NINETY-SEVENTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
1980
FIRST MEETING
Monday Morning, October 13, 1980 - 10:00 A.M.
Chairman Jansen E. Hartman called the 97th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church to order. James A. Beil led the prayer of invocation. The hymn "At Calvary" was sung and Paul G. Zimmerman led in prayer. Frank & John Herb ministered in music by singing "Love So Divine". Evan Knowles read Acts 2: 41-47. Jansen E. Hartman gave the keynote address, "The Biblical Basis of Our Fellowship".
The hymn "And Can it Be That I Should Gain" was sung, after which the Lord's Supper was observed.
Secretary James A. Beil appointed Harold C. Weaber as Assistant Secretary and Bernard N. Coble as Assistant to the Secretaries.
The Roll was established as follows:
Allentown Cedar Crest - Ronald C. Mahurin, Roy A. Hertzog, John L. Deily, John Trauch
Allentown Salem - (Probationer), Allan C. Palmer
Bethlehem - Robert F. Johnson, Warren L. Zimmerman
Blandon - Dana E. Weller, Stanley C. Kalbach
Camden DE (Mission) - James G. Koch, Raymond Dotts
Catasauqua - , Arthur W. Deppe
Coopersburg - Frank L. Herb, Jr., Clyde W. Snyder
Denville, N.J.- Richard D. Harris, John F. Moran
Easton - LeRoy C. Wilcox, Russel E. Dech
Emmaus - Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Clifford L. Kauffman
Englishtown, N.J. - (Probationer), Clinton Crankshaw
Ephrata - Robert W. Smock, Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, N.J. - D. Thomas Phillips, Donald Straub
Fleetwood - Austin G. Shelly, Norman L. Reed
Graterford - (Probationer), C. Roger Detwiler
Harleysville - Paul G. Zimmerman, Kenneth Keeler
Harrisburg - R. C. Reichenbach, Walter A. Schlagel
Hatfield - John H. Herb, Lee E. Boyles
Howell, N.J. - John Vandegriff, David Markuson
Lancaster - (Probationer), Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon - Bruce A. Ellingson, Leroy O. Herb
Lehighton - Bernard N. Coble, Ernest E. Bauer
Maple Glen - Carl K. Spackman, V. Kerry Inman
Mt. Carmel - Alva C. Cassel, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Nazareth - Keith E. Plows, Ralph Hendershot
Newark, N.J. - (Mission), Delbert R. Baker, II
New Fairfield, CT (Mission) - Robert L. Draper
Oley - Henry A. Schell, Eugene Kuhns
Paradise - Kenneth L. Good, L. Donald Miller
Philadelphia Calvary - (Probationer),Leon H. Naudasher
Philadelphia Emmanuel - Roger Reitz, Russell L. Davis
Quakertown - Bert N. Brosius, L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading - Jansen E. Hartman, Robert Breitegam, Rodney Muthard
Royersford - , James Weidner
Scranton - Terry N. Tareila, Carl Kellerman
Shamokin - Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Ronald C. Lahr
Sinking Spring - Terris Byrd, Brian Moyer
Spring City - Richard E. Taylor, John Derck
Staten Island, N.Y. - (Probationer), Ralph D. Cole
Stroudsburg - Thomas P. Shorb, Thomas W. Sacher
Sunbury - LeRoy S. Heller, Clayton B. Brosius, Bert E. Brosius
Terre Hill - William L. Graybill II, Paul Weber
Wallingford - William A. Heffner, Rufus Spedden
Walnutport - Harold C. Weaber, David L. Musselman
York - John H. Riggall, Sterling E. Baer
Zionsville - James R. Batchler, Jr., David L. Weller
ORDAINED MEN BETWEEN ASSIGNMENTS - Arthur H. Frable, Jr.
ORDAINED MEN SERVING BIBLE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES - James A. Beil, Carl C. Cassel, George E. Herb, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins, Daniel G. Ziegler
ORDAINED MISSIONARIES - T. James Bigley, Brian H. Butler, Leonard E. Buck, Richard J. Gehman, J. Barclay Harley, David Manney, Edward Moyer, Laird F. Stengele, Ron Hoyle, William Mull
ORDAINED MINISTERS IN RETIREMENT - Paul E. Baer, E. W. Bean, John Dunn, W. W. Hartman, F. B. Hertzog, C. E. Kirkwood, C. Leslie Miller
PROBATIONERS -
Charles J. McConnell Allentown Salem
G. Wayne Clapier Philadelphia Calvary
Barry Minsky Graterford
William L. Neff Englishtown
David A. Thomann Lancaster
Bryan G. Upton Staten Island, N.Y.
Note: Whereas Sunbury Church has recently attained a membership in excess of 300, it has therefore sent two delegates to Annual Conference.
The following did not answer to the Roll:
John Trauch Richard W. Gehman
Raymond Dotts J. Barclay Harley
Robert W. Smock David Manney
Robert W. Gehret Edward Moyer
C. Roger Detwiler Ron Hoyle
Ernest E. Bauer William Mull
Rodney Muthard Paul E. Baer
Thomas W. Sacher F. B. Hertzog
George E. Herb C. E. Kirkwood
Brian H. Butler C. Leslie Miller
The Chairman ruled that the Alternate Delegates be seated:
Walter E. Raybuck Reading
Earl A. Weiss Stroudsburg
Paul K. Clymer, Jr. Cedar Crest
Evan Knowles Camden, DE
Alvin Loughery Graterford
Harold Ruth Sinking Spring
Whereas, the Delegate of Grace Church, Wallingford has become unable to serve because of brain surgery, and the Alternate Delegate because of business, and
Whereas, these circumstances have come to pass so recently that another congregational business meeting could not be called according to our rules to elect another Delegate, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Delegate elected as a replacement by the Board of Elders of Grace Church, Wallingford, be seated as Delegate to this conference.
Resolved, that George R. Bryson be seated as Delegate from Grace Church, Wallingford.
Resolved, that the first eleven pews constitute the Conference Bar.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AGENDA
Resolved, that the agenda be accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM (See p. 39)
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that the election procedure as used by the 96th Annual Conference be followed, effective Monday afternoon:
A. Nominations be closed for all elections to be conducted at a particular meeting at the opening of that meeting.
B. A ballot be prepared by the tellers and the associate members of the Conference for use during the day for those elections.
C. The ballots be marked by each member of the Conference and be submitted to the tellers.
D. The tellers shall with the aid of the Associate Members of the Conference tabulate the results, and prepare run-off ballots as needed.
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that the following appointments by the Chairman be approved:
Tellers: Robert F. Johnson; Keith E. Plows; LeRoy S. Heller; Carl K. Spackman; Norman L. Reed; David L. Weller; Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Committee on Resolutions: R. C. Reichenbach; Ronald C. Mahurin; Bert N. Brosius; Frank L. Herb, Jr.; John L. Deily; Alan C. Palmer; Lee E. Boyles; John Derck.
Committee on Communications: Austin G. Shelly; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.; Robert Breitegam; Walter
Schlagel.
Committee on Auditing: Robert W. Gehret; Horace A. Kauffman; Eugene J. Kuhns; Ralph D. Cole; Warren L. Zimmerman; David L. Musselman.
Timekeeper: Henry A. Schell
Reporter: Roger Reitz
Resolved, that all communications relative to absences from Annual Conference be referred to the Committee on Communications, which shall report back before the end of this day.
The new members of the Conference were introduced.
Resolved: that we adjourn. Adjourned in prayer by James G. Koch at 12:04 P.M.
SECOND MEETING
Monday Afternoon, October 13, 1980, 1:30 P.M.
James R. Batchler led in prayer.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE (See P. 40 )
Report was accepted.
Whereas, the inflation rates continued to escalate this past year, and
Whereas, we strongly encourage each church to adequately meet the need of its Pastor, therefore be it,
Resolved, that we encourage each church to increase its pastors salary at least 7% above the previous year's salary, and further,
Resolved, that it is the consensus of this 97th Annual Conference that the minimum salary adequate for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including benefits, is $11,200 for the 1980-81 year.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS: (See P. 41)
Report was accepted.
Whereas, The Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Philip E. Yerrington for Ordination, and,
Whereas, the Board of Foreign Missions has recommended him for Ordination, and,
Whereas, He has served acceptably as an Assistant Pastor in the Bible Fellowship Church for three years, and,
Whereas, After examination, the Credentials Committee believes him to be called of God to the Gospel Ministry and to be in accord with the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that Philip E. Yerrington, be approved for Ordination. The Credentials Committee shall be in charge of the service of Ordination. The time and place of this service will be set in keeping with the availability of Philip E. Yerrington.
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended David A. Thomann and Charles J. McConnell for recognition of prior Ordination, and,
Whereas, these brethren have served acceptably as ministers in the Bible Fellowship Church for several years, and,
Whereas, after examination, we believe them to be called of God to the Gospel Ministry, and to be in accord with the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the prior Ordination of David A. Thomann and Charles J. McConnell be recognized during the Tuesday evening session of this 97th Annual Conference.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE (See p. 44 )
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that the following men be accepted under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee:
Probationers (Year of licensing in parenthesis)
Keith B. Anderson Ecuador, S. Am. (1980)
James L. Beaver Clearwater, Fl.
Douglas D. Bowne Royersford, Pa.
George R. Bryson Wallingford, Pa. (1978)
G. Wayne Clapier Philadelphia, Pa. (1980)
D. Shane Donche Souderton, Pa. (1980)
Arthur J. Frisbie Newark, De. (1976)
Randall A. Grossman Hatfield, Pa..
V. Kerry Inman Coopersburg, Pa. (1980)
David H. Jones Reading, Pa. (1978)
Herbert K. Lea Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (1980)
Charles J. McConnell Allentown, Pa. (1978)
Gary W. Miller Bethlehem, Pa.
Barry J. Minsky Graterford, Pa. (1980)
Philip E. Morrison Allentown, Pa.
William L. Neff Freehold, N.Y. (1978)
David A. Thomann Lancaster, Pa. (1978)
Bryan G. Upton Staten Island, N.Y. (1979)
Stephan Van Eck Sunbury, Pa.
James A. Wickstead Poughquag, N.Y. (1976)
Philip E. Yerrington Edinburgh, Tx. (1978)
Candidates
Ronald S. Coulton Quakertown, Pa.
Harry L. Downs Cherry Hill, N.J.
Ronald C. Erb Philadelphia, Pa.
John C. Grady Sarasota, Fl.
Hilary A. Nixon Madison, N.J.
Calvin Reed Reading, Pa.
William Schlonecker Dallas, Tx.
David Schoen West Lawn, Pa.
Applicants
Thomas J. Beil Nazareth, Pa.
David W. Chappel Spring City
Albert Dommel Emmaus, Pa.,
Gary R. Hafer Reading, Pa.
Richard P. Jones, Sr. Wescosville, Pa.
Kenneth Keeler Harleysville, Pa.
Randy Keeley Boothwyn, Pa.
Rodney H. Long St. Paul, Mn.
Richard MacLaren Hatboro, Pa.
Terry W. Roberts Spring City
Jeffrey C. Stickler Willow Grove, Pa.
Thomas Templeton Souderton, Pa.
Roy M. Wallace, Jr. Ashland, Oh.
Whereas, each member of the Ministerial Candidate Committee is elected to a term of service of one year, and,
Whereas, longer terms of service and rotation of the terms would provide greater assurance of stability to the work of the Committee, therefore be it
Resolved, that the approval of a change in our rules stating the terms of election of this committee be given, with the new reading being as follows: (Present reading is on page 82 of the 1977 edition of the Faith and Order)
The Ministerial Candidate Committee shall be composed of five ordained ministers elected on a rotating basis to serve three-year terms of service. Class I shall be composed of two ministers; Class II shall be composed of two ministers; Class III shall be composed of one minister. (First Reading)
If approved at a Second Reading, Class I shall be elected for a three-year term; Class II shall be elected for a two-year term; and Class III shall be elected for a one-year term. (Implementing Legislation)
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH (See P. 47)
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that the annuities from the Ministers' Retirement Fund beginning October 1, 1980 shall be $90.00 per year of service for each annuitant up to forty years of service.
Resolved, that the Administrative Budget for the 1980-81 year as presented be approved for use effective October 1, 1980.
1980-1981 ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET
A. Benefits Pastors (1980-81 ) (1981-82)
1. Beneficiary Fund 1,000 1,000
2. Ministers' Assistance Fund 1,000 1,000
3. Ministerial Convention 500 500
4. Ministers' Retirement Fund 17,000 19,000
Total 19,500 21,500
B. Benefits Churches
1. Conference Entertainment 3,000 3,000
2. Moving Fund 5,000 5,000
3. Fund to Assist Churches 1,000 1,000
Total 9,000 9,000
C. Annual Conference Programs
1. Publication & Printing 2,500 2,500
2. Expenses of Boards & Committees 4,400 4,500
3. Expenses of Board of Directors 100 250
4. Ministerial C. C. Internship 1,000 1,500
5. Historical Committee 1,000 1,500
6. Contingencies 250 750
Total 9,250 11,000
TOTAL BUDGET $37,750 41,500
Resolved, that the Administrative Budget for the 1981- 1982 year as presented (second column, above) be approved for circulation to the churches in solicitation of their pledges by April 15, 1981.
Resolved, that the rate for mileage reimbursement for official travel shall remain at fifteen cents per mile.
Resolved, that the following be the answer to the first petition from the Graterford Church to the 96th Annual Conference:
Whereas, the Graterford Bible Fellowship Church has petitioned the Annual Conference to establish a revolving loan fund, and
Whereas, both the Board of Church Extension and the Board of Pinebrook Junior College have asked the Board of Directors to join the Christian Stewardship Council as part of developing deferred giving and other forms of giving to the Bible Fellowship Church and its agencies; and,
Whereas, information is available showing that the Christian Stewardship Council is a group sound in doctrine and is being used by several evangelical organizations and churches; therefore be it
Resolved, that we investigate means to develop this kind of program in the Bible Fellowship Church because interest is being expressed by several segments of our constituency; and further
Resolved, that as part of this investigation the Board of Directors be represented at the next meeting of the Christian Stewardship Council.
Resolved, that the following be the answer to the second petition from the Graterford Church to the 96th Annual Conference:
Whereas, the Graterford Bible Fellowship Church has petitioned the Annual Conference to consider providing group insurance for fire, liability, and other kinds of coverage; and
Whereas, the investigation of this Board through brokers in the Bible Fellowship Church and outside our membership indicates that group coverage could be less expensive for some, but more expensive for others; therefore be it
Resolved, that the best results can be achieved when the individual churches choose those specific coverages designed for their needs from competitive companies rather than adapting their benefits to an overall group plan administered by the Conference.
Resolved, that the following rules governing the Fund to Assist Churches be added to the material now approved and printed on pages 172-173 of the 1978 Yearbook (SECOND READING)
1. Responsibility of the Church Seeking Assistance
A.Request for assistance by a particular church shall be by Board of Elders resolution and shall be in writing to the Chairman of the Board of Directors.
B.The request for assistance shall include the following information:
(1)Circumstances causing the present need;
(2)Amount of money needed and, if pertinent, date by which the funds are needed;
(3) Use to which funds are to be put.
C.The Directors shall reserve the right to examine the latest financial statement of the church requesting funds if circumstances seem to warrant such an examination.
2. Responsibility of the Board of Directors
A.The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church and two other directors of his choice shall consider requests for funds, and be empowered to award and release funds to churches who request aid.
Awards must be by unanimous agreement of the three Directors or by majority vote of the full Board of Directors.
B.The committee of three Directors shall report to the next meeting of the full Board any requests considered or funds disbursed.
C.The Financial Secretary of the Board of Directors shall inform the Directors of the status of the Fund to Assist Churches, and shall make recommendation to the Directors concerning the amount of money to be budgeted in the Conference Administrative Budget and/or solicited from churches to keep the fund solvent.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE (See p. 63 )
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING (See p. 64 )
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that January be designated as Fellowship News subscription month.
Resolved, that donations of $100.00 each be given to Fellowship News from the following boards: Victory Valley, Foreign Missions, Christian Education, Church Extension, Pinebrook Junior College, and Pinebrook Bible Conference. (Checks should be made payable to the Board of Publication and Printing and be sent to the Business Manager by February 1, 1981.)
REPORT OF THE CHURCH EXTENSION DIRECTOR (see p. 65)
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 P.M. Adjourned at 3:36 P.M. in prayer by Donald T. Kirkwood.
THIRD MEETING
Monday, October 13, 1980 - 6:30 P.M.
The meeting was opened with the singing of "Christ Returneth!" John F. Moran led in prayer and a trumpet trio ministered in music.
The following probationers, who have charge of a work, addressed the Conference:
G. Wayne Clapier
Arthur J. Frisbie
Herbert K. Lea
Charles J. McConnell
Barry J. Minsky
The Conference sang "When We All Get to Heaven".
The Probationers reports continued:
William L. Neff
David A. Thomann
Brian G. Upton
James A. Wickstead
The following men were elected:
MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
Jansen E. Hartman (3 years)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH
Jansen E. Hartman; Horace A. Kauffman; Kermit K. Gehman (3 years)
BOARD OF PUBLICATION & PRINTING
John H. Herb; LeRoy C. Wilcox; D. Thomas Phillips; Gary Sterner; Ralph D. Cole
EDITOR-PUBLISHER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS
Richard D. Harris
BUSINESS MANAGER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS
Bernard N. Coble
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS
Report was accepted.
The following have requested to be excused from various services of the 97th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church:
1.James Weidner - I wish to be excused from all meetings which extend beyond Wednesday evening because of my employment.
2.Arthur J. Frisbie - I will not be able to be here for Wednesday and Thursday meetings. My work schedule will not permit me to stay.
3. Sterling E. Baer - I would like to be excused from Conference Wednesday evening.
4. Paul E. Baer - Please excuse me from attending the entire session.
5.Ernest E. Bauer - Please excuse me from the Monday and Tuesday morning sessions because of pressing medical problems in the family.
6.Donald P. Straub - Please excuse me from the Tuesday morning meeting to keep a business appointment.
7.Richard E. Taylor - Because my wife is expecting delivery of our third child at any time. I respectfully ask permission to be excused to join her if the delivery should come during Annual Conference.
8. Harold C. Weaber - I ask to be excused from the afternoon meeting of Annual Conference on Tuesday, October 14, 1980 to conduct a funeral service in Walnutport.
9.Donald T. Kirkwood - I ask to be excused from all meetings of Annual Conference. My work schedule does not permit my attendance at all the sessions.
10. David E. Thomann, George E. Herb, T. James Bigley - due to the nature of our responsibilities, we ask to be excused from various meetings of the Conference.
11.Laird F. Stengele - Because of previous commitments for Wednesday, October 15, 1980, I would kindly request you to grant permission to be excused on that day.
12.David J. Watkins - I ask to be excused from Annual Conference Wednesday afternoon meeting due to responsibilities at the College.
13.Walter H. Frank - With great disappointment, I will be unable to attend Annual Conference.
14. Leon H. Naudasher - I ask to be excused from meetings after the last meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 1980.
15.James A. Wickstead - I ask to be excused from the Annual Conference meetings of October 14 and 15 because of work obligations in secular employment.
We recommend that these men be excused.
Austin G. Shelly, Chairman; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Secretary; Robert Breitegam; Walter A. Schlagel.
Resolved, that the above mentioned men be excused.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION (See p. 73)
Report was accepted.
Considerable time was spent discussing a proposal to change Section A, Article IX Harmful Indulgences,
The following was elected:
MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
Robert F. Johnson (3 years)
Adjourned at 10:13 P.M. in prayer by William L. Graybill II.
FOURTH MEETING
Tuesday, October 14, 1980 - 9:00 A.M.
The Conference sang the hymn, "What a Wonderful Saviour". Eugene J. Kuhns led in prayer and read Romans 12:9-21. The Young Pastor's Quartet sang, "Bless the Lord, Oh My Soul". Horace A. Kauffman spoke on the topic "The Privileges and Responsibilities of Our Fellowship".
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE
John L. Deily (3 years)
COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS
James A. Beil; Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.; Frank L. Herb, Jr.; Keith E. Plows; John H. Riggall.
MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE
Carl C. Cassel; John H. Herb; Robert F. Johnson; David J. Watkins; Paul G. Zimmerman.
Resolved, that no nominations for elections shall be completed before the respective boards and committees have reported.
The minutes of the previous meetings were read and approved as corrected.
Recessed at 10:40 A.M., Reconvened at 11:00 A.M.
REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE (See P. 86)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE (See p. 93)
Report was accepted.
The time was extended.
Adjourned at 12:10 P.M. in prayer by D. Thomas Phillips.
FIFTH MEETING
Tuesday, October 14, 1980 - 1:30 P.M.
The meeting was opened with prayer by Henry A. Schell.
Missionaries Nancy Wehr, Sharon Bachman, and Richard Gehman were introduced and addressed the Conference.
The Chair ruled that we deviate from the Agenda to again consider the Church Extension proposal to amend Article 9, Section A.
Whereas, there appears to be some division of conviction on the matter of Article #9A on total abstinence, and
Whereas, there appear to be areas that need further clarification in the light of the discussion to date on this subject, therefore
Resolved, that the Chairman of Annual Conference appoint a committee to study the subject of total abstinence and its relationship to Church membership.
This committee shall be composed of nine members: six Pastors and three Laymen, with Jansen E. Hartman, Chairman of Annual Conference, being a non-voting ex-officio member, and the chairman of the committee.
This Committee must bring its report to the 98th Annual Conference.
Yes, 74; No, 24.
The Chairman appointed the following committee to study the above-mentioned matter:
John H. Riggall Clyde W. Snyder
John H. Herb Robert W. Smock
L. James Roberts Robert F. Johnson
Daniel G. Ziegler Robert W. Gehret
Delbert R. Baker II
Resolved, that the appointments be approved.
Recessed at 3:10 P.M.; reconvened at 3:37 P.M.
Resolved, that the price of the Yearbook be $2.50.
REPORT OF THE PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE (See p. 105)
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that each church make a contribution to the Pinebrook Bible Conference. Checks are to be made payable to Pinebrook and sent to the Director, Box 1, Stroudsburg, Pa. 18360.
REPORT OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME (See p. 113)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY (See p. 127)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (See P. 131)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF CHURCH GOVERNMENT STUDY COMMITTEE
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that in Article V, p. 23, 1977 Faith & Order, the word "representatives" found in the last paragraph be changed to "Leaders". (Second Reading)
Resolved, that in Article VIII, Paragraph 1, p. 24, 1977 Faith & Order, the following be substituted for the last sentence in paragraph 1:
"If the congregation has more qualified elders than are needed to serve at one time, the number of active elders shall be determined by the congregation by ballot vote upon recommendation of the Board of Elders." (Second Reading)
Resolved, that in Article VIII, Paragraph 4, p. 24, 1977 Faith & Order, the wording of the first sentence shall read as follows:
"...the elders shall rule the congregation according to the direction of Christ, the Chief Shepherd, as expressed in the Scriptures and according to the needs of the membership." (Second Reading)
Resolved, that the following material be referred back to the Government Study Committee:
Article VIII, Paragraph 4, p. 24, 1977 Faith & Order. They had recommended that the wording of the last sentence shall read as follows:
"The congregation shall have the right to approve, to suggest changes, or to disapprove such recommendations."
Resolved, that Article IX, Paragraph 2, first sentence, p. 25 of the 1977 Faith & Order be changed to read:
"The term of office shall be decided by the particular church by congregational vote, but shall not be for less than three years, except that when a particular church desires a probationary term of service for newly-chosen elders." (Second Reading)
Resolved, that in Article IX, Question 2, page 25, 1977 Faith & Order, the words "basic accord" be changed to the word "agreement..." (Second Reading)
Resolved, that in Article IX, Question 3, p. 25, 1977 Faith & Order, the words "government and discipline" be changed to "principles of Order". (Second Reading)
Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned in prayer by Clayton B. Brosius at 5:05 P.M.
SIXTH MEETING
Tuesday, October 14, 1980 - 6:30 P.M.
The meeting was opened with prayer by Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr.
The following were elected:
BOARD OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE
LeRoy S. Heller; W. Wayne Batten; Raymond R. Dotts; Warren L. Zimmerman (3 years)
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Leroy O. Herb and Jonathan D. Reynolds.(3 years)
The proposed Women's Missionary Society Constitution, presented by the Board of Foreign Missions, was referred back for further study.
The Credentials Committee conducted a special service. The Conference sang "Crown Him With Many Crowns". Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., led in prayer, and Frank L. Herb, Jr. read II Timothy 1:6-14. Charles J. McConnell and David A. Thomann were presented to the Conference and their previous ordinations were recognized.
REPORT OF THE "COMMITTEE TO PREPARE AN ALTERNATE UNDERSTANDING OF 'THE BIBLICAL VIEW OF THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH’ ” (See p. 135)
The report was accepted.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Resolved, that we adjourn. Adjourned in prayer by Carl H. Kellerman, at 9:16 P.M.
SEVENTH MEETING
Wednesday, October 15, 1980 - 9:00 A.M.
The Conference was led in prayer by John L. Deily. "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" was sung, after which Earl A. Weiss read Ephesians 4:1-6, 11-13. Clyde W. Snyder and Daniel G. Ziegler ministered in music. Ronald C. Mahurin spoke on the topic "The Cultivation and Development of our Fellowship". The Conference then sang "Blest Be The Tie That Binds".
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved as corrected.
The following Alternate Delegates were seated in the Conference Bar:
Jack Largent - Sinking Spring
Kenneth Cressman - Philadelphia Emmanuel
Raymond R. Dotts - Camden, DE
The following were elected:
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION
Bruce A. Ellingson; Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME
John Dunn; Robert W. Smock; Keith E. Plows; Ronald Reed (2 years)
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
David A. Thomann (3 years)
GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS
David E. Thomann (3 years)
PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE BOARD
Frank L. Herb, Jr.; Norman W. Granda (3 years)
Resolved, that all elected Boards and Committees of the Bible Fellowship Church submit in writing to the Nominating Committee any nominees they wish to be considered for their Board or Committee. Nominees should be submitted by May 1.
Recessed at 10:45 A.M. Reconvened at 11:15 A.M.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE FOR EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES (See p. 141)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS (See p. 143)
Report was accepted.
Resolved, that the Board of Directors be requested to define "Ministers' Supplemental Benefits"; specifically, what shall be included in the category, upon which assessments are levied for contributions to the Ministers' Retirement Fund.
Adjourned at 12:00 Noon in prayer by Stanley G. Kalbach.
EIGHTH MEETING
Wednesday, October 15, 1980 - 1:30 P.M.
The meeting was opened with prayer by Norman L. Reed.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AUDITING (See P.144)
Report was accepted.
The following were elected:
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE
Bright N. Heist (3 years)
BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS
Paul G. Zimmerman (3 years); Gerald Schlonecker (3 years); James Sunday (2 years)
BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY
Dana E. Weller; John H. Herb (3 years); David L. Weller (1 year).
CHAIRMAN OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Jansen E. Hartman.
C. Leslie Miller addressed the Conference.
Whereas, the material on page 28 of the 1979 Yearbook relative to election of the Nominating Committee, adopted for First Reading, is substantially the same as that submitted by the Government Committee, as appears below; therefore, be it
Resolved, that the adoption of said material be considered as Second Reading.
Election: After nominations have been closed for all other elections required by the By-laws, members of the nominating committee shall be elected to serve three year terms; no member of the committee shall be permitted to succeed himself; the committee shall be composed of three classes as follows: Class 1, two ministers and one layman; Class 2, one minister and one layman; Class 3, one minister and one layman. Duties: the committee shall present nominees for election at the Annual Conference. (This material will replace L on page 64 of By-laws of the Annual Conference.)
Resolved, that to facilitate this change, the 97th Annual Conference shall elect:
Two ministers and one layman to a three-year term, one minister and one layman to a two-year term, one minister and one layman to a one-year term.
Resolved, that the Faith & Order - page 77, section g - Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home, first paragraph, be amended to read:
Election: It shall be composed of five ministers and four layman. They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
I.Two ministers, one layman
II.Two ministers, one layman
III. One minister, two laymen. (First Reading)
Whereas, the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home is seriously considering an expansion program; and,
Whereas, the Board deems it advisable to increase the number of members on the Board to gain added expertise; and,
Whereas, the Board also deems it advisable to obtain such expertise by an immediate increase in membership; therefore, by use of the Rule of Exception, be it
Resolved, that one additional layman be elected to the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home to serve a one-year term in the interim between first and second readings of the above legislation. (Unanimous)
The following was elected:
BOARD OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME
Charles G. Hersh (1 year)
Resolved, that the Government Committee study the feasibility of allowing Boards and Committees to recommend the election or re-election of a given number of their members; and further
Resolved, that the Government Committee present recommendations concerning this matter if and when it deems advisable.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES (See p. 145)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS (See p. 146)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTION
Report was adopted.
Whereas, the Lord has been gracious to the Bible Fellowship Church, equipping her through all the years with men gifted in leading and guiding His Church and all her agencies, and
Whereas, even now the blessing of the Lord is evidenced by Pastors faithfully preaching and teaching the Word of God, elders among elders ruling in love and compassion as Scripture directs, and
Whereas, we are at each Annual Conference blessed by the presence of our retired pastors coming among us to encourage us and reassure us of their love and continued concern for the Bible Fellowship Church, therefore be it
Resolved, that we continue to seek and covet the continual outpouring of God's Holy Spirit for our power, and further
Resolved, that we strive to live in such a way so as to demonstrate to God our Father, how genuinely we thank and praise Him for every one of His thoughts to usward until He comes again.
Whereas, in the power of God and with the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Bible Fellowship Church Home, Pinebrook Bible Conference, Pinebrook Junior College, and Victory Valley Camp have honored the Lord with efficient serving of their respective ministries for the past Conference year, therefore,
Resolved, we request the Administrator of the Bible Fellowship Church Home, the Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, the President of Pinebrook Junior College, and the Director of Victory Valley Camp to express our deep appreciation to their entire staff for their dedicated service.
Whereas, James A. Beil has efficiently served as Secretary of the 97th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, Harold C. Weaber has competently assisted the Secretary, and
Whereas, Bernard N. Coble has competently served as Assistant to the Secretaries, therefore,
Resolved, that we express our thanks to these brethren for their labors and that we present each of them with a gift of $50.00 from the Board of Publication and Printing.
Whereas, Pinebrook Bible Conference has so graciously provided housing and meals for the members and guests of the 97th Annual Conference, therefore
Resolved, that we express our appreciation to them for these provisions with a rising vote of thanks at the Wednesday evening meal of this Conference, and further,
Resolved, that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Director.
Whereas, Pinebrook Bible Conference has offered to entertain the next Annual Conference, therefore,
Resolved, that the 98th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church be convened at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center, East Stroudsburg, Pa. on Monday, October 12, 1981 at 10:00 A.M.
Whereas, our sovereign Lord in His divine wisdom has called home Mrs. E. T. Gehman, Mrs. Hilda Woodring, and Mrs. Marianne Riggall, and
Whereas, we are very conscious of the ministries of these women of God who faithfully aided their husbands to carry on their pastoral duties, therefore
Resolved, that we thank God for their lives that were lived and the testimonies that were manifested.
Whereas, James Cressman has faithfully and efficiently served as a member of the Board of Foreign Missions for 28 years, the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church for 15 years, and has served as Secretary of our Health and Welfare program since its inception in 1969, and
Whereas, James and Clara Cressman have ministered so unselfishly on the staff of Pinebrook Bible Conference, and
Whereas, God in His sovereignty has led the Cressmans to move to California, therefore,
Resolved, that we express our appreciation to James and Clara Cressman for their loving service and loyalty to the Lord and to this body, by a rising vote of thanks during one of the meals at this Annual Conference.
R. C. Reichenbach Ronald C. Mahurin
Bert N. Brosius Frank L. Herb, Jr.
John Deily Alan C. Palmer
Lee E. Boyles John Derck
The Committee on Resolutions
Ronald C. Mahurin
Secretary
The following petition from Salem Bible Fellowship Church, Lehighton, was considered;
Whereas, the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church at present makes no mention of the practice of Dedication of Children, and
Whereas, Scripture sets a strong example for this practice in the dedication of Samuel by Elkanah and Hannah as recorded in I Samuel 1 and 2, and
Whereas, the Bible Fellowship Church recognizes the importance of this practice, in that many children are dedicated each year, and
Whereas, we recognize that this practice does not carry the importance of the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord's Supper as commanded in Scripture, therefore, be it
Resolved, that we petition the 97th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, asking that an article on the Dedication of Children be included in the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Resolved, that the Chairman appoint a committee of five ministers to study the matter of forms as a part of the Faith and Order, and further,