SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1958
The Seventy-fifth Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania convened in Ebenezer Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, 1121-25 North Main Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
The Conference opened at 1:00 p. m., Monday, October 13, with singing "The Church's One Foundation."
The Chairman of the Annual Conference, F. B. Hertzog, due to illness was unable to be present to open the Conference, therefore the Vice Chairman, C. E. Kirkwood, occupied the Chair.
He addressed the Conference on the "Dangers that Confront the Church," basing his exposition on Acts 6:1-4.
A Prayer and Praise Period followed during which we humbly praised the Lord for His rich blessings poured out upon the work and also for many individual spiritual and physical victories. The Communion service, in which the entire Conference participated, proved to be a time of blessed fellowship and rejoicing in the Lord.
The Secretary, N. H. Wolf, appointed the following assistants: Assistant Secretary, Ernest B. 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, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A Heffner, W. F. Heffner, Frank L. Herb, Jr., F. B. Hertzog, Earl M. Hosler, W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, J. B. Layne, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, P. T. Stengele, David E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, E. J. Rutman, A. G. Woodring, J. B. Henry, C. Leslie Miller, H. D. Yarrington.
Probationers — Russell T. Allen, Carl C. Cassel, LeRoy S. Heller, Richard H. Kline, Donald B. Schaeffer.
Delegates
Allentown District
Francis H. Gehman, Kermit K. Gehman, Allentown (Bethel)
Robert Breitegam, Reading
William E. Miller, Sunbury
Clair E. Bupp, York
George A. John, Shamokin
Daniel K. Ziegler, Hatfield
David F. Gardner, Harrisburg
Roy E. Williams, Mount Carmel
R. S. Weidner, Royersford and Spring City
S. A. Hackman, Graterford and Harleysville
James A. Bell, Nazareth and Northampton
William P. Snyder, Lehighton
Burton Deppe, Walnutport
Charles W. Weaber, Lebanon
Raymond Snyder, Lancaster
Ned G. Copenhaver, Stroudsburg
Bethlehem District
A. Franklin Campbell, Bethlehem
Byron C. Cassel, Philadelphia (Salem)
Harold P. Shelly, Quakertown
Allan F. LaRose, Easton
Harold A. Mann, Coopersburg
R. Spedden, Chester
Merrill Achey, Allentown (Salem)
Paul I. Wentz, Emmaus, Macungie and Zionsville
Clayton E. Weber, Fleetwood and Blandon
Carl H. Kellerman, Scranton
Robert W. Gehret, Terre Hill
Henry B. Wilkinson, Philadelphia (Calvary)
Edward J. Deitzman, Philadelphia (Emmanuel)
Roger Bowne, Staten Island, N. Y.
Ray Engle, Jersey City, N. J.
Resolved, That we accept the excuses of the absent delegates and when they arrive they shall be seated in the Conference Bar.
A letter of Communication from J. B. Henry, Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, was read.
Resolved, That this letter be referred to the Committee on Communications.
Resolved, That we excuse E. J. Rutman and upon his arrival he be seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That the first seven rows of pews throughout the Church constitute the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That all Home Mission Ministers present be recognized as advisory members. The following were present during the Conference: Robert F. Johnson, Bert N. Brosius, Robert E. McIntyre, G. Howard VanSandt, Leon K. Overpeck, Reynold D. Gardner, George E. Herb, Norman F. Gordon, Jr., Alva C. Cassel.
Resolved. That no member be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission of the Chairman except William A. Heffner and A. Franklin Campbell.
Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Timekeeper and Reporter.
He appointed David E. Thomann, reporter and Richard H. Kline, timekeeper.
Report of the Committee to Arrange a Program for the Services of the Annual Conference:
MONDAY: 1:00 P. M. Opening address by the Chairman of the Annual Conference,
Rev. F. B. Hertzog, District Superintendent.
Prayer-Praise Period (Limited to 30 minutes).
Observance of the Lord's Supper.
TUESDAY: 9:00 A. M. Devotions in charge of Rev. C. E. Kirkwood, District
Superintendent,
7:30 P. M. "MISSIONS IN REVIEW"
A.Each Home Mission Minister to speak on the topic "My
Call To The Mission Of The Church."
(Limited to 3 minutes.)
B. Each Foreign Missionary present to speak on the same topic, with
same time limit.
Rev. C. E. Kirkwood, District Superintendent, to give Ordination Challenge.
(Limited to 10 minutes.)
(The Tuesday Evening service shall be in charge of the host pastor.)
The committee recommends that the morning devotional period be limited to thirty minutes, including singing, prayer, and a brief meditation.
William A. Heffner,
W. W. Hartman,
T. D. Gehret,
Committee.
The Committee appointed in 1957 to study Conference procedure presented a proposed agenda for this Conference.
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: William A. Heffner, James G. Koch, David E. Thomann.
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, Richard H. Kline, James G. Koch, Russell T. Allen, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, Frank L. Herb, Jr., Donald B. Schaeffer, Carl C. Cassel, William E. Miller, George A. John, David F. Gardner, James A. Beil, William P. Snyder, Burton Deppe, Charles W. Weaber, Raymond Snyder, Ned G. Copenhaver, A. Franklin Campbell, Harold P. Shelly, Henry B. Wilkinson, Allan F. LaRose, Roger Bowne, Carl H. Kellerman, Ray Engle.
Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders: C. E. Kirkwood, F. B. Hertzog, Walter H. Frank.
Committee on Statistics: J. B. Layne, Willard E. Cassel, J. E. Golla, Jansen E. Hartman, Donald T. Kirkwood, LeRoy S. Heller, John Dunn.
Committee en Examination of District Superintendents, Local Preachers, Evangelists, Missionaries: N. H. Wolf, Ernest B. Hartman, W. F. Heffner, R. H. Gehman, Paul E. Baer.
Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: P. T. Stengele, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, W. B. Hottel, John H. Riggall.
Committee on Examination of Candidates for Ordination: Jansen E. Hartman, T. D. Gehret, Walter H. Frank, David E. Thomann.
Committee on Resolutions: John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, R. C. Reichenbach.
Committee on Auditing: T. D. Gehret, Daniel K. Ziegler, R. Spedden, R. S. Weidner, Clayton Weber, Roy E. Williams, Robert W. Gehret, Kermit K. Gehman, Edward J. Dietzman, Harold A. Mann, Sr., Robert Breitegam, Clair Bupp, Merrill F. Achey.
Committee an Examination of Annual Conference Records: R. H. Gehman, Earl M. Hosler.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules to adjourn to meet tonight from 6:30 to 9:00 o'clock.
The meeting was adjourned at 2:45 p. m., with prayer by John Dunn.
SECOND MEETING
Monday Evening, October 13, 1958
The Second Meeting was opened at 6:30 p. m. with the singing of "Draw Me Nearer" with prayer by R. H. Gehman.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following Reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Board of Examiners: (See Reports)
Resolved, That the following brethren who have successfully completed the examination on the Discipline be referred to the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License: Bert N. Brosius, Leonard Buck, Alva C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, Robert E. McIntyre, Leon K. Overpeck, G. Howard VanSandt.
The Report of the Committee on Local Conference Records:
We have examined all the Local Conference Records and have found them in good condition. A few omissions and minor errors were found which were corrected by the Pastors concerned.
The following petitions were found:
Petition # 1
Fleetwood-Blandon Circuit: Resolved, That the congregation of Trinity M. B. C. Church, Blandon, Pennsylvania wishes to request the Annual Conference which is to meet in Bethlehem on October 13, 1958, to renew its original petition to the Annual Conference held in 1956, asking that consideration be given for the appointment of a full-time pastor.
Petition #2
Royersford-Spring City Circuit: Resolved, After much prayer and serious consideration we the members of the Royersford and Spring City Circuit believe that it will be for the good of the Lord's work in each of these communities to dissolve the circuit which has existed for more than sixty years; Therefore, we petition the Annual Conference convening in Bethlehem, Pa., October 13, 1958, to dissolve the circuit and give each congregation our own pastor and permit us to operate independently and that this action be taken as soon as possible.
Petition #3
Lancaster: Resolved, That we the members of the Faith Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church, petition the Annual Conference to discontinue the Home Mission appropriation to Lancaster and grant the Lancaster congregation the status of a station.
Petition #4
Allentown, (Bethel):
(a) That we petition Annual Conference that an Agenda be sent out to all Local Conferences prior to each Annual Conference.
(b) That we petition Annual Conference meeting in the 1958 session to amend the proposal on changing the name, to include the two new names "United Bible Church" and "Bible Fellowship Church," and also the present name "Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church" from which all local Conferences shall select a name to represent our denomination.
Petition #5
Shamokin: It was moved and passed at the Local Conference of the Calvary Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Shamokin to petition the Annual Conference to be held at Bethlehem, Pa., October 13, 1958, to reconsider the action of Annual Conference of 1957 relative to Church name, and to retain the present name of the denomination.
Petition #6
Coopersburg: Whereas, according to the Annual Conference Year Book f or 1955 the various congregations in the conference were requested to vote on a change in name for the denomination, and,
Whereas, the total vote of the membership, by a large majority, favored no change in name, and a very substantial majority of the congregation in their votes also favored no change in name, and
Whereas, these facts were apparently overlooked at the Adjourned Session of the 1957 Annual Conference, when only the two names were submitted to the voters for their decision, therefore,
Be it Resolved, That we petition the 1958 Annual Conference to amend the action of the 1957 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference, so as to include the present name, with the two previously submitted to the membership through the Local Conferences for their final vote.
Petition #7
Emmaus, Macungie & Zionsville Circuit: Whereas, according to the 1955 year book the local churches were requested to vote for change of name, etc., and
Whereas, the general vote of all the churches was against the change of name both in the number of members voting and churches voting with the exception of the vote "if a more suitable name could be agreed upon," which vote by a small margin of members voting was "that a more suitable name would be agreeable," and
Whereas, at the adjourned session of the 1957 Annual Conference two names were chosen other than the present name to be voted upon as the choice of a name, and
Whereas, the local congregations were not given the privilege of a choice between the names suggested and the present name, which privilege was possibly in the mind of the 1955 Annual Conference, therefore,
Be it Resolved, that we recommend to the next Annual Conference that the procedure followed at the previously adjourned session of Annual Conference be amended and that the present name be included among the names to be voted upon, and that the local conferences be permitted to again vote on the choice of a name from the list of three names including the present name, submitted by Annual Conference.
Petition #8
Reading: to the Annual Conference of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ 1958: We the Church at Reading, Pa., petition the Annual Conference in the adoption of a new name, that consideration be given to the inclusion of the name of Christ.
Petition #9
Bethlehem:
(a) Resolved, that we petition Annual Conference concerning the change of Church name. We ask that they reconsider and restudy this important matter. We ask that they be governed by the original petition as found in the 1955 Year Book, page 23, in that they first find out by ballot from the church membership whether or not a change is desired.
(b) Resolved, that we petition Annual Conference meeting in the 1958 session that they rescind the requirement that signatures be affixed to the "ballots" pertinent to pulpit supply.
©) Whereas, our denomination the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania has on March 28, 1906 acquired property at Center Valley, Pa., and which has since been known as the Orphanage and Home, and
Whereas, throughout our denomination, in recent decades, there has been a noticeable default of active interest resulting in apathy and near inaction in regards to the aforementioned project, therefore be it further
Resolved, that we petition the 75th Annual Conference and the properly elected Board to seriously plan and strenuously press to bring to completion this long-overdue requisite.
E. W. Bean, Donald B. Schaeffer, Raymond Snyder,
W. B. Hottel, Carl C. Cassel, Ned G. Copenhaver,
W. F. Heffner, William E. Miller, A. Franklin Campbell,
Richard H. Kline, George A. John, Harold P. Shelly, Sr.,
James G. Koch, David F. Gardner, Henry B. Wilkinson,
Russell T. Allen, James A. Beil, Allen F. LaRose,
Robert W. Smock, William P. Snyder, Carl H. Kellerman,
David E. Thomann, Burton Deppe, Roger Bowne,
Frank L. Herb, Jr., Charles W. Weaber, Ray Engel,
Committee.
Resolved, That the petitions recorded in the minutes books of the Fleetwood-Blandon Circuit, the Royersford-Spring City Circuit, and the Lancaster Church be referred to the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating 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 Director of Home Missions, Jansen E. Hartman: (See Reports)
Resolved, That they be adopted.
Report of the Board of Home Missions: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we proceed to the second reading of the Report of the Government Committee, October 14, 1957.
Report Of Government Committee-1958
(Second Reading)
ELECTION OF CONFERENCE BOARDS AND OFFICERS
Only ordained ministers and probationers having charge of a work, who are willing to minister under the direction of the Annual Conference and according to the Discipline shall be eligible to be elected or appointed to Conference Offices, Boards or Committees. (Held over for second reading at the Annual Conference, 1959.)
Only laymen who are in good standing with the Local Churches shall be considered for election or appointment to Conference Offices, Boards or Committees. These laymen need not be members of the Annual Conference.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. It shall consist of the District Superintendents, four ordained ministers and three laymen.
Board of Foreign Missions
A. A General Secretary shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference from among the ordained ministers.
By virtue of his office he shall be a member of the Board of Foreign Missions.
B. The Board of Foreign Missions shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. It shall consist of the District Superintendents, General Secretary, two ordained ministers and four laymen.
Board of Home Missions
A. A Director of Home Missions shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference from among the ordained ministers.
By virtue of his office he shall be a member of the Board of Home Missions.
B. The Board of Home Missions shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. It shall consist of the District Superintendents, Home Mission Director, two ordained ministers and two laymen.
(The above was adopted.)
(First Reading)
Election of Conference Boards & Officers (continued)
Vice-District Superintendents
Vice-District Superintendent(s) shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of Annual Conference. In the event of a vacancy occurring in the office of District Superintendent, the Board of Directors shall designate which of the Vice-District Superintendents shall fill the unexpired term.
Committee Over The District Superintendents
The Committee shall consist of three ordained ministers elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference.
President of Berean Bible School
The President of Berean Bible School shall be elected annually by ballot by the Board of Education from among the ordained ministers. His election shall be submitted to the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference for ratification.
Chairman of Annual Conference
The Chairman of the Annual Conference shall be a District Superintendent and shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference.
Vice-Chairman of Annual Conference
The Vice-Chairman of the Annual Conference shall be a District Superintendent and shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference.
Secretary of Annual Conference
The Secretary of the Annual Conference shall be elected annually by ballot by the Adjourned session of the Annual Conference from among the ordained ministers. The Secretary shall appoint his assistants.
Treasurer of Annual Conference
The Treasurer of the Annual Conference shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference. In the event of a vacancy occurring in the office, the Board of Directors shall appoint a treasurer to fill the unexpired term.
The Victory Valley Committee
The Victory Valley Committee shall be composed of the District Superintendents, two ordained ministers and three laymen and shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference.
Menno Youth General Committee
The Menno Youth General Committee shall be composed of two pastors and two laymen from each District. The District Superintendents shall be ex-officio members of this Committee. The Pastors shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference and the laymen appointed annually by the District Superintendents.
Beneficiary Society
The Beneficiary Society shall elect a President, Secretary and Treasurer at its annual meeting.
Laymen's Benevolent Society
The Annual Conference shall elect annually by ballot three laymen to serve as a Board of Trustees of the Laymen's Benevolent Society, designating the President, Secretary and Treasurer of the Board.
These laymen shall be members of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania and members of the Laymen's Benevolent Society.
BOARDS TO BE APPOINTED
Board of Publication and Printing
The Board of Publication and Printing shall consist of three ordained ministers appointed annually by the Chairman of the Annual Conference.
(The above was adopted.)
Adjourned 9:00 p. m., with prayer by John H. Riggall.
THIRD MEETING
Tuesday Morning, October 14, 1958
The Third Meeting was opened at 9:00 a. m., with the singing of "And Can It Be That I Should Gain." Richard H. Kline led in prayer and David E. Thomann and LeRoy S. Heller sang, "Simply Trusting."
Jansen E. Hartman spoke on the life of godliness, which is produced by the sanctifying and cleansing power of the Word of God.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn.
Adjourned 9:40 a. m., with prayer by Merrill Achey.
FOURTH MEETING
Tuesday Afternoon, October 14, 1958
The meeting was opened with the singing of "Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me." Frank L. Herb, Jr. led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
H. D. Yarrington briefly addressed the Conference telling us of the open doors of ministry as a hospital chaplain.
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, and serving commendably where the Lord has placed them.
N. H. Wolf, R. H. Gehman,
Ernest B. Hartman, Paul E. Baer,
W. F. Heffner,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Finance: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Trustees of the Home: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Committee on Ordination:
We have met with the following brethren: Richard H. Kline, Russell T. Allen, LeRoy S. Heller, Donald B. Schaeffer, and have examined them relative to their personal lives, doctrinal beliefs and pastoral work. We believe them to be sincere, devoted and godly servants of the Lord.
We, therefore, recommend that they be ordained to the Christian ministry in this evening's service.
Jansen E. Hartman, T. D. Gehret,
Walter H. Frank, David E. Thomann,
Committee.
Report of the Board of Directors: (See Reports)
Resolved, That disposition of the money held under Civilian Public Service Camps be made as follows that $50.00 be given to Mennonite Central Committee, and the balance of $435.64 to be applied towards the District Superintendents' parsonages.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Records:
We hereby certify that we have examined the Annual Conference Minutes of the sessions of 1957 and have found them correct.
We hereby submit two copies duly certified.
We have read the reports of the Ministerial Convention and the Sunday School Convention, and believe them to be correct to the best of our knowledge.
R. H. Gehman,
Earl M. Hosler,
Committee.
Resolved, That we proceed to the consideration of the report of the Government Committee. (First Reading)
ANNUAL CONFERENCE MEMBERS
Members of the Annual Conference shall be as follows:
1. All ordained ministers of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania laboring under the direction of the Annual Conference.
2. All probationers who have charge of a conference appointment under the direction of the Annual Conference.
3. All retired ministers of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
4. Lay delegate(s) from each church or circuit as provided by the Discipline.
Advisory members of the Annual Conference shall be as follows:
1. All ordained ministers of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania who retain their membership in one of our local churches, and who are engaged in Christian service not directly responsible to our Annual Conference.
2. Home Missionary Pastors.
3. Missionaries who hold membership in one of our local churches and are under the supervision of the Foreign Mission Board of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
Participation in proceedings of the Annual Conference shall be as follows:
1. Only members of the Annual Conference shall be eligible to vote.
2. Advisory members shall not be permitted to participate in Conference discussions except by request of the Chairman.
PLEASE NOTE: We as a Committee go on record as not favoring the forming of a Nominating Committee for Annual Conference for the following reasons:
1. We have not been able to discover a satisfactory method to establish a nominating committee.
2. The dangers of relegating important Conference positions to a limited number of Conference members.
A. L. Seifert, Chairman, William A. Heffner, A. L. Wentz,
Willard E. Cassel, Secretary, R. C. Reichenbach, Rufus Spedden,
J. H. Riggall, David E. Thomann,
J. E. Golla, James R. Cressman,
Committee.
Resolved, That we approve the suggested revision of the standing rules as presented by the Government Committee, and that we adopt their report.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules, and adjourn and meet tomorrow morning at 9:00 o'clock.
Adjourned at 4:45 p. m., with prayer by Clair E. Bupp.
FIFTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 15, 1958
The meeting was opened with the singing of the hymn, "Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned," after which Harold P. Shelly, Sr., led in prayer and Daniel K. Ziegler sang, "Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart."
P. T. Stengele brought the morning devotional message based upon Peter's first epistle, chapter 2, verses 1 to 10, emphasizing the all importance of the true Church of Jesus Christ, over against religious systems past and present.
The Conference Chairman, F. B. Hertzog, gave a brief address to the Conference.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Report of the Board of Education: (See Reports)
(It was adopted.)
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
The following report was read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Examination of Traveling Elders:
The Traveling Elders have been examined individually through their respective delegates. We are happy to report that these men have been found to be men of God, preaching the Word of God faithfully, and manifest a whole-hearted concern for the work of the Lord and His Church.
We, therefore, commend them for future service amongst us.
F. B. Hertzog, Walter H. Frank,
C. E. Kirkwood,
Committee.
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 "yea" to the roll call: E. W. Bean, Willard E. Cassel, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, R. H. Gehman, T. D. Gehret, J. E. Golla, Ernest B. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, W. F. Heffner, Frank L. Herb, Jr., F. B. Hertzog, Earl. M. Hosler, W. B. Hottel, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, J. B. Layne, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, P. T. Stengele, David E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, F. M. Hottel, E. E. Kublic, A. G. Woodring, Russell T. Allen, Carl C. Cassel, LeRoy S. Heller, Richard H. Kline, Donald B. Schaeffer. Paul E. Baer, "Nay."
The following was read to the Conference:
Brother Chairman and members of the Conference:
After prayer and much thought and consultation with the District Superintendents, I feel led of the Lord to request for an indefinite leave of absence, due to a physical condition.
Signed, Paul E. Baer.
Resolved, That we grant Paul E. Baer, his request and further
Resolved, That we include his name on the list of Itinerant Ministers.
Resolved, That the resolution relative to "yea and nay roll call" be referred to the Government Committee for further study.
The following reports were read and adopted:
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS
We, the Committee on Communications, report that we have received word from Rev. J. B. Henry, Associate General Secretary of the Africa Inland Mission, who is also a member of the Annual Conference. Brother Henry writes, "It is with regret that I am unable to attend this year due to a commitment for the Africa Inland Mission; however, you will be in my thoughts and my prayers." Therefore,
Resolved, That we remember our good brother in prayer that he may have all needed wisdom and strength for the ministry in which he is engaged.
We have received letters from Rev. and Mrs. Calvin F. Snyder, of Glendale, California. Rev. and Mrs. Snyder are retired missionaries to Tibet, China.
They continue to be actively engaged in prayer and Bible study groups as well as in preparing materials for use in foreign missionary work.
They express appreciation for the financial support, prayers, and gifts from the Pennsylvania Conference as well as for the Gospel Herald provided by the Foreign Mission Board. Therefore,
Resolved, That we continue to remember them in prayer that their lives may continue to be blessed as well as be a blessing to others.
A letter from Rev. J. Barclay Harley, one of our missionaries to Venezuela, South America, informs us that he and Mrs. Harley have been laboring in their present location for nine months. Already they have completed almost one half of their first term of foreign mission service. Rev. Harley is presently serving as co-pastor of the church in Ciudad Bolivar and has made several trips into the interior for an evangelistic and teaching ministry. They request a continued interest in our prayers. Therefore,
Resolved, That we thank the Lord for these gifts to the church and pray that they shall have a prosperous and fruitful ministry.
William A. Heffner, David E. Thomann,
James G. Koch,
Committee.
Report of the Committee on Camp Meeting Equipage:
We have worked under the direction of the District Superintendents during the year.
E. W. Bean, David E. Thomann,
R. H. Gehman, W. W. Hartman,
Committee.
Annual Report of the Chairman of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports)
Annual Report of the Board of Publication and Printing: (See Reports)
Report of the Sunday School Promotion Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Menno Youth General Committee: (See Reports)
Annual Report of the Board of Trustees, Layman's Benevolent Society: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to the call of the Chair,
Adjourned, 11:55 a. m., with prayer by David F. Gardner.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 15, 1958
The meeting was opened 3:05 p. m., with singing "When the Roll is Called Up Yonder." E. E. Kublic led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Committee on Examination of Applicants for Annual Conference License:
We have examined Bert N. Brosius, Leonard E. Buck, Alva C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, Robert E. McIntyre, Leon K. Overpeck and G. Howard Van Sandt.
We are convinced that they are called of God to the Ministry. They also have given service in the Home Missionary Society and are in accord with our Church doctrine. We, therefore, recommend them for Annual Conference license.
P. T. Stengele, W. B. Hottel,
W. W. Hartman, John H. Riggall,
William A. Heffner,
Committee.
The President of Berean Bible School gave an oral report of the accomplishments and objectives of the School and submitted a proposed budget for 1959.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of Victory Valley Youth Camp Committee: (See Reports)
Report of the Tellers Appointed to tabulate the vote on Church Name cast by the Local Conferences:
Following is a summary of the vote submitted by the District Superintendents and the Director of Home Missions of the votes on Church Name received by them, in the Local Conferences.
The total vote on the two names submitted by the Annual Conference was:
United Bible Church 448
Bible Fellowship Church 359
The vote by Local Conferences was:
United Bible Church 15
Bible Fellowship Church 14
In addition to the above 807 ballots there were 234 votes cast for the name, Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania and 8 votes cast for miscellaneous names.
In four Local Conferences the majority of the votes cast were for the name — Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church of Pennsylvania.
Byron C. Cassel, J. E. Hartman,
A. L. Seifert, T. D. Gehret,
Walter H. Frank,
Tellers.
Report of the Conference Treasurer: (See Reports)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules, and adjourn to meet this evening at 6:30 to 9:00 o'clock.
Adjourned, 4:40 p. m., with prayer by E. W. Bean.
SEVENTH MEETING
Wednesday Evening, October 15, 1958
The meeting was opened 6:30 o'clock with singing, "Come Thou Blessed Saviour." Charles W. Weaber led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes were read and approved.
Resolved, That we consider the petitions that have been found in the Local Conference records, and are listed as follows:
The petition recorded in the Allentown (Bethel) Minute Book, That we petition Annual Conference that an agenda be sent out to all Local Conferences prior to each Annual Conference.
Resolved, That this petition be denied.
The petition recorded in the Bethlehem Minute Book; That we petition Annual Conference meeting in the 1958 session that they rescind the requirement that signatures be affixed to the "ballots" pertinent to pulpit supply.
Resolved, That this petition be denied.
The petition recorded in the Bethlehem Minute Book:
That we petition the 75th Annual Conference and the properly elected Board to seriously consider and plan for the future of the Home now located at Center Valley, Pa.
Resolved, That we gratefully acknowledge the above petition, and refer the matter to the Board of Trustees of the Home.
Adjourned at 9:00 p. m., with prayer by F. M. Hottel.
EIGHTH MEETING
Thursday Morning, October 16, 1958
The meeting was opened at 9 o'clock with singing, "May Jesus Christ Be Praised." Earl M. Hosler led in prayer and Carl C. Cassel sang, "In Tenderness He Sought Me."
The Chairman, C. E. Kirkwood read the fourth Chapter of II Corinthians for our devotional meditation.
C. Leslie Miller, General Superintendent of the Union Gospel Press, spoke briefly and brought greetings from those associated with him in His work.
Resolved, That a Committee of five be appointed by the Chairman to make a study of the petitions relative to Church Name submitted by various Local Conferences and to report back to this Conference with recommendations.
The Chair appointed the following: Byron C. Cassel, A. L. Seifert, Walter H. Frank, Jansen E. Hartman, T. D. Gehret.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the Chair.
Business was resumed.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 3 o'clock.
Adjourned with prayer by N. H. Wolf.
NINTH MEETING
Thursday Afternoon, October 16, 1958
The meeting was opened at 3:00 p. m., with the singing of "What a Friend We Have in Jesus." E. J. Rutman led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports)
Resolved, That the membership on the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee to be limited to those Churches or Circuits and those Missions petitioning for membership on the Committee under our rules, that received at least $2,800.00 in Steward offering during the year.
Report of the Committee on Church Name Petitions:
We met with the Pastors and Delegates of the various churches which submitted petitions to this Conference relative to Church Name. After prayerful consideration and consultation with the Pastors and Delegates from the churches submitting petitions on church name, we recommend, as Conference action in response to each of the petitions received on this subject from the Local Conferences at Allentown (Bethel), Shamokin, Coopersburg, Emmaus, Macungie and Zionsville Circuit, Reading and Bethlehem, the amendment of paragraph number 4 of the procedures outlined for the change of church name as found on page 57-B of the 1957 Yearbook, so that it will read as follows:
"4. Final selection between the two names chosen today shall require two readings, selections at each reading to require two-thirds of the total vote. First reading shall be at Annual Conference 1958. The second reading shall be at the adjourned session of Annual Conference 1958."
After a vote is taken to select a name for our denomination from the two names chosen at the adjourned session of Annual Conference 1957, the name chosen at this conference shall be submitted to each church for approval by ballot at the Sunday morning worship service on February 22, 1959. Approval shall be determined by the total vote of the constituency of our entire denomination.
The Committee strongly recommends that the Conference request each Pastor to acquaint his congregation with the reasons why a change in church name is desired.
Byron C. Cassel, Walter H. Frank,
A. L. Seifert, T. D. Gehret,
Jansen E. Hartman,
Committee.
Resolved, That the result of the ballot on Church Name taken on February 22, 1959, be forwarded to Pastor A. L. Seifert, Hatfield, Pa.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 to 9:00 o'clock.
Adjourned 4:55 p. m., with prayer by H. D. Yarrington.
TENTH MEETING
Thursday Evening, October 16, 1958
The meeting was opened at 6:30 p. m., with singing "Showers of Blessing." A. G. Woodring led in prayer.
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That all pastors on the coming Sunday fill the pulpits of their new assignments.
Resolved, That we proceed with elections.
General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions: T. D. Gehret was elected.
Board of Foreign Missions: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, Walter H. Frank, J. E. Golla, Kermit K. Gehman, Roy E. Williams, Robert Breitegam, James R. Cressman.
Board of Directors: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, T. D. Gehret, Jansen E. Hartman, Walter H. Frank, Donald T. Kirkwood, Byron C. Cassel, Paul I. Wentz and Daniel K. Ziegler.
Board of Home Missions: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, Jansen E. Hartman, A. L. Seifert, William A. Heffner, Clayton E. Weber, S. A. Hackman.
Trustees of the Home: F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, E. W. Bean, David E. Thomann, Paul I. Wentz, Harold A. Mann.
Board of Education for Three Years: W. B. Hottel, John H. Riggall, Daniel K. Ziegler, Francis H. Gehman.
Board of Examiners: R. C. Reichenbach, Donald T. Kirkwood, Ernest B. Hartman.
Committee over the District Superintendents: W. F. Heffner, P. T. Stengele, W. W. Hartman.
Board of Trustees of the Laymen's Benevolent Society: A. W. Deppe, President; Allen S. Weiss, Secretary; A. L. Wentz, Treasurer.
Resolved, That all contributions received for 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, 819 North Main Street, Allentown, Penna.
The following members of the Sunday School Promotion Committee were elected for three years: Robert W. Smock, James R. Cressman, William E. Miller.
Resolved, That we hold a Conference-Wide Sunday School Convention on Saturday, May 9, 1959, in Grace Church, Reading, Pa.
Resolved, That during the 1959-60 Conference Year, Regional Institutes be held, if requested by the regions. The time and place of the Institute would be arranged by this Committee.
Resolved, That the reports of the Boards of Foreign Missions, Home Missions and Berean Bible School be printed for free distribution.
Resolved, That we print 1200 Year Books to be sold at $1.00 per copy. Checks shall be made payable and forwarded to N. H. Wolf, Secretary. The deficit shall be paid out of the Board of Publication and Printing Fund.
Adjourned at 9:00 p. m., with prayer by H. D. Yarrington.
ELEVENTH MEETING
Friday Morning, October 17, 1958
The meeting was opened at 9:00 o'clock with singing, "O Worship the King" and J. E. Golla led in prayer.
T. D. Gehret brought an inspirational message based on I John 3:1-3, emphasizing the constant cleansing needed by God's people in view of the hope of the Lord's return for His own. LeRoy S. Heller sang, "He Lifted Me.”
The Roll was called and the Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were adopted:
REPORT OF THE EDITOR OF THE M. B. C. SUPPLEMENT
OF THE GOSPEL HERALD
We have served another year as editor of the M. B. in C. Supplement of the Gospel Herald. The work at times was difficult, but not without blessings. We have appreciated the work and support of our three brethren, Pastors William A. Heffner, Carl C. Cassel and John Dunn for their help in securing copy and material. Many of the brethren have been faithful in submitting articles. We wish that all our pastors would submit copy so that our paper could be filled ONLY with M. B. in C. news. This can be done if all would do their part.
Our subscriptions have dropped this year and we are asking again that each pastor do his best in promoting our Church paper. The success of our paper lies in the response that our pastors give to its promotion. May we count on your wholehearted support.
David E. Thomann,
Editor.
REPORT OF THE CIRCULATION MANAGER OF THE M. B. C.
EDITION OF THE GOSPEL HERALD
As we come to the close of this Conference year, I rejoice in the fact that the splendid articles and rich truths, that are to be found in the M.B.C. Gospel Herald, have entered many homes of our constituency. The Church paper is appreciated by many who look for its arrival and read it with interest.
Yet again I regret to say that we are still decreasing in our number of subscribers, having dropped from 775 last Conference to 690 at this present time. What can we do about this loss? Well, all of us, if we desire, can show a little more concern in our various churches and seek to promote an increased circulation. If we all do our part, our people are sure to respond. Perhaps there is someone in your Class who would be happy to assume the responsibility of this phase of the work. I would be happy to work with him.
FINANCIAL
Balance in Treasury, October 1, 1957 $ 29.54
Received for Subscriptions 1,866.13 $1,895.67
Expenditures
To Union Gospel Press $1,696.30
To Board of Publication and Printing 150.00
Refunds 9.95
Envelopes 13.50
Secretarial Expenses 21.20
Total Expenses $1,890.75
Balance in Treasury, September 30, 1958 4.92 $1,895.67
Respectfully submitted,
R. C. Reichenbach.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS
An aerogramme from Miss Olive Rawn, our missionary to the Sudan in Africa, informs us that she is well and busily engaged in the work of witnessing for Christ through personal testimony, the ministry of the Word and by means of medicine. Services are conducted daily in the dispensary as well as a regular program of Sunday, and mid-week services. She expresses appreciation for our remembrance of her. There