NINETY-EIGHTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
1981
FIRST MEETING
Monday Morning, October 12, 1981 - 10:00 A.M.
Chairman Jansen E. Hartman called the 98th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church to order. R.C. Reichenbach led in the prayer of invocation.
The Roll was established as follows:
Allentown Cedar Crest - Ronald C. Mahurin, Roy A. Hertzog, Paul K. Clymer, Jay H. Fasnacht
Allentown Salem - Charles J. McConnell, Allan C. Palmer
Bethlehem - Robert F. Johnson, Warren L. Zimmerman, Herbert Wieand
Blandon - Dana E. Weller, Kinzy Reed
Camden DE - James G. Koch, Raymond R. Dotts
Catasauqua - (Probationer), Arthur W. Deppe
Coopersburg - Frank L. Herb, Jr., Clyde W. Snyder
Denville NJ - Richard D. Harris, John F. Moran
Easton - LeRoy C. Wilcox, Russel E. Dech
Emmaus - , Clifford L. Kauffman
Ephrata - John H. Riggall, Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ - D. Thomas Phillips, H. Walter Stout
Fleetwood - Austin G. Shelly, Norman L. Reed
Freehold-Englishtown, NJ - (Probationer), Clinton Crankshaw
Graterford - (Probationer), Robert Gaugler
Harleysville - Paul G. Zimmerman, Kenneth Keeler
Harrisburg - R.C. Reichenbach, Walter H. Schlagel
Hatfield - John H. Herb, Lee E. Boyles
Howell, NJ - John Vandegriff, David M. Markuson
Lancaster - David A. Thomann, Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon - Bruce A. Ellingson, LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton - , Clair A. Greenzweig
Maple Glen - Carl K. Spackman, Harold E. Snyder
Mt. Carmel - Alva C. Cassel, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Nazareth - Keith E. Plows, Ralph Hendershot
Newark NJ (Mission) - Delbert R. Baker II
New Fairfield, CT (Mission) - Robert L. Draper
Oley - Henry A. Schell, Eugene J. 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
Reading - Jansen E. Hartman, Robert Breitegam, Walter Raybuck
Royersford - Robert W. Smock, James Weidner
Scranton - (Probationer), Carl H. Kellerman
Shamokin - Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Ronald C. Lahr
Sinking Spring - Terris L. Byrd, David A. Lamm
Spring City - Richard E. Taylor, John J. Derck
Staten island NY - (Probationer), Ralph D. Cole
Stroudsburg - Thomas P. Shorb, Earl A. Weiss
Sunbury - LeRoy S. Heller, Clayton B. Brosius, Bert E. Brosius
Terre Hill - William L. Graybill, II, Paul A. Weber
Wallingford - William A. Heffner, Robert Truett
Walnutport - Harold C. Weaber, David L. Musselman
York - Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Alan Lindstrom
Zionsville - James R. Batchler, Jr., David L. Weller
ORDAINED MEN SERVING BIBLE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES:
James A. Bell, Carl C. Cassel, Bernard N. Coble, George E. Herb, David E. Thomann, David J. Watkins, Daniel G. Ziegler
ORDAINED MISSIONARIES:
Leonard E. Buck, Brian H. Butler, Richard J. Gehman, J. Barclay Harley, Ron Hoyle, David Manney, Edward Moyer, William W. Mull, Laird F. Stengele, Philip E. Yerrington.
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:
G. Wayne Clapier Philadelphia Calvary
David H. Jones Scranton
Barry J. Minsky Graterford
Philip E. Morrison Catasauqua
William A. Neff Freehold-Englishtown,NJ
Bryan G. Upton Staten Island, NY
Excuses were read from the following: A. L. Seifert, Paul E. Baer, Terris L. Byrd, Roy A. Hertzog, Arthur J. Frisbie, William L. Neff, and Alexander Forrest.
Resolved: that excuses be referred to the Committee on Communications, to report back to Conference before the end of this day.
Alternate Delegates were seated, as follows:
Joseph Wire, Jr. Catasauqua
Evan Knowles Camden, DE
Ronald P. Turner Fleetwood
Frank H. Evans Wallingford
New members were introduced to Annual Conference.
After the singing of the hymn, "How Firm a Foundation", the Scripture portion Isaiah 42:1-16 was read by Robert Breitegam. Carl C. Cassel sang "The Lord is My Light and My Salvation." Jansen E. Hartman spoke on "Christ, the Master Servant", after which the Lord's Supper was observed.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AGENDA:
Resolved, that the agenda be accepted.
Secretary Harold C. Weaber appointed Bryan G. Upton as Assistant Secretary and Bernard N. Coble as Assistant to the Secretaries.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROGRAM: (See p. 60)
Report was accepted.
Resolved: that the election procedure as used by the 97th Annual Conference be 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 Jay K. Fasnacht, Leroy O. Herb, Harold L. Snyder, Jr.
Committee on Resolutions: John H. Herb, Richard E. Taylor, Alva C. Cassel, David Weller, Lee E. Boyles, Robert L. Draper
Committee on Communications: Bruce A. Ellingson, D. Thomas Phillips, L. James Roberts.
Committee on Auditing: Robert W. Gehret, Horace A. Kauffman, Eugene J. Kuhns, Ralph D. Cole, Warren L. Zimmerman, David L. Musselman.
Timekeeper: Charles J. McConnell
Reporter: Dana E. Weller
Resolved: that the first eleven rows constitute the Conference Bar.
Resolved: that we adjourn. Adjourned in prayer by Robert W. Gehret.
SECOND MEETING
Monday Afternoon, October 12, 1981, 1:30 P.M.
The following were elected:
BUSINESS MANAGER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: Bernard N. Coble
EDITOR-PUBLISHER OF FELLOWSHIP NEWS: Richard D. Harris
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE: (See p . 6)
Report was accepted.
Whereas: we strongly believe it is the scriptural responsibility of the church to adequately meet the needs of its pastor, therefore be it
Resolved: that we encourage each church to increase its pastor’s salary at least 7% above the previous year's salary, and further,
Resolved: that it is the consensus of this 98th Annual Conference that the minimum salary adequate for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including benefits, is $12,000.00 for the 1981-1982 year.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS: (See P. 62)
Report was accepted.
Whereas: the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended George Bryson, Bryan Upton, and James Wickstead for examination for ordination and G. Wayne Clapier for examination for recognition of prior ordination, and,
Whereas: these brethren have served acceptably as Ministers in the Bible Fellowship Church for the required years, and,
Whereas: after examination, the Committee on Credentials believes 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, and has recommended that they be ordained, therefore, be it
Resolved: that George Bryson, Bryan Upton, and James Wickstead be ordained at a service of ordination to be held on Tuesday, October 13, 1981 at 8:00 P.M. at Pinebrook Bible Conference, and that the previous ordination of G. Wayne Clapier be recognized at this same service. The Credentials Committee shall be in charge of this service.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE: (See p. 66 )
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, Fla.
Douglas D. Bowne Collegeville, Pa.
George R. Bryson Wallingford, Pa. (1979)
G. Wayne Clapier Philadelphia, Pa. (1980)
Albert J. Dommel Emmaus, Pa.
D. Shane Donche Souderton, Pa. (1980)
Harry L. Downs Whiting, N.J.
Ronald C. Erb Irvington, N.J. (1981)
Arthus J. Frisbie Newark, DE (1976)
Randall A. Grossman Kutztown, Pa. (1981)
V. Kerry Inman Coopersburg, Pa. (1980)
David H. Jones Scranton, Pa. (1978)
Herbert K. Lea Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (1980)
Gary W. Miller Bethlehem, Pa.
Barry J. Minsky Graterford, Pa. (1980)
Philip E. Morrison Catasauqua, Pa. (1980)
William L. Neff Freehold, N.J. (1978)
Calvin T. Reed Reading, Pa.
Bryan G. Upton Staten Island, N.Y. (1979)
Stephan R. Van Eck Sunbury, Pa. (1980)
James A. Wickstead Poughquag, N.Y. (1976)
CANDIDATES:
Kenneth D. Keeler Harleysville, Pa.
Hilary A. Nixon Madison, NJ
William G. Schlonecker Dallas, Tx
David N. Schoen Sinking Spring, Pa.
Warren F. Shelly Lehighton, Pa.
Jeffrey C. Stickler Bethlehem, Pa.
John E. Thompson, Jr. Darby, Pa.
APPLICANTS:
Thomas J. Beil Nazareth, Pa.
David W. Chappel Spring City, Pa.
Gary R. Hafer Reading, Pa.
Walter M. Johnson Wyomissing, Pa.
Richard P. Jones, Sr. Wescoesville, Pa.
Rodney H. Long Blaine, N.M.
Richard S. MacLaren Hatboro, Pa.
Kenneth D. Pfeiffer Rockledge, Pa.
Dean A. Stortz Emmaus, Pa.
Thomas F. Templeton Mabton, WA
Steven S. Trommler Portland, OR
Roy M. Wallace, Jr. Ashland, OH
Resolved: that the men approved for ordination be admitted to the Conference Bar.
Resolved: that 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. (SECOND READING)
Resolved: that this legislation be implemented by utilizing the following procedure at this Annual Conference:
Class I shall be elected for a three-year term.
Class II shall be elected for a two-year term.
Class III shall be elected for a one-year term.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH:
Report was accepted.
Resolved: that the annuities paid from the Ministers' Retirement Fund beginning October 1, 1981 shall be $102.00 per year of service up to forty years of service for each annuitant.
Resolved: that the rate for mileage reimbursement for official travel shall be eighteen cents ($.18) per mile.
REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE: (See p. 87)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING: (See P. 89)
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 sent to the Business Manager by February 1, 1982).
Resolved: that the subscription rate for Fellowship News be $3.50 per year, and the student rate be $2.00 per year.
Resolved: that the price of the Yearbook be $3.00.
Whereas: the number of subscriptions to Fellowship News has been decreasing over the past few years, and
Whereas: the Board of Publication and Printing has run a deficit for the past seven years in publishing the Fellowship News, and
Whereas: the deficits of the past few years combined with increasing costs have made publication of Fellowship News very difficult, therefore, be it
Resolved: that the Annual Conference authorize the Board of Publication and Printing to develop a plan to discontinue the publication of Fellowship News or to drastically revise the present method of publishing the Fellowship News should the level of subscriptions not reach 1,000, and further,
Resolved: that the Board of Publication and Printing present its recommended plan at the next Annual Conference should such action be necessary.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF CHURCH EXTENSION: (See p. 91 )
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION: (See p.109)
Report was accepted.
Resolved: that the Proposed Budget of the Board of Church Extension for 1982-1983 be adopted:
CHURCH EXTENSION BUDGET FOR 1982-1983
RECEIPTS:
Churches - Prepaid 60,000
General (Current) Gifts 12,000
Designated Gifts 74,000
Project Beachhead 30,000
Total Receipts 176,000
EXPENDITURES:
Appropriations:
Newark - Baker 18,000
Mid-Hudson Missions 20,000
Delaware Missions 2,400
Eastwick 7,800
Kutztown 15,000
Irvington 17,400
New Mission 18,600
Project Beachhead 30,000
(Atlantic City Area)
PISCES 2,000 131,200
Administration:
Director’s Salary and Benefits 16,300
Director's Parsonage 8,400
Director's Travel 5,600
Office 6,300
Promotion 1,500
Board Expenses 1,200
Administrative Budget 400
Workman's Compensation 500 40,800
Reserves:
Capital Fund 2,500
Contingencies 1,500 4,000
Total Expenditures 176,000
REPORT OF THE HISTORICAL COMMITTEE: (See p. 119)
Report was accepted.
Resolved: that the By-Laws of the Historical Committee be amended as follows:
Election: It shall be composed of five men. They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
I. Two men
II.Two men
III. One man
Duties:
1.To develop and encourage the study of the history of the denomination.
2.To maintain denominational archives for the accumulation of materials and memoirs relating to the history of the denomination.
3.To appoint an archivist who shall be responsible for the maintenance and oversight of the archives.
4.To determine policy and procedure by which the archivist can maintain and supplement the historical material of the denomination.
5.To assist the archivist in the collection of relevant historical materials.
6.To receive and disburse funds received from the Administrative Budget, churches and individuals.
7.To encourage each particular church and mission to maintain a file of important documents relating to the historical development of the local fellowship.
8.To make an annual report to the Annual Conference.
Organization: The Board shall annually elect by and from its membership a president, a secretary, and a treasurer. FIRST READING
Whereas: the Historical Committee has undertaken a number of projects requiring additional help and input on the committee, and,
Whereas: it would help the committee to have its own financial accounts and treasurer in the coming year, therefore be it
Resolved: that the Annual Conference allow the Historical Committee by rule of exception to begin to operate by the proposed by-laws immediately.
(Passed by ballot vote, 79 yes, 14 no; Rule of Exception will apply.)
Resolved: that the past minutes of the various Boards and Committees be deposited for storage and preservation in the denominational archives, and be it further
Resolved: that each local church be encouraged to place its minutes and past records for storage and preservation in the denominational archives, where they will be available to the local church as it desires and available to those doing study and research. FIRST READING
Resolved: that the above two resolutions be referred to the Government Committee to determine proper placement in the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Resolved: that we suspend the rules and adjourn to meet at 6:30 P.M.
Adjourned at 4:38 P.M. in prayer by Warren L. Zimmerman.
THIRD MEETING
Monday, October 12, 1981, 6:30 P.M.
John Derck opened in prayer.
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE:
Ronald Mahurin, Robert Breitegam (three years)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH:
Robert F. Johnson, Jay Fasnacht (three years)
BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND PRINTING:
John Herb, Richard D. Harris, D. Thomas Phillips, Ralph D. Cole, Gary Sterner (one year)
COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS:
James A. Beil, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Frank L. Herb, Jr., Keith E. Plows, John H. Riggall (one year)
The hymn "He Hideth My Soul" was sung. The Scripture Romans 12:1-16 was read by Ralph Hendershot. David E. Thomann and Pauline Thomann ministered in music.
F.B. Hertzog brought the message, "Qualifications of a Servant."
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS: (See p.122)
Report was accepted.
Resolved: that we adjourn. Adjourned at 9:20 P.M. with prayer by Delbert R. Baker II.
FOURTH MEETING
Tuesday, October 13, 1981, 9:00 A.M.
Chairman Jansen E. Hartman called the meeting to order and James Weidner opened in prayer.
After the singing of the hymn "Come, Thou Blessed Savior", the Scripture portion I Timothy 3:1-16 was read by Clifford L. Kauffman and the Young Pastors Quartet ministered in music.
Robert Zentz brought the message "The Task of a servant".
The Chairman requested that any new delegates present report to the Secretary of Annual Conference.
After a 25-minute recess, Conference was called to order at 10:30 A.M. by the Chairman, with David J. Watkins leading in prayer.
Whereas: the Conference has by the rule of exception permitted the Historical Committee to begin to function under new by-laws, and
Whereas: under these new by-laws, the Committee is being expanded from three to five members, and
Whereas: two incumbents on the Committee have two and one years, respectively, remaining in the terms for which they have been elected, therefore,
Resolved: that we elect three members to complete the Committee, and further,
Resolved: that in order to form the classes on the Committee, we elect two members to terms of three years and one member to a term of two years.
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE:
Carl C. Cassel (three years)
BOARD OF CHURCH EXTENSION:
LeRoy S. Heller, Warren L. Zimmerman (three years)
REPORT OF THE STUDY COMMITTEE ON TOTAL ABSTINENCE AND CHURCH MEMBERSHIP TO THE 98TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE: (See p. 140)
Report was accepted.
The report was considered and debated.
Adjourned at 12:00 Noon.
FIFTH MEETING
Tuesday, October 13, 1981, 1:30 P.M.
Chairman Jansen E. Hartman called the meeting to order at 1:30 P.M. Alva C. Cassel led in prayer.
The minutes of the previous meetings were read and approved as corrected.
The following were elected:
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE:
Daniel G. Ziegler (three years)
BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS:
R.C. Reichenbach, Austin G. Shelly, Kermit K. Gehman. (three years)
The discussion of the Report of the Study Committee on Total Abstinence and Church Membership was resumed.
Adjourned at 5:07 P.M. with prayer by Harvey J. Fritz, Jr.
SIXTH MEETING
Wednesday Morning, October 14, 1981, 9:00 A.M.
The meeting was opened in prayer by Ronald C. Mahurin and with the singing of "The Full Reward".
Ralph D. Cole read the Scripture portion I Peter 5: 1-11.
LeRoy S. Heller ministered in music.
Bryan G. Upton spoke on the topic, "The Sphere of a servant".
The minutes of the previous day's meetings were read and approved as corrected.
The following were elected:
MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE COMMITTEE:
Robert F. Johnson (three years)
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE:
Ralph D. Cole (three years)
BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS:
James Sunday (three years)
Resolved: the following legislation shall replace the material presently found on pages 114-115 of the 1981 edition of the Faith & Order of the Bible Fellowship Church under "Board of Foreign Missions" (FIRST READING)
BOARD OF MISSIONS
Purpose: The Board of Missions is delegated by Annual Conference to direct and promote the Missions program of the Bible Fellowship Church, and to select, oversee, and care for its missionaries who serve in foreign countries and in the United States of America (in ministries other than Bible Fellowship churches and agencies).
Composition: The Board of Missions shall be composed of the Executive Secretary, the Financial Secretary, four ordained ministers, and three laymen.
Election: Four ordained ministers and three laymen shall be elected by Annual Conference for terms of three years in the following classes:
I. Two ministers and one layman
II.One minister and one layman
III. One minister and one layman
The Executive Secretary and the Financial Secretary shall each be elected for a term of three years by the Board of Missions subject to ratification by the Annual Conference. The election of these officers shall be in such a manner that their terms shall not expire at the same time.
The Chairman of the Board of Missions shall be elected annually by and from the Board of Missions at its organizational meeting. The Chairman, the Executive Secretary, and the Financial Secretary shall comprise the Executive Committee of the Board of Missions.
Duties of the Board of Missions:
1.To formulate objectives and policies for the missions program of the Bible Fellowship Church as conducted in foreign countries and in the U.S.A.
2.To interview and examine all prospective candidates for missionary service in foreign countries and in the U.S.A. and to make decisions pertaining to approval and support of individuals who are committed to the Articles of Faith and who endeavor to obey the Order of the Bible Fellowship Church.
3.To exercise oversight and spiritual care of the missionaries and candidates serving under the direction of the Board of Missions.
4.To maintain within the missions program of the Bible Fellowship Church standards compatible with the Faith and Order.
5.To supervise and care for financial and administrative matters pertaining to the Board of Missions.
6.To promote interest and involvement in missions in conjunction with the Local Churches (e.g. assisting Missionary Committees and Women's Missionary Societies).
7.To submit a written report to Annual Conference.
8. To designate which particular churches will comprise the various Women's Missionary Society (W.M.S.) Regions.
9.To appoint a W.M.S. General Committee composed of four members: President, Vice-president, Secretary, and Treasurer.
Duties of the Chairman of the Board of Missions:
1.He shall serve as Chairman of the Executive Committee.
2.He shall prepare an agenda for each Board Meeting in consultation with the Executive Committee.
3.He shall call Board and Executive Committee Meetings and preside at the same.
4.He shall appoint committees as necessary and monitor their progress.
5.He shall arrange for all applicants to be interviewed by the Board of Missions.
6.He shall arrange for all missionaries to be interviewed periodically by the Board of Missions.
7.He shall be responsible to see that the Board's decisions and policies are implemented.
Duties of the Executive Secretary of the Board of Missions:
1.He shall call for and conduct the election of the Chairman.
2.He shall keep an accurate record of the proceedings of this Board's meetings and distribute the same to all Board members.
3.He shall be the custodian of the Minutes and records of this Board and of the files of the applicants, candidates, and missionaries.
4.He shall be responsible for all correspondence with particular churches, applicants, candidates, missionaries, and others, except correspondence pertaining to financial matters.
5.He shall receive all inquiries and applications for missionary service.
6.He shall be responsible for public relations for the Board and seek to promote interest and involvement in missions among the constituency of the Bible Fellowship Church.
7.He shall seek to know and to minister to the spiritual needs of the missionaries.
8.He shall represent the missionaries and their needs to this Board and to the particular churches.
9. He shall annually submit the Board of Missions report to the Annual Conference.
10.He shall personally interview missionaries on furlough at the earliest possible time.
Duties of the Financial Secretary of the Board of Missions:
1.He shall receive all monies for the Board of Missions and deposit them as directed by this Board, make all disbursements for this Board, and keep accurate records.
2.He shall be responsible for all correspondence pertaining to finances.
3.He shall annually submit a financial report for inclusion in this Board's report to the Annual Conference.
4.He shall have the financial books audited annually.
5.He shall make recommendations to this Board for all investments, and invest as directed.
Contributions:
All financial contributions to the Board of Missions shall be sent to the Financial Secretary of the Board. The members of the Bible Fellowship Church are encouraged to forward their contributions for missionaries through the particular church to the Board of Missions, and not to the missionaries directly.
Resolved: that the following changes be made as needed in the Faith and Order. (1981 Edition)
1.Delete the word "Foreign" in the following places:
a)page 4, under #3; b) page 74, under f., lines 1 and 3; c) page 94, under Article IV, the fourth last line; d) page 126, under "Categories of Ministry", line 8; e) page 135, under "Miscellaneous By-laws of Annual Conference, under #2, line 3.
2. On page 74, under f., "General Secretary"'should be replaced by "Financial Secretary."
(passed unanimously) (FIRST READING)
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE: (See p. 142
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE: (see p.156
Report was accepted.
Whereas: Much of the work involved at Pinebrook Bible Conference is Business Administration, which does not require the Director to be an ordained minister and could be done by a qualified layman; and,
Whereas: The gifts necessary to pastor a church are not necessarily essential to be the Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference; and,
Whereas: Limiting the choice of Conference Director to ordained ministers of the Bible Fellowship Church is an unnecessary limitation; therefore, be it
Resolved: that the Qualifications of the Pinebrook Bible Conference Director shall be as follows:
1.The Conference Director must be a committed Christian giving evidence of the fruit of the Spirit and having a deep interest in the work of the Lord.
2.The Director must be in agreement with the Faith and Order of the Bible Fellowship Church and annually subscribe to it. He must be or become a member of the Bible Fellowship Church.
3. The Director must give evidence of having administrative ability and the ability to work harmoniously with people.
4.The Director should have communicative skills that will enable him to lead in public meetings and do effective public relations work.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME: (see p. 165)
Report was accepted.
Recessed at 10:32 A.M. Reconvened at 10:55 A.M.
Resolved: that the Faith and Order, page 121, section 7, 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 laymen. 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 (SECOND READING)
Whereas: the Faith and Order concerning the election of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church Home has been amended, and
Whereas: this amendment needs to be implemented, and
Whereas: the members of said Board, in order to implement this amendment, have agreed to resign, therefore be it
Resolved: that this 98th Annual Conference accept their resignations, and further,
Resolved: that an election be held to implement this amendment as follows:
I. Two ministers, one layman, 3 years
II. Two ministers, one layman, 2 years
III. One minister, two laymen, 1 year
The following were elected:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME:
Charles G. Hersh, 3 years
Robert Zentz, 2 years
Benjamin F. Pattison and Glenn Ruoss, 1 year
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF VICTORY VALLEY CAMP: (see p. 181)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF MINUTES OF PARTICULAR CHURCHES: (see p. 187)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STATISTICS: (see p. 189)
Report was accepted.
Resolved: That the minutes and statistics for particular churches be at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center by the Monday of the week preceding Annual Conference.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS: (see p.190)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON EXAMINATION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE MINUTES:
We hereby certify that we have examined the Annual Conference Minutes for the session of October 13-15, 1980, and have found them to be correct with the following exceptions:
p. 1, line 31--add "P" in Donald Straub
p. 25, line 23 --correct spelling from "Riggal" to "Riggall".
Kenneth L. Good, David A. Thomann,
Committee.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: (see p.193)
Report was accepted.
Adjourned at 12:19 P.M. with prayer by Walter Shlagel.
SEVENTH MEETING
Wednesday Afternoon, October 14, 1981, 1:30 P.M.
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 P.M. G. Wayne Clapier led in prayer.
The following were elected:
COMMITTEE ON MINISTERIAL CANDIDATES:
Paul G. Zimmerman (two years)
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE:
Leonard Buck (two years)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK JUNIOR COLLEGE:
L. James Roberts, Robert Zentz, Ronald Reed (three years)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF PINEBROOK BIBLE CONFERENCE:
Bert N. Brosius, Lee E. Boyles, John Moran (three years)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOME:
Bert N. Brosius, Keith E. Plows. (three years)
Resolved: that the Chairman appoint a Committee on Program for the One Hundredth Annual Conference, to begin planning now for this historic Conference and the observance of the 125th Anniversary of the founding of the Bible Fellowship Church.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AUDITING: (see p. 196)
Report was accepted.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS:
Report was adopted.
Whereas: the Lord has graciously continued to extend His grace to the Bible Fellowship Church in supplying her through the years with faithful men who have led and guided in His Church and its agencies, and
Whereas: the blessing of the Lord continues to be evident by Pastors faithfully preaching and teaching the Word of God, men who are elders among elders ruling in love and compassion as the Scriptures suggest, and
Whereas: it is again our privilege to have with us a number of our retired pastors, men of God who encourage us by their presence and strengthen us with their prayers and concern for our Bible Fellowship Church Ministries, therefore be it,
Resolved: that we continue to seek and pray for the continuous blessing and filling of God's Holy Spirit, which is our source of spiritual power, and further
Resolved: that we strive through the power of the Holy Spirit to live in such a way as to demonstrate to God our Father how sincerely we praise and thank Him for all of His provisions for us until Christ comes again.
Whereas: through God's power and the leading of the Holy Spirit the Bible Fellowship Church Home, Pinebrook Bible Conference, Pinebrook Junior College, and Victory Valley Camp have honored our Lord with efficient, dedicated service for the past Conference year, therefore, be it
Resolved: that 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 extend our deep appreciation to their entire staffs for their dedicated service.
Whereas: Harold C. Weaber has efficiently served as Secretary of the 98th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas: Bryan Upton has competently assisted the Secretary, and
Whereas: Bernard N. Coble has efficiently served as Assistant to the Secretaries, therefore,
Resolved: that we express our appreciation to these brethren for their labors on our behalf, and that we present each of them with a gift of $50.00 from the Board of Publication and Printing.
Whereas: Pinebrook Bible Conference, with its capable staff and beautiful surroundings, has provided housing and meals for the members and guests of the 98th Annual Conference, therefore be it
Resolved: that at the Wednesday evening meal, the body of this Annual Conference express our appreciation for these provisions to the personnel of the Pinebrook Bible Conference with a rising vote of thanks, 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 be it
Resolved: that the 99th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church be convened at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center, East Stroudsburg, Pa., on Monday, October 11, 1982 at 10:00 A.M.
Whereas: our sovereign Lord in His divine wisdom has called home Mrs. Esther Gehret and Mrs. Ida Hottel, and
Whereas: we are very conscious of the ministry of these women who faithfully aided their husbands in carrying out their pastoral duties, therefore be it
Resolved: that we thank God for their lives and testimonies.
John H. Herb David Weller
Richard E. Taylor Lee E. Boyles
Alva C. Cassel Robert L. Draper
the Committee on Resolutions
Richard E. Taylor, Secretary
REPORT OF THE CHURCH GOVERNMENT STUDY COMMITTEE:
Report was accepted.
Whereas: abortion is a crucial issue in our present society, and
Whereas: the practice is so offensive to the Christian conscience, therefore, be it
Resolved: that this Annual Conference elect a study committee of five to prepare a Position paper based on biblical principles on the stance our church should take on the practice of abortion.
Resolved: that the Church Government Study Committee in conjunction with the Board of Christian Education conduct a training retreat for Pastors, Elders, and Deacons at Pinebrook Bible Conference. Each body shall appoint three members to work on the joint subcommittee to plan and conduct the retreat.
Whereas: material on Annual Conference Registration was adopted at first reading, page 5, 1980 yearbook, and
Whereas: the Government Committee was assigned the task of producing legislation to tie this material to the material on the Committee to Examine the Minutes of Particular Churches, page 35, 1980 yearbook; therefore, be it
Resolved: that we not consider the material on Annual Conference Registration, page 35, 1980 Yearbook for second reading, but consider the following expanded material at first reading:
ANNUAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
The Chairman of Annual Conference shall prior to the adjournment of Annual Conference appoint a Registrar and Assistant Registrar for the succeeding Annual Conference.
The Registrar shall register all members who are qualified to be seated in the Annual Conference and shall keep the attendance record of each meeting.
A list of qualified members of Annual Conference shall be drawn up prior to Annual Conference. The Secretary of Annual Conference shall prepare a list of the delegate and alternate delegate elected in each congregation from the information supplied to him by each pastor after congregational elections. The Secretary shall forward a copy of this list to the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches before their annual meeting so that the committee may confirm that the delegate and alternate delegate are elders in their congregation and have been duly elected. The Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches shall report the confirmation of delegates and alternate delegates and any discrepancies to the Registrar prior to Annual Conference. The Credentials Committee and the Ministerial Candidate Committee shall furnish to the Registrar prior to Annual Conference lists of those ministers qualified to be members of Annual Conference and those who shall be advisory members of Annual Conference.
Alternate delegates who are to be seated in the Annual Conference bar shall report to the Registrar. The Registrar shall communicate their presence to the Chairman. They shall be seated at the beginning of a meeting of Annual Conference, and this action shall be recorded in the minutes of that meeting.
Any member desiring to be excused from any meeting must present in writing the reason for such absence to the Registrar. This information will be submitted to the Chairman of Annual Conference, and the Annual Conference shall decide the validity of each request.
The names of absentees shall be recorded in the minutes of each meeting, with indication as to whether the absentee is excused.
The Registrar shall also provide for the registration of all advisory members of Annual Conference and for any official representatives from other bodies or organizations. He shall notify the Chairman of the presence of such persons at the session.
The registration records shall be turned over to the Secretary of Annual Conference after adjournment.
(This material will appear as Article V of the By Laws of Annual Conference, p. 94, 1981 edition of the Faith and Order; the numbers of the succeeding articles will be changed in sequence.) (FIRST READING)
Resolved: that the following be added to the duties of the Ministerial Candidate Committee (p. 128, Faith and Order, 1981 edition.):
8.To furnish a list of those probationers who are eligible to be members of Annual Conference and those who shall be advisory members of Annual Conference to the Annual Conference Registrar. This list shall be submitted annually prior to Annual Conference.
Resolved: that the following be added to the duties of the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches (p. 99, Faith and Order, 1981 edition).
3., a. That the delegate and alternate delegate are elders and the individuals reported to the Secretary of Annual Conference. The Committee shall report such verification and any discrepancies to the Annual Conference Registrar during the week prior to Annual Conference.
Resolved: that the following be added to the duties of the Credentials Committee (p. 126, Faith and Order, 1981 edition). The present #6 would become #7.
6.It shall furnish a list of the ordained ministers who are eligible to be members of Annual Conference and those who shall be advisory members of Annual Conference to the Annual Conference Registrar. This list shall be submitted annually prior to Annual Conference.
(FIRST READING)
Resolved: that the following be accepted for first reading:
Choosing Leaders Other Than the Continuing Offices of Elders and Deacons
Should the Board of Elders deem it necessary to have positions of church leadership other than Elders and Deacons, and other than officers and leaders of church organizations, it shall recommend to the congregation the creation of such positions of leadership. If the congregation approves, such leaders shall be chosen by one of the following ways:
(1) election by congregational vote upon:
(a)being presented by nominating committee,
(b)being nominated by congregational ballot;
(2) appointment by Board of Elders.
Though these leaders may not meet all the Biblical qualifications for the office of Elder, nevertheless their lives shall be in keeping with the Standards of Worship and Life. Being chosen for one of these positions of leadership does not make one a member of the Board of Elders or Deacons. The following shall be the procedure in case of death, resignation, or removal of a church leader other than an Elder or Deacon:
(a) the Board of Elders shall review and act upon the resignation or removal of the leader;
(b)The Board of Elders shall either appoint someone or determine the time of a congregational meeting to fill the vacated position due to death, resignation, or removal.
Officers and other leaders in church organizations shall be elected or appointed in harmony with the Faith and Order and according to the By-laws of the particular church and/or the By-laws of the organization.
(The first paragraph under #4 "Other Organizations in the Particular Church" shall be deleted.)
(This material will replace the present material in Article IV "Choosing Leaders other than continuing Offices of Elders and Deacons," page 64 of the 1981 Faith and Order)
(FIRST READING)
Legislation on Military Chapl