SEVENTY-THIRD ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1956
The Seventy-third Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren In Christ Church of Pennsylvania convened in Ebenezer Mennonite Brethren In Christ Church, 1121-1125 N. Main Street, Bethlehem, Pa.
The Conference opened at 1:00 p. m. on Monday, October 15, with singing, "Blessed Assurance" and prayer by Willard E. Cassel.
The Chairman, F. B. Hertzog, brought the opening key-note address on "The Mind of Christ Manifested in the Spirit-Filled Believer," basing his remarks on Philippians 2:5-11. This was followed by a season of prayer invoking God's blessing upon the Conference and the church at large and that He will direct us in all the deliberations of the Conference.
The Secretary, N. H. Wolf, appointed the following assistants: Assistant Secretary, Herbert W. Hartman; Recording Secretary, Paul E. Baer.
The following were enrolled as members of the Conference:
Ministers
Ordained — Paul E. Baer, E. W. Bean, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, R. H. Gehman, T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman, Herbert W. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, W. F. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, J. B. Layne, R. C. Reichenbach, J. H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, P. T. Stengele, David E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, H. D. Yarrington, J. B. Henry, C. Leslie Miller, F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, E. J. Rutman, A. G. Woodring, G. F. Yost.
Probationers — Russell T. Allen, Raymond E. Arnold, LeRoy S. Heller, Frank L. Herb, Jr., Earl M. Hosler, Donald B. Schaeffer.
The following missionaries are members of and are being supported by the Mennonite Brethren In Christ Church: Rev. Laird Stengele, Mrs. Laird Stengele, Miss Betty Doverspike, Miss Bertha Miller, Rev. Paul Chaponniere, Miss Margaret Maas, Mr. Merle E. Baer, Mrs. Merle E. Baer, Mr. J. Barclay Harley, Mrs. J. Barclay Harley, Rev. Robert Rampy, Mrs. Robert Rampy, Rev. C. F. Snyder, Mrs. C. F. Snyder, Rev. C. Herbert Dyke, Mrs. C. Herbert Dyke, Rev. Robert W. Gordon, Mrs. Robert W. Gordon, Miss Olive Rawn, Rev. Fred Whale, Mrs. Fred Whale, Miss Luella Reinhart, Miss Mary Miller, Miss Sylvia Miller, Miss Grace Yost.
Delegates
Allentown District
Clarence L. Kauffman, Francis H. Gehman, Allentown (Bethel)
Robert Breitegam, Reading
William E. Miller, Sunbury
George A. John, Shamokin
Clair Bupp, York
E. Willard Maurer, Mount Carmel
Daniel K. Ziegler, Hatfield
David F. Gardner, Harrisburg
R. S. Weidner, Royersford and Spring City
S. A. Hackman, Graterford and Harleysville
A. W. Deppe, Nazareth and Northampton
Raymond Snyder, Lancaster
Charles W. Weaber, Lebanon
William P. Snyder, Lehighton
Burton Deppe, Walnutport
George R. Fish, Stroudsburg
Bethlehem DistrictHerbert S. Wieand, Bethlehem
Byron C. Cassel, Philadelphia (Salem)
George W. Krigor, Quakertown
Allen F. LaRose, Easton
R. Spedden, Chester
George W. Butler, Scranton
Edward Judd, Philadelphia (Calvary)
Raymond L. Winfield, Jersey City
Robert W. Gehret, Terre Hill
Harold A. Mann, Coopersburg and Allentown (Salem)
Paul I. Wentz, Emmaus, Macungie and Zionsville
Clayton E. Weber, Fleetwood and Blandon.
Edw. J. Deitzman, Philadelphia (Emmanuel)
Frederick J. Wagner, Newark, N. J.
Ralph D. Cole, Staten Island, N. Y.
Resolved, That we accept the excuses of the absent delegates and that when they arrive they be seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That the first five pews across the church constitute the Conference Bar and that all the members of the Conference shall take their places in the Bar.
Resolved, That all Home Mission Workers present be recognized as advisory members. The following brethren were present during the Conference: Robert F. Johnson, Charles L. Mann, Norman F. Gordon, Reynold D. Gardner, Austin G. Shelly, Carl C. Cassel, and Richard H. Kline.
The new delegates were introduced to the Conference.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Reporter and Timekeeper. He appointed R. C. Reichenbach and Raymond E. Arnold.
Resolved, That no member be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission by the Chair except the pastor, William A. Heffner, and the delegate, Herbert S. Wieand.
Report of the Committee to Arrange a Program for the Service of the Annual Conference:
MONDAY:1:00 P. M. Opening Key-note address by the Chairman of the Conference,
Rev. F. B. Hertzog, District Superintendent.
TUESDAY:9:00 A. M. Speaker, District Superintendent C. E. Kirkwood.
7:30 P. M. Oral reports of the District Superintendents, Home Mission Director and Berean Bible School President, and all Pastors. Reports limited to TWO minutes.
WEDNESDAY: 9:00 A. M. Speaker, Jansen E. Hartman, President of Berean Bible School.
THURSDAY: 9:00 A. M.Devotional Period under the direction of District Superintendent F.
B. Hertzog. The observance of Holy Communion.
7:30 P. M. Two twenty minute messages by the District Superintendents, F. B.
Hertzog and C. E. Kirkwood. This service shall be in charge of the host pastor, William A. Heffner.
The committee recommends that the morning devotional period be limited to thirty minutes and to include singing, prayer, and a brief meditation.
The committee also recommends that the reports be written and read in the Tuesday evening service.
T. D. Gehret,
David E. Thomann,
William A. Heffner,
Committee on Program.
The Committee appointed in 1955 to study Conference procedure presented a proposed agenda for this Conference.
Resolved, That we follow this agenda as nearly as possible.
Resolved, That the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders consist of the District Superintendents and one member to be appointed by the Chair.
Committees
Committee on Communications: F. M. Hottel, A. G. Woodring, E. E. Kublic, E. J. Rutman.
Committee on Finance: Paul I. Wentz, Byron C. Cassel, Francis H. Gehman, S. A. Hackman.
Committee on Examination of Local Conference Records: E. W. Bean, W. B. Hottel, W. F. Heffner, H. D. Yarrington, James G. Koch, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, Frank L. Herb, Jr., Donald B. Schaeffer, LeRoy S. Heller, Russell T. Allen, Raymond E. Arnold, George W. Krigor, Herbert S. Wieand, Frederick J. Wagner, Burton Deppe, Claire Bupp, Charles W. Weaber, George R. Fish, Allen F. LaRose, Edward Judd, Robert Breitegam, William P. Snyder, George A. John, A. W. Deppe, Harold A. Mann, George Butler, Raymond Snyder.
Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: C. E. Kirkwood, F. B. Hertzog, Herbert W. Hartman.
Committee on Statistics: J. B. Layne, Willard E. Cassel, Ernest B. Hartman, J. E. Golla, Jansen E. Hartman, Donald T. Kirkwood, John Dunn.
Committee on Examination of District Superintendents, Local Preachers, Evangelists, Missionaries: N. H. Wolf, Ernest B. Hartman, W. F. Heffner, R. H. Gehman, E. W. Bean.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: P. T. Stengele, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: C. E. Kirkwood, Herbert W. Hartman, T. D. Gehret, Jansen E. Hartman, Walter H. Frank.
Committee on Resolutions: J. H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, William A. Heffner, Walter H. Frank.
Committee on Auditing: T. D. Gehret, Daniel K. Ziegler, R. Spedden, R. S. Weidner, Edw. J. Dietzman, Clayton E. Weber, David F. Gardner, E. Willard Maurer, Ralph D. Cole, Robert W. Gehret, Clarence L. Kauffman, Raymond L. Winfield, William E. Miller.
Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records and the Report of the Ministerial Convention: R. H. Gehman, Earl M. Hosler.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules to adjourn to meet tonight from 6:30 to 9:00 p. m.
The meeting was adjourned with prayer by Clarence L. Kauffman.
SECOND MEETING
Monday Evening, October 15, 1956
The meeting was opened at 6:30 p. m. with singing the hymn, "What a Wonderful Saviour," followed with prayer by R. S. Weidner.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The Board of Home Missions and the Board of Directors recommend the following brethren to be considered for Annual Conference license: Carl C. Cassel, Norman F. Gordon, J. Barclay Harley and Austin G. Shelly.
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage:
During the year we have worked under the direction of the District Superintendents.
E. W. Bean, W. W. Hartman,
R. H. Gehman, David E. Thomann,
Committee.
Report of the Allentown District Superintendent, F. B. Hertzog: (See Reports)
Report of the Bethlehem District Superintendent, C. E. Kirkwood: (See Reports)
Report of the Home Mission Director, Jansen E. Hartman: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Camp Site Planning Committee:
The Committee met in plenary session on four occasions. Several subcommittees met to study the possible uses and development of the property as well as the facilities and program for the immediate operation of a children's camp.
After lengthy discussion of its possible use, the committee decided unanimously to utilize the property as a boys' and girls' camp this season.
A Board of Managers, composed of C. E. Kirkwood, William A. Heffner and Walter H. Frank, was elected from among the committee members to prepare the property, set up a program, acquire the necessary help, and to direct and manage the camp program. Mr. Alan Swaim and Mrs. Joyce Gehman supervised the boys' and girls' camps, respectively.
Participating in the camping program were 57 boys and 64 girls.
The outlined objectives for the camp program were as follows:
1. To seek the salvation of boys and girls.
2. To give practical training towards Christian living.
3. The cultivation of daily devotional-life habits.
4. To provide wholesome recreation in a Christian atmosphere.
5. To foster sportsmanship by group activities.
6. The development of talents and skills.
Through the help of the Lord and the efforts of spiritual counselors these objectives were achieved.
After the completion of the camping season the Board of Managers submitted the following statistical and financial report:
Registrations
1st Camp (Boys) 57 - 2nd Camp (Girls) 40 - 3rd Camp (Girls) 24
Receipts
Total Income from Campers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,388.00
Gifts, etc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,697.35
Loan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,000.00
Total Receipts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,085.35
Expenditures
Staff-Counselors and Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 335.00
Kitchen help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130.00
General help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105.00
Honorarium. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35.00
$ 605.00
Development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,738.51
Food (Government surplus). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 924.62
($48.80 Credit B.B.S.)
Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69.00
Promotion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138.92
Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155.55
Furnishings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,139.18
Sundry Expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146.45
Interest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39.58
Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118.45
$5,075.26
Receipts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,085.35
Expenditures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,075.26
Total$4,010.09
Returned to Board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,000.00
Balance in Treasury. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 10.09
The committee resolved that the Board of Managers turn over to the Board of Directors the balance held in account.
With reference to possible future development the committee can report that engineering furnished free by a friend of our work developed a plan to restore the creek dam on the Henninger farm. This plan provides a pond of two acres, with a maximum depth of 10 feet at an estimated cost of $9,700, including the cost of clearing the pond site.
Should approval to build this dam be given and were funds available, agreement would have to be made with our neighboring land owner as the plan will flood some of his land. Permission to dam the stream must also be obtained from the Water and Power Resources Board of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Informal talks with representatives of the Board indicate the plan referred to above will be approved, if formal application for approval is submitted.
The committee can also report that information and advice was received from the Soil Conservation Branch of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
The committee makes the following recommendations:
1. That every Sunday School receive an offering for the Children's Camping Program by March 1. This offering is to be forwarded to the secretary of the Board of Directors.
2. That the Camp Planning Committee be responsible to show the slides that are available of our Youth Camp in every church.
3. That the Sigmund property living room and basement be available for limited use by our churches. Anyone using it must make reservations through the secretary of the Board of Directors. The charge for use is to be computed at the rate of $.25 per person.
4. That a name be chosen for the property at Sigmund, the following being suggested:
(a) Victory Valley
(b) Grace Valley
©) Berean Valley
The maximum of accomplishments and minimum of expenses reflected in this report was made possible through contributions of money, time and material by laymen and ministers.
Note: The sum of one thousand ($1,000.00) dollars still remains to be paid to the Board of Directors on the initial loan of five thousand ($5,000.00) dollars.
F. B. Hertzog, Jansen E. Hartman, J. E. Golla, Walter H. Frank, Byron C. Cassel, Paul I. Wentz, Herbert W. Hartman, T. D. Gehret, Daniel K. Ziegler, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, Clayton E. Weber, Committee.
Resolved, That every Sunday School receive an offering for the Children's Camping Program by March 1. This offering is to be forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Directors.
Resolved, That the Camp Planning Committee be responsible to show the slides that are available of our Youth Camp in every church.
Resolved, That the Sigmund property living room and basement be available for limited use by our churches. Anyone using it must make reservations through the secretary of the Board of Directors. The charge for use is to be computed at the rate of $.25 per person.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Local Conference Records:
We have examined all the Local Conference Records and have found them in good condition. A few omissions were corrected by the pastors involved.
The following Petitions were found:
1. In the Hatfield Local Conference Minute Book:
Resolved, That we petition the Annual Conference meeting in the 1956 session for permission to observe the Lord's Supper monthly.
Resolved, That we petition the Annual Conference meeting in the 1956 session to grant us the permission to use a nominating committee to make nominations for church officers. The Pastor shall be the chairman of this committee.
2. In the Allentown, Bethel Local Conference Minute Book:
Resolved, That we petition the Annual Conference to study the method of receiving and the promotion of the funds for Home and Foreign Missions, Berean Bible School, and the Camp Fund.
Resolved, That we petition the Annual Conference to consider a longer term of office for the Menno Youth Presidents.
3. In the Staten Island, N. Y. Local Conference Minute Book:
Resolved, That we, of the State Island Congregation, petition the Annual Conference to grant the Staten Island Congregation the privilege of being self supporting and receive the status of a station.
4. In the Fleetwood-Blandon Local Conference Minute Book:
Resolved, That we petition the Annual Conference meeting in session in Bethlehem on October 15, to consider the appointment of a full time pastor to Trinity Mennonite Brethren In Christ Church, Blandon, when it is possible.
5. In the Allentown, Salem and Coopersburg Local Conference Minute Book:
We petition Annual Conference that Salem Mennonite Brethren In Christ Church, Allentown, Pa., be recognized as a separate charge, to be supplied with its own pastor.
We recommend that all petitions to Annual Conference be typed in red in the local conference minutes.
E. W. Bean, Russell T. Allen, Edward Judd,
W. B. Hottel, Raymond E. Arnold, Robert Breitegam,
W. F. Heffner, George W. Krigor, William P. Snyder,
H. D. Yarrington, Herbert S. Wieand, George A. John,
James G. Koch, Frederick J. Wagner, A. W. Deppe,
Robert W. Smock, Burton Deppe, Harold A. Mann,
David E. Thomann, Clair E. Bupp, George W. Butler,
Frank L. Herb, Jr., Charles W. Weaber, Raymond Snyder,
Donald B. Schaeffer, George R. Fish,
Leroy S. Heller, Allen P. LaRose,
Committee.
Resolved, That petitions from Staten Island, Fleetwood and Blandon, and Allentown (Salem) be referred to the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee.
Report of the Committee on Examination of District Superintendents, Local Preachers, Evangelists and Missionaries:
We beg leave to report that we have examined the District Superintendents, Local Preachers, and Missionaries, and find them all satisfactory for which we praise the Lord.
N. H. Wolf, R. H. Gehman,
Ernest B. Hartman, E. W. Bean,
W. F. Heffner,
Committee.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:15 p. m. with prayer by N. H. Wolf.
THIRD MEETING
Tuesday Morning, October 16, 1956
The meeting was opened with singing the hymn, "The Church's One Foundation" and prayer by R. H. Gehman.
The District Superintendent of the Bethlehem District C. E. Kirkwood, chose for our meditation the theme, "Bonds of Peace," according to Philippians 2:1-4. Pastor Paul E. Baer led us in singing "All for Jesus."
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:45 a. m. with prayer by Ralph D. Cole.
FOURTH MEETING
Tuesday Afternoon, October 16, 1956
The meeting was opened with Paul E. Baer leading the body in singing the hymn, "There is a Name I Love to Hear." W. B. Hottel led in prayer.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read by the Secretary and approved.
Resolved, That we excuse R. C. Reichenbach and John Dunn from attendance of the Thursday morning and afternoon sessions in order that they may conduct funerals on their respective fields.
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders:
The Traveling Elders have been individually examined through the delegates, and we are pleased to report that these servants of God are creditably seeking to fulfill their sacred responsibilities before God and men. We, therefore, are happy to recommend them for continued service in the itinerancy of our Conference.
F. B. Hertzog, Herbert W. Hartman, C. E. Kirkwood,
Committee.
Report of the Committee to Examine Applicants for Annual Conference License:
This Committee met with Carl C. Cassel, Norman F. Gordon, J. Barclay Harley and Austin G. Shelly and have found them in accord with our doctrine and practices. We are convinced that they are called of God to the ministry. They also have proven their call in Home Missionary service. We, therefore, recommend them for Annual Conference license.
P. T. Stengele, W. B. Hottel,
W. W. Hartman, C. E. Kirkwood,
William A. Heffner,
Committee.
Report of the Board of Directors: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination:
We wish to report that we have examined Earl M. Hosler and are unanimously convinced that he is called of God, that he is in accord with the doctrines and practices of our Church and that the seal of God's approval has been upon his ministry. We, therefore, recommend that he be ordained into the Christian ministry in the Thursday Evening meeting.
C. E. Kirkwood, James K. Hartman,
Herbert W. Hartman, Walter H. Frank,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee
Resolved, That the District Superintendents and the delegates of all stations and circuits shall constitute the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee. The Annual Conference may grant the status of a station to a mission church which has contributed a minimum of $2400.00 through the steward offering and has petitioned Annual Conference requesting the change declaring that it no longer desires a Home Mission appropriation.
If a station fails to contribute $2400.00 steward offering, they shall forfeit their voice in the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee, and further
The petition of the Hatfield congregation relative to the observance of Communion was considered and it was
Resolved, That the petition be considered answered by the action of Annual Conference as recorded in the Year Book of 1951, page 38.
Resolved, That the time of the observance of Communion be referred to the Committee on Church Government.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and meet tonight at 7:30 o'clock.
The minutes of the afternoon session shall be read with the minutes of the evening session in the Wednesday morning meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 5:10 p. m. with prayer by Daniel K. Ziegler.
FIFTH MEETING
Tuesday Evening, October 16, 1956
The meeting was opened by the Chairman at 7:30 p. m. After the singing of a hymn, C. Leslie Miller of the Union Gospel Press, Cleveland, Ohio, led in prayer.
The oral reports of the District Superintendents, the Director of Home Missions, the President of the Berean Bible School and all active pastors featured the program.
This was truly an occasion of much rejoicing as the various victories won for Christ during the year were cited, and the large audience in attendance was made to realize that God is still faithful to His own in these days of withering, materialistic philosophy which denies the transcendent power of God and encourages man to glorify himself. All praise to God for His goodness to His servants and His people and to the Holy Spirit Who indwells and is the light and life of the body of Christ.
The meeting was interspersed by the singing of several congregational hymns led by Paul E. Baer, and was adjourned at 9:10 p. m. with prayer by District Superintendent C. E. Kirkwood.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 17, 1956
The meeting was opened with the singing of the inspiring hymn, "There is a Name I Love to Hear," after which W. W. Hartman led in prayer.
The Director of Home Missions and President of Berean Bible School, Jansen E. Hartman, addressed the Conference body on the theme: "The Consciousness of the Presence of the Lord Jesus Christ," directing attention to Philippians 3:1-14, and closing the devotional period with the singing of the hymn, "My Jesus, As Thou Wilt."
The roll was called and the minutes of the Tuesday Afternoon and Evening Meetings were read and approved.
Rev. Robert E. Rampy, recently returned missionary from Venezuela, South America, was introduced to the Conference and gave a brief testimony concerning his work on the field and expressed appreciation of the fellowship of the brethren in the Gospel.
The brethren, Rev. J. B. Henry, Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, and Rev. C. Leslie Miller, General Superintendent of the, Union Gospel Press, were also introduced and invited to bring greetings to the body.
Report of the Board of the Home: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Education: (See Reports)
The President of the Berean Bible School gave an oral report concerning activities of the school and outlined plans for the future. He also expressed deep appreciation of the continued support of the Pastors and our entire constituency.
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee to Examine Annual Conference Records:
We hereby certify that we have examined the Annual Conference Minutes for the Session of 1955 and have found them correct except as follows:
Page 40 . . . Treasurer of the next Annual Conference should read, "Treasurer of the Annual Conference."
Page 42 ... Fourteenth Meeting "Sunday afternoon, October 22" should read, "Saturday afternoon, October 22."
We herewith submit two copies duly certified.
We have read the report of the Ministerial Convention and believe it to be correct to the best of our knowledge.
R. H. Gehman, Earl M. Hosler,
Committee.
Report of the Conference-Wide Sunday School Convention: (See Reports)
Report of the Ministerial Convention: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we proceed with elections.
Resolved, That we determine who are the preachers willing to minister the coming year according to the direction of the Conference and our Discipline.
The following ministering brethren responded "yes" to the roll call: Paul E. Baer, E. W. Bean, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, R. H. Gehman, T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman, Herbert W. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, W. F. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, J. B. Layne, R. C. Reichenbach, J. H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, P. T. Stengele, David E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, H. D. Yarrington, F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, A. G. Woodring, G. F. Yost, Russell T. Allen, Raymond E. Arnold, LeRoy S. Heller, Frank L. Herb, Jr., Donald B. Schaeffer, Earl M. Hosler.
Absent: E. J. Rutman.
Resolved, That two District Superintendents be elected and that the informal ballot be used in nominating the candidates, the five highest to be candidates and elected according to the Discipline.
The Chair appointed as tellers: T. D. Gehret, Ernest B. Hartman, R. H. Gehman and A. L. Seifert.
The following were elected for the coming year: F. B. Hertzog and C. E. Kirkwood.
Resolved, That F. B. Hertzog be District Superintendent over the Allentown District, and C. E. Kirkwood be District Superintendent over the Bethlehem District.
Resolved, That when an Elder has served in the office of District Superintendent for a period of five or more successive years and leaves the office he shall not be eligible for re-election for a period of three years.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned at 11:55 with prayer by Raymond E. Arnold.
SEVENTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 17, 1956
After singing and prayer by A. W. Deppe the roll was called and the minutes of the morning meeting were read and approved.
C. Leslie Miller was called upon by the Chair to explain to the body the reasons that next January the "Gospel Herald" will become a semi-monthly publication.
Resolved, That we tender the Union Gospel Press a rising vote of thanks for their gracious generosity and co-operation in printing the M. B. In C. Supplement of the "Gospel Herald" free of extra cost to us.
Report of the Committee on Church Name:
At the Annual Conference, 1955, this Committee was instructed to send out a ballot to each member of our Conference of voting age. This procedure was followed and the Committee met and tabulated the ballots. Following is a summary of the Committee's findings:
SUMMARY
1. Are you satisfied with the present name of our denomination?
Yes-1264 No- 629 Total-1899
2.Do you think a change in the name of our denomination would be advisable, if a more suitable name can be agreed upon?
Yes- 875 No- 853 Total-1728
3. Do you believe that changing the name of our denomination would help to strengthen the Gospel testimony of our Church?
Yes- 598 No-1106 Total-1704
A further study of the ballots shows the following vote by churches:
1.Are you satisfied with the present name of our denomination?
Yes- 22 No- 12 Total- 34
2.Do you think a change in the name of our denomination would be advisable, if a more suitable name can be agreed upon?
Yes- 21 No- 1 Total- 35
3.Do you believe that a change of denomination name would attract more people to our churches?
Yes- 17 No- 17 Total- 34
4.Do you believe that changing the name of our denomination would help to strengthen the Gospel testimony of our church?
Yes- 15 No- 20 Total- 35
The Committee finds that for various reasons the ballot referred to above was inconclusive except to indicate that a substantial group of our membership feels a change would be desirable. Because the ballot was inconclusive, the Committee is not now suggesting any specific names that might be substituted for our present name.
The Committee recommends the study of this question be continued by a Committee elected by this Conference.
Byron C. Cassel, T. D. Gehret,
A. L. Seifert, Jansen E. Hartman,
Walter H. Frank,
Committee.
Resolved, That a Committee of five be elected to continue the study of a new Church name.
The following were elected: Byron C. Cassel, Walter H. Frank, T. D. Gehret, A. L. Seifert and Jansen E. Hartman.
Report of the Board of Publication and Printing: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we proceed with the consideration of petitions.
Petition number two presented by the Hatfield Church was discussed and dealt with in the following manner:
Resolved, That any Church may use a nomination Committee to make nomination for Church officers when this desire is expressed by a local Conference resolution. The Pastor shall be Chairman of this Committee.
Petition number three presented by Allentown (Bethel) was discussed and dealt with as follows:
Resolved, That a Committee of three ministers and two laymen be elected to study the scriptural principles of giving and to investigate the current methods of giving and to formulate a paper containing the results of their findings. This paper shall be presented and discussed at the next Ministerial Convention. In the light of said discussion they shall present to the next Annual Conference proposals with reference to our over-all financial structure.
The following were elected: Donald T. Kirkwood, Jansen E. Hartman, Willard E. Cassel, Byron C. Cassel and Paul I. Wentz.
With regard to petition number four proposed by Allentown (Bethel) the following was the result:
Resolved, That the office of President of the Menno Youth be extended to one year instead of six months, and that he be permitted to succeed himself only once.
Resolved, That we grant the requests of J. B. Henry and Raymond L. Winfield that they be excused from further attendance at this Conference.
Resolved, That we proceed with elections.
The following were elected:
Home Mission Director: Jansen E. Hartman.
Vice District Superintendents: Herbert W. Hartman and N. H. Wolf.
Resolved, That in the event of a vacancy in the office of District Superintendent, the Board of Directors shall determine which of the Vice District Superintendents shall fill the vacancy.
Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Menno Youth General Committee: (See Reports)
Resolved, That the Menno Youth Committee make a thorough study of the Constitution of the General Menno Youth Society, draft a new constitution and submit the same to the next Annual Conference. (First reading).
Report of the Layman's Benevolent Society: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to convene tonight in an evening meeting from 6:30 to 9:00 o'clock.
Adjourned with prayer by A. G. Woodring.
EIGHTH MEETING
Wednesday Evening, October 17, 1956
The Chair opened the meeting with the singing of a chorus after which LeRoy S. Heller led in prayer.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we consider the proposals of the Government Committee.
Resolved, That the material prepared by the Government Committee and cleared by the Board of Directors for consideration at this Annual Conference be presented, and further
Resolved, That all proposals to amend our Discipline must pass readings at two Annual Conferences by a two-thirds vote by ballot before final adoption.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:00 P. M. with prayer by A. L. Seifert.
NINTH MEETING
Thursday Morning, October 18, 1956,
The meeting was opened with the singing of the hymn, "He is so Precious to Me." Walter H. Frank led in prayer after which the Chair led the body in reading responsively I Peter 2:1-10, following with an inspiring talk in which he called attention to the many gems of truth found in this passage. After the singing of an appropriate hymn the body then joined together in solemnly partaking of the Lord's Supper.
The roll call was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet no later than 3:00 P. M.
Adjourned at 9:55 A. M., with prayer by F. M. Hottel.
TENTH MEETING
Thursday Afternoon, October 18, 1956
The roll was called and the minutes of the morning meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Recessed at 3:05 P. M.
Business was resumed at 4:35 P. M.
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports)
Resolved, That Carl C. Cassel be seated in the Conference Bar, having been stationed to serve as Pastor at Coopersburg.
Resolved, That all pastors on the coming Sunday fill the pulpits of their new assignments.
Resolved, That we grant the request of William E. Miller to be excused from attendance at this Conference after today.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned at 4:50 with prayer by the Chairman, F. B. Hertzog.
ELEVENTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 19, 1956
The meeting was opened with the singing of the hymn, "Something for Thee." E. W. Bean led in prayer. The Chair led the body in reading John 11:32-44 as a Scripture lesson, after which he impressively addressed the body encouraging increased faith that "we might see the glory of God."
The roll was called and the minutes of the Tenth Meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we grant the requests of David F. Gardner, George A. John and E. Willard Maurer to be excused from attendance at the Conference after this session.
Resolved, That we have an adjourned session of Annual Conference March 8 and 9, 1957, at Bethlehem. The agenda of this Conference shall include the consideration of the Government Committee report, and further
Resolved, That an offering be received in each church for the delegate.
Resolved, That the Allentown (Salem) congregation be permitted to elect a delegate to represent them in an advisory capacity at the adjourned session.
Resolved, That we have an evening meeting to begin at 6:30 and adjourn no later than 9:00 P. M.
Report of the Conference Treasurer: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Communications:
We, the Committee on Communications, beg leave to report that we have received word from Rev. E. J. Rutman, superannuated minister under the Local Conference at Harrisburg, Pa., in which he states that due to work he will not be able to attend this Conference; therefore,
Resolved, That we pray God's continued blessings upon him.
We have also received an aerogramme from Miss Olive Rawn, our missionary to Sudan, Africa, in which she wants us to know that she is standing by in prayer for this Conference and desires us to pray for the land of Sudan as she points adults and children to the Saviour, and also pray for her medical ministry to the sick through their dispensary; therefore,
Resolved, That we pledge our prayers for her and the work to which the Lord has called her.
Brother Merle Baer, our missionary who just returned from French West Africa, sends greetings and regrets he is unable to attend this Conference and wishes to express his appreciation for the support we have given him and his family; therefore,
Resolved, That we pray God's blessings upon Him and his future ministry.
F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, A. C. Woodring,
Committee.
Resolved, That we proceed with elections.
Resolved, That the Annual Conference shall elect a Board of Directors annually, consisting of six ordained ministers who are members of the Annual Conference and willing to minister under the direction of the Annual Conference, and three laymen who are members of the Mennonite Brethren In Christ Church of Pennsylvania and are willing to serve under the direction of the Annual Conference. These laymen need not be members of the Annual Conference. The District Superintendents shall be members by virtue of their office.
Those elected to constitute the Board of Directors were: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, Herbert W. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, Donald T. Kirkwood, Byron C. Cassel, Paul I. Wentz and Daniel K. Ziegler.
Resolved, That the District Superintendents and Home Mission Director be members of the Board of Home Missions by virtue of their office.
Those elected to the Board of Home Missions were: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, Jansen E. Hartman, A. L. Seifert, William A. Heffner, Clayton E. Weber and S. A. Hackman.
Resolved, That we elect a General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions. T. D. Gehret was elected.
Resolved, That the Board of Foreign Missions comprise five ministers and four laymen. The District Superintendent and General Secretary shall be members of the Board by virtue of their office.
Board of Foreign Missions: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, Walter H. Frank, J. E. Golla, James R. Cressman, Kermit Gehman, Rufus Spedden and Robert Breitegam.
Adjourned with prayer by Clayton E. Weber.
TWELFTH MEETING
Friday Afternoon, October 19, 1956
After singing a chorus John Dunn led in prayer.
The roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved as corrected.
Resolved, That we proceed with elections.
Board of Trustees of the Home:
Members for two years-F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, E. W. Bean, Herbert W. Hartman, Paul I. Wentz and H. L. Shelly.
Board of Education:
Members for three years-T. D. Gehret, Byron C. Cassel, Robert W. Gehret and R. Paul Schaeffer.
Board of Examiners: Paul E. Baer, Chairman; Donald T. Kirkwood, Secretary; Ernest B. Hartman.
Resolved, That the Chairman appoint those who shall serve on the Board of Publication and Printing.
Board of Publications and Printing: N. H. Wolf, President; Herbert W. Hartman, Secretary; J. H. Riggall.
Committee Over the District Superintendents: T. D. Gehret, W. W. Hartman and R. H. Gehman.
Resolved, That the District Superintendents, one Pastor and two laymen from each District be members of the General Menno Youth Committee.
General Menno Youth Committee: Robert W. Smock, Paul I. Wentz, Jr., Donald Wieand, J. H. Riggall, Norman Zellers and James Beil.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen's Benevolent Society: Arthur W. Deppe, President; Allen S. Weiss, Secretary; A. L. Wentz, Treasurer.
Resolved, That all contributions received for the Laymen's Benevolent Society shall be paid by check or money order, made payable to A. L. Wentz, Treasurer, and forwarded to Allen S. Weiss, Secretary, 2318 Tilghman Street, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Committee Over Camp Meeting Equipage and Tabernacle Outfits: E. W. Bean, R. H. Gehman, W. W. Hartman, David E. Thomann.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Committee of two to compile a report of the Conference for the "Gospel Herald" Supplement and the Year Book. He appointed James G. Koch and John Dunn.
Resolved, That we elect a Committee of seven ministers and three laymen outside the Board of Directors, to study and formulate proposals for the revision of our Church government. All work of this Committee is to be cleared through the Board of Directors before being presented to the next Annual Conference.
Committee to Study our Church Government: Willard E. Cassel, J. H. Riggall, Walter H. Frank, William A. Heffner, R. C. Reichenbach, David E. Thomann, A. L. Seifert, James R. Cressman, A. L. Wentz and R. Spedden.
The Chair appointed William A. Heffner as temporary Chairman.
Report of the Editor of the M. B. In C. Supplement of the "Gospel Herald":
Four years ago the Annual Conference decided to ask the Gospel Worker Society of Cleveland, Ohio, whether they would consider printing a supplement in addition to the regular pages of the Gospel Herald, which would carry news of our Conference activities, and also of our local churches. In response to our request, the Gospel Worker Society graciously offered to print this supplement for us without making any extra charge.
As a result, the first issue of the Gospel Herald of March 1953 carried this special M. B. In C. supplement and has continued to do so.
The Board of Directors asked that C. Leslie Miller act as our circulation manager and that T. D. Gehret be the Editor. I have continued to serve in this capacity ever since.
The preparation of weekly editorials and copy has required considerable time. However, we have cause to believe that there was some blessing resulting from this effort. Our only wish is that there might be a more wholehearted support from our Pastors in forwarding material for the pages of the supplement. It would be helpful and very much appreciated if there were more reports from the Pastors, more original articles by them, news of church activities, also news concerning our Berean Bible School and the Home Missionary work.
On a number of occasions there was not sufficient material on hand to fill the four pages of the Supplement. This necessitated the filling in of these pages by the office Editor of the Gospel Herald at Cleveland.
We have tried to do our best in the task that has been committed to us. May we count upon our Pastors for a more whole-hearted support in the future in order that every issue of the M. B. In C. Gospel Herald will be filled with material supplied by ourselves?
T. D. Gehret, Editor
Report of R. C. Reichenbach, the Circulation Manager of the M. B. In C. Supplement of the "Gospel Herald":
I am glad to report that the M. B. In C. edition of the Gospel Herald is entering more homes of our constituency than at any previous time. At present we have 848 subscribers, 136 more than listed by the Union Gospel Press in October, 1955. I believe that this is the result of co-operative effort upon the part of our District Superintendents, Pastors and people and I trust that it will continue. Financially, I have turned over to the Board of Publication and Printing the sum of $100.00.
The outlook for the year ahead depends upon the faith, vision and effort expended by each one of the Pastors. On January 1, 1957 the Gospel Herald will become a semi-monthly paper instead of a weekly. This may not be in our favor for increased circulation, but I trust that each of us will endeavor to do our part in acquiring new subscribers. Further, increased and constant effort on the part of each Pastor is needed to retain all of our subscribers.
I would suggest that once again we would set aside the month of February as Gospel Herald month, and that every pastor would seek to do his best in promoting our Church paper at that time as well as throughout the year. I further suggest that the $3.00 rate for new subscribers remain in effect.
FINANCIAL
Balance in Treasury, Oct. 1, 1955. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6.24
Received from subscriptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,940.38
$1,946.62
Expenditures:
To Union Gospel Press. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,769.49
To Board of Publication and Printing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100.00
Refund. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.00
Printing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36.62
Secretarial Expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29.23
Balance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.28
$1,946.62
R. C. Reichenbach
Resolved, That we elect an Editor of the M. B. In C. Supplement of the "Gospel Herald."
David E. Thomann was elected.
He appointed as Associate Editors: William A. Heffner, Donald T. Kirkwood and James R. Cressman.
Circulation Manager of the "Gospel Herald": R. C. Reichenbach.
Chairman of the Next Annual Conference: F. B. Hertzog.
Vice Chairman of the Next Annual Conference: C. E. Kirkwood.
Secretary of the Next Annual Conference: N. H. Wolf.
Annual Conference Treasurer: Paul I. Wentz.
Resolved, That the Mizpah Grove Cafeteria be under the management of the Board of Directors.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned with prayer by Ernest B. Hartman.
THIRTEENTH MEETING
Friday Evening, October 19, 1956
The meeting opened with the singing of a chorus.
The roll was called and the minutes of the afternoon meeting were read and approved.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions:
1. Whereas, we the members of the 73rd Annual Conference of the M. B. In C. Church of Pa., have been favored with godly and able leadership in the persons of our District Superintendents, F. B. Hertzog and C. E. Kirkwood, throughout the past conference year and have listened with thanksgiving in our hearts to their reports, therefore
Resolved, That we thank God for them and pledge them our unanimous and prayerful cooperation and support during the coming year.