First Meeting
The 116th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church was called to order by the Chairman, Randall A. Grossman, at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA. The chairman led the body in the opening prayer. Richard B. Ravis led the conference in singing "Praise the Savior" and also led in prayer. He was accompanied by Carol Snyder on piano and Robert W. Gehret on the organ. He then led the conference in singing, "Immortal, Invisible" and "Come, Thou Fount." After a time of silent prayer when we quieted our hearts before God, Jansen E. Hartman prayed for our pastors and churches; Robert W. Smock prayed for evangelism and church extension; Bert N. Brosius prayed for Victory Valley, Fellowship Homes, Inc., and Pinebrook Bible Conference; and R. C. Reichenbach prayed for our missionary family and for Dana E. Weller who is recovering from a recent heart attack. The Chairman spoke on "The Fellowship That Unites Us" from Ephesians 4:1-6 and closed his message with prayer. Vice Chairman, James A. Beil, led in prayer for the proceedings of Annual Conference.
Report of the Registrar:
Resolved, that the tables with red tablecloths constitute the Conference Bar.
The roll of the Annual Conference was established as follows:
Aberdeen (Bayshore), NJ John C. Vandegriff, Jr., E. Davis DeRonde
Allentown, Cedar Crest Ronald C. Mahurin, John Elias, David T. Allen
Bethlehem Brian H. Cooper, Mark Tress, Rick Davis
Blandon Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Gary W. Saggio
Brodheadsville (Probationer), Dave Keevil
Camden, DE (Vacant), Albert Biddle
Coopersburg Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, Clyde W. Snyder
Denville, NJ Richard D. Harris, Steven C. Boepple
Emmaus David N. Schoen, Ralph M. Soper, George H. Plate, Gerald L. Schlonecker
Ephrata Daniel P. Allen, Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ Byron Widger, Michael P. Emrick, Jr.
Fleetwood R. Jerome Brush, Adam Erb
Graterford David J. Watkins, Douglas D. Bowne
Harleysville W. David Armstrong, Jr., Daniel Coyle
Harrisburg Allan R. Vivona, Harold E. Snyder
Hatfield Howard N. Wells, Lee E. Boyles
Holmes, NY Robert S. Commerford, Hans R. Waldvogel
Howell, NJ David N. Heineman, Vito Paratore
Kutztown John C. Studenroth, Byron Barnshaw
Lancaster David A. Thomann, Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon Calvin T. Reed, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton William H. Bartron, Bruce A. Kellerman
Maple Glen Louis Prontnicki, Lawrence Morris
Mt. Carmel Alva C. Cassel, James J. Fetterolf
Mt. Pocono Ronald C. Erb, Donald Faust
Nazareth Keith E. Plows, James A. Beil
Newark, DE William G. Schlonecker, R. Roger Cole
Ocean County, NJ Dean A. Stortz, David M. Markuson
Oley (Vacant), Jan Musser
Paradise *Mark L. Morrison, W. Charles Lewis
Philadelphia, Wissinoming G. Wayne Clapier, Bud Burroughs
Piscataway, NJ Dennis M. Cahill, Richard B. Ravis, J. Richard Vroman
Pleasant Valley, NY (Vacant), Wayne Chadwell
Poughquag, NY James A. Wickstead, Thomas L. Ward
Quakertown David E. Gundrum, Dennis J. Lawrence, L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading Randall A. Grossman, Jonathon W. Arnold, Ronald W. Reed, Charles A. Lavigna
Red Hill Ronald K. Denlinger, D. Thomas Phillips, Clifford W. Luft
Royersford Jacob J. Susek, Kenneth Bowman
Scranton Roger L. Reitz, John F. Moran
Shamokin Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Mark Leshinskie
Sinking Spring Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Donald D. McKinney, Stephen M. Bauer
Spring City (Candidate), Douglas Wynn
Stroudsburg Carl C. Cassel, J. Mark McCreary, Robert D. Carroll
Sunbury Charles Cole, Timothy Brosious, Robert Cox
Terre Hill Steven L. Trommler, James Wetzler
Wallingford Richard E. Taylor, William R. Singletary
Walnutport Jonathan P. Tait, Stanley H. Stahler
Whitehall Gene W. Smith, Craig Montgomery
York Kenneth L. Good, Roger L. Shambough
Zionsville Gregory A. Uhrich, Gary E. Karch
* Ordination pending approval at Annual Conference
Ordained Men Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
Delbert R. Baker, II, Ralph E. Ritter, Dennis W. Spinney, David R. Way, Dana E.Weller, Daniel G. Ziegler
Ordained Men Between Calls
Kenneth F. Barber, James R. Batchler, Jr., Thomas J. Beil, Terris L. Byrd, Bernard N. Coble, Albert J. Dommel, John H. Herb, David H. Jones, James E. Neher
Ordained Missionaries
William C. Aukamp, Clifford B. Boone, Richard J. Gehman, W. Neil Harding, Jr., Jim D. Head, Walter M. Johnston, Herbert K. Lea, David L. Manney, Philip E. Morrison, Edward Moyer, Jerry L. Moyer, *Thomas A. Pollock, David W. Riddell, Philip E. Yerrington, Paul G. Zimmerman
Ordained Ministers in Retirement
James A. Beil, Bert N. Brosius, Leonard E. Buck, Brian H. Butler, Willard E. Cassel, Raymond R. Dotts, Robert L. Draper, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., J. Barclay Harley, Jansen E. Hartman, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Ronald W. Hoyle, Robert F. Johnson, Donald T. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, C. Leslie Miller, William W. Mull, Edgar H. Munyan, R.C.Reichenbach, John H. Riggall, A.L.Seifert, Austin G. Shelly, Robert W. Smock, David E. Thomann, Harold C. Weaber, Harold D. Yarrington
Probationers Serving as First Pastors of Churches
Mark L. Morrison, Donald R. Hibbs
The Registrar reported that requests to be excused from part or all the 116th Annual Conference were received from the following: William C. Aukamp, Jonathan W. Arnold, Stephen M. Bauer, Thomas J. Beil, Clifford B. Boone, Bert N. Brosius, R. Jerome Brush, Leonard E. Buck, Bud Burroughs, Terris L. Byrd, Robert Carroll, Carl C. Cassel, Willard E. Cassel, Wayne Chadwell, Bernard Coble, Rick Davis, Adam Erb, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Thomas Galloway, Richard L. Gehman, John Griffies, David E. Gundrum, J. Barclay Harley, Jim Head, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George E. Herb, Roy A. Hertzog, Ronald W. Hoyle, Walter M. Johnston, David H. Jones, Donald P. Kirkwood, James G. Koch, Herbert K. Lea, Clifford Luft, David L. Manney, Don McKinney, Lawrence Morris, Barry J. Minsky, Philip E. Morrison, Jerry L. Moyer, James E. Nehr, L. James Roberts, Jr., David N. Schoen, A.L.Seifert, Stanley H. Stahler, Thomas L. Ward, Harold C. Weaber, Dana E. Weller, Jim Wetzler, Philip E. Yerrington, Paul G. Zimmerman
Resolved, that the requests be granted.
Resolved, that the following alternate delegates be seated: Thomas L. Galloway, Richard Hutchinson, Donald Stauffer.
Report of the Committee on Agenda and Program
Resolved, that the agenda be accepted.
.
Report of the Committee on Arrangements (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Nathan Brosius, Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, welcomed the pastors and delegates to Pinebrook. He updated us on Richard Lee who had recently undergone cancer surgery. Alva C. Cassel led in prayer for Richard Lee.
David A. Thomann, Secretary of the 116th Annual Conference, appointed the following assistants: Robert W. Smock, Assistant Secretary and Daniel P. Allen and William Early as Assistants to the Secretary.
The Chairman appointed the following:
Tellers: Keith E. Plows (Chairman); William H. Bartron, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb, D. Thomas Phillips, Clyde W. Snyder, Harold E. Snyder, Mark Tress, Thomas L. Ward
Communications: Jonathan P. Tait (Chairman), Douglas D. Bowne, Dean A. Stortz
Resolutions: Ralph M. Soper (Chairman), Brian H. Cooper, Raymond R. Dotts, Harold E. Snyder, Byron Widger
Auditing: Robert W. Gehret (Chairman), Lee E. Boyles, Horace A. Kauffman, Gary W. Saggio
Committee to Examine Annual Conference Minutes: Howard N. Wells (Chairman), John C. Studenroth, Steven C. Boepple
Reporter: Carol Snyder
Timekeeper: Ronald C. Erb
Parliamentarian: James A. Beil
The new members of Annual Conference introduced themselves to the conference.
Report of the Nominating Committee
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Ministerial Relations Committee (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Credentials (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the Ministerial Candidate Committee has recommended Mark L. Morrison and Thomas A. Pollock for ordination; and
Whereas, these brethren have served acceptably as ministers of the Bible Fellowship Church for the required period of time or the equivalent thereof; and
Whereas, after examination, the Credentials Committee believes these men 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 Mark L. Morrison and Thomas A. Pollock be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church and further;
Resolved, that the service of ordination be held Tuesday, April 27, 1999, at 7:30 p.m. at Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA.
Whereas, it is important that there be continuity in the membership of the Credentials Committee; and
Whereas, this committee has no provision for election in classes; therefore be it
Resolved, that the material in the Faith and Order, 512-11.1 be deleted and replaced by the following:
512-11. Credentials Committee
512-11.1 Composition and Election
(1) The Credentials Committee shall be composed of five ordained ministers.
(2) They shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I Two Ordained Ministers
Class II Two Ordained Ministers
Class III One Ordained Minister
[SECOND READING]
Report of the Ministerial Candidate Committee (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee introduced themselves to the members of conference.
Report of the Board of Missions (see page:)
Ralph M. Soper gave an update concerning the health of Richard J. Gehman. Ronald W. Reed prayed for the difficulties facing the Gehman family.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned in prayer by Lee E. Boyles at 12:02 p.m.
Dennis M. Cahill opened the second meeting with prayer.
Resolved, that the election of the Credentials Committee be implemented as follows:
Elect Class I for three (3) Years
Elect Class II for two (2) Years
Elect Class III for one (1) Year
Report of the Board of Church Extension (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Director of Church Extension (see page:)
Daniel G. Ziegler introduced Paul Virr and his wife Inez. Paul Virr is serving as interim organizing pastor of the mission in Brooklyn N.Y. David E. Gundrum prayed for the Brooklyn mission and for Pastor and Mrs. Virr.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Higher Education (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted..
Report of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc. (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference (see page:)
Director Nathan Brosius reported on the progress of Pinebrook Bible Conference and gave an update on the possible purchase of property adjacent to Pinebrook. John F. Moran led the conference in prayer concerning this property.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Victory Valley Camp (see page:)
Director of Victory Valley Camp, Phil Atkins, gave an update concerning the ministry of Victory Valley and encouraged the members of conference to pray for the ministry and also to consider participating in the work-days at the camp. John C. Vandegriff offered prayer for the advancement of the ministry of Victory Valley.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Pensions (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Stewardship Council (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Strategic Planning Committee (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Christian Education (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of Board of Publication and Printing (see page:)
It was announced that Fred C. Montney become the web-servant. He can be reached by phone at (302) 454-USMC, and by email at FCMotney@juno.com.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Historical Committee (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Conference Judicatory (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be adopted.
Report of the Ministerial Convention Committee (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Committee on Examination of Minutes of Particular Churches (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Beneficiary Society (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Horace A. Kauffman offered prayer for those members of the Society who lost spouses during this past year.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading:
Section 506-6 becomes 506-6.1 - insert "lay" between "Any" and "member."
[SECOND READING]
John C. Studenroth shared with the members of conference his impending resignation as Senior Pastor from the Bible Fellowship Church at Kutztown in order to enter a ministry of evangelism among the faculty and staff of Kutztown University. Byron Barnshaw led in prayer for guidance for both John C. Studenroth's future and the search for a Senior Pastor for Kutztown.
David J. Watkins spoke about the internship program at Biblical Theological Seminary.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading:
Any pastor desiring to be excused from any meeting must present in writing the reason for such absence to the Secretary of the Committee on Credentials no later than two weeks prior to the commencement of Annual Conference (emergency excuses being the lone exception to the two week advance notice) and the Committee on Credentials will report to Annual Conference stating the validity of such excuses.
[SECOND READING]
This is to be inserted as Section 506-6.2
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading:
407-5 Congregations shall consult with the Stewardship Council prior to establishing any gift annuities and shall list all gift annuity obligations annually in their financial report to the congregation.
[SECOND READING]
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading:
509-7 Agencies shall consult with the Stewardship Council prior to establishing any gift annuities and shall list all gift annuity obligations annually in their financial report to Annual Conference.
[SECOND READING]
The following were elected:
Board of Church Extension
Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
John C. Elias (1 year)
Board of Christian Education
G. Wayne Clapier (3 years)
Jonathan P. Tait (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley
Dennis J. Lawrence (3 years)
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
David N. Schoen (3 years)
Whereas, Raymond R. Dotts has capably served on the Strategic Planning Committee, having been elected as a layman, and
Whereas, he is now classified as an Ordained Minister in Retirement, and
Whereas, the Strategic Planning Committee would value Raymond R. Dotts' continued service on the committee, therefore be it
Resolved, that by the rule of exception, Raymond R. Dotts, is eligible to continue to be nominated for another term to the Strategic Planning Committee as a layman.
The following were elected:
Strategic Planning Committee
Raymond R. Dotts (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
G. Wayne Clapier (3 years)
Board of Pensions
David J. Watkins (3 years)
Richard J. Volpe (3 years)
Board of Publication and Printing
William H. Bartron (3 years)
Clyde W. Snyder (3 years)
Stewardship Council
Daniel G. Oswald (3 years)
Nominating Committee
Douglas D. Bowne (3 years)
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. as Robert H. Cox closed in prayer.
The third meeting was opened in prayer by David M. Markuson.
Report of the Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church
Dean A. Stortz led the conference in prayer with a special awareness concerning our Pinebrook Junior College property debt.
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the minutes of the first meeting be approved.
The historical committee presented a video on the history of the Bible Fellowship Church.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:48 p.m.
The Annual Conference went into a season of worship. The conference was led in singing "Faith of our Fathers" accompanied by the piano, organ and a brass quartet. Richard B. Ravis led in prayer. LeRoy S. Heller led the conference in singing some of the older hymns of the conference, including "Speak, My Lord," "To the Work!" and "The Full Reward." David W. Riddell spoke on the theme, "Facing the Biblical Foundation of a Fellowship of Churches."
The Chairman of the Board of Missions, Ralph M. Soper, gave a short update on several missionaries that are having some health problems. The following missionaries introduced themselves to the members of Annual Conference: William Early, Byron Barnshaw, Craig and Mary Tress, W. Neil Harding, Jr., Robert and Lois Draper, Edward Moyer, Kevin Kirkpatrick, William W. Mull, Nicole Saggio, Chris Merrick and Kathryn and Paul Kline. The members of Annual Conference gave an appreciative round of applause to our missionaries.
Richard B. Ravis led the Annual Conference in singing "O Sacred Head Now Wounded." Gregory A. Uhrich and Jacob J. Susek, Jr. led the conference in the celebration of the Lord's Supper. The conference sang the last verse of "O Sacred Head Now Wounded" and Randall A. Grossman closed in prayer.
The Chairman, Randall A. Grossman, called the meeting to order at 9:00 AM. Richard B. Ravis, the worship leader, led the conference in singing "Rejoice, the Lord is King" and "He is Exalted." Wayne Chadwell led in prayer. David W. Riddell addressed the conference on the theme, "Identifying The Value of a Fellowship of Churches." The conference sang, "The Church's One Foundation."
Report of the Registrar:
The registrar reported that the following submitted requests to be excused from conference: Hugh C. Coulbourn, Kenneth F. Barber, Steven C. Boepple, John F. Moran, Albert J. Dommel, and Vito Paratore.
Resolved, that the request for excuses be granted.
The registrar also reported the seating of the following alternate delegates: John R. Griffies, Glenn A. Hartman, Larry D. Kellerman, James Robert Vaughn.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee
Calvin T. Reed (3years)
David J. Watkins (3 years)
L. James Roberts, Jr. (3 years)
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church
Randall A. Grossman (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
Karen R. Stull (3 years)
Michael L. Herb (3 years)
Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc.
LeRoy S. Heller (3 years)
Robert W. Smock (3 years)
Robin A. Musselman (3 years)
Board of Missions
Ralph M. Soper (3 years)
LeRoy O. Herb (3 years)
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference
Alva C. Cassel (3 years)
LeRoy O. Herb (3 years)
Harold L. Snyder, Jr. (3 years)
Strategic Planning Committee
Daniel P. Allen (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
Stephen C. Cassel (3 years)
Board of Pensions
Harvey J. Fritz, Jr. (3 years)
Credentials Committee
Keith E. Plows (3 years)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
Calvin T. Reed (3 years)
Richard E. Taylor (3 years)
Historical Committee
David E. Thomann (3 years)
Conference Judicatory
Dean A. Stortz (5 years)
Harold L. Snyder, Jr. (5 years)
Nominating Committee
Thomas P. Shorb (3 years)
Byron Widger (3 years)
Secretary of Annual Conference
David A. Thomann (1 year)
Report of the Study Committee on Baptism and Church Membership (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Two reports were given by this study committee. Carl C. Cassel presented the first report (Report A -- "Baptism & Membership") and Calvin T. Reed presented the second (Report B -- "A Consideration of the Necessity of Baptism for Church Membership"). This was followed by a time of answering questions from the body.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Resolved, that we adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 12:27 PM as Ronald C. Erb closed in prayer.
The fifth meeting was opened in prayer by Richard T. Paashaus who prayed for several urgent requests.
Resolved, that the minutes of the first meeting be reopened.
Resolved, that the minutes of the first meeting be approved as corrected.
Resolved, that the minutes of the third meeting be approved.
The following were elected:
Board of Directors of the Bible Fellowship Church
Horace A. Kauffman (3 years)
L. James Roberts, Jr. (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
David E. Gundrum (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
Pamela J. Kuntzman (1 year)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
Robert S. Commerford (1 year)
Chairman of Annual Conference
Randall A. Grossman
Report of the Intercultural Ministries Study Committee (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
The following was adopted at First Reading.
Spirit World
God is spirit 1 and has created everything, including material and non-material reality.2 The non-material includes a great number 3 of spirit beings. Among these are angels who are without flesh 4 and are invisible except when supernaturally revealed.5 Angels surround God's throne to worship and serve Him.6 They are powerful 7 and are sent as God pleases 8 to provide and care for,9 to protect and deliver,10 to instruct and guide,11 to discipline and punish.12 They long to understand the grace of salvation and rejoice over each sinner who repents.13 God also created human beings who are spirit 14 and flesh to worship and serve Him as God alone.15
An angel, later known as the devil or Satan, rebelled against God.16 Within limits allowed by the sovereign God,17 Satan leads a powerful world system of wickedness which is hostile toward God and His purposes.18 Satan may inflict pain, suffering, emotional problems and may cause death.19 He can control people to oppose the work of God, blind their minds to prevent their understanding the Gospel, and oppress the servants of God.20 Anyone not led by the Holy Spirit is open to the possibility of Satan's influence.21 He seeks to influence nations and governments.22 Satan is a masterful deceiver appearing at times as an angel of light and called the father of lies.23 False prophets, false religions, and cults are instruments of deception.24 Those blinded and deceived by Satan live a life-style that is opposed to God.25
Other angels followed Satan in his rebellion against God. These fallen angels, evil spirits or demons, serve Satan, the god of this evil world system.26 Satan and evil spirits can possess people and animals.27 God has enabled believers to cast out demons by His Spirit.28 God may continue to give this enablement, however, this is not in itself reason for boasting and not necessarily an evidence of an individual's relationship with Christ.29
Believers are commanded to stand against the evil spirit world 30 and are warned against such detestable things as divination, witchcraft, sorcery, interpreting of omens, casting of spells, and consulting the dead. These things are devices that Satan uses to lure people toward destruction. People who practice these things are under the condemnation of God.31 Because of Satan's power, victory is possible only through our Lord Jesus Christ.32 Through the Cross of Christ, God has provided victory over this world system for those born of God.33 In prayerful dependence upon God, they are protected from and victorious over the powers of darkness as they use all the armor God provides, submissively draw near to Him, and resist the devil.34
The sovereign God is in control of the entire social, political, and spiritual realm.35 God will cast Satan and all his followers into the lake of fire which has been prepared for them where they will remain forever.36 The kingdom of this world will one day become the kingdom of our Lord and He will reign forever and ever.37
1 John 4:24
2 Neh. 9:6; Psa. 148:2-6; Col. 1:16
3 Dan. 7:9-10; Rev. 5:11
4 Luke 24:39; Eph. 6:12; Heb. 1:14
5 Gen. 28:12; Luke 2:8-13; Mat. 28:1-6
6 Psa. 89:5-7; Isa 6:1-8; Rev. 7:11-12
7 2 Chr. 32:21; Acts 12:5-11; 2 Pe. 2:11
8 Psa. 103:20-21
9 Gen 24:7, 40; 1 Kgs. 19:5-8; Gen 21:17-19; Luke 22:43
10 Exo. 23:20; Psa 91:11-13; Dan. 6:22; Num. 20:15,16; Psa 34:7;
Acts 5:19-20
11 Luke 1: 26-37; Acts 27:23-26; Rev. 1:1; Matt. 2:13; Acts 8:26;
10:3-6
12 Luke 1:18-20; 2 Sam. 24:16-17; Acts 12:23
13 1Pe. 1:10-12; Luke 15:10
14 Rom. 8:16; 1Thes 5:23
15 Exo. 20:3-5; John 4:23-24
16 Eze. 28:13-16; Rev. 12:9
17 Job 1:10-12; Psa. 103:19; Pro. 21:1; Col.2:9-10
18 Eph. 6:11-12; 1Jo 2:15-17; 5:19
19 Job 1:8-20; Luke 13:10-16; Jn 8:44
20 Mat. 16.23; Luke 22:3-4; 2 Cor. 4:4; 2 Tim 2:25-26
21 Mat. 12:43-45; Acts 5:3; Eph. 4:27
22 Acts 4:25-26; Rev. 20:3
23 2 Cor. 11:13-15; John 8:44
24 Acts 13:6-11; 2Thes. 2:9-10
25 John 8:37-38, 41; Eph. 2:1-3
26 Mat. 25:41; Eph. 6:11-12; Rev. 12:9
27 Mat. 8:28-32; Mark 5:2, 6-13
28 Mark 3:14-15; Acts 8:6-7; 16:18, Mat.12:28
29 Mat. 7:22-23; Mark 9:38-40; Luke 10:20
30 Eph. 6:10-14; James. 4:7; 1Pe. 5:8-10
31 Exo. 20:4, 5; Lev. 19:26; Deu. 18:10-14, 20; Isa. 8:19,20
32 Rom 8:37-39; 2 Thes. 3:3; 1 Pet. 1:3-7
33 1 Cor. 15:57-58; Col. 2:13-15; 1Jo. 5:4-6
34 Eph. 6:13-18; James 4:7-8; Rev 12:10-11
35 Job 1:1 - 2:13; Psa. 2:1-12
36 Mat 25:41, 46; Rev 20:10, 14-15
37 Dan. 7:13-14; Zec. 14:9; Rev 11:15
The following was adopted at First Reading.
Holiness
God is holy.1 He is separate from and superior to all creation.2 He is absolutely pure and good.3 He cannot sin and hates sin.4 Because He is holy, He calls people to holiness.5
Holiness involves a setting apart, a dedicating or devoting, of someone or something for a special purpose.6 Believers are set apart for God and called saints, or holy ones.7 The Bible reveals the holiness of God and declares His standard for a holy life.8 God's law teaches all people are sinners and His Spirit convicts of sins.9 All those who belong to God are, through the work of Christ, declared holy and are responsible to live holy lives.10 God's purpose is that every believer through the experiences of this life be changed into the likeness of His Son.11
Sanctification, or practical holiness, is progressively realized by the power of the Holy Spirit.12 For Christians, there is to be a separation from all forms of evil, and a full surrender to the Lord.13 Believers are not to continue any longer in the sinful ways of the world but should rather seek to have all thoughts and actions conformed to the revealed will of God.14 Sin's control and its continued practice must cease.15
The church is also called to holiness.16 Believers are to encourage one another to live righteously,17 warn against the dangers of all sin,18 confess and repent of all individual and corporate sin,19 and submit to discipline as taught by the Lord.20 Christian leaders have a particular responsibility to set proper examples.21
1 Exo.15:11; Psa.99:9; Isa.6:3
2 Psa. 89:5-8; Isa.57:15; Rev.15:4
3 Psa.33:5; Hab.1:13; James.1:13
4 Ex.34:6-7; Psa. 5:4-6; 1Jo.1:5
5 Lev.10:3; 19:2; 1Pe.1:15
6 Ex.20:8; Deut.7:6; 1Pe.2:9-10
7 1Cor.1:2; Rom.1:7; Heb.12:14
8 Exo.20:1-17; Mat.22:37-40; James.2:10
9 Rom.3:19-20; Jn.16:7-14; 1Tim.1:8-11
10 Rom.3:23-26; Rom.8:1-17; Heb.10:10
11 Rom.8:28-29; Phil.1:6; 2Pe. 1:3-4
12 Rom.8:26-30; 2Cor.3:18; 2Thes.2:13
13 2Cor.6:14-7:1; Eph.4:17-5:14
14 Rom.12:1-2; Col.3:9-10; 1Pe.1:13-16
15 Rom.6:1-14; Tit.2:11-14; 1Pe.2:11-12; 1Jo.2:13
16 1Cor.3:16-17; Eph.5:25-27
17 Gal.6:1-2; Heb.10:23-25
18 1Thes.5:14; James.5:19-20
19 Pro.18:13; 1Cor.5:1-2; 2Cor.2:5-8; 1Jo.1:9; Rev.3:19
20 Mt.18:15-17
21 Phil.3:17; Heb.13:7; 1Pe.5:1-3
The following were elected:
Board of Directors of the BFC Homes, Inc.
Henry U. Sandt, Jr. (3 years)
Vice Chairman of Annual Conference
William G. Schlonecker (1 year)
Resolved, that the request from the Board of Elders of the Trinity BFC, Blandon, PA, be received and placed on the conference floor.
Whereas, the Bible Fellowship Church in the past has attempted to address the issue concerning "The Role of Women in the Church" and
Whereas, the final product of this effort was the report of two separate study committees and
Whereas, both reports primarily addressed the issue of Deaconesses and give little guidance regarding other issues such as women teaching men and holding positions of authority in the church and
Whereas, the two reports appear to be in conflict with each other and
Whereas, the issue is a cause for greatly divergent viewpoints in our society regarding political correctness and our position as a church governed by the Scriptures, therefore,
the Board of Elders of Trinity Bible Fellowship Church, Blandon, PA, requests that Annual Conference appoint a committee of seven (four pastors and three elders) to study the issues concerning a woman's role in the church to the end that clearer guidance is given regarding what the Bible has to say on the subject and that this committee report to the 117th Annual Conference of the Bible Fellowship Church.
In response to the request from Trinity BFC the following was adopted:
Resolved, that the chairman appoint a committee of nine (four pastors, three elders and two women) to study the role of women in the church.
Report of the Committee to Study Multiple Staff (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, the term "minister" is often used of any saint who is in service to the Lord, and
Whereas, the general term of one who serves vocationally used by most churches today is "pastor", and
Whereas, the Faith & Order uses the "minister" and "pastor" indiscriminately, and
Whereas, the term "pastor" most properly designates men gifted and called to the Gospel ministry, therefore be it
Resolved, that we designate in the Faith & Order those called to the Gospel ministry by the term "pastor".
Resolved, that in a particular church the lead pastor called under the rules of pulpit supply of the BFC is designated the "Senior Pastor." He shall serve as Chairman of the Board of Elders and shall assume other pastoral responsibilities as assigned him by the Board of Elders.
Resolved, that a pastoral staff is composed of men recognized by a particular church who have attained to credentialed, probationer, or candidate status and who serve in various pastoral functions.
Resolved, that the remainder of the report of the committee to study Multiple Staff be referred back to the committee to work on a definition of terms.
The following was elected:
Committee on Credentials
David A. Thomann (3 years)
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned in prayer by Jan Musser at 5:00 PM.
The meeting opened with Richard B. Ravis reading Colossians 3:15 and leading the conference in singing, "We Come, O Christ to Thee" and "All Hail the Power of Jesus Name." Daniel Coyle led in prayer. Richard B. Ravis led the conference in singing "Jesus, Name Above All Names" and "O God, You Are My God" accompanying with the guitar. David W. Riddell addressed the conference on the theme "Exploring the Function of a Fellowship of Churches." After David W. Riddell closed in prayer Richard B. Ravis led the conference in singing "O God, You Are My God."
After several shared some prayer concerns, James A. Wickstead led in prayer.
Report of the Registrar
The registrar reported that the following submitted requests to be excused from conference: William G. Schlonecker, William H. Bartron and Richard D. Harris.
Resolved, that the request for these excuses be granted.
Resolved, that the following alternate delegate be seated: Garry S. Waddell
The following were elected:
Board of Directors of the BFC Homes, Inc.
Hans Waldvogel (1 year)
Credentials Committee
Dennis M. Cahill (2 years)
LeRoy S. Heller (2 years)
Resolved, that the minutes of the fourth meeting be approved.
Report of the Committee to Study Divorce as it Relates to Eldership (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that we extend the time.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at First Reading:
Whereas, an elder must be "above reproach" and "blameless" in order to uphold the dignity of the office, and
Whereas, it is possible in some cases for a divorced man or one married to a divorced woman to be "above reproach" and "blameless", and
Whereas, it is possible then in some cases for a divorced man or one married to a divorced woman to uphold the dignity of the office of an elder, and
Whereas, an elder must be "a one woman man" in order to uphold the dignity of the office, and
Whereas, it is possible in some cases for a divorced man or one married to a divorced woman to be "a one woman man", and
Whereas, it is possible then in some cases for a divorced man or one married to a divorced woman to uphold the dignity of the office of an elder, therefore be it
Resolved, that Article 108-4 in the Faith and Order reads as follows: "Because of the qualifications and dignity of the office of Elder, each particular church shall give careful consideration to ensure that a man who has been divorced or who has married a divorced woman is presently characterized as above reproach, and if married, faithful to and exclusively committed to his wife."
[FIRST READING]
YES- 95 NO - 19
The following was elected:
Credentials Committee
James A. Beil (1 year)
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:20 PM. Dennis W. Spinney closed in prayer.
The chairman opened the meeting at 1:30 PM. Jacob J. Susek, Jr. gave an update on his wife's physical condition.. Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr. prayed, thanking the Lord for the good report on Mrs. Susek.
Resolved, that the Annual Conference reconsider the resolution found on top of page 15 (minutes of the fifth meeting of the 116th Annual Conference) that says, "Resolved, that the chairman appoint a committee of seven (four pastors and three elders) to study the role of women in the church."
Resolved, that two women be added to the committee to study the role of women in the church.
Resolved, that the minutes of the fifth meeting be approved as amended.
Resolved, that the study committee which studied "Divorce and Eldership" be directed to study whether a divorced man or a man married to a divorced woman be considered for ordination and report to the next Annual Conference; and further
Resolved, that the report on that issue be considered prior to the consideration of the second reading of the legislation regarding elders and divorce.
Resolved, that a member of the Ministerial Candidate Committee and the Committee on Credentials respectively be added to the Committee to study divorce as it relates to Eldership.
Resolved, that an Ordination Service be held Tuesday, April 25, 2000, at the Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA., during the 117th Annual Conference.
2. Resolved, that Paradise Bible Fellowship Church, Paradise, PA, and New Life Bible Fellowship Church, Oley, PA, be encouraged to have services acknowledging the Ordination of Mark L. Morrison, and Thomas A. Pollock respectively and that they be encouraged to invite the Credentials Committee to send representation to be present at the services.
Resolved, that the list of men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee as of February 28, 1999, be approved as follows:
Probationers (year of licensure in parenthesis)
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. (1997) Reading, PA
Douglas D. Bowne Pottstown, PA
Timothy S. Cowen (1997) Wallingford, PA
Willis I. Dowling (1998) Chesapeake, VA
Donald R. Hibbs (1991) Saylorsburg, PA
Kenneth J. Hurst (1998) Hunter Army Air Field, GA
Alvin A. Low Colorado Springs, CO
Mark L. Morrison (1996) Lancaster, PA
Duane E. Moyer (1998) Guadeloupe
Richard A. Moyer (1995) Mays Landing, NJ
Thomas A. Pollock (1996) Puposky, MN
Elliot H. Ramos (1998) Allentown, PA
Jeffrey L. Ruhl (1997) Nazareth, PA
David H. C. Sng Lansdale, PA
Candidates
David T. Allen Kutztown, PA
Robert E. Andrews, Jr. Wilmington, DE
Kevin W. Clineff Spring City, PA
Andrew T. Crossgrove Harleysville, PA
William J. Dunn Emmaus PA
Darryl B. Forsythe Reading PA
Peter J. Gunderson Souderton, PA
David R. Karn Wyomissing PA
Donald E. Kuntzman Center Valley PA
Thomas J. Maurer Kondoa, Tanzania
Vincent S. Russ Staten Island NY
Hal J. Russell Mullica Hill NJ
William J. Whalen Lancaster PA
Applicants
Raymond L. Cole Newark, DE
John C. Elias Coopersburg PA
James MacArthur Oley PA
Bruce D. McIntosh York, PA
Vinton A. N. Upham Harleysville, PA
Whereas, the Strategic Planning Committee of the Bible Fellowship Church is presently working on changes in denominational organization, structure, and paradigms which could impact the direction of the Board of Church Extension and the way it carries out its work, and
Whereas, there is significant potential for greater efficiency in the use of staff and resources in a cooperative effort between the Board of Church Extension and the Board of Missions, and
Whereas, to appoint a new Executive Director before these issues are fully and carefully investigated and resolved would not be in the best interests of the Board of Church Extension, the new Executive Director, or the denomination, therefore, be it
Resolved, that we delay the appointment of an Executive Director of the Board of Church Extension to take a fresh look at our mission and vision, and further
Resolved, that we institute an interim arrangement to continue current staff and procedures for one year, and further
Resolved, that Daniel G. Ziegler be ratified for a one year term extension as Executive Director of Church Extension, and further
Resolved, that the Board of Church Extension, led by the Chairman, will develop a plan to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the work of church extension, and further
Resolved, that members of Annual Conference pray for the Lord's wisdom and guidance as the Board considers its vision and direction and searches for a new Executive Director.
Resolved, that the Annual Conference ratify the election to the Pinebrook Educational Foundation of Olivia M. Barnes and Stephen C. Cassel for terms to end in 2002 and the election of Gary E. Karch to fill the term of resigned member Keith W. Johnson to end in 2000.
Whereas, Fellowship Community offers a central location for the offices of the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, Fellowship Community offers an opportunity for cost-effective consolidation of space, human resources and benefit administration, and
Whereas, Fellowship Community offers many advantages for the enhancement of Bible Fellowship Church, and its agencies, Boards and Committees, therefore be it
Resolved, that a feasibility study be made by Bible Fellowship Church as to the effectiveness of consolidation of offices and personnel at Fellowship Community, and further
Resolved, that the committee be composed of one pastor and one layperson from the following Agencies and Committees: Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc., Board of Missions, Board of Church Extension, Board of Directors of BFC, and from the Strategic Planning Committee, and further
Resolved, that the Study Committee report with recommendations at the next Annual Conference.
Resolved, that a contribution of $325.00 for the conference year 1999 be given to the Board of Publication and Printing from each agency to help underwrite the cost of printing and distributing the Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Business Manager by December 31, 1999.
Resolved, that $1.75 per member of the BFC for 1999 be forwarded to the Board of Publication and Printing from each church to help underwrite the cost of printing and distributing the Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Business Manager at the 116th Annual Conference.
Resolved, that the cost of the 1999 Yearbook be $7.50 per copy.
Resolved, that the appointment of Carol Z. Snyder be ratified as Editor of Fellowship News for a term of three years.
The following were presented as First Reading:
Resolved, that F&O, §510-7 be amended to read:
The term of office of those elected and appointed to boards or committees by this body shall be for the term designated by our rules for that office (measured from the last day of the regular Annual Conference at which they are elected to the last day of the regular Annual Conference at which their term expires) or until successors are chosen..
[FIRST READING]
2. Whereas, Article 508-3 of the Business Rules of Annual Conference mandates prescribed times for meetings of Annual Conference, and
Whereas, this legislation creates the awkward necessity for procedural motions to "extend the time" and "suspend the rules to reconvene", etc., and
Whereas, the Committee on Agenda and Program is responsible to "establish the order of business and program for the succeeding Annual Conference" and sets the time and length of meetings and program as appropriate, therefore be it,
Resolved, that the following be deleted from the Business Rules of Annual Conference and succeeding sections be renumbered accordingly:
508-3 Two sessions shall be held daily as follows from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Evening meetings are at the discretion of Annual Conference.
and further
Resolved, that §511-1.1 Committee on Agenda and Program be revised as follows:
Duties:
(3) It shall establish the proposed order of business and program for succeeding Annual Conference and shall establish the times of the meetings of Annual Conference.
[FIRST READING]
Whereas, the work of the Committee on Communications can be done by the Registrar, therefore be it
Resolved, that 511-2.2 be deleted. [FIRST READING]
4. Whereas, it is important that each official delegate and Pastor receive all the reports from the Study Committees, Committees and Agencies and
Whereas, in order to coordinate this procedure one distribution point should be employed, therefore be it
Resolved, that all Study Committees, Committees and Agencies have their reports sent to the designated distribution point, The Bible Fellowship Church, PO Box 299, Ephrata, PA 17522, by March 1.
Resolved, that the 117th Annual Conference be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference, Stroudsburg, PA, April 24-26, 2000 beginning at 10:00 AM on Monday.
The following was presented for first reading.
Whereas, the present members of the Ministerial Convention Committee desire to provide more continuity to the ministerial convention and allow more advanced planning to take place,
Resolved, that article 701-2.2 (3) be changed to read:
(3) The members of the committee shall be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I Two Ministers
Class II Two Ministers
Class III One Minister
[FIRST READING]
Whereas, monies are needed to plant ethnic Bible Fellowship Churches, and
Whereas, the Committee believes that God has provided the people and opportunities and desires His church to reach the alien in the land and plant churches, therefore be it
Resolved, that each Pastor and Delegate to Annual Conference, if they have not already established a line item in their budgets for ethnic church planting, work with their church to budget monies for ethnic church planting.
3. Whereas, we believe the "Biblical Principles For Living" are God's intended principles by which we should live, and
Whereas, we believe the "Biblical Principles For Living" should be urgently and diligently taught to our congregations,
Resolved, each Pastor and Delegate seek ways to implement the teaching of the "Biblical Principles For Living" to their congregation and further,
Resolved, that as "Biblical Principles For Living" are studied and taught, any discovery of problem areas, suggestions and additions, or clarifications of text, should be communicated to this Committee for consideration prior to Second Reading. These communications should be addressed to David E. Gundrum, Secretary of the Committee and further,
Resolved, that we encourage lesson plans be developed and submitted to David E. Gundrum for ideas in the development of teacher guides for teens and adults.
Whereas, we believe the "Biblical Principles For Living" will be completed in this next year, and
Whereas, the Committee values the opinions of the churches regarding where the "Principles" should be placed in the Faith & Order, therefore be it
Resolved, that the churches contact the Secretary of the Committee, David E. Gundrum, and offer their opinions regarding where the "Principles" should be placed in the Faith & Order.
Whereas, the work of the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee is not yet complete,
Resolved, that the 116th Annual Conference direct the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee to continue its work.
Resolved, that the recommended minimum salary for a pastor serving a Bible Fellowship Church, including benefits, be $25,000 for 2000.
Resolved, that the recommended revisions to Article 409 - "Pulpit Supply Procedure" be adopted at first reading:
409-3 The formation and dissolution of the pastoral relationship is ordinarily without controversy. Accordingly, the Ministerial Relations Committee is empowered to act on behalf of the Annual Conference to approve formation and dissolution of the pastoral relationship except by petition of the pastor or decision of Annual Conference without petition. Rules governing the normal process are in § 409-3.1 through §409-3.4. The process by which Annual Conference dissolves the pastoral relationship in respect to disciplinary matters is found at §409-3.5.
409-3.1 An Uncontested Resignation. If a minister desires to resign from his pastorate the procedure is as follows:
1. Pastor submits his resignation to the church by sending a letter to the secretary of the Board of Elders. He shall at the same time submit a copy of the letter to the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee.
2. Board of Elders acts on the resignation by approving the following:
Resolved, we recommend the congregation accept (or reject) the resignation of Pastor (name of pastor). If acceptance is recommended the proposed effective date is added to the resolution.
Special provisions (terms for remaining in the parsonage beyond effective date of resignation, extension of health care benefits, severance pay, etc.), if any, shall be specified by additional resolutions.
Ordinarily a resolution to accept a resignation is preceded by a whereas, or series of whereas clauses, which indicate the reason, or reasons, for the recommendation of the Board of Elders. Resolution(s) expressing appreciation for the ministry of the pastor may be included in the resolution(s) which recommend action on the resignation. The action of the Board of Elders shall be communicated to the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee by the secretary of the Board of Elders, or delegate, on the day the action is taken. The secretary of Ministerial Relations Committee shall be contacted if the chairman cannot be reached.
3. If the Board of Elders has passed a resolution recommending that the resignation of the pastor be accepted by the congregation, and, if after conferring with the delegate and the pastor no issues of sufficient weight to delay the process are presented, the MRC shall act on the following:
Resolved, that approval be given for the congregation of church to act on the following: (whereas clauses and resolutions of church inserted). The Ministerial Relations Committee shall act on the proposal of the Board of Elders within forty- eight hours and the chairman shall communicate the decision of the Ministerial Relations Committee to the secretary of the Board of Elders of the petitioning church as soon as the Committee vote is final.
4. When the congregation approves the resignation of a pastor this information shall be communicated to the chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee within twenty-four hours.
409-3.2 A Contested Resignation
1. If the congregation approves a resolution from the Board of Elders recommending the resignation of the pastor be rejected, or if the congregation fails to pass a resolution from the Board of Elders recommending the resignation of the pastor be accepted the congregation must at the same time approve "whereas" clauses which explain the reason for its action. Rules for communicating the results of the decision to reject the resignation of the pastor to the Ministerial Relations Committee are the same as those for communicating a decision to accept the resignation of the pastor.
2. If a congregation takes action which either defeats a resolution to approve a resignation, or passes a resolution denying approval of the resignation of the pastor the Ministerial Relations Committee shall, after weighing the reasons given for denying the resignation, either conclude the reasons given for denying the resignation are insufficient and approve the resignation with an effective date, or appeal the matter to the Chairman of Annual Conference with recommendation.
409-3.3 Churches Desiring Dissolution of the Pastorate. If a church desires a dissolution of the pastoral relation the procedure is as follows:
If the issues leading to a desire by the church to dissolve the pastorate involve moral or doctrinal charges against the pastor the process described in 409-3.5 is followed.
If the issues leading to a desire by the church to dissolve the pastorate do not involve moral or doctrinal charges against the pastor the process is as follows:
When, by resolution, a Board of Elders concludes there are issues which threaten continuation of the pastorate it shall, in consultation with the Pastoral Relations Committee, provide in writing to the pastor, a list of issues of concern and proposed solutions. This communication shall include a statement indicating that failure to resolve these issues could lead to a desire to dissolve the pastoral relationship. This constitutes formal notice that the continuance of the pastorate is in question. Although formal notice is a serious step, it is not necessarily a public step.
Accordingly, when formal notice is given to a pastor, representatives of the Ministerial Relations Committee shall meet with both parties to offer counsel and advice, upon the written request of either party.
When a Board of Elders issues formal notice, the Pastor Relations Committee shall meet with the pastor no less than quarterly in an effort to resolve outstanding issues and it shall provide the pastor with a written progress report at least semi-annually, in respect to all issues of concern.
If, after making every effort to resolve issues that threaten the pastorate, the Board of Elders reaches the conclusion it can no longer support sustaining the pastoral relationship it shall pass whereas clauses and resolutions which indicate its desire to end the pastoral relationship and the reasons it has reached this conclusion. Copies of these resolutions shall be provided to the pastor and the Ministerial Relations Committee within forty-eight hours. The Ministerial Relations Committee shall, at the same time, be supplied with copies of the formal notice, and all follow-up written communication to the pastor by the Board of Elders or the Pastoral Relations Committee.
Upon receipt of a formal request by a Board of Elders to terminate a pastorate the Ministerial Relations Committee shall meet with the Board of Elders and the Pastor to discuss the situation.
Following the meeting with the Board of Elders and the Pastor, the Ministerial Relations Committee shall either (a) approve the request of the Board of Elders to submit a resolution calling for dissolution of the pastorate to the congregation, or, (b) deny the request of the Board of Elders to proceed toward dissolution of the pastorate. Denial of a request to proceed toward dissolving the pastorate shall be accompanied by reasons for the decision, recommendations regarding how to restore the health of the pastorate, and assignment of a member, or members, of the Ministerial Relations Committee to work with the church and the pastor as they seek to restore the relationship.
If the Ministerial Relations Committee allows the request of the Board of Elders to dissolve the pastorate to be submitted to the congregation, the pastor may appeal by sending within one week a certified letter to the Chairman of the Annual Conference.
If the Ministerial Relations Committee denies the request of the Board of Elders to proceed toward the dissolution of the pastorate, the Board of Elders may appeal by sending within one month, a certified letter signifying its appeal to the Chairman of Annual Conference.
Should a decision of the Ministerial Relations Committee to permit the Board of Elders to proceed toward dissolution of the pastorate not be appealed to the annual conference within one week the Board of Elders shall schedule and announce a Congregational Meeting to deal with the resolution:
Resolved, that the pastoral relationship between (Church) and (Pastor) be dissolved effective (date).
All terms of the dissolution of the pastorate, including date, special provisions (terms for remaining in the parsonage beyond effective date of resignation, extension of health care benefits, severance pay, etc.) shall be specified by additional resolutions. All terms of separation must be approved by the Ministerial Relations Committee before they are presented to the congregation. The chairman of the Ministerial Relations Committee, or his designee will chair the congregational meeting called to act on dissolution of the pastoral relationship if the Ministerial Relations Committee determines this is in the best interest of the Annual Conference, or if requested to do so by the Board of Elders or the Pastor.
The Ministerial Relations Committee shall approve dissolution of the pastorate upon approval of the resolution to dissolve the pastorate by a majority of those members present and voting at the meeting. If the congregation votes to continue the pastorate with a large minority in dissent the Ministerial Relations Committee may affirm that decision, or conclude that the situation is beyond repair and inform the church and the pastor that it intends to bring the matter to the Annual Conference with a recommendation that the pastorate be terminated.
All decisions of the Ministerial Relations Committee which are appealable are addressed to the Chairman of Annual Conference, who shall have the authority to refer the matter to a committee he selects to make final judgement or, to the Annual Conference.
Resolved, that the rate of mileage reimbursement for conference business be $.22 per mile.
Resolved, that the administrative budget for January 1, 1999 to December 31, 1999 be adopted.
Administrative Budget
1. Beneficiary Fund
500
2. Ministers' Assistance Fund
100
3. Ministerial Convention
1,000
4. Ministers' Retirement Fund
30,000
5. Annual Conference
a. Conference Entertainment
5,000
b. Conference Expense
2,500
6. Fund to Assist Churches
100
7. Publication & Printing
4,500
8. Expenses of Committees
a. Chaplaincy Expense
700