on preaching the Word, and letting God do the rest,” Bertolet said.

Finally, Bertolet reminded Conference that the Lord uses the Word, given to the people, to build the church into its union with Christ. The goal, Paul said in Ephesians 4:13, is the attainment of “the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”

What does a built-up body look like? It looks like unity of the faith – a unity of “one Lord, one faith, one baptism” – that we are one in Christ; we know Him personally and are close to Him “in union and in communion.” Doctrinal stability is another mark; a church that is built-up is not blown about by every wind of doctrine. “Doctrine matters,” Bertolet stressed. And it looks like the church passing along faith to subsequent generations and training future pastors and missionaries for service, and then sending them out.

Joshua P. Miller led Conference in a “Concert of Prayer.” He emphasized how often “boldness” accompanied the apostles. “We need to pray for boldness: that He would make us bold men.” The time of corporate prayer concluded with the singing of “Rise Up, O Men of God.”

After the morning break, Church Extension Ministries celebrated its 70th anniversary with a detailed presentation. David E. Gundrum, Director of Church Extension, introduced the current crop of BFC church planters. Church Extension has formally been part of who we are since 1948. Richard E. Taylor, who serves both as Director of Church Extension Ministries and as a church-planting mentor with Church Extension, said, “A 70th anniversary is a time to celebrate where we’ve been, celebrate where we’re going, and to praise God.”

Taylor provided a short review of our history, noting that evangelism and missions took precedence in our early years. “New churches were a by-product; they were not the intention,” Taylor said. “They wanted to preach the gospel. They saw themselves as evangelists, and that’s where the trajectory of our ministry took us. That’s where we went.”

The ministry of the Gospel Heralds, though they saw themselves as evangelists, led to the formation of several of our churches. “Churches were started because people were saved,” Taylor explained. “That was the trajectory.”

By the 1940s, however, denominational language began a shift using language like “extending the church.” Church planting became intentional, and the Home Mission Board was formed to parallel the Foreign Missionary Board. The Home Mission Board’s name was soon changed to Church Extension. “Here’s the point: it’s a subtle thing, but a very significant thing that happened 70 years ago,” Taylor said. “New churches were no longer a by-product, but now it was the goal. We were not just evangelists; we were starting new churches.”

Churches are started because church is the means, according to the Great Commission, of making disciples. “Seventy years and still growing,” Taylor said. “And we are not done. We’re still growing.”

Gundrum cited three current areas of emphases in Church Extension: multiplication (churches planting churches; regions planting churches), connection (independent churches and church plants seeking BFC affiliation), and pioneering (starting new church plants in new geographical areas).

Nathan Brosius, Director of Operations of Pinebrook Bible Conference, greeted the pastors and delegates in his role as Conference Host.

The following appointments were made by either the Conference Moderator or the Committee on Agenda and Arrangements:

Registrar: Daniel L. Williams

Assistant Registrar: Timothy J. Bertolet

Tellers: Jason L. Hoy, Chairman; Andrew W. Barnes, Mark A. Bickel, Jonathan H. King, Ferdie R. Madara, Mark R. Orton, Aaron D. Smith, Ronald B. Smith

Examination of BFC Conference Minutes (135th): Daniel P. Allen, Chairman; Philip G. Norris, Richard E. Taylor

Resolutions: Beau E. Coffman, Chairman; Joshua P. Gibson, Timothy S. Hogan

Timekeeper: Mark L. Morrison

Parliamentarian: Timothy J. Schmoyer

Resolved, that the appointments be ratified.

The Conference Secretary made the following appointments:

Assistant Secretary: David E. Brandt

Assistants to the Secretary: Donald E. Kuntzman, Timothy J. Schmoyer

Resolved, that the appointments be ratified.

The following new members of BFC Conference were introduced:

Ronald Bove, Newark BFC, Newark, DE; Matt Brown, Berean BFC, Stroudsburg, PA; Rafael Castillo, La Roca de Reading, Reading, PA; Jim Diamond, Faith BFC, Harleysville, PA; Mark Edwards, Saucon BFC, Hellertown, PA; Jayonn Folks, Grace Fellowship, Steelton, PA; Matthew Furman, Faith BFC, York, PA; Rick Granberry, Bethany BFC, Hatfield, PA; Todd Heath, New Life BFC, Oley, PA; Steven Kay, Denville BFC, Denville, NJ; William Lopez, La Roca de Reading, Reading, PA; Mark Matson, Grace BFC, Quakertown, PA; Jason Musselman, Northern Lehigh BFC, Walnutport, PA; David Rhoads, Exeter BFC, Reading PA; John Weller, Calvary BFC, Sinking Spring, PA; Rick D. Whitmire, Cedar Crest BFC, Allentown PA; Bruce Wilson, Calvary BFC, Sinking Spring, PA; Ken Wohltmann, New Life BFC, Long Neck, DE.

Report of the Committee on Examination of 134th BFC Conference Minutes: (see page 135)

It was noted that certain legislation from Article 103-5, Divorce, which was approved at First Reading at the 134th BFC Conference and was included in the conference minutes was inadvertently omitted from the 2017 Yearbook. The missing legislation appears correctly in the Report of the Committee to Examine 134th BFC Conference Minutes(and also was included in the Report Book as part of the Report of the Study Committee on the Pauline Exception, p. 67).

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

The Conference Secretary made the following recommendation:

Resolved, that all minutes of all sessions of the 134th BFC Conference be approved. All minutes were approved with one correction as noted above (omitted legislation, Article 103-5, Divorce).

The following Church Health Committee legislation was proposed for adoption at Second Reading:

Whereas, the BFC Conference approved legislation regarding the Church Health Committee 511-3.2, “Composition,” at First Reading in 2016, and

Whereas, there were concerns expressed by the Nominating Committee about the size and composition of the Church Health Committee, and

Whereas, we believe that nine members who are elders or ministers in three different classes would adequately meet our needs and the concern of the Nominating Committee, therefore, be it

Resolved, that we present the legislation titled Church Health Committee

511-3.2 “Composition” for second reading in 2018 with the following minor changes:

Change: “at least eight (8) men” to “nine (9) men”

Change: remove the words, “if possible”

The above brief legislative item passed unanimously at [Second Reading].

Report of the Nominating Committee:

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

The following were elected:

BFC Executive Board:

Hans R. Waldvogel (3 years)

Rick D. Whitmire (3 years)

Conference Judicatory

Ronald W. Reed (3 years)

L. James Roberts, Jr. (3 years)

Special Appellate Judicatory:

Charles A. Lavigna (3 years)

Officers for BFC Conference:

Secretary of 136th BFC Conference:

Ronald L. Kohl (1 year)

Joshua P. Gibson prayed for the Lord’s will to be done in the upcoming elections.

Report of the Ministerial Credentials Committee: (see page 124)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended ordination for Brad L. Boyer, Gregory W. Carder, Ezekiel R. Mack, and Benjamin J. Triestman for ordination, and has recommended Ronnie Burgess and S. Wayne Rissmiller 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 Brad L. Boyer, Gregory W. Carder, Ezekiel R. Mack, and Benjamin J. Triestman be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church, and further

Resolved, that Ronnie Burgess and S. Wayne Rissmiller be recommended for recognition of previous ordination.

Resolved, that an Ordination Service be held at the 135th BFC Conference.

Resolved, that the Cape Community Church, Cape May Court House, NJ; the Calvary Bible Fellowship Church, Sinking Spring, PA; the Kutztown Bible Fellowship Church, Kutztown, PA; and the Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Church, Allentown, PA be encouraged to have a service in recognition of the ordinations of Brad L. Boyer, Gregory W. Carder, Ezekiel R. Mack, and Benjamin J. Triestman, respectively, and that the Newark Bible Fellowship Church, Newark, NJ, and the Calvary Bible Fellowship Church, Sinking Spring, PA be encouraged to have a service in recognition of previous ordination for Ronnie Burgess and S. Wayne Rissmiller, respectively, and that they be encouraged to invite the Ministerial Credentials Committee to send representation to be present at the service.

Conference adjourned for lunch at 12:20 p.m. as L. James Roberts, Jr. prayed.

Third meeting

Tuesday, April 24, 2018, 1:30 P.M.

The afternoon session was called to order as Daniel P. Allen prayed. Marcos G. Ramirez presented the afternoon address, “Building a Church Without a Building.” In his message, Ramirez told the story of La Roca de Merida, our particular church in Mexico.

Hurricane Isidore, he explained, hit the Yucatan Peninsula in September, 2002, doing considerable damage to the church building where Ramirez serves as pastor. Some expressed concern following the destruction of their church building, but Ramirez explained, “The church isn’t a building. It’s a living body of disciples of the Lord Jesus. It cannot be destroyed, because the grace of God sustains it.

Returning to Ephesians 4:11-16, Ramirez drew Conference’s attention to several spiritual truths. First, he noted that Jesus Christ has given ministers of the Word to His church. He provided servants, not techniques, Ramirez noted. “Christ equipped servants to carry out the ministry of the Word.” While apostles provided essential leadership for the early church, the New Testament established the model for church leadership: elders and deacons, which the BFC continues to utilize today.

Training potential elders for ministry in the church played a key role in Merida’s strengthening as leadership training. “God is faithful, and He gave us men,” Ramirez said, noting that God brought prospective leaders through the probationary program and into active eldership. Providing for the church’s shepherding needs is dependent on God, not on man. “I know the day when I am no longer active as a pastor, God will bring another one,” Ramirez said.

The Lord gifts His church as He sees fit, and Scripture shows, again and again, that the ministry of the Word produces spiritual fruit. Paul refers to maturity and growth in Ephesians 4. The presence of spiritual maturity substantiates the presence of strong biblical teaching as those who are spiritually immature, when properly taught and shepherded, are not easily deceived by false teachers. The growth that Paul mentions in Ephesians 4 is primarily spiritual; the body grows as it “builds itself up in love.”

“When I see my church, I understand that there is a long way ahead,” Ramirez admitted, pointing out a few areas in which the Merida church has not yet attained spiritual maturity. But God is at work, he added, and progress is being made as God continues to act for the good of His people.

Report of the Study Committee on Prayer: (page 141)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Legislation to be considered at Second Reading

Resolved, that 202-1.2 be revised as follows as Second Reading (addition in bold):

202-1.2 A Particular Church consists of professing believers voluntarily associated in submission to the Holy Scriptures, for divine worship, corporate prayer, godly living, and evangelism. The Particular Churches seek to demonstrate their participation in the church universal by forming unions with other Particular Churches that have a similar understanding of doctrine and organization.

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 155; No – 1.

Resolved, that 204-2.3, the section on Personal Qualifications (1) be revised as follows as Second Reading (addition in bold):

The minister must have a love for the study of Scripture and be devoted to prayer inasmuch as his primary function is to be pastor-teacher.

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 158; No – 0.

Article 101-2 BPL, Prayer: (page 141)

While the 134th BFC Conference adopted, at First Reading, a new Biblical Principle for Living on Prayer, interaction between Conference and the Study Committee resulted in a few minor changes which appear below in bold.

101-2.1 Prayer is a drawing near in our hearts to the living and triune God.1 In prayer we express our praise2 and thanksgiving3 to our sovereign God. We confess our sin4 and ask Him to give to us what we need and desire5 according to His will.

101-2.2 Prayer is the natural way that the child of God communicates with his heavenly Father.6 This relationship was formed because of the death and resurrection of Christ, by whom we have bold access to the Father.7 Without this union in Christ, we could never hope to speak to and be heard by the sovereign God of the universe.8 The believer’s prayer, offered in the name of Jesus,9 by the power of the Holy Spirit,10 is a means of receiving the promises of God’s Word.11 While God may hear the prayer of an unbeliever,12 the unbeliever has no assurance or guarantee that the Lord will answer his prayer.

101-2.3 The Scriptures give much instruction on prayer. Jesus Himself demonstrated the need for prayer in his earthly life and ministry. The Lord taught His disciples a model prayer.13 In the model prayer Jesus revealed that the believer is privileged to address God as Father. Jesus taught that we should pray for God’s name to be seen as holy. Jesus emphasized praying about the plan of God in the world. Jesus instructed believers to pray that their daily, physical needs would be met. Jesus also instructed believers to pray that our sins be forgiven, temptation be avoided and the evil one be resisted.14

101-2.4 Prayer that is acceptable to God is not so much the right words but the right heart.15 This includes freedom from known sin,16 an unforgiving spirit,17 and selfish desires.18 Acceptable prayer includes asking in faith19 with an attitude of never giving up.20 Right prayer is both powerful and effective.21

101-2.5 God’s people are encouraged to come together to pray.22 In the Old Testament, the assembling of Israel for prayer was for dedication,23 worship,24 confession,25 and for petition in time of great need and crisis.26 In Acts, the Church came together corporately for times of devoted prayer.27 Therefore, the local church ought to gather together to worship the Lord in prayer,28 to seek God’s guidance,29 to ask God’s protection in times of persecution,30 to pray for one another31, and to pray for openness to the gospel.32

101-2.6 The practice of fasting in Scripture is often associated with prayer. To fast is to voluntarily abstain from food,33 or from anything else that is legitimate in and of itself,34 for the purpose of spending more time and intensity in prayer and worship.35 Fasting is a statement that we want our appetite for God to be greater than our physical appetites. The reasons that may prompt us to fast include a personal or national crisis,36 a sense of contrition and repentance over sin,37 and a desire to seek the Lord and His help.38 The New Testament does not require believers to fast, but in His teachings, Jesus expects that they will fast.39 The early church practiced corporate fasting at times.40

101-2.7 God hears and responds to the prayers of the righteous.41 God often responds differently than we ask,42 but always according to His perfect plan and will.43 Our joyful responsibility is to submit to His answers and trust His grace. Prayers that magnify the name of God, glorify Him, and seek to fulfill His purposes in this world,44 are prayers that He answers according to His timing for His glory and our good.45 While God is fully capable of accomplishing these purposes on His own, He chooses to use the prayers of His children to fulfill them.

__________________________________

1 Psalm 62:8; Heb. 4:16, 10:22

2 1 Chron. 29:10-13

3 Phil. 4:6

4 Psalm 32:5, 139:23-24; Acts 8:22

5 Matt. 7:7-11; 1 Tim. 2:1

6 Matt. 6:9; Rom. 8:15

7 Heb. 4:14-16, 6:19, 10:19-22

8 Psalm 66:18; John 9:31

9 John 14:12-14; 16:23-24

10 Rom. 8:26-27; Eph. 6:18; Jude 20

11 Neh. 1:8-11

12 Gen. 20:4-5; 1 Kings 8:41-43; Acts 10:2-4

13 Matt. 6:9-13

14 1 Peter 5:8-9

15 Psalm 66:18-19

16 Prov. 15:29, 28:9; Isa. 1:15, 59:1-2

17 Mark 11:25

18 James 4:2-3; 1 Peter 3:7

19 Mark 11:23-24

20 Luke 18:1, Rom. 12:12; Col. 4:2; 1 Thess. 5:17

21 James 5:16-18; Eph. 3:20-21

22 Col. 4:2-4; Matt. 18:19

23 1 Chron. 29:10-20

24 2 Chron. 6:12-42

25 Ezra 9:4-15

26 2 Chron. 20:5-13

27 Acts 1:14, 2:42, 12:5, 12

28 Acts 13:2-3

29 Acts 1:24

30 Acts 4:24-31

31 Col. 1:9

32 Col. 4:2-4; 2 Thess. 3:1

33 Matt. 4:2 cp. Luke 4:2

34 1 Cor. 7:5

35 Luke 2:37

36 Neh. 1:4; Esther 4:3

37 Joel 2:12

38 2 Chron. 20:3; Ezra 8:21-23

39 Matt.6:16, 9:15

40 Acts 13:2-3, 14:23

41 Prov. 15:29

42 Luke 22:42; Heb. 5:7

43 1 John 5:14-15

44 Matt. 6:9-10, John 14:13-14

45 2 Cor. 12:7-9

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 150; No – 3.

Whereas, the Study Committee on Prayer has served for several years and has presented its report(s) and its recommendations to the BFC Conference, and

Whereas, the legislation that the Study Committee has recommended has been approved at Second Reading, therefore be it

Resolved, that Conference declares that the assignment of this Study Committee has been completed, and be it further

Resolved, that Conference commends and thanks the members of this Study Committee for their faithful and diligent service.

Report of the Study Committee on Domestic Abuse as a Biblical Grounds for Divorce: (see 2017 BFC Yearbook page 120)

Legislation to be considered at Second Reading

Article 103-4, The Family

Resolved, that the following paragraph, an addition to Article 103-4 of the Biblical Principles of Living, be adopted as Second Reading:

103-4.3 God instituted the covenant of marriage prior to the fall of mankind in Adam’s sin. When sin entered the world, the effects of sin corrupted all things. The marriage covenant between a man and his wife was also corrupted.1 It is only in Christ, as husband and wife submit to Him, that there is hope for marriage as God intended.

One of the most destructive sins in the marriage relationship is that of spousal abuse. Spousal abuse is the physical, emotional, or sexual mistreatment of the marriage partner. Such abuse is clearly put forward as sin in God’s Word.2 It is any kind of behavior that a person uses, or threatens to use, to control one’s spouse. This is a distortion of God’s revealed design for marriage.3 It is a clear violation of Christ’s command to love one another4 and Paul’s admonition to do no wrong to your neighbor.5 It is enslaving a spouse rather than giving of oneself. It instills fear rather than developing holiness, and corrupts the relationship rather than cleanses. It is treating a spouse as an enemy rather than offering Christ-like sacrificial love. It is the opposite of caring for one’s spouse as one would one’s own body. Abuse devalues the marriage in order to establish personal superiority.

The Church is to rebuke the abuser for his/her sin and exhort the abuser to confess, repent, and be reconciled through Christ.6 When a church member abuses a spouse, the Bible requires that fellow believers use the means of church discipline in order to urge the individual to repent and be restored. The Church shall act for the protection of the abused and give comfort7 and hope in the gospel.8 **

** Refer to the 2015 Yearbook, pp. 140-143, for guidelines as the church ministers to people in spousal abuse situations.

1 Gen. 3:16

2 Ex. 20:13; Matt. 5:21-22; 1 Cor. 7:3-4; 1 Tim. 5:8

3 Lev. 19:17; Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:19; 1 Pet. 3:7

4 Matt. 22:39; John 13:34-35

5 Romans 13:10

6 Matt. 18:15-20; 1 Cor. 5:4-12; Gal. 6:1; 2 Tim. 4:2; James 5:19-20

7 Isa. 1:12-17; Micah 6:8

8 Rom 5:2-7; 2 Cor. 1:3-7; 2 Cor. 4:17-18; James 1:2-4; 1 Pet. 1:3-9

And be it further Resolved, that the current paragraphs 103-4.3 through 4.9 be renumbered accordingly.

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 165; No – 1.

Whereas, the Study Committee on Domestic Abuse and Divorce has served for several years and has presented its report and its recommendations to the BFC Conference, and

Whereas, the legislation that the Study Committee has recommended has been approved at Second Reading, therefore be it

Resolved, that Conference declares that the assignment of this Study Committee has been completed, and be it further

Resolved, that Conference commends and thanks the members of this Study Committee for their faithful and diligent service.

Report of the Study Committee on the Pauline Exception (as part of Article 103-5, Divorce): (see 2017 BFC Yearbook page 125)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Article 103-5 – Divorce

103-5.1 Divorce is the breaking of the marriage covenant instituted and ordained of God. God hates it because it is inconsistent with His purpose1 and creates problems for all those associated with it. (Delete: It is not permitted for any reason other than adultery,2 and should be considered only after careful and prayerful attempts for forgiveness and reconciliation.3 Scripture permits but never requires that a person divorce a marriage partner who has committed adultery.4)

103-5.2 Divorce may only be initiated after a partner has committed adultery.2 In case of adultery, divorce should be considered only after careful and prayerful attempts for forgiveness and reconciliation.3 Scripture permits but never requires divorce in this instance.4 In the case of adultery, the Lord places the guilt of the divorce on the unfaithful spouse even if the innocent spouse initiates the divorce.

103-5.3 In the event that an unbelieving spouse initiates divorce against the innocent believing spouse, the recipient of the divorce is not guilty for the sin of divorce, but rather the initiator is. The believer in this case is not enslaved to the bonds of the marriage and may remarry.5

103-5.4 People divorced for reasons other than that allowed by Scripture ought not marry another, but be reconciled, and seek God’s resolution for the breakdown of the marriage.6 Divorced persons must seek forgiveness for any sin that may have led to, or is associated with, their divorce. They should seek the grace of God for their spiritual growth and healing.7

Renumber existing 103-5.3 to be 103-5.5

103-5.5 The church should seek to prevent divorce by offering both premarital counseling and ongoing opportunities for marital instruction.8 The principles that make for a godly marriage should be evident in the life and example of every Christian family, especially the leadership of the church.9

Renumber existing 103-5.4 to be 103-5.6

103-5.6 By the grace of God, those who have been divorced and those who have married divorced persons, if they give evidence of forgiveness and Christian living, may be admitted to church membership and do not forfeit the privilege of serving within the Church.10 The elders of each particular church should evaluate the circumstances surrounding a divorce or remarriage in order to assure obedience to Scripture and confirm or establish the legitimacy of any remarriage.11

103-5.7 The church should counsel those considering divorce to seek other solutions to the problems in their relationships. There are times when a church is called upon to exercise discipline towards those who are seeking or who have obtained a divorce. There are also times when a church is called upon to exercise discipline towards those who are seeking to remarry, or who have already remarried. Remarriage is permissible for those who are divorced due to adultery, believers divorced by their unbelieving spouse, or whose return to the former partner is determined by the elders, as they study the Scriptures, to be impossible.12 Individuals involved in these circumstances must submit themselves to the Word of God in their present situation.13

Renumber existing 103-5.6 to be 103-5.8

103-5.8 The responsibility of the church towards people considering divorce, remarriage, or those who have been divorced or remarried, is always to apply the Word of God in love.14 The goal of this ministry is to restore any break in their fellowship with God and with the life of the church, to preserve the purity of the church15, and to clear the reputation of a person.

Footnotes

1 Gen. 2:24; Prov. 2:17; Mal. 2:14-16

2 Matt. 5:32; Rom.7:2

3 Mark 10:6-9; 1Cor. 7:10, 11

4 Matt.19:9

5 1 Cor. 7:12-15

6 Psa. 139:23, 24; Rom.7:2, 3; 1 Pet. 3:7-9

7 Gal. 5:14-23; Eph. 4:32; Col.3:12, 13

8 Prov.11:14, 15:22-23; Titus 2:3-8

9 1 Tim.3:1-7; Titus 1:6

10 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Heb. 2:11

11 Heb. 13:4

12 Deut. 24:1-4; Mark 10:11-12; 1 Cor. 7:39

13 1 Cor. 7:17-24

14 Eph. 4:15, 16

15 1 Thess. 4:3-7

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 144; No – 18.

Whereas, the Study Committee on the Pauline Exception has served for several years and has presented its report and its recommendations to the BFC Conference, and

Whereas, the legislation that the Study Committee has recommended has been approved at Second Reading, therefore be it

Resolved, that Conference declares that the assignment of this Study Committee has been completed, and be it further

Resolved, that Conference commends and thanks the members of this Study Committee for their faithful and diligent service.

Consideration of a Request from the Board of Elders of Saucon Community Church, Hellertown: (see page 149)

Resolved, that the request be received.

The Saucon Community BFC Board of Elders proposed the following resolution:

Whereas, The Bible Fellowship Church holds the highest and most reverent view of the Holy Scriptures as the living and active Word of God, and

Whereas, the church universal, including the evangelical church at large, has progressively minimized and abandoned the ministry of the clear preaching of the Word of God, and

Whereas, The Bible Fellowship Church seeks to be distinct in biblical fidelity and ministerial faithfulness, and

Whereas, The Church Health Committee of the Bible Fellowship Church has officially included expositional preaching of the of the Scriptures in the marks of a healthy Bible Fellowship Church, and

Whereas, The Articles of Faith of the Bible Fellowship Church do not explicitly proclaim our belief in the high value of expositional preaching of the word of God, therefore be it

Resolved, that Article 18-5 be included in the Bible Fellowship Articles of Faith in order to clearly communicate our belief in the priority of expositional preaching in the church.

Article 18 – The Church

18-5 The preaching of the Word of God is the primary means God has ordained for the salvation, sanctification, and equipping of His people. Thus, expositional preaching of Scripture, particularly as a means of congregational worship, should be given priority among all the ministries of the church.

Conference entertained lengthy discussion concerning Saucon Community’s request and the following resolution was moved, seconded, and voted upon:

Resolved, that the Moderator appointed a study committee of five (5) ordained men to study Saucon Community BFC’s request and bring a report to next year’s Conference.

The motion carried.

Article 508-5, Study Committees: (2017 Yearbook, page 41)

(1) Purpose. BFC Conference may form a study committee to address a specific topic or question which does not fall under the jurisdiction of one of the standing committees and which is too extensive to be adequately addressed through public debate alone. BFC Conference shall assign a study committee its work in writing by means of a resolution or resolutions.

(2) Composition. BFC Conference may nominate and elect a study committee, or it may request the Moderator to appoint a study committee, subject to the ratification of BFC Conference. The number of members shall be determined by BFC Conference. The study committee shall exist until dissolved by BFC Conference. Vacancies of study committee membership may be filled by further elections or appointments by the Moderator. BFC Conference may add, remove, or replace members at any time.

(3) Reporting. A study committee shall submit an annual written report to BFC Conference, and shall do so until it is dissolved by BFC Conference. The written report may include progress made toward the completion of its assignment, a position paper intended to complete its assignment, and any legislation offered to address the assignment. Legislation proposed by the study committee may be amended, but not replaced by substitute motion, prior to being voted on by BFC Conference.

(4) Dissolution. A study committee is dissolved by vote of BFC Conference when, in the judgment of BFC Conference, its assignment is complete.

Resolved, that the current 508-5 be renumbered as 508-6, and further

Resolved, that 513-2 be deleted and the current 513-3 be renumbered as 513-2.

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 162; No – 1.

Article 511-4.3, 4.5, 501-1, Ministerial Candidate Committee: (2017 Yearbook, page 12031)

Resolved: That the following changes to 511-4.3 be approved at Second Reading.

Note: proposed changes in these resolutions are indicated by bold-face, underlined type.

Duties:

(2) It shall take under its supervision the candidates and probationers while in training.

(3) It shall examine those who offer themselves for service in our Church and determine as far as possible the sincerity and genuineness of their call to the ministry.

(8) It shall furnish prior to the BFC Conference to the Registrar a list of probationers who are eligible to be members of the BFC Conference. (Delete remainder of sentence)

Resolved: That at Second Reading the following changes to 511-4.5 be approved.

Procedure:

The procedure to be followed by a man offering himself for service in the BFC shall be as follows:

(1) Men who seek to be ordained in the BFC will fill out an application from the Committee.

(2) The applicant will carry out a program of personal development and training developed in consultation with the Committee.

(3) The candidate will be examined through a series of tests.

(4) Upon satisfactory completion of the testing and approval of the Committee, the candidate will be recognized as a probationer eligible for a call and recommended to the Ministerial Relations Committee or BFC departments.

(5) During the time of working in the BFC or in one of the denominational departments or other ministries, the probationer will be under the jurisdiction of this Committee as well as the department or ministry with which he works.

(6) At the end of the probationary period, upon approval of this Committee, the probationer will be recommended to the Ministerial Credentials Committee. [Delete “… and his probationary period will cease.”] Serving [replacing “To serve”] as a candidate and probationer does not guarantee being recommended for ordination examination.

Resolved: That the following changes to 501 be approved at Second Reading.

Procedure for the Recognition of a Minister

All men who desire to have ministerial credentials with the BFC shall apply to the Ministerial Candidate Committee by filling out an application from the Committee.

501-1 Men Entering the Ministry of the BFC

Applicant. An applicant is a man who offers himself to this committee for service in the BFC. Men are encouraged to seek this recognition as early in their educational program as they sense the call of God to the ministry.

Probationer. A probationer is a man who has been approved by this committee and has passed the required examinations. Upon completion of his required examinations, he will be classified as a probationer eligible to receive a call. When a probationer receives a call from the BFC (a Particular Church or department) or other ministry (chaplaincy, etc.) approved by the Ministerial Candidate Committee in consultation with the Credentials Committee, he shall become a licensed probationer. Such other ministry does not include service on the pastoral staff of a church other than a BFC.

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 158; No – 2.

Article 511-5.3(8), Ministerial Credentials Committee: (2017 Yearbook, page 32)

Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee has had a man drop his credentials and then asked the Ministerial Credentials Committee to have them reinstated, and

Whereas, the Ministerial Credentials Committee consulted with the Ministerial Candidate Committee per Article 511-5.3(8) for the man to reapply to the Ministerial Candidate Committee, and

Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee agreed the Ministerial Credentials Committee should be the Committee to handle this reapplication process, therefore be it

Resolved, that the Ministerial Candidate Committee should be replaced with Ministerial Credentials Committee in 511-5.3(8) as follows:

511-5.3(8) Ordained Inactive Ministers. A minister who has exhausted his stay in the “Between Calls” and/or “Leave of Absence” categories will be placed in the “Ordained Inactive Ministers” category. He may remain in this category for a period not to exceed ten years, of which time spent in the “Between Calls” and/or “Leave of Absence” categories is counted. At the end of ten years, he loses his credentials with the BFC. In this case, or in any situation where a man loses his credentials, if he wishes to return to active ministry within the BFC, he must reapply to the Ministerial Credentials Committee (replaces Ministerial Candidate Committee).

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 157; No – 2.

Article 409-1.1, Ministerial Relations Committee: (see page 129)

Interim Pastor Legislation

Resolved, that we amend 409-1.1 to read as follows:

(New wording in bold & underlined)

Article 409 Pastoral Change Procedure

409-1 Instituting the Pastoral Relationship

409-1.1 When a church is seeking a Pastor, the Board of Elders shall meet with representatives of the Ministerial Relations Committee to discuss the following:

Temporary pulpit supply. The Board of Elders shall provide for temporary pulpit supply on an interim basis. Pastors serving in this capacity shall be in sympathy with the F & O of the BFC. The Board of Elders may hire an Interim Pastor to provide more stability during the pastoral vacancy. If the Board of Elders decides to hire an Interim Pastor who does not hold BFC credentials, they must obtain the approval of the Ministerial Relations Committee. The responsibilities and remuneration of the Interim Pastor shall be established by the Board of Elders. The term of service, whether he is BFC credentialed or not, shall be up to a year, and may be renewed on an annual basis with the approval of the Board of Elders and Ministerial Relations Committee.

[SECOND READING]

Yes – 158; No – 3.

Duane E. Moyer, Director of the Bible Fellowship Church’s Board of Missions, greeted Conference, promoted the upcoming BFC Missions Rally, and welcomed several visiting missionaries to Conference.

The following missionaries were introduced to BFC Conference:

Daniel P. Allen; Larry Davies; Bill Early; John and Karen Elias; Sean and Sunny Fox; Derek and Anna Homsher; Walter Johnston; Chris and Beckie Merrick; Craig Miller; Haleigh Ott; Tom and Becky Pollock; Jeremy and Becky Reinhard (along with their children Emily, Jared, Jacob, and Joshua); Irene Sioukiouroglou; and John and Laura Studenroth.

The meeting was adjourned at 5 p.m. as Philip E. Yerrington prayed. Pastors were invited to stay for a short meeting of the Beneficiary Society.

Fourth Meeting

Tuesday, April 24, 2018, 7:00 P.M.

Tuesday evening’s session was a well-attended service of ordination. No Conference business was conducted.

The service began with the singing of “The Church’s One Foundation,” “Your Great Name,” and “Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me”). Jason L. Hoy read Philippians 3:7- 11 before praying. After the ordinands were introduced, those in attendance sang, “Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God.”

Newly-ordained to the gospel ministry were Brad L. Boyer, Greg W. Carder, Ezekiel R. Mack, and Benjamin J. Triestman. Two others had previous ordinations recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church: Ronnie Burgess and S. Wayne Rissmiller.

Dennis M. Cahill gave the charge to the ordinands based on 1 Corinthians 2:1-5. “It’s really not about you or your sermon. It’s about the Word of God and the people of God. It’s your job to take the Word to the people.”

It’s not about preaching great sermons or preaching eloquently but preaching with the power of the Holy Spirit of God, Cahill stressed. We must preach with a deep sense of inadequacy and humility, for pride is the enemy of the preacher. And we must always exalt Jesus and the cross of Christ. When we do these things, we can trust in the Spirit taking what we preach and using it in the lives of those who hear our sermons.

Following the administering of the ordination vows, the singing of “Build Your Kingdom Here,” and the benediction at 8:15 p.m., the newly-ordained pastors and their families were greeted by their fellow BFC pastors. A time of celebration and fellowship followed in Pinebrook’s dining hall.

Fifth Meeting

Wednesday, April 25, 2018, 8:45 A.M.

The Moderator called the meeting to order at 8:45 a.m. as Dennis W. Spinney prayed. Conference worshiped God through the singing of “Blessing and Honor and Glory and Power,” “Lion of Judah,” and “All I Have is Christ.”

The morning’s address, by Andrew W. Barnes Sr., was entitled “Rebuilding a Church” and related to the story of New Life BFC of Long Neck, DE’s recent history.

The first step to rebuilding New Life BFC was holding a Sunday School class for the small remnant that remained, teaching them the Doctrines of Grace and their adherence to what the Bible Fellowship Church professes to believe. Barnes cited many individuals who played important roles in re-establishing the Long Neck church. “We praise God for the many individuals along the way who came alongside this hurting church – to rebuild it,” said Barnes, who has served as New Life’s pastor since 2013.

Church planting isn’t easy, Barnes related. As a church planter, he has experienced challenges and discouragements. He told the story of a female visitor who, after a morning worship service, told him, “This is a dead church,” and then related her doubts that it was even a Christian church – at least partly because its music wasn’t to her liking.

Barnes cited Revelation 3:1-6 and the letter to the church in Sardis, to answer two questions pertaining to local churches, with the admission that there are, indeed, churches that are dead (although he disagreed with the woman’s assessment concerning New Life BFC). He sought to answer two questions. First, when it comes to local churches, what necessitates rebuilding? Second, how do we rebuild?

Jesus made this accusation concerning the Sardis church: “I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead.” Jesus had intimate knowledge of the church at Sardis, just as He has intimate knowledge of our churches. “Jesus knows everything about the church; He’s the Lord of the church!” Barnes said.

Sardis had a positive reputation, at least on the surface: that it was an “alive” church, with many programs and a good reputation in the surrounding culture. Our temptation today, Barnes said, is to downplay our distinctives and to be “all things to all people.” New Life, like many other churches, faces the pressure to survive, with many surrounding churches that seem to have clear advantages in terms of programs, music, etc. – “the goods,” as Barnes called them.

“All I had was the Word of God,” Barnes said. And it was that commitment to preach that saw him through and is the centerpiece of the rebuilding of New Life BFC of Long Neck. “All I know is I did my best to preach the Word of God, and God blessed it,” he explained.

What necessitates rebuilding, Barnes concluded, is when the church exchanges its commitment to Christ for a desperation to survive. So how does such a church rebuild? According to Jesus’ words in Revelation 3:2, the instruction is to “Wake up, and strengthen what remains.” Several commands follow in the letter to the church in Sardis.

A church has to continually be watchful. It must strengthen what was once a clear commitment to Christ and the gospel. The church must remember what it has received and heard – the gospel – and how it received that gospel. Pastors need to ask themselves this question: “Do we still preach with passion, with urgency, with zeal, with conviction?” And, finally, the church must repent: from trying to please the culture and from marginalizing the gospel. “Wake up!” Jesus is telling our churches.

We must continually be watchful. More fundamental than numbers is a clear commitment to Jesus Christ and to God’s Word. Jesus’ warning to the Sardis church is stark and frightening, according to Revelation 3:3. “If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief [in judgment], and you will not know at what hour I will come against you.” The light of what little gospel witness such a church may have had will be extinguished, and that church will die. That’s the warning.

The encouragement of Revelation 3:1-6, though, is that there were some in Sardis who were still committed to the gospel. Jesus declares this as their reward: “They will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.” We are called as pastors to strengthen those who are faithful. The faithful, Jesus declares in Revelation 3:5, will be clothed in His righteousness, will never have their names blotted from the Book of Life, and will be confessed by the Son before the Father and His angels.

Churches, he concluded, are rebuilt when we as pastors commit ourselves to the things that glorify the Lord Jesus Christ, and the things that He has declared the church is to be and to practice.

Richard B. Ravis led Conference in a season of prayer, using Psalm 116:1-7 to “lead and feed” pastors and delegates, guiding them into a time of calling upon the name of the Lord. Our prayer time concluded with the singing of “Holy Spirit.”

Following the morning break, election results were announced.

The following were elected:

BFC Executive Board:

William G. Schlonecker (3 years)

Ministerial Credentials Committee:

Ralph M. Soper (3 years)

Ministerial Candidate Committee:

Andrew T. Crossgrove (3 years)

David E. Gundrum (3 years)

Ministerial Relations Committee:

William G. Schlonecker (3 years)

Robert Vaughn (3 years)

Committee on Nominations:

Keith M. Long (3 years)

Beckie Merrick (3 years)

Committee on Church Health:

Steven J. DelDuco (3 years)

Richard T. Paashaus (3 years)

Conference Judicatory:

Dennis W. Spinney (3 years)

Dean A. Stortz (3 years)

Special Appellate Judicatory:

John C. Studenroth (3 years)

Officers of the 136th BFC Conference:

Moderator:

Timothy J. Schmoyer (1 year)

Vice-Moderator:

Steven J. DelDuco (1 year)

Report of the Executive Board: (page 66)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Bible Fellowship Church Executive Director David T. Allen addressed Conference, noting that for three days each year, at BFC Conference, he gladly shares the responsibilities of ministry in the BFC with the pastors and delegates. He referred to the Conference theme, “Onward and Outward,” reminding all in attendance that evangelism is to be primary, as it was in the “old days.”

Allen pointed to 2018 as being a year of milestones: 70 years for Church Extension Ministries, just over 60 years for Victory Valley Camp, and 50 years for Pinebrook Bible Conference.

The Executive Board recommended the election of Robert A. Sloan, Jr. for a three-year term as President of the Bible Fellowship Church.

Robert A. Sloan, Jr. was elected to a three-year term as President of the Bible Fellowship Church.

Jay H. Fasnacht, BFC Executive Board Treasurer, normally presents budgets at BFC Conference but was unable to attend due to serious health issues. Ronald C. Mahurin prayed for Fasnacht, thanking God for his influence, at both the local church and denominational levels.

Allen presented the financial statements in Fasnacht’s absence, presenting both a revised budget for 2018 and a proposed budget for 2019.

Resolved, that the 2018 revised Executive Board budget be adopted by the 135th BFC Conference (page 79).

Resolved, that an assessment rate of two (2.0) percent be adopted by the 135th BFC Conference for 2019 (based on assessable receipts for 2017).

Resolved, that the 2019 proposed Executive Board budget be adopted by the 135th BFC Conference (page 80).

Allen also provided a point-by-point review of our current status as a denomination in conjunction with our 20/20 Vision. One area of encouragement was the full renovation of our rented denominational headquarters at 1011 Brookside Road, Allentown, PA. He also cited the naming of Rachel Marks and Dana E. Weller as denominational resources for our children and senior saints, respectively, as a positive response to two of our 20/20 Vision Points.

The Executive Director informed Conference of potential future partnerships in the management of Pinebrook Bible Conference.

Daniel P. Allen, former Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, led in prayer for the future of Pinebrook.

The Executive Board recommended the following resolutions to the 135th BFC Conference:

Whereas, the MRF annuity rate for 2018 was $221 per year of service, and

Whereas, cost-of-living adjustments no longer apply to MRF payments, be it

Resolved, that the MRF annuity rate for calendar year 2019 be $221 per year of service.

Resolution Relating to Rental/Housing Allowances for Retired or Disabled Ministers of this Conference for Calendar Year 2019:

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, therefore be it

Resolved,

1. An amount equal to 100% of the pension payments received during the year of 2018 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 Board also brought the following legislation for approval at the 135th BFC Conference:

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, contributions paid to an authorized 403(b) plan for the benefit of 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

Resolved,

1. An amount equal to 100% of the proceeds drawn from a 403(b) plan during the year of 2019 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.

3. The pension payment to which this rental/housing allowance applies shall be considered 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.

A final Executive Board resolution was as follows:

Resolved, that Article 511-1.2 (2) be changed from “Nine voting members” to “Eight voting members.”

[FIRST READING]

Yes – 139; No – 5.

Donald E. Kuntzman provided an update on the work of the Communications Committee. Rachel Schmoyer informed Conference of our greatly-increased social media connections. The BFC now operates on four different social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. David E. Brandt drew Conference’s attention to the new BFC website, www.bfc.org.

Conference adjourned for lunch at 12:15 p.m. as Kevin W. Kirkpatrick prayed.

Sixth Meeting

Wednesday, April 25, 2018, 1:30 P.M.

Bryan C. McNally opened the afternoon meeting to order with prayer at 1:30 p.m. Conference sang “Your Great Name” before Timothy J. Schmoyer addressed Conference on the theme of “Rebirthing a Church.” He brought an appropriate perspective to the topic, having witnessed and played a role in the rebirthing of the Walnutport/Northern Lehigh church through his position as pastor of Whitehall BFC. In 2013, the Whitehall church voted to engage in restarting the Walnutport church via a merger and began meeting as one church in two locations.

Citing statistics that 3,700 churches closed their doors for good in the U.S. in 2014, Schmoyer noted that churches lose their effectiveness. But at the same time, many Old Testament texts stress that God gives hope to those with hurting hearts with prophecies that He will raise up old ruins. “God revives battered walls. God gives life where there is death, and even after death He gives life,” Schmoyer said.

We must remind ourselves that Jesus calls Himself “the Resurrection and the Life.” Do we believe that? Do we believe His message has the power to resurrect dead things? That includes churches that have lost their effectiveness and have closed their doors.

Asking the question, “Why do churches close?” Schmoyer said we have to understand the factors that lead to slow, gradual decline. We must have humility to learn what causes and what prevents churches from closing, and be willing to change when change is necessary…and refuse to change for the wrong reasons.

What can we do about this? Isaiah 58:10-12 proclaims the blessings of giving ourselves to those who are hungry and afflicted. When we meet needs, the reward is that God will call us “the repairer of the breach” and “the restorer of streets to dwell in.”

Northern Lehigh was launched on Oct. 26, 2013 with 12 members of the Walnutport church and 25 members from the Whitehall church. It was what those who were involved called a “progressive church plant.” The plan was for the daughter church to gain increasing autonomy as Northern Lehigh grew, and that’s what happened, concluding with Northern Lehigh’s reception as a particular church on April 23, 2018.

From Whitehall BFC’s perspective as a parent in this parent-child relationship, the parent took the lead during Northern Lehigh’s infancy and childhood, handling much of the administration so that Pastor Aaron D. Smith could focus on outreach and the proclamation of the Word at Northern Lehigh. In time Whitehall’s influence and involvement was phased out, and now Northern Lehigh is standing on its own.

Report of the Board of Missions: (page 88)

Duane E. Moyer, Director of the BFC Board of Missions, reminded Conference that our focus is outward: that the BFC is an “expanding fellowship of churches.” The ongoing emphasis of the Board of Missions is on “proclaiming Christ to those who have the least opportunity to know Him.” “Our focus is on reaching people who have no gospel witness at all,” Moyer said.

Ralph M. Soper prayed for the work of the BFC’s Board of Missions.

Report of Pinebrook Bible Conference: (page 108)

Charles E. Cole, Chairman of the Board of Pinebrook Bible Conference, shared a few stories about Pinebrook’s spiritual impact on those who attended during its 50 years as a BFC ministry. He then prayed for the ongoing ministry of Pinebrook Bible Conference, and for the upcoming summer conference season.

Report of Victory Valley Camp: (page 110)

Douglas J. Manwiller, Director of Victory Valley Camp, immediately jumped into updates on the camp’s new dining hall project. Since groundbreaking ceremonies on Sept. 9, 2017, work has progressed, and it is anticipated that the new dining hall will be usable by June 1, 2018. “We’re excited about the new dining hall, but the dining hall is not who we are,” Manwiller said. “It just is going to allow us to do what we do: share God’s Word, in God’s creation, with godly role models.”

Mark R. Orton prayed for Victory Valley Camp’s ministry and for specific needs for the summer camping season.

Report of the Church Health Committee: (page 132)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Whereas, BFC Conference passed legislation at Second Reading in 2017 that provides for the election of a Conference Church Health Pastor (511-3.4), and

Whereas, the Church Health Committee elected Robert A. Sloan, Jr. to serve as Conference Church Health Pastor on a part-time basis for a three-year term, and

Whereas, the legislation requires that such an election be ratified by the BFC Conference, therefore be it

Resolved, that Robert A. Sloan, Jr.’s election to a three-year term as Conference Church Health Pastor on a part-time basis be ratified.

Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee: (page 120)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Resolved, that the list of Ministerial Candidates be approved.

The following men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee were introduced to the 135th BFC Conference:

Benjamin J. Armstrong, Lancaster, PA; Larry Davies, Emmaus, PA; Jason Filbert, Naples, FL; Sean Fox, Chicago, IL; John J. Hanner, Gettysburg, PA; Paul S. Harvey, Wyomissing, PA; Jules J. Hull III, Sunbury, PA; Daniel King, Newark, DE; James D. Reff II, Chestertown, MD; Christopher Von Holt, Allentown, PA.

Whereas, in recent years a number of men have applied for pastoral credentials but do not have the required prerequisite theological education, and

Whereas, the Executive Board of the Bible Fellowship Church has made the establishment of a training institute for pastors as part of the BFC Vision 20/20, therefore be it

Resolved, that the Ministerial Candidate Committee recommends that the Bible Fellowship Church Conference of 2018 appoint a committee to implement a training program for Bible Fellowship Church candidates for ordination.

Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee: (page 129)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Resolved, that each church provide a minimum of 3 % of the pastor’s salary for retirement, plus an additional 1 % match if the pastor is voluntarily contributing 1 %.

Report of the Conference Pastor: (page 113)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

The Darlene J. Mahurin Memorial Fund, which annually helps to meet the financial needs of our pastors, was received. Byron Widger prayed both for the offering and for the ministry of Ralph M. and Sharon Soper.

A video promoting military chaplaincy ministry was shown. Dennis M. Cahill spoke on behalf of chaplaincy, noting that the Bible Fellowship Church is a recognized endorsing agency for chaplains in the various branches of the U.S. Military.

Report of the Day of Prayer Committee: (page 147)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Resolved, that the following legislation be received as the Purpose, Composition & Election, Duties of Committee, and Duties of the Officers for the Day of Prayer Committee, and be it further

Resolved, that the following legislation be included in Part IV “Resources” in the Principles of Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.

BFC Day of Prayer

Purpose

To provide an annual day of prayer for the BFC

To cultivate a culture of prayer within the BFC

To serve as an annual declaration of the BFC’s dependence upon God and desire to seek God’s face

To model how to lead people in public and corporate prayer

Composition and Election

The Day of Prayer Committee shall be composed of three ministers and four laypersons. Laypersons must be members in good standing at a BFC church.

The committee shall elect its own members, subject to the ratification of the BFC Executive Board.

No member of the committee may be elected to consecutive terms.

The members of the committee shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:

Class I One minister & two lay persons

Class II One minister & one lay person

Class III One minister & one lay person

The committee shall organize itself at the call of the chairman of the previous year, at which time new officers shall be elected.

Duties of the Committee

It shall plan and conduct an annual Day of Prayer

It shall provide publicity and arrange registration for the Day of Prayer

It shall receive and disburse funds for the Day of Prayer.

It shall conduct an annual business meeting during the BFC Conference for the election of committee members and to schedule the first meeting for the new year.

It shall provide an annual report on the Day of Prayer to BFC Conference.

It shall elect officers by and from the committee.

Duties of Officers

Chairman

Must be a pastor or elder in a BFC church.

He shall convene and preside over all meetings of the Day of Prayer Committee.

Secretary

He/She shall keep an accurate record of all meetings of the committee.

He/She shall conduct all correspondence for the committee.

He/She shall prepare an annual report for BFC Conference.

Treasurer

He/She shall be in charge of registration for the Day of Prayer.

He/She shall see that all expenses are paid.

He/She shall provide a financial report for the Day of Prayer Committee.

The following Agenda and Arrangements legislation was presented for approval at First Reading:

Whereas, it is increasingly difficult for a man to dedicate time from his work responsibilities to serve as a delegate for the entire BFC Conference, and

Whereas, the role of delegate was more important during our previous pulpit supply system, and

Whereas, the full board of elders guides a church during a pastoral transition, and

Whereas, more than one man may serve adequately as a delegate, and

Whereas, every delegate has already been elected as an elder by the congregation, therefore be it

Resolved, that the following legislation be considered at First Reading:

401-1.7 Replace the paragraph with the following:

The Board of Elders shall be the channel of communication between the Particular Church and the fellowship of churches and its organizations. The Elders shall elect from their number enough delegates to attend the meetings of BFC Conference based on congregational membership as follows:

1-299 members 1 delegate

300-499 members 2 delegates

500-plus members 3 delegates

If a delegate is not able to attend all the meetings of BFC Conference, the Board of Elders may, if possible, elect as many delegates as necessary to provide representation at all meetings.

A man serving on a pastoral staff is not eligible to serve as a lay delegate at the BFC Conference.

403-3(7) Replace “the Delegates and Alternate Delegate” with “Delegate(s).”

407-5 Replace “the duly elected BFC Conference delegate(s) and alternate delegate(s) with “the delegates appointed by the Board of Elders.”

409-1.9 Replace “the First Delegate” with “an Elder appointed by the Board of Elders.”

505-1(8) Replace the paragraph beginning with “If a delegate(s) is unable…” with the following:

If a delegate(s) is unable to attend any meeting of BFC Conference, another delegate elected by that church’s Board of Elders may be seated for those meetings, having informed the Registrar. If a church fails to seat a delegate, it forfeits his representation in his absence.

506-2(1) Replace the sentence “A list of…” with “A roll of qualified members of BFC Conference, including all delegates, shall be published in the minutes of the First Meeting.”

(2) Delete “and alternate delegates”

(3) Delete “and alternate delegate(s)” in two places, and “or alternate delegate”

506-3 Delete “and alternate delegate(s)”

506-5 Replace with the following:

Prior to the first meeting, all voting members shall sign in with the Registrar.

Delegates serving at subsequent meetings shall sign in with the Registrar before being seated in replacement of another delegate. This action will be recorded in the minutes of the meeting.

506-6 Requests to be excused

Delete the sentence beginning, “This information will be submitted…”

[FIRST READING]

Yes – 119; No – 5.

Report of the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches: (page 139)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Report of elections

Church Health Committee:

Bryan C. McNally (3 years)

Report of the Conference Judicatory: (page 140)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Report of the Ministerial Convention Committee: (page 146)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Report of the Beneficiary Society: (page 144)

Resolved, that the report be accepted.

Report of the Registrar

1. The following alternate delegates were seated for part or all of the 135th BFC Conference:

Jim Diamond (Harleysville, PA); Brian Michlich (Howell, NJ); Rafael Castillo (La Roca de Reading, Reading, PA); Jared Lagler (Fellowship Community, Whitehall, PA); Mike Gangwer (Royersford, PA); Daryl Crawford (Whitehall, PA).

Resolved, that their seating be approved.

2. The following delegates requested to be excused from part or all of the 135th BFC Conference:

Gary Wirth (Harleysville, PA); Eric Conner (Harleysville, PA); John Kilby (Lancaster, PA); Sean MacNamara (Sinking Spring); Amos Kinert (Paradise, PA); Bob Zentz (Fellowship Community, Whitehall, PA); Tony Zook (Royersford, PA); Steve Burke (Red Hill, PA); John Weller (Sinking Spring, PA); Mark Hargrove (Whitehall, PA); Joseph Specht (Philadelphia, PA), Ronald Miller (Mt. Pocono, PA).

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 135th BFC Conference. These requests were approved by the Ministerial Credentials Committee:

David K. Schlonecker, Paul G. Zimmerman, Walter M. Johnston, Roy A. Hertzog, Carl T. Martin, Jeffrey L. Ruhl, Austin G. Shelly, Gregory A. Uhrich, Delbert R. Baker II, Philip E. Morrison, Leonard E. Buck, Roger L. Reitz, Richard J. Gehman, Bruce A. Ellingson, Ronald W. Hoyle, LeRoy S. Heller, Raymond R. Dotts, Eric R. North, David Schoen, Jarrod Cruise, David Smith, Dana E. Weller, Carl K. Spackman, Howard N. Wells, G. Wayne Clapier, Louis Prontnicki, Ronald C. Erb, Clifford B. Boone, Daniel P. Allen, Timothy S. Hogan, Philip E. Yerrington

4. The following licensed and ordained pastors were noted as being absent without excuse:

Kevin Clineff (Ordained Ministers Between Calls), Kenneth F. Barber (Ordained Ministers in Retirement)

The following appointments were made by the Moderator for the 136th BFC Conference:

Registrar: Daniel L. Williams

Assistant Registrar: Timothy J. Bertolet

Committee on Agenda and Arrangements: Ronald L. Kohl (Chairman), David T. Allen, Thomas P. Shorb, David E. Brandt, Randall A. Grossman, Timothy J. Schmoyer, Steven J. DelDuco

Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches: Kevin K. Kirkpatrick (Chairman), Jason L. Hoy, Mark R. Orton, David J. Peters, David A. Smith, Howard M. Wells

Appointment of BPL Review Committee (to be appointed every seven years):

Timothy M. Zuck (Convener), Timothy S. Radcliff, R. Daniel Wagner, Mike J. Zettlemoyer.

Secretary of Conference Judicatory:

Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr.

Secretary of Special Appellate Judicatory: Hans R. Waldvogel

Committee to Review Biblical Principles for Living: Timothy M. Zuck (Convener), Timothy S. Radcliff, R. Daniel Wagner, Mike J. Zettlemoyer.

Study Committee on the Importance of Preaching: Keith Strunk (Convener), Andrew W. Barnes, Timothy D. Gibson, Jason L. Hoy, Keith M. Long.

Committee to implement a training program for BFC candidates for ordination: Timothy J. Bertolet (Convener), David T. Allen, James Arcieri, Calvin T. Reed, Ralph R. Ritter, Timothy J. Schmoyer, Richard E. Taylor.

Report of election

Church Health Committee:

James Arcieri (1 year)

Report of the Committee on Resolutions:

Whereas, Pastor William G. Schlonecker charged us to no longer be nice churches but rather to create an environment in which church planting will thrive, and where our view of God is bigger than any man or obstacle, and

Whereas, Pastor Timothy J. Bertolet reminded us that the Lord of the church builds His church through the preaching of his Word, and challenged us to faithfully execute ministries which are established upon that same Word, and

Whereas, Pastor Marcos G. Ramirez so adequately instructed us in English that God gives shepherds to his church for the purpose of ministering his Word, and

Whereas, Andrew W. Barnes encouraged us that the life of the church is dependent on the life-giving Spirit of God as He attends to the ministry of the Word, and

Whereas, Timothy J. Schmoyer called us to trust in a God who is able to give life to the dead, 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 in our churches to structure our ministries around the all-sufficient, inspired, inerrant, infallible Word of God, our supreme and final authority for faith and life, and may we preach it with full conviction and passion.

Whereas, the Lord saw fit to place in the hearts of the founders of this conference a desire for taking the gospel to unbelievers, and

Whereas, the necessary product of evangelism was the planting of new churches, and

Whereas, the Lord of His Church has seen fit to sustain and grow the influence of Church Extension these past 70 years, therefore be it

Resolved, that we praise the Lord for His work of sovereignty over the planting of new churches through the renewal of heart and sinners embracing Jesus as Lord and Savior, and be it further

Resolved, that we as a Conference commit ourselves to supporting the efforts of Church Extension through constant prayer and sacrificial giving of both our financial resources as well as our own time and effort.

Whereas, God has rebirthed the former Walnutport Bible Fellowship Church under the dedicated leadership of Whitehall Bible Fellowship Church to form Northern Lehigh Bible Fellowship Church, and

Whereas, Northern Lehigh meets all the qualifications for a particular church according to the Faith & Order and has been recognized by this Conference as a particular church, therefore be it

Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord of the church for planting a faithful witness of the gospel in the Northern Lehigh community, and be it further

Resolved, that we continue to support and pray for Northern Lehigh and for their pastor, Aaron D. Smith, and his leadership team that they would grow in maturity and unity.

Whereas, God providentially brought Carlos G. Rodriguez to Reading, PA to plant La Roca de Reading as a Berks County Region project, and

Whereas, La Roca de Reading meets all the qualifications for a particular church according to the Faith and Order and has been recognized by this conference as a particular church, therefore be it

Resolved, that we give thanks to the Lord of the church for planting our first Hispanic witness of the gospel in the Reading community, and be it further

Resolved, that we continue to support and pray for La Roca de Reading and for their pastor, Carlos Rodriguez, and his leadership team that they would grow in maturity and unity.

Whereas, the following calls were issued according to the Rules of our Faith & Order: Long Neck, DE – Andrew W. Barnes; Newark, DE – Daniel W. King; BFC Board of Missions – Sean Fox; Mt. Carmel, PA – Roger Siegrist; Church Extension – John J. Hanner; Exeter, PA – Stanley P. Lauterback; Lebanon, PA – Jarrod Cruise; Ephrata, PA – Daniel Krall; Coopersburg, PA – Timothy S. Hogan; Board of Missions – Larry Davies; Stroudsburg, PA – Beau E. Coffman; Coopersburg, PA – David J. Peters; and Emmaus, PA – David A. Smith, and

Whereas, Brad L. Boyer, Greg W. Carder, Ezekiel R. Mack, and Benjamin J. Triestman were ordained at the 135th BFC Conference, and the previous ordinations of Ronnie Burgess and S. Wayne Rissmiller 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, Pastor Dennis M. Cahill ardently exhorted the men of ordination to preach the Word in the power of the Holy Spirit, therefore be it

Resolved, that we also receive his exhortation with thanksgiving, and may we also expect the Holy Spirit to attend to our preaching and effect salvation in our hearers.

Whereas, Leroy S. Heller has retired from his position of ministry, and

Whereas, Kevin W. Clineff, Eric R. North, Gregory A. Uhrich, and Ethan T. Hester 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, John H. and Dorith Riggall, and Charlene Cassel, upon having lived full of faith and dedicated service to our Lord’s church, having joined the saints eternal in the Kingdom of God, therefore be it

Resolved, that we praise God for giving these faithful servants to the service of Christ’s church for many years and be it further

Resolved, that we endeavor to follow their examples of love and commitment to Jesus Christ as God uses us in the advancement of His Kingdom purposes.

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 Clinton Corners, NY; Las Cruces, NM; Paradise, PA; Spring City, PA; and Steelton, PA., and be it further

Resolved, that we pray for these churches during their times of transition.

Whereas, the BFC Executive Board has worked diligently, committing much time to the performance of its duties, and

Whereas, David T. Allen has served commendably as Executive Director, therefore be it

Resolved, that we give thanks to God for quality leadership and extend our deep appreciation to our brothers for their service and leadership.

Whereas, the BFC Executive Board has been diligent in pursuing options for the future viability of Pinebrook, and

Whereas, there is a possible path with merging the current facilities and ministries with a nearby conference and retreat center, therefore be it

Resolved, that we pray that the Lord will attend to the efforts of the Executive Board and the Board of Pinebrook in carrying out this possible path.

Whereas, the staff and volunteers of Pinebrook Bible Conference, along with wives and family members of our pastors and delegates, have graciously and faithfully served the members of the 135th BFC Conference, therefore be it

Resolved, that we extend our sincere gratitude for their wonderful ministry to those attending the 135th BFC Conference.

Whereas, Mark E. Barninger, Aaron J. Susek, James Arcieri, Elliot H. Ramos, and Richard B. Ravis have served the 135th BFC Conference by leading us in the singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, being ably assisted by several others, and

Whereas, Joshua P. Miller and Richard B. Ravis have 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, BFC Conference Secretary Ronald L. Kohl, Assistant Secretary 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, Overseer of Pages Joel B. Klase, Head Page Nathaniel LeTowt, and Pages Benjamin J. Armstrong, Diego A. Rodriguez, Christopher M. Von Holt, Paul S. Harvey, Benjamin Herb, Sandy Holbert, Jared Burkholder, Mike Carnes, Sean Fox, Nate Miller, Brad Kunkle, and Nate Walls have persistently, humbly and joyfully served the 135th BFC Conference, enabling it to function smoothly, therefore be it

Resolved, that we express our appreciation for their service with a round of applause.

Whereas, Randall A. Grossman has served outstandingly as Moderator of the 135th 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 be it 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 135th 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 continue to encourage one another, building up the saints in faith, hope, and love, as we see His great day approaching.

William G. Schlonecker adjourned the 135th BFC Conference in prayer at 5:05 p.m.

Category:Minutes of Conference

Annual Conference Proceedings – 2018

First Meeting

Second Meeting

Third meeting

Fourth Meeting

Fifth Meeting

Sixth Meeting

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