EIGHTIETH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Annual Conference Proceedings
1963
The Eightieth Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church convened in the Ebenezer Church, 1125 N. Main St., Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
The Conference opened at 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 14, with the singing of "Like a River Glorious" directed by LeRoy S. Heller. E. W. Bean led in prayer, N. H. Wolf read Psalm 27, and Daniel K. Ziegler sang "Jesus My Lord." District Superintendent and Chairman, T. D. Gehret read II Corinthians 2:12-17 and spoke on the timely subject of "Paul's Triumphant Ministry in Christ."
T. D. Gehret, Chairman, instructed the Secretary, N. H. Wolf, to appoint his assistants. He appointed Ernest B. Hartman, Assistant Secretary and Robert W. Smock, Recording Secretary.
Report of the Committee on Program:
MONDAY, 10:00 a.m. Song Leader: LeRoy S. Heller
OCTOBER 14 Solo: Daniel K. Ziegler
Scripture: N. H. Wolf
Prayer: Ernest W. Bean
Message: T. D. Gehret, Chairman
TUESDAY, 9:00 a.m. Song Leader: David E. Thomann
OCTOBER 15 Solo: Bert N. Brosius
Scripture: James A. Beil
Prayer: Daniel G. Ziegler
Message: John Dunn
WEDNESDAY, 9:00 a.m. Song Leader: Harvey J. Fritz
OCTOBER 16 Preachers (Junior) Quartet
Scripture: John E. Golla
Prayer: Robert F. Johnson
Message: Robert W. Smock
THURSDAY, 9:00 a.m. Song Leader: Willard E. Cassel
OCTOBER 17 Solo: LeRoy S. Heller
Scripture: R. C. Reichenbach
Prayer: Frank L. Herb, Jr.
Message: James G. Koch
FRIDAY, 9:00 a.m. Song Leader: Donald B. Schaeffer
OCTOBER 18 Solo: Carl C. Cassel
Scripture: W. B. Hottel
Prayer: George E. Herb
Message: A. L. Seifert, D.S.
THE LORD'S SUPPER
Note: Devotional period 30 minutes. Message 15 minutes.
Organist - Robert W. Gehret
CONFERENCE ORDINATION SERVICE
for
Norman R. Weiss
Daniel G. Ziegler
THURSDAY, 7:30 p.m. Host Pastor: Presiding
OCTOBER 17, 1963 Speaker: T. D. Gehret, D.S.
Music: Preachers (Senior) Quartet
Charge to the Congregation: A. L. Seifert, D.S.
Giving of Vows: C. E. Kirkwood
Program Committee
W. W. Hartman
Carl C. Cassel
David E. Thomann
The report was adopted.
The following were enrolled as members of the Conference:
Ministers
Ordained — Russell T. Allen, Paul E. Baer, James A. Beil, E. W. Bean, Bert N. Brosius, Alva C. Cassel, Carl C. Cassel, John Dunn, Harvey J. Fritz, Reynold D. Gardner, T. D. Gehret, John E. C-olla, Ernest B. Hartman, Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, William A. Heffner, LeRoy S. Heller, Frank L. Herb, George E. Herb, F. B. Hertzog, Earl M. Hosler, W. B. Hottel, Robert F. Johnson, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, Richard H. Kline, James G. Koch, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, Donald B. Schaeffer, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, N. H. Wolf, W. F. Heffner, E. E. Kublic, J. B. Layne, E. J. Rutman, P. T. Stengele, A. G. Woodring.
Probationers — John H. Herb, Norman R. Weiss, Daniel G. Ziegler.
Delegates
Allentown District
Allentown (Bethel), Kermit K. Gehman, J. Erwin Fretz
Reading, Robert Breitegam
Sunbury, Allan F. Smith
York, Spalding R. Sowers
Hatfield, Daniel K. Ziegler
Shamokin, T. Lamarn Manney
Mt. Carmel, Roy E. Williams
Harrisburg, Paul T. Rutman
Royersford, William R. Hunsberger
Spring City, R. S. Weidner
Nazareth, Ralph H. Hendershot
Catasauqua, A. W. Deppe
Graterford and Harleysville, Stanley A. Hackman
Lehighton, Willard Blocker
Lebanon, Charles W. Weaber
Stroudsburg, George R. Fish
Lancaster, Horace A. Kauffman
Bethlehem District
Bethlehem, Paul H. Cressman
Emmaus, Paul I. Wentz
Philadelphia (Salem), Byron C. Cassel Quakertown, George W. Krigor
Fleetwood, Norman L. Reed
Wallingford, Richard T. Holmes
Easton, Allen F. LaRose
Coopersburg, Harold A. Mann
Terre Hill, Robert W. Gehret
Allentown (Salem), Allan C. Palmer
Philadelphia (Calvary), Donald M. Sedgwick
Philadelphia (Emmanuel), Edward J. Dietzman
Blandon, John I. Mengel
Scranton, Carl H. Kellerman
Staten Island, N.Y., Ralph D. Cole
Zionsville, Charles G. Hersh
Resolved, That we accept the excuses of the brethren as submitted, and when they arrive, they shall be seated in the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That the first seven pews throughout the Church constitute the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That no one leave the Conference Bar without the permission of the Chair except W. W. Hartman and Paul H. Cressman
Resolved, That we accept the report as submitted by the Committee on Agenda.
COMMITTEES
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE: Paul I. Wentz, Byron C. Cassel, Kermit K. Gehman, Paul H. Cressman, Roy E. Williams.
COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS: C. E. Kirkwood, Carl C. Cassel, David E. Thomann, Harvey J. Fritz.
COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE RECORDS: George E. Herb, Alva C. Cassel.
COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS: John H. Riggall, Earl M. Hosler, W. B. Hottel, Russell T. Allen, Bert N. Brosius.
COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF LOCAL CONFERENCE RECORDS: F. B. Hertzog, E. W. Bean, Donald B. Schaeffer, James A. Beil, Reynold Gardner, Frank L. Herb, Richard H. Kline, Stanley A. Hackman, William R. Hunsberger, Allan F. Smith, Norman L. Reed, Ralph R. Hendershot, Paul T. Rutman, Charles W. Weaber, A. W. Deppe, John I. Mengel.
COMMITTEE ON AUDITING: James G. Koch, Daniel K. Ziegler, Horace A. Kauffman, Daniel G. Ziegler, Robert W. Gehret, John H. Herb, R. S. Weidner, Robert Breitegam, Ralph D. Cole, Richard T. Holmes, Harold A. Mann, J. Erwin Fretz, Edward J. Dietzman.
REPORTER: R. C. Reichenbach.
TIMEKEEPER: Norman R. Weiss.
COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS: (Appointed at Adjourned Session) Willard E. Cassel, John E. Golla, Donald T. Kirkwood, LeRoy S. Heller, John Dunn, Robert F. Johnson.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS
The Credentials Committee of the Bible Fellowship Church held two regular meetings during the year.
During these meetings the committee fulfilled its purpose, and the obligations assigned to it by the Annual Conference.
The Faith and Order questionnaire was sent to each Minister in the Bible Fellowship Conference and every Minister completed and returned his questionnaire.
The exceptions to the Faith and Order were very few and did not include any of the cardinal doctrines of the Faith.
The Credentials Committee, after an intensive examination given to our Pastors Norman R. Weiss and Daniel G. Ziegler, believe that these men are called of God to the Gospel Ministry.
They have served acceptably during their probationary period within our Conference, and are in accord with the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church. We therefore:
Resolved: "That Pastors, Norman R. Weiss and Daniel G. Ziegler be ordained during the Thursday evening service of Annual Conference at the Bible Fellowship Church in Bethlehem, Pa.
The committee received favorable reports concerning the Ministers of the Conference from the District Superintendents, and certain committee chairmen. We are grateful to our Lord for His giving of Godly, conscientious Ministers to the Bible Fellowship Church.
The committee makes the following recommendations to the Annual Conference:
1 . Probationers whose names are listed on the availability list shall be sent a Faith and Order Questionnaire.
2. Ministers desiring to enter the Bible Fellowship Church must agree to the Faith and Order in its entirety, no exceptions shall be permitted.
3. Pastors who were serving in the Annual Conference at the time of the adoption of the present Faith and Order shall be permitted to continue to minister in the Bible Fellowship Church, if their exceptions do not list any of the following articles:
Article 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 9 - 12 - 14 - 15 - 16 - 18 - 19 - 23 - 26 - 27
(All Pastors must subscribe to the Pre Millennial return of Jesus Christ as presented in Article #24)
Those Pastors listing exceptions to any of the above article shall be dealt with by the Credentials Committee.
If such exceptions continue his name shall not be placed on the availability list, and the Annual Conference shall be informed, the Credentials Committee shall recommend proper action.
In the event a Pastor fails to return his Faith and Order Questionnaire by the date specified on the Questionnaire his name shall not be placed on the availability list, and the Annual Conference shall be informed and the Credentials Committee shall recommend proper action.
All Pastors desiring to labor in the ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church must be willing to serve under our present pulpit supply system.
C. E. Kirkwood, Chairman A. L. Seifert W. B. Hottel
John H. Riggall, Secretary T. D. Gehret
Credentials Committee
The report was adopted.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet again this afternoon at 4 o'clock.
Robert F. Johnson closed with prayer.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, October 14, 1963
The Meeting was opened at 4:00 p.m. with the singing of "Higher Ground". Frank L. Herb led in prayer.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Report of the Conference Treasurer: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Report of the General Camp Meeting Committee: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Report of the Committee on Publication and Printing: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Report of the Sunday School Promotion Committee: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Resolved, That every Bible Fellowship Sunday School receive an offering for denominational Sunday School promotion. This offering should be mailed to the Financial Secretary of the Committee before April 1, 1964.
Report of the Victory Valley Board: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Resolved, That the dates of the camps at Victory Valley in 1964 shall be as follows:
July 4-11 Girls 8-12 years old.
July 11-18 Girls 8-12 years old.
July 18-25 Junior High boys and girls.
July 25-Aug. 1 Senior High boys and girls.
Aug. 1-8 Senior High boys and girls.
Aug. 8-15 Boys 8-12 years old.
Aug. 15-22 Boys 8-12 years old.
Resolved, That the Sunday School of each Bible Fellowship Church receive an offering for Victory Valley Camp before March 1, 1964. This check may be made payable to Victory Valley Camp and sent to the secretary of the Victory Valley Board.
Resolved, That the facilities of the Victory Valley Camp be available for limited use by groups from Bible Fellowship Churches. Arrangements for such use shall be made through and offerings sent to the Secretary of the Board.
Report of the Ministerial Convention: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Walter H. Frank, Director of the Greater Europe Mission, gave a brief address on the progress of evangelical missionary work throughout the world.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 p.m.
Adjourned at 4:50 p.m. with prayer by John Dunn.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, October 14, 1963
The meeting was opened at 6:30 p.m. with the singing of "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" and Kermit K. Gehman led in prayer.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were read and adopted:
Report of the Bethlehem District Superintendent, A. L. Seifert: (See Reports)
Report of the Allentown District Superintendent, T. D. Gehret: (See Reports)
Report of the Church Extension Director, William A. Heffner: (See Reports)
Report of the President of Berean Bible School, Jansen E. Hartman: (See Reports)
The following reports were submitted and adopted:
Report of the Board of Foreign Missions: (See Reports)
Report of the Board of Church Extension: (See Reports)
Whereas, the Denville, N.J. and Paradise, Pa., Church extension appointments have petitioned Annual Conference through the Church Extension Board to be recognized as Conference appointments, therefore,
Resolved, That we grant this request and receive them, and further,
Resolved, That the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee assign them pastors.
Report of the Board of Directors of Berean Bible School: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Resolved, The Proclamation of a day as Berean Bible School Day in the Sunday Schools and Churches at which time offerings shall be received in the schools and churches for the purpose of promoting interest and support of the School. Checks for these contributions shall be sent and made payable to the Berean Bible School, 1020 S. Hall Street, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Resolved, That Recommendation #2 be tabled.
Resolved, That the laymen on the Board of Directors of Berean Bible School shall constitute a committee to work with all our churches to promote the advantages of training at Berean Bible School and formulate a plan to raise $25,000.00 needed to carry on the Berean Bible School program in the 1963-64 year. The District Superintendents shall be advisory members of the committee.
Report of the Board of Directors of the Home: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee:
The Ministerial Candidate Committee met thirteen (13) times during the year to carry out its responsibilities. The committee had correspondence with a number of men throughout the year. Some of these were inquiries which did not develop any further; some were fruitful contacts which are still under care.
A probationer's license was granted to Bruce Ellingson, Glenn Huratiak and Harold C. Weaber. Two men were recommended for ordination examination; they were Norman R. Weiss and Daniel G. Ziegler.
The committee recommends recognition of the following men in their respective stages of development:
Probationers
LeRoy J. Bickel, Trenton, N.J. 1962
T. James Bigley, East Africa 1962
Leonard Buck, Union of South Africa 1958
M. Leslie Campbell, Walnutport, Pa 1961
Raymond Dotts, Allentown, Pa 1960
Bruce Ellingson, Finesville, N.J. 1963
John Herb, Stroudsburg, Pa 1962
Roy Hertzog, France 1959
Glenn Huratiak, Catawissa, Pa 1963
Donald Knauer, Macungie, Pa 1962
Ronald C. Mahurin, Denville, N.J. 1960
Robert McIntyre, Allentown, Pa 1958
Leon K. Overpeck, Paradise, Pa 1958
Robert Paul, Millersville, Pa 1962
Richard R. Ruth, Belvidere, N.J 1960
David J. Watkins, Binghamton, N.Y. 1962
Harold C. Weaber, Miller Heights, Pa 1963
Norman R. Weiss, Lancaster, Pa 1960
Daniel G. Ziegler, Lebanon, Pa 1960
Candidates
William A. Benedick, East Earl, Pa.
William L. Ernst, Lancaster, Pa.
Richard Gehman, Allentown, Pa.
David Manney, Shamokin, Pa.
Theodore R. Shelling, New York, N.Y.
Ronald Zuck, Quakertown, Pa.
Applicants
David Branning, St. Louis, Missouri
George F. Lee, Jr., Mt. Carmel, Pa.
Keith Montgomery, Allentown, Pa.
Donald Nilsson, Ft. Washington, Pa.
Harold Reynolds, State College, Pa.
George Riggall, Wallingford, Pa.
Austin B. Sullivan, Jr., Duryea, Pa.
Richard Woelkers, Scranton, Pa.
Larry Yerger, Reading, Pa.
David K. Lilley, Essington, Pa.
We would refer you to the recommendations presented last year by the committee in the 1962 year book on pg. 29ff. for its second reading.
COMMITTEE:
Carl C. Cassel, Chairman
Earl M. Hosler, Secretary
Jansen E. Hartman
William A. Heffner
A. L. Seifert
Report was adopted.
Resolved, That we recognize the above men in their respective stages of development.
Adjourned 8:20 p.m. with prayer by Reynold D. Gardner.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, October 15, 1963
The meeting opened with singing "He Is Coming Again" led by David E. Thomann. Bert N. Brosius sang, "Be Calm My Soul" as a solo and James A. Beil read Psalm 46 followed by Daniel G. Ziegler leading in prayer. John Dunn brought an encouraging message based on the writings of the Apostles Peter and Paul, relative to becoming "not weary in well doing in the Lord's work."
Resolved, That Carl Kellerman be excused in order to enable him to attend a funeral service.
The Chairman declared a recess at 9:40, to resume business at 11:00 a.m. Business was resumed.
Report of the Committee on the Examination of Local Conference Records.
We have examined all Local Conference Records and have found them to be correct except for a few omissions and minor errors which have been corrected by the Pastors concerned.
The following petitions were found in the last local conference minutes of the following churches:
The Calvary Bible Fellowship Church of Coopersburg, Pa.
The following petition to Annual Conference was passed:
"Whereas: the Calvary Bible Fellowship Church in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania now operates with a Unified Budget, and,
"Whereas: the Sunday School Treasurer, Steward and Building Fund Collector no longer function as originally designated, therefore,
"Be it resolved: that we, the congregation of the Calvary Bible Fellowship Church in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania, petition the 80th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church convening on October 14, 1963 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to permit the Calvary Bible Fellowship Church in Coopersburg to eliminate the following offices from our Annual Election of Officers: Sunday School Treasurer, Steward and Building Fund Collector."
The Salem Bible Fellowship Church of Lehighton, Pa.
"Whereas, we are aware of the fact that Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church is in the midst of writing the Articles for the Moral Standards of the church, and
"Whereas, the article on divorce which has passed one reading will be presented for second reading at this Annual Conference which then if passed will be the official standing and ruling of our denomination, and
"Whereas, this local congregation is aware of the fact that the former statement on divorce was interpreted differently by the various District Superintendents and pastors on the district, which led to many heartaches and problems which could have been, and should have been prevented, and
"Whereas, this local church is concerned about the problem of divorce, but it is also aware of the limitless grace of God which causes us to be in disagreement with the third paragraph of the article on divorce as it passed first reading, therefore
Resolved, that the congregation of the Salem Bible Fellowship Church of Lehighton, Pa. meeting at its 4th Quarterly Conference on August 21, 1963 petitioned the 80th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church convening at Bethlehem, Pa. on October 14, 1963, to present a clear statement on the issue of divorce. We suggest and request the following:
1. That consideration and study be given to present a uniform basis for determining who is the innocent party in a divorce, since the Lord certainly makes clear the exception and our article includes it.
2. That ways and means be established to enforce the standing of the church whatever it may be, so that the trend of the past which led to various and sundry interpretations of the divorce issue by different pastors and Dist. Superintendents may be eliminated.
3. That a study of the standards and qualifications for deacons and elders as presented in I Timothy and Titus be studied to determine whether or not the Scriptures really do prohibit what we are trying to prohibit in the article which has passed first reading, and if we do not have definite scriptural evidence for our stand, we would like to know the basis on which men, whether in the local assembly, or on the denominational level are able to prohibit that which God's word does not prohibit, or permit that which God's word does not permit.
4. That a study be made to determine the scriptural basis of denying the guilty party in a divorce the right of holding office in our church if they give evidence of repentance and divine forgiveness, also whether or not such can be used in any capacity within the church, such as teaching and etc.
Petitions to this Annual Conference are also found in the Local Conference minutes of the Berean B.F.C. of Denville, N.J. and the Paradise B.F.C. of Paradise, Pa. These petitions will be presented to this conference by the Church Extension Board.
Committee:
F. B. Hertzog Allen F. Smith
E. W. Bean Norman L. Reed
Donald B. Schaeffer Ralph H. Hendershot
James A. Beil Paul T. Rutman
Reynold D. Gardner Charles W. Weaber
Richard H. Kline A. W. Deppe
Stanley A. Hackman John I. Mengel
William R. Hunsberger Frank L. Herb
Report was adopted.
The Report of the Committee to Publish the Fellowship News: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Resolved, that there be three retreats in 1964. Each retreat is to begin with the Friday evening meal, 6:30 p.m., and end with the Sunday noon meal. College and Career Retreat to be held September 4-6. Senior High Retreat to be held September 11-13. Junior High Retreat to be held September 18-20.
Resolved, that each Youth Fellowship receive an offering for the work of the Youth Fellowship General Committee, and that this offering be forwarded to the treasurer of the Youth Fellowship General Committee by April 1, 1964.
Resolved, that the following changes be made in the Faith and Order relative to Youth Fellowship General Committee as stated on page 12 of the Faith and Order that the Youth Fellowship General Committee be composed of:
1. The District Superintendents (ex officio)
2. Four ordained ministers and five laymen.
Classes shall be formed as follows:
1. Two ministers - one layman
2. One minister - two laymen
3. One minister - two laymen
Each class shall be elected in turn annually by ballot by the Annual Conference for a term of three years.
The Editor and Circulation Manager of "Fellowship News" gave oral reports of progress made in promoting our Church paper.
The Chairman appointed the following tellers:
E. W. Bean, Earl M. Hosler, Ernest B. Hartman, John Dunn and David E. Thomann.
Adjourned with prayer at 12 o'clock by Paul T. Rutman.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, October 15, 1963
The meeting was opened with the chorus, "Wonderful Words of Life" and Harvey J. Fritz led in prayer.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That a probationer qualified for ordination examination is one who, in the judgment of the Ministerial Candidate Committee, has the qualifications of a Christian minister and has demonstrated during a probationary period his ability to exercise these gifts to the glory of God in the edification of believers and salvation of the lost; this probationary period shall be at least two years and shall be served in any of the ministries of the Bible Fellowship Church. (Second Reading)
After Second Reading the following was rejected:
Resolved, that when a man is ordained to the Christian ministry by the Bible Fellowship Church, he shall then become a voting member of the Annual Conference.
The Report of the Board of Mizpah Grove. (See Reports)
It was adopted.
Resolved, that Probationers whose names are listed on the availability list shall be sent a Faith and Order Questionnaire. (First Reading)
Resolved, that recommendations #2 and #3 of the report of the Committee on Credentials be referred back for further study.
Report of the Committee to Study Moral Standards:
The following Articles are presented for Second Reading:
MORAL STANDARDS
Article
MARRIAGE
Marriage is a sacred institution ordained of God and is an indissoluble union of one man and one woman until parted by death.1 Marriage, which is the foundation of the family and Christian home, should only be entered in the fear and in the will of God.2 Accordingly a believer should not be united in holy matrimony with an unbeliever.3
Ministers and parents have an obligation to teach the sanctity of marriage and to warn against believers being yoked with unbelievers. Ministers shall refrain from joining in marriage any believer with an unbeliever.
(1)Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6; I Corinthians 7:39. (2) 1 Corinthians 7:7. (3)II Corinthians 6:14-17.
Article
FAMILY
The Family is a divinely ordained institution in which the husband is the head, even as Christ is the head of the Church. Husbands are to love their wives, even as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for it. Wives are to submit themselves to their husbands as it is fit in the Lord.1 Obedience is to be rendered to parents by the children in the spirit of respect and love. The Family is the most important institution in which to nurture children in the faith, and great care is to be exercised by parents in building Christian homes.2
(1)Ephesians 5:22-25: Colossians 3:18, 19. (2) Ephesians 6:1-4.
Article
HARMFUL INDULGENCES
A. Alcoholic Drinks: The use of alcoholic drinks being the cause of incalculable misery in the world, the evil influences of which are enormous in their effects upon society at large, no member shall be permitted to make such drinks, to deal in them,1 or use them as a beverage.2 We recommend that all members of our denomination use their influence against this evil and practice total abstinence.3
(1)Habakkuk 2:15. (2) Ephesians 5:18. (3) Proverbs 20:1; 23:31, 32.
B. Tobacco: Seeing as we do the harmful effects of the use of tobacco, and since we as a church want to exert our influence against it, be it known that we consider the use of tobacco unbecoming and inconsistent with our Christian profession. No person using tobacco shall hold office or serve in a teaching capacity in any part of the church program.1
(1)I Corinthians 3:16, 17; 6:12.
C. Narcotics: Being aware of the subtle dangers of the use of narcotics in any form, we solemnly warn and admonish our people to have no part with the use of, or traffic in these drugs. Except for the legitimate use of drugs by competent physicians, our every influence should be exerted against this growing evil.1
(1)Romans 6:16.
The Report was adopted.
Whereas, we have before this Conference a second reading of our statement on divorce, and
Whereas, we have also a petition from the Salem Bible Fellowship Church, Lehighton, Pa., seeking clarification and further information relative to our stand on divorce; therefore,
Resolved, that we refer this article on divorce, and the petitions from the Salem Bible Fellowship Church of Lehighton, Pa., to a study Committee composed of five ordained ministers elected by this Conference which shall report to the next Annual Conference.
Resolved, that we refer the article on Secret Societies to a Study Committee composed of five ordained ministers elected by this Conference which shall report to the next Annual Conference.
Report of the Committee on Finance (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Report of the Board of Directors (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
Resolved, that we adjourn and suspend the rules to meet this evening at 6:30 p.m.
Adjourned with prayer by Ralph H. Hendershot.
Sixth Meeting
Tuesday Evening, October 15, 1963
The meeting was opened with singing the hymn, "He Keeps Me Singing" and Russell T. Allen led in prayer.
The minutes of the afternoon meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That the annuities paid to retired ministers be raised from $24.00 for each year of active service to $28.00 for each year of active service payable in monthly installments. (See 1962 Yearbook, page 12) Annuities to widows of ministers shall be compiled at the rate of $14.00 for each year instead of the current rate of $12.00 (See 1962 Yearbook, page 13)
Whereas, That annuities paid by the Ministers' Retirement Fund are low when compared with the cost of living, and
Whereas, That the Ministers' Retirement Fund seems capable of sustaining the authorized increase in annuity payments, therefore be it
Resolved, That under our "Rule of Exceptions" the approved increase in annuities paid by the Ministers' Retirement Fund shall become effective immediately.
Report of the Board of Mizpah Grove:
(Second Reading)
Purpose of Mizpah Grove Board
1. To correlate the Camp Program in its entirety.
2. To study various methods and profit from the experience of others in similar activities.
3. To stabilize and promote the operation of the camp.
4. To develop a long range program.
Organization of the Board
1. The Board of Mizpah Grove shall be composed of the two District Superintendents, four pastors and three laymen.
Classes shall be formed as follows:
1. Two Pastors, 2 Laymen
2. Two Pastors, I Layman
Each class in turn shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference for a term of two years.
2. The Board shall elect annually by and from its membership a Chairman & Secretary.
3. The Chairman shall be the administrative officer of the Board.
4. The Secretary shall carry on all the correspondence of the Board.
He shall record the minutes of its meetings and keep all records of the Board.
He shall pay all bills incurred by the Board's business. The checks shall bear signatures of the Chairman, Secretary and the Conference Treasurer.
5. The Board shall facilitate its business by dividing into committees as its work dictates.
6. Committee divisions shall be made at the suggestion of the Chairman and the approval of the Board.
7. Suggested Committees-1. Program and Staff recruiting
2. Building and Grounds
3. Finance
4. Promotion and Printing
5. Cafeteria and Food Service
6. Camp erection and breakup.
7. .....
8. Committees may be staffed by men chosen outside the Board.
9. Committees shall be composed of a minimum of two board members and as many additional members as desirable.
10. All Committees shall carry out duties numbered ---------
In addition ...
Committees listed above responsible for duties numbered ------------
11. Each Committee shall carry out all routine business at its discretion. All new business shall be brought to the Board for approval prior to action.
Duties of Mizpah Grove Board
1. To formulate objectives for the camp.
2. To develop the camp site and maintain the equipment.
3. To formulate and maintain camp standards.
4. To plan and formulate the camp program.
5. To determine which churches shall comprise each camp meeting.
6. To secure and train the camp staff.
7. To secure the necessary help for the erection-breakup & maintenance of camp.
8. To provide a continuity from year to year.
9. To be responsible for the business and finances of the camp.
10. To promote the camp to our people and public.
11. To be responsible for the cafeteria, food service and store.
12. To be responsible for the literature cottage.
13. To evaluate the camp and its program.
14. To submit a report to Annual Conference.
Duties of the Camp Meeting Committees
1. Each committee shall elect the following officers: Chairman, Secretary, Financial Secretary.
2. All bills of the Camp Meeting expenses shall be submitted to the secretary in an itemized form giving date of all expenses. A voucher system shall be used. The Chairman shall approve the bills submitted by the Secretary to the Financial Secretary.
3. The Secretary shall record all receipts and expenditures in a book provided by the Board. He shall also compile a summary of receipts and expenses to be submitted to the Board of Mizpah Grove.
4. The Financial Secretary shall record all receipts and expenditures in a book provided by the Board. He shall maintain a bank depository as designated by the Board of Mizpah Grove.
5. The balances for each Camp Meeting shall be turned over to the Board of Mizpah Grove.
The Report was adopted.
Resolved, That the Board of Directors and the Board of Mizpah Grove Camp Meeting shall meet during the Conference to determine what is meant by the balance of the Camp Meeting Funds.
Resolved, That the Board of Mizpah Grove be responsible for the maintenance of the grounds and equipment of Mizpah Grove after this Annual Conference. (Second Reading).
Resolved, That the following paragraphs found in the Year Book be deleted..... 3, 4, 5, 6 on page nine .... paragraphs on Camp Meetings on pages 13 & 14 .... paragraphs S and T on page 16. (Second Reading).
Resolved, That the words, "Board of Mizpah Grove" be added to the lists of Boards and Committees on page 7 .... and to the Standing Committees on page 6. (Second Reading).
Resolved, That two Camp Meetings be held at Mizpah Grove in 1964:
First Camp-Allentown District-June 27 thru July 5
Second Camp-Bethlehem District-July 11 thru July 19
Resolved, That one ($1.00) dollar registration fee per tent accompany each order, not refundable, to be deposited by the Registrar of each respective Camp Meeting Committee.
Resolved, That the Rental of tents shall be nine ($9.00) dollars each per camp meeting in addition to the registration fee to be paid to the Pastors before Camp Meeting. The Pastor shall pay tent rents to the officer of the respective committee no later than Tuesday of the camp involved, together with the lists of names and numbers of tents.
Resolved, That all tent orders be properly filled in and signed by the persons placing the tent order and sent to the Secretary of the Board of Mizpah Grove, Registrar (Robert W. Smock), no later than June 10, 1964.
Resolved, That we discontinue the practice of receiving offerings for Berean Bible School, District Superintendents and Committee at our Camp Meetings.
Adjourned 8:40 p.m. with prayer by F. B. Hertzog.
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday Morning and Afternoon, October 16, 1963
The meeting was opened with the singing of "Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart" and a quartet of pastors sang, "Hallelujah, What A Saviour". John E. Golla led in the responsive reading of II Timothy 2 after which Robert F. Johnson led us to the throne of grace in prayer. The theme of Robert W. Smock's challenging address was "Exemplary Leadership", dealing with the matter of personal soul-winning.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Delegates Kermit K. Gehman, Charles G. Hersh and Ralph Hendershot requested to be excused from several meetings of the Conference.
Resolved, That they be excused.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and recess to the call of the Chair.
Recessed at 9:50 a.m.
Business was resumed at 4:05 p.m.
Report of the Stationing, Boundary and Appropriating Committee: (See Reports)
Report was adopted.
Resolved, That should the Fourth Local Conference be scheduled after the date established for the taking of the pastoral poll, all business pertaining to pulpit supply shall be conducted by the Official Board elect. (First Reading) (This resolution shall be added at the proper time to the FAITH AND ORDER, page 17, paragraph #2)
Resolved, That each Church establish its own minimum support that it will pay its pastor. This action shall be by the Official Board at a meeting held no later than November 1. Report of this action shall be made to the local congregation not later than November 15. (Second Reading)
The following were elected:
Study Committee on the Problem of Divorce: T. D. Gehret, A. L. Seifert, Bert N. Brosius, Jansen E. Hartman and Donald T. Kirkwood.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet tonight at 6:30 o'clock.
Adjourned with prayer by Norman L. Reed.
Eighth Meeting
Wednesday Evening, October 16, 1963
The meeting was opened with the singing of "When We All Get to Heaven" and Allan F. Smith led in prayer.
The minutes of the morning and afternoon meetings were read and approved.
Report of the Committee on Statistics: (See Reports)
The Report was adopted.
The following were elected:
Committee to study the Problem of Secret Societies: Earl M. Hosler, Frank L. Herb, A. L. Seifert, John H. Riggall, William A. Heffner.
Report of Government Committee (Second Reading)
COMMITTEE ON EVANGELISM AND SPIRITUAL LIFE - (An Official Board Committee)
General Duty
It shall endeavor to ascertain the spiritual needs of the local church and make suggestions and recommendations to the Official Board that will promote an evangelistic emphasis and the deepening and strengthening of the spiritual life of the church.
Specific Duties
1. It shall plan with the Pastor special evangelistic efforts and deeper life conferences.
2. It shall develop a program of prayer ministry prior to and in conjunction with all special endeavors under its jurisdiction.
3. It shall endeavor with the Pastor to institute classes for new converts, visitation campaigns in conjunction with evangelistic efforts and means of reaching and holding those who have been contacted for Christ.
4. It shall endeavor through the Church to promote an active and intensive tract distribution ministry.
5. It shall provide for the entertainment of all evangelists and conference speakers whom it secures for services in the Church.
6. It shall recommend to the Official Board adequate means and methods to publicize its ministries.
Note: Due to the special nature of this Committee's work, serious consideration should be given to appointing the Official Board as this Committee.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BEREAN BIBLE SCHOOL
1. The Board of Directors of Berean Bible School shall be composed of:
a. The District Superintendents
b. Four ordained ministers
c. Seven laymen
2. Election:
a. The following classes shall be formed:
I. Two ministers - two laymen
II. One minister - three laymen
III. One minister - two laymen
b. Each class in turn shall be elected annually by ballot by the Annual Conference for a term of three years.
Duties - 1. The Board of Directors of Berean Bible School shall be responsible for the Doctrines and Practices of the Berean Bible School, shall safeguard the doctrines of the Bible as set forth in the FAITH & ORDER and shall enforce the regulations of the Annual Conference.
2. It shall be responsible for the provision of facilities for the School.
3. It shall be responsible for the execution of all legal transactions relating to the School.
4. It shall be responsible for all funds received as provided by the Annual Conference.
5. It shall elect the President of the School and define his duties.
6. It shall approve all appointments of teachers, administration officers, and major employees upon the recommendation of the President and Faculty Committee.
7. It shall give a full report of all activities of the School and present a prospective budget to the Annual Conference each year.
8. It shall divide the responsibilities by choosing committees from among its own members, and sub-committees from among non-members of the Board.