EIGHTY-SIXTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
1969
The 86th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church opened at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel at Pinebrook on October 13,1969.
Devotional leader Keith E. Plows led the Conference in singing, "O For a Thousand Tongues". After the reading of Exodus 12:1-14, 21-27, C. E. Kirkwood led in prayer.
The hymn, "Nothing But the Blood of Jesus" was sung.
Chairman A. L. Seifert gave a Communion Meditation concerning "The Finished Work of Christ."
John H. Riggall, Horace A. Kauffman, R. C. Reichenbach, Daniel G. Ziegler and Paul H. Cressman assisted in the Communion Service.
"And when they had sung a hymn" - "Amazing Grace", the Communion Service closed.
The following members answered to the roll call:
ORDAINED MINISTERS: E. W. Bean, James A. Beil, Bert N. Brosius, M. Leslie Campbell, Carl C. Cassel, Willard E. Cassel, Raymond R. Dotts, John Dunn, Bruce A. Ellingson, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. , Jansen E. Hartman, W. W. Hartman, LeRoy S. Heller, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, John H. Herb, Robert F. Johnson, C. E. Kirkwood, Donald T. Kirkwood, Donald R. Knauer, James G. Koch, Paul B. Kuder, Leon K. Overpeck, Keith E. Plows, R. C. Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A. L. Seifert, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins, Harold C. Weaber, Daniel G. Ziegler, T. D. Gehret, P. T. Stengele.
PROBATIONERS: Brian Butler, Terris Byrd, Arthur H. Frable, William M. Franklin, William W. Mull, Mark T. Smith, Carl K. Spackman, LeRoy C. Wilcox.
DELEGATES:
Allentown, (Bethel) John L. Deily
Allentown, (Cedar Crest) R. Paul Schaeffer
Allentown, (Salem) Allan C. Palmer
Bethlehem Paul H. Cressman
Blandon John I. Mengel
Catasauqua Arthur W. Deppe
Coopersburg Arthur Mack
Denville, N. J. George Harper
Easton Leonard F. Kessler
Ephrata Robert W. Gehret
Emmaus Paul I. Wentz
Fleetwood Norman L. Reed
Graterford Edward A. Stortz
Harleysville H. Phares Mumbauer
Harrisburg Walter A. Schlagel
Hatfield Clyde W. Snyder
Lancaster Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon Frank L. Herb, Sr.
Lehighton Willard Blocker
Maple Glen. Byron C. Cassel
Mount Carmel Roy E. Williams
Nazareth Norman W. Granda
Paradise E. Gerald Hershey
Philadelphia (Calvary) Leon H. Naudasher
Philadelphia (Emmanuel) Edward J. Dietzman
Quakertown Harold P. Shelly
Reading Robert Breitegam
Royersford William R. Hunsberger
Scranton Franklin Mead
Shamokin T. Lamarn Manney
Sinking Spring Paul W. Sensenig
Spring City John F. Boyle
Staten Island, N.Y. Roger S. Bowne
Stroudsburg Oscar Barry
Sunbury Allan F. Smith
Terre Hill J. R. Weber (Absent)
Wallingford Robert W. Truett (Absent)
York Sterling E. Baer
Zionsville Bright N. Heist
The following members were absent: William A. Heffner, Ronald C. Mahurin, Paul E. Baer, W. F. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, E. J. Rutman, N. H. Wolf, Robert E. Salzman, Paul G. Zimmerman, W. B. Hottel, Reynold D. Gardner, Sr. , J. R. Weber and Robert W. Truett.
Communications relative to absence were received from William A. Heffner, F. B. Hertzog, Ronald C. Mahurin, Robert E. Salzman, N. H Wolf, Paul G. Zimmerman, Alva C. Cassel, J. R. Weber, Robert W. Truett and Paul E. Baer.
Resolved, That the written and oral excuses be accepted.
Whereas, various members of the Conference have asked to be excused from certain meetings, therefore,
Resolved, That these requests be honored.
Oscar Barry, new Delegate from Stroudsburg, was introduced to the Conference.
Resolved, That alternate Delegate Robert Weaver from Terre Hill be seated as delegate.
Secretary James A. Beil appointed Willard E. Cassel as Assistant Secretary and Robert W. Smock as Recording Secretary.
Resolved, That the first nine rows of seats be the Conference Bar.
Resolved, That no one be permitted to leave the Conference Bar without permission of the Chairman except Mark T. Smith.
REPORT OF THE PROGRAM COMMITTEE (See page 29)
The report was accepted.
The Agenda was presented.
The Chairman appointed the following Committees:
Committee on Auditing: Horace A. Kauffman, Roger S. Bowne, William R. Hunsberger, Donald R. Knauer, Leon H. Naudasher, Norman L. Reed, R. Paul Schaeffer.
Committee on Communications: William A. Heffner, Bert N. Brosius, Bruce A. Ellingson, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., John H. Riggall.
Committee on Examination of Local Conference Minutes: E. W. Bean, Oscar Barry, John F. Boyle, Robert Breitegam, Brian Butler, John L. Deily, Arthur W. Deppe, Arthur H. Frable, William B. Franklin, Norman W. Granda, George Harper, W. W. Hartman, Bright N. Heist, Frank L. Herb, Jr., John H. Herb, E. Gerald Hershey, Leonard F. Kessler, Paul B. Kuder, Arthur Mack, Franklin Mead, John I. Mengel, William W. Mull, H. Phares Mumbauer, Leon K. Overpeck, Allan C. Palmer, Walter A. Schlagel, Allan F. Smith, Mark T. Smith, Clyde W. Snyder, Carl K. Spackman, Edward A. Stortz, Robert W. Truett, Harold C. Weaber, J. R. Weber, LeRoy C. Wilcox, Paul G. Zimmerman.
Committee on Finance: Paul I. Wentz, Byron C. Cassel, Paul H. Cressman, Robert W. Gehret, Roy E. Williams.
Committee on Resolutions: C. E. Kirkwood, Carl C. Cassel, Jansen E. Hartman, R. C. Reichenbach.
Reporter: Keith E. Plows
Tellers: James G. Koch, George E. Herb, Robert F. Johnson, Ronald C. Mahurin, David J. Watkins.
Timekeeper: M. Leslie Campbell
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS (Seepage 29)
The report was accepted.
Whereas, After prayerful deliberation, Norman R. Weiss has requested that we accept his resignation from active ministry in the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore,
Resolved, That we regretfully accept his resignation and drop his name from our roll of ministers. We pray that he may have divine direction for his future service to God.
Whereas, The Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended that the Ordination Credentials of Brian Butler and William W. Mull be recognized by the Bible Fellowship Church, and Whereas, These men have had fruitful years of ministry prior to their service in the Bible Fellowship Church and have served acceptably as probationers in the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, The Credentials Committee, after an examination of these men, believe that they are called of God to the Gospel Ministry and that they are in accord with the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore,
Resolved, That the Ordination of Brian Butler and William W. Mull be recognized at a meeting of the 86th Annual Conference.
Resolved, That the request of Raymond R. Dotts for "inactive status" be granted and that his name be listed as an Ordained Minister on Leave of Absence.
Resolved, That the Chairman appoint a man to prepare a suitable obituary for E. E. Kublic and J. B. Layne to appear in the 1969 Year Book.
The Chairman appointed T. D. Gehret.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS (See page 32 )
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the following be added to the end of the first paragraph on standing rules on page 10 of the mimeographed Faith and Order concerning the election of conference boards and committees. "All retired ministers willing to serve are eligible for election to boards and committees" (Second Reading)
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 3: 00 P.M.
Adjourned at 11:40 a.m. with prayer by Robert F. Johnson.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, October 13, 1969
Clyde W. Snyder led in prayer.
REPORT OF THE YOUTH FELLOWSHIP GENERAL COMMITTEE: (See page 32 ).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the Youth Fellowship of each Bible Fellowship Church submit an offering for the work of the Youth Fellowship General Committee, and that this offering be payable to the Treasurer of the Youth Fellowship General Committee at the Adjourned Session of this Conference.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATION AND PRINTING (See page 35).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE TREASURER (See page 36)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL PROMOTION COMMITTEE (See page 106 ).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That every Bible Fellowship Sunday School make a contribution for denominational Sunday School promotion. This contribution should be mailed to the Financial Secretary of the Committee before April 1, 1970.
Resolved, That we approve "Let's Get Acquainted" to be printed and made available to our Sunday Schools.
LET'S GET ACQUAINTED
Welcome to our Sunday School! We say "our" because we hope that you will consider making the Bible Fellowship Sunday School "Your" Sunday School. We feel certain that you will enjoy yourself in our Sunday School with its classes for all ages and its emphasis on the study of the Word of God.
You may have already noted the denominational emblem on the front cover. Note the emphasis on the Bible and the Cross! We of the Bible Fellowship Sunday School require that our teachers center their studies on the Word of God and seek to bring each member to a personal knowledge of Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord. Note also the joined hands on the emblem. We call ourselves the Bible FELLOWSHIP Church because we believe there is a true fellowship among born-again believers. In fact, if you have not been made to feel "at home", kindly pass the word on to the pastor of our church. We consider it essential that all visitors feel like they are a part of us right from the start!
Our objectives are threefold:
1. The salvation of people through the clear teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ crucified and risen again, not taking the salvation of anyone for granted, is the primary objective of every teacher and officer.
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life.
2. The thorough teaching of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation to every member. We believe the Bible to be the inspired and infallible Word of God, the supreme and final authority for faith and conduct.
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." II Timothy 2:13
3. The training of every believer to bear a personal testimony, encouraging him to yield his life for whatever purpose God may have for him.
“Ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." Acts 1:8
Also of interest to you is the fact that our local Bible Fellowship Sunday School is one of approximately 45 schools located throughout Eastern Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. As a denomination, we support over 50 missionaries, underwrite a Junior College, and maintain a home for the aging. A summer Bib1e Conference program and a camp for children and young people are also conducted.
YOUR RESPONSE
We hope you will want to study the Word of God with us through our Sunday School. We invite you to take advantage of our program. The decision is yours. Why not attend regularly each Sunday?
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION (See page 39)
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE (See page 41)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the following men be recognized in their respective stages of development.
Probationers:
Donald Barnhart, Miller Heights, Pa. 1968
David Branning, Walnutport, Pa. 1967
Leonard Buck, Republic of South Africa 1958
Terris Byrd, Sinking Spring, Pa. 1969
Arthur H. Frable, Lehighton, Pa. 1969
William M. Franklin, Maple Glen, Pa,. 1969
Richard Gehman, Kenya, East Africa 1964
Robert Salzman, Cedar Crest, Allentown, Pa. 1969
Theodore Shelling, Baltimore, Md. 1966
Mark T. Smith, Stroudsburg, Pa. 1967
Carl K. Spackman, Mt. Carmel, Pa. 1969
LeRoy C. Wilcox, Scranton, Pa. 1968
Paul G. Zimmerman, Philadelphia, Pa. 1966
Candidates:
David Manney, Ecuador
Robert Marshall, Allentown, Pa.
Robert Minnig, Philadelphia, Pa.
Applicants:
Timothy Baker, York, Pa.
William Bartron, Stroudsburg, Pa.
Douglas Bowne, Staten Island, Pa.
Timothy Campbell, Bethlehem, Pa.
William Duane, Denville, N.J.
Larry Gradwohl, Nazareth, Pa.
Gary Hoffrnan, Catasauqua, Pa.
Gregory Kletzing, Salfordville, Pa.
Charles Kramer, Spring City, Pa.
George Lee, Venezuela
Rodney Long, Elysburg, Pa.
Roger Reitz, Shamokin, Pa.
Jonathan Reynolds, Thompkinsville, Pa.
Harold Snyder, East Stroudsburg, Pa.
Keith Stickler, Bethlehem, Pa.
Richard Taylor, Graterford, Pa.
David A. Thomann, Harleysville, Pa.
John Vandegriff, Jr. , Boonton, N. J.
Dana Weller, Aristes, Pa.
Clyde Whary, Elysburg, Pa.
Larry Yerger, Detroit, Michigan
Oral reports by the Editor and Business Manager of the FELLOWSHIP NEWS were given.
Robert Minnig and Robert Marshall, Candidates under the Ministerial Candidate Committee, addressed the Conference.
The following was elected:
Treasurer: Byron C. Cassel
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 P.M.
Adjourned at 5:15 p.m. with prayer by John F. Boyle
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, October 13, 1969
Roger S. Bowne led in prayer.
The following were elected:
Committee on Credentials: Frank L. Herb, Jr., James G. Koch, John H. Riggall, Keith E. Plows.
The minutes of the morning and afternoon meetings were read and approved as corrected.
REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE SUPERINTENDENT (See page 102)
REPORT OF THE INTERIM DIRECTOR OF CHURCH EXTENSION ( See page 44 ).
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF PINEBROOK JR. COLLEGE (See page 52).
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See page 54)
The above reports were accepted.
The following articles from the Committee to Coordinate Legislation Proposed By the Board of Church Extension were adopted for Second Reading:
I. Any congregation meeting the standards of Article XVIII of the Faith and Order is a member of the Annual Conference and shall be known as a church.
II. Any congregation which has a relationship to the Bible Fellowship Church but has not yet met the standards for recognition as a church shall be called a mission.*
*The term "mission" is used in a technical sense, but this does not preclude the use of the term "church" in any of the congregation's public relations activities.
III. When in the opinion of the Board of Church Extension, a mission has attained to the standards set forth in Article XVIII, the Board shall recommend to Annual Conference that this mission be recognized as a church and that it be admitted to the membership of Annual Conference. This recognition will be by a majority vote of Annual Conference.
Resolved, That all funds for Church Extension be forwarded to he Secretary of the Board of Church Extension.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO PUBLISH FELLOWSHIP NEWS (See page 42 ).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the month of January be designated as subscription month and each pastor be urged to encourage subscriptions among the families of his congregation.
Resolved, That donations be given from the following boards an committees:
Board of Foreign Missions $50.00
Board of Church Extension 50.00
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Jr. College 50.00
Sunday School Promotion Committee 50.00
Committee on Publication and Printing 800.00
Checks should be made payable to FELLOWSHIP NEWS and sent to the Treasurer no later than February 1, 1970.
Resolved, That the Committee to Print the Year Book, Committee to Publish FELLOWSHIP NEWS, Committee on Publication and Printing be combined to be called the Board of Publication and Printing, and, further,
Resolved, That each of these committees elect two from its membership, forming a sub-committee to prepare the necessary material for implementing this change.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JR. COLLEGE (See page 70).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That each church be encouraged to support Pinebrook Junior College at a level of 4 % of its annual offerings and that this support be remitted to the college in twelve monthly payments.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME (See page 75).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY CAMP (See page 78).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That each church make a contribution to Victory Valley Camp. The anticipated budget of the camp indicates need for contribution from the church of approximately 1% of each church's total offerings. Checks should be made payable to Victory Valley Camp and sent to the Secretary of the Board before March 1, 1970.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS (See page 59).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That all funds for Foreign Missions be forwarded quarterly to the General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 8:48 p.m. with prayer by Jansen E. Hartman.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, October 14, 1969
Devotional leader Keith E. Plows led the Conference in the singing of "Love Divine".
Acts 2:37 - 47 was read. "My Jesus I Love Thee" was sung after which Clyde W. Snyder led us in prayer.
Paul B. Kuder spoke from Philippians concerning the "Fellowship of Believers".
The minutes were read and approved as corrected.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Candidate Committee: James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, Robert F. Johnson, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins.
The material presented for first reading by the Committee to Study Church Government was considered.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and extend the time.
Resolved, That the Government Committee conduct open meetings this week to allow any delegate or pastor who desires to express his concerns on the issue of demanding subscription to the Faith and Order by elders, and, further,
Resolved, That the Government Committee shall consider these expressions and bring to this body this week a proposal which shall help us hold a proper standard of faith with graciousness in our present transition.
Resolved, That the Interim Director of Church Extension be a member of the Board of Church Extension by virtue of his appointment.
Resolved, That we adjourn to meet at 2:00 p.m.
Adjourned at 12:25 p.m.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, October 14, 1969
John H. Herb led in prayer.
The minutes of the morning meeting were read and approved as corrected.
The following were elected.
General Secretary Board of Foreign Missions: T. D. Gehret
Board of Foreign Missions: Brian Butler, John Dunn, David E. Thomann, Robert Breitegam, James R. Cressman, Kermit K. Gehman, Roy E, Williams.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules
J. Barclay Harley, missionary to Venezuela, Laird F. Stengele, missionary to India (both supported by the Bible Fellowship Church) and Frank Fendler, Christian Education Director of the Wallingford Church addressed the Conference.
Whereas, Spring City has petitioned for permission to conduct one congregational meeting per year, and,
Whereas, This petition was referred to the Government Committee see page 14, Year Book, 1968) and,
Whereas, Upon consideration by the Government Committee, the conducting of one congregational meeting per year has merit, therefore,
Resolved, That ARTICLE VIII be revised as follows:
"Because they are 'undershepherds' and not 'lords' the elders shall rule the congregation according to the direction of Christ, the Chief Shepherd, as expressed in the Scriptures; and the needs of the membership. They shall conduct at least one congregational meeting per year to report the status of the work of the congregation; and when they deem advisable, present recommendations to the congregation. The congregation shall have the power to accept, to suggest changes or to reject such recommendations. " (First Reading)
We consider this to be the answer to the Spring City petition.
Resolved, That we vote on the second reading of the resolution regarding the office of District Superintendent; then vote on the proposed transitional legislation and the second reading of the proposed form of government.
Resolved, That we adjourn to meet at 6:30 p.m.
Adjourned at 3:35 p.m. with prayer by James G. Koch.
Sixth Meeting
Tuesday Evening, October 14, 1969
Laird F. Stengele led in prayer.
James R. Cressman, Financial Secretary of Board of Directors, addressed the Conference.
The minutes were read and approved as corrected.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE LOCAL CONFERENCE MINUTES (See page 86).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the petition from the Stroudsburg Church be granted and their delegate be seated on the Stationing Committee.
Resolved, That the petition from the Zionsville Church be granted and their delegate be seated on the Stationing Committee.
Resolved, That the figure of $500 in number 4 under "Trustees" in our Faith and Order be changed to $1,000. (First Reading)
The following were elected:
Board of Church Extension: (3 years) Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. (2 years) James G. Koch, (1 year) Bert N. Brosius, (3 years) John Deily, (2 years) Clyde W. Snyder, (1 year) Clayton Weber.
Resolved, That at 11:00 a. m., October 16, 1969, the Annual Conference go into a session as a committee of the whole with the Credentials Committee leading a discussion on matters related to our unity.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 8:25 p. m. with prayer by T. D. Gehret
Seventh Meeting
Wednesday Morning, October 15, 1969
"And Can It Be" was the opening hymn. Leon H. Naudasher led in prayer.
The Scripture portion from I Corinthians 15:1-8 and 5l-58 was read. The Conference sang,"Full Reward".
Leon K. Overpeck spoke from II Timothy four concerning "Encouragement in the Times of Discouragement".
The minutes were read and approved as presented.
The following were elected:
Board of Victory Valley: Carl C. Cassel, Donald R. Knauer, Ronald C. Mahurin, Bright N. Heist, Harry Bailey, Paul I. Wentz, Jr.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH (See page 87).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 1:3 P.M.
Adjourned at 10: 06 with prayer by Mark T. Smith
Eighth Meeting
Wednesday Afternoon, October 15, 1969
LeRoy C. Wilcox led in prayer.
The minutes were read and approved as read.
The following were elected:
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church: Carl C. Cassel, Jansen E. Hartman, Frank L. Herb, Jr. John H. Riggall, Byron C. Cassel, James R. Cressman, Paul I. Wentz, Horace A. Kauffman.
Norman Fox, Instructor at Pinebrook, Jr. College, addressed the Conference.
REPORT OF THE STATIONING COMMITTEE. (See page 108)
The report was accepted.
IV. Any Church which desires financial aid from the Conference shall make written application to the Board of Church Extension on forms provided by that Board.
V. Financial aid to Churches shall be made by the Board of Church Extension upon approval of the required application.
VI. All Churches which receive financial aid from the Board of Church Extension shall be under the jurisdiction of the Church Extension Department. The Board of Church Extension and the Director may counsel and advise the Churches under their jurisdiction in matters of pastoral relations and pulpit supply.
VIII. The Board of Church Extension shall participate in Annual Conference Pulpit Supply procedures on behalf of the missions under its jurisdiction to supply pastors for them. It shall seek to call a pastor for each of these missions, according to the By-laws of the Bible Fellowship Church which govern Pulpit Supply in which the Board of Church Extension shall function in lieu of the Official Board.
IX. For procurement of pastors to open new missions, the Board of Church Extension shall be permitted to call available men. If a pastor accepts such a call he shall notify the Credentials Committee of his acceptance not later than September 1 and reference to his commitment be included on the Availability List. The Board of Church Extension shall confirm to the Credentials Committee his commitment not later than September 1.
The above five articles from the Committee to Coordinate Legislation Prepared by the Board of Church Extension passed for Second Reading.
The following were elected:
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home: James A. Bell, A. L. Seifert, Paul I. Wentz.
VII. The Availability list shall include the names of all men who indicate a willingness to pastor a Bible Fellowship Church who are ordained or who are probationers. The Ministerial Candidate Committee shall inform the Credentials Committee of probationers who are willing to pastor a Bible Fellowship Church. (First Reading)
The above article was originally submitted by the Committee to Coordinate Legislation prepared by the Board of Church Extension in the 1968 report and is found on page 106, 1968 Yearbook.
Resolved, That we adjourn to meet at 7:00 p.m.
Adjourned at 5:35 p. m. with prayer by Walter A. Schlagel.
Ninth Meeting
Wednesday Evening, October 14, 1969
Donald T. Kirkwood led in prayer.
The minutes were read and approved as corrected.
REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE (See page 110)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the Archivist be appointed by the Chairman of Annual Conference and that his term of office be indefinite.
Harold Snyder was appointed.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE (See page 143).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY THE POSSIBILITY OF MOVING ANNUAL CONFERENCE TO SPRING (See page 111).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE THE MINUTES OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE (See page 111).
The report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO PREPARE THE YEAR BOOK (See page 111).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the reports of the Conference Superintendent, the President of Pinebrook Junior College, the General Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions and the Director of Church Extension be in the hands of the individual assigned to type copy for the Yearbook no later than October 1 of each year.
Resolved, That the minutes of the Wednesday Evening Meeting, October 16, 1968 be opened and that the word "One" be changed to read "Two" as found on page 17 under the subject "2 Elections"; A. Classes." (laymen)
REPORT OF THE DELEGATES TO THE U.S. CONGRESS ON EVANGELISM (Abridged, see page 112).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That the request of Robert W. Gehret to be excused from the Thursday morning meeting be granted.
A brief, but searching period was spent in prayer for peace in the world and our nation, for guidance for our leaders and for a genuine burden for evangelism.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:30 p.m. with prayer by John H. Riggall.
Tenth Meeting
Thursday Morning, October 16, 1969
The meeting was opened with the singing of "The Solid Rock".
T. Lamarn Manney led in prayer.
Scripture II Timothy 1:8-14 was read and the hymn "Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone" was sung.
Robert F. Johnson spoke from II Timothy 1-11, 12 concerning "Appointment", "Persuasion" and "Commitment".
The Ordination Credentials of Brian Butler and William W. Mull were recognized.
Resolved, That the Conference do now resolve itself into a committee of the whole to take under consideration the matters related to our unity.
Resolved, That we arise and report.
Reported at 3:15 p.m.
Moses Chow, Director of Ambassadors for Christ addressed the Conference.
The minutes of the ninth meeting were read and approved.
Resolved, That a brief summary of the Report of the Delegates to the U. S. Congress on Evangelism be included in the reports in the Yearbook, and, further,
Resolved, That the unabridged Report of the Delegates to the U. S. Congress on Evangelism be mimeographed and copies be given to pastors and conference delegates as they deem useful for their
individual churches.
Resolved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet to 6:30 p. m.
Adjourned at 3:32 p.m. with prayer by Paul Sensenig.
Eleventh Meeting
Thursday Evening, October 16, 1969
F. B. Hertzog led in prayer.
The minutes of the tenth meeting were read and approved as read.
Sterling Baker, Missionary to Kenya, (Supported by the Bible Fellowship Church) addressed the Conference.
Whereas, We have been advised that there are other evangelical groups who are planning for simultaneous Evangelism Thrust in 1973, therefore,
Resolved, That we too plan an Evangelism Thrust in 1973 and further,
Resolved, That we seek the Lord for His help that the Bible Fellowship Church become increasingly concerned and zealous in evangelism between now and 1973, and, further,
Resolved, That we commission the Board of Church Extension to develop specific plans and goals for our Evangelism Thrust in 1973 and for such efforts prior to that year, by which we may be increasingly effective in our evangelistic task and by which we might be prepared for the full impact of our 1973 Evangelism Thrust.
REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE II (See page 114).
The report was accepted.
Resolved, That we recess to the call of the chair.
Recessed at 7:08 p.m.
Reconvened at 7:32 p.m.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO REVISE PRESENT PULPIT SUPPLY (See page,114).
The report was accepted.
The problem of Pulpit Supply was discussed.
Resolved, That we adjourn.
Adjourned at 9:16 p.m. with prayer by James A. Beil.
Twelfth Meeting
Friday Morning, October 17, 1969
Conference sang, "Coming Again".
Scripture Philippians 2:1-11 was read and John Deily led in prayer. "So Send I You" was sung.
George E. Herb spoke from Matthew 18:1-9 concerning "Kingdom Greatness".
The minutes were read and approved as read.
The following were elected:
Sunday School Promotion Committee: Leon K. Overpeck, John F. Boyle, Robert W. Truett.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (II) (See pg 119)
The report was accepted.
Church Extension Director
Election-
(1) The Church Extension Director shall be an ordained minister of the Bible Fellowship Church.
(2) He shall be elected by the Board of Church Extension, subject to ratification by the Annual Conference at an April Adjourned Session, for a three-year term to begin when incumbent has submitted his report at the next Annual Conference.
(3) The Director may, at the discretion of the Board of Church Extension on the basis of the demands of the office at the particular time, serve either full-time or part-time in the office.
Duties - His duties shall include the following:
(1) He shall, by virtue of his office, be a member of the Board of Church Extension.
(2) In the performance of his duties he is in all matters to be working within the policies of the Board of Church Extension. He shall be the executive and administrative officer of the Board. This shall include supervision of churches, missions and ministers under the Board's jurisdiction.
(3) He shall be responsible for devising strategy and tactics for church planting and development.
(4) He shall make studies and surveys to determine likely areas for locations of new missions.
(5) He shall be responsible for the disbursement of funds allotted to him by the Board of Church Extension.
(6) He shall submit a written report of his activities to the Board of Church Extension at least quarterly.
(7) He shall annually submit a written report to the Annual Conference.
(8) He may personally open missions in new locations.
(9) He may serve as the pastor of a church or mission which is under the jurisdiction of the Board of Church Extension.
(10) He may provide counsel, help and training in principles and methods of church planting and development for men who are working in the Department of Church Extension.
(11) He may actively promote the program of Church Extension throughout the denomination.
The above section on the Director of Church Extension was adopted for second reading.
Whereas, Delegate H. Phares Mumbauer, Harleysville, has been excused from this meeting, therefore,
Resolved, That Alternate Delegate Clayton Deitz be seated as delegate from Harleysville.
Whereas, The Board of Church Extension believes that its present duty of recommending men to the Credentials Committee for inclusion on the Availability List is extraneous to its work of church extension and it a cumbersome anachronism in respect to pulpit supply procedures, therefore,
Resolved, That #7 (page 16, mimeographed Faith and Order) under the duties of the Board of Church Extension be eliminated from our by-laws, and further,
Resolved, That we adopt the following to be added to the duties of the Ministerial Candidate Committee (page 18, mimeographed Faith and Order).
8. To recommend to the Credentials Committee, and to approve annually all probationers whose names are to appear on the Availability List for Pulpit Supply.
The above was adopted for second reading.
The following Budget of the Board of Church Extension - 10/ 1/ 70 - 9/30/71 was adopted:
PROPOSED BUDGET
October 1, 1970 - September 30, 1971
Receipts.
Balance brought forward 10/l/70 $22,000.00
Offerings $47,500.00
Interest 1,200.00
Tent Rentals 100.00 48,800.00
Total receipts $70,800.00
Expenditures:
Appropriations:
Existing Churches 3,500.00
Existing Missions 14,000.00
New Missions 33,000.00
Contingency 2,000.00 $52,500.00
Administrative:
Director 6,500.00
Director's Mileage 1,500.00
Director's Parsg. 2,000.00
Director's Oper. A/c 1,500.00
Taxes 400.00
Workman's Comp. 100.00
Board Expenses 500.00 $12,500.00
General:
Contingency 500.00 500.00
Total Expenditures $65,500.00
Balance in Treasury, Sept.30, 1971 5, 300.00
Resolved, That the following changes be made in the Standing Rules on page R 10 of the mimeo Faith and Order pertaining to the President of Pinebrook Junior College:
The President of Pinebrook Junior College
Delete the existing two sentences.
Read, The President of Pinebrook Junior College shall be elected by the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Junior College according to its by-laws from among men who are in agreement with the articles of Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church. The election of a new president shall be submitted to Annual Conference and be ratified by a two-thirds vote.
Resolved, That the following changes be made on page 22 of the mimeo Faith and Order pertaining to the composition of the Board of Directors of Pinebrook Junior College:
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Junior College