Annual Conference Proceedings - 2000
First Meeting
Monday Morning, April 24, 2000, 10:00 AM
The 117th 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. Brian D. Frable led the conference in a time of worship which included singing, Scripture reading (2 Timothy 4:1-8), and prayer. The Chairman spoke from 2 Timothy on the passion for ministry as demonstrated by the Apostle Paul. The Conference sang, His Name is Wonderful and the Vice Chairman, William G. Schlonecker 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, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . John C. Vandegriff, Jr., E. Davis DeRonde
Allentown, PA, Cedar Crest. Ronald C. Mahurin, John C. Elias, David T. Allen
Bethlehem, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Brian H. Cooper, Mark W. Tress, Peter D. Burleigh
Blandon, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Carl J. Fischer, Jr., Michael T. Littlejohn
Brodheadsville, PA. . . . . . . . Donald R. Hibbs (Probationer), David J. Keevil
Camden, DE. . . . . . . . . . . . . Raymond R. Dotts, Albert F. Biddle, Jr.
Coopersburg, PA. . . . . . . . . Thomas P. Shorb, Richard T. Paashaus, Gene E. Parris
Denville, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard D. Harris, Steven C. Boepple
Emmaus, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . David N. Schoen, Ralph M. Soper, Gerald L. Schlonecker, Ralph B. Weaver
Ephrata, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Daniel P. Allen, Robert W. Gehret
Finesville, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . Byron Widger, Herbert J. Heilmann
Fleetwood, PA. . . . . . . . . . . R. Jerome Brush, James E. Mortland
Graterford, PA. . . . . . . . . . . David J. Watkins, Douglas D. Bowne
Harleysville, PA. . . . . . . . . . W. David Armstrong, Jr., Glendon R. LeSuer
Harrisburg, PA. . . . . . . . . . . (Vacant), Harold E. Snyder
Hatfield, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Howard N. Wells, Lee E. Boyles
Holmes, NY. . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert S. Commerford, Hans R. Waldvogel
Howell, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . David N. Heineman, Vito Paratore
Kutztown, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Allan R. Vivona, Byron G. Barnshaw
Lancaster, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . David A. Thomann, Horace A. Kauffman
Lebanon, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Calvin T. Reed, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb
Lehighton, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . William H. Bartron, Bruce A. Kellerman
Maple Glen, PA. . . . . . . . . . Louis Prontnicki, Laurence M. Morris
Mt. Carmel, PA. . . . . . . . . . Alva C. Cassel, Bryan L. Snyder
Mt. Pocono, PA. . . . . . . . . . Ronald C. Erb, Donald Faust
Nazareth, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . (Vacant), * Jeffrey L. Ruhl, Eric A. Overholt
Newark, DE. . . . . . . . . . . . . William G. Schlonecker, David M. Bradford
Ocean County, NJ. . . . . . . . . Dean A. Stortz, Richard T. Christen, Jr.
Oley, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Vacant), Jan Musser
Paradise, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark L. Morrison, David W. Eisenhower
Philadelphia, PA. . . . . . . . . . G. Wayne Clapier, Thomas L. Galloway
Piscataway, NJ. . . . . . . . . . . Dennis M. Cahill, Richard B. Ravis, Carl Fitzgerald
Pleasant Valley, NY. . . . . . . (Vacant), Wayne Chadwell
Poughquag, NY. . . . . . . . . . James A. Wickstead, Thomas L. Ward
Quakertown, PA. . . . . . . . . . David E. Gundrum, Dennis J. Lawrence, L. James Roberts, Jr.
Reading, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Randall A. Grossman, Jonathon W. Arnold, *Clyde D. Bomgardner, Ronald W. Reed, Charles A. Lavigna
Red Hill, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Ronald K. Denlinger, D. Thomas Phillips, Clifford W. Luft
Royersford, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Jacob J. Susek, Jr., Kenneth Bowman
Scranton, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Roger L. Reitz, John F. Moran
Shamokin, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Hugh C. Coulbourn, Jr., Mark M. Leshinskie
Sinking Spring, PA. . . . . . . . Robert A. Sloan, Jr., Donald D. McKinney, Stephen M. Bauer
Spring City, PA. . . . . . . . . . . (Candidate), Peter Gunderson
Stroudsburg, PA. . . . . . . . . . (Vacant), Robert D. Carroll
Sunbury, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . Charles E. Cole, Robert H. Cox
Terre Hill, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . (Vacant), James F. Wetzler
Wallingford, PA. . . . . . . . . . Richard E. Taylor, *Timothy S. Cowen, William R. Singletary
Walnutport, PA. . . . . . . . . . . Jonathan P. Tait, Timothy D. Weaber
Whitehall, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . Gene W. Smith, Calvin Boyle
York, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth D. Keeler, Roger L. Shambough
Zionsville, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . (Vacant), David L. Weller
* Ordination pending approval at Annual Conference
Ordained Men Serving Bible Fellowship Ministries
Delbert R. Baker, II, J. Mark McCreary, Ralph E. Ritter, Dennis W. Spinney, David R. Way, Dana E.Weller, Daniel G. Ziegler
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, John C. Studenroth, Philip E. Yerrington, Paul G. Zimmerman
Ordained Ministers Working in the Chaplaincy Under the Sponsorship of the BFC
*Kenneth J. Hurst, Military; Barry J. Minsky, Military; *Richard A. Moyer, Prison Ministry
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, Steven L. Trommler
Ordained Ministers in Retirement
James A. Beil, Bert N. Brosius, Leonard E. Buck, Carl C. Cassel, Willard E. Cassel, Raymond R. Dotts, Robert L. Draper, John Dunn, Walter H. Frank, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Robert N. Gordon, 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, William W. Mull, Edgar H. Munyan, Keith E. Plows, 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
Donald R. Hibbs
The following requested excuses for part or all of the meetings of the 117th: William C. Aukamp, Kenneth F. Barber, James A Beil, Thomas J. Beil, T. James Bigley, Jr., Clifford B. Boone, Bert N. Brosius, Leonard E. Buck Raymond G. Burnett, Terris L. Byrd, Wayne Chadwell, Willard E. Cassel, Richard T. Christen, Jr., G. Wayne Clapier, Bernard N. Coble, Ronald K. Denlinger, John Dunn, Ronald C. Erb, Arthur H. Frable, Jr., Thomas L. Galloway, Richard J. Gehman, Kenneth L. Good, Peter Gunderson, J. Barclay Harley, W. Neil Harding, Jr., Jim D. Head, Frank L. Herb, Jr., George F. Herb, Walter M. Johnston, David H. Jones, Donald T. Kirkwood, Herbert K. Lea, Clifford W. Luft, Thomas S. MacMillian, David L. Manney, Carl T. Martin, Barry J. Minsky, Philip E. Morrison, Edward Moyer, James E. Neher, Vito Paratore, D. Thomas Phillips, David W. Riddell, A. L. Seifert, Steven L. Trommler, Gregory A. Uhrich, Thomas L. Ward, Philip E. Yerrington
Resolved, that the requests for excuses be granted.
Resolved that the following alternate delegates be seated: Joseph R. Knorr, Piscataway, NJ; Thomas A. Orlando, Spring City, PA; Ralph B. Weaver, Emmaus, PA
Report of the Committee on Agenda and Program
Resolved, that the agenda be accepted.
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Report of the Committee on Arrangements (see page )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Nate Brosius, Director of Pinebrook Bible Conference, welcomed the members of Annual Conference to Pinebrook for these meetings.
David A. Thomann, Secretary of Annual Conference, appointed Robert W. Smock as Assistant Secretary and Daniel P. Allen and Roy A. Hertzog as Assistants to the Secretary.
The Chairman appointed the following:
Tellers: Keith E. Plows (Chairman); William H. Bartron, LeRoy S. Heller, LeRoy O. Herb, Mark L. Morrison, D. Thomas Phillips, Harold E. Snyder, Mark W. Tress, Thomas L. Ward
Communications: J. Mark McCreary, Jonathon W. Arnold, Sr.
Resolutions: Byron Widger (Chairman); Douglas D. Bowne, Dennis J. Lawrence, Donald D. McKinney, Dean A Stortz
Auditing: Robert W. Gehret (Chairman), Lee E. Boyles, Horace A. Kauffman
Committee to Examine Annual Conference Minutes: John C. Studenroth (Chairman), Jonathan P. Tait, Hans R. Waldvogel
Reporter: Carol Snyder
Timekeeper: John C. Vandegriff, Jr.
Parliamentarian: Carl C. Cassel
The new members of Annual Conference introduced themselves to the Conference.
Report of the Nominating Committee
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Thomas P. Shorb prayed for the Lord’s guidance in the upcoming elections of Annual Conference.
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 Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr., Timothy S. Cowen, Kenneth J. Hurst, Richard A. Moyer, and Jeffrey L. Ruhl 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 Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr., Timothy S. Cowen, Kenneth J. Hurst, Richard A. Moyer, and Jeffrey L. Ruhl be ordained to the gospel ministry of the Bible Fellowship Church and further;
Resolved, that the service of ordination be held Tuesday, April 25, 2000, at 7:30 p.m. at Berean Bible Fellowship Church, Stroudsburg, PA.
Resolved, that Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Reading, PA, Ebenezer Bible Fellowship Church, Bethlehem, PA, Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Wallingford, PA, and Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Nazareth, PA, be encouraged to have services acknowledging the Ordination of Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr., Richard A. Moyer, Kenneth J. Hurst, Timothy S. Cowen and Jeffrey L. Ruhl respectively and that they be encouraged to invite the Credentials Committee to send representation to be present at the services.
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.
Resolved, that the list of men under the care of the Ministerial Candidate Committee as of February 29, 2000, be approved as follows:
Probationers (year of licensure in parenthesis):
David T. Allen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kutztown, PA
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. (1997). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Reading, PA
Timothy S. Cowen (1997). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wallingford, PA
Andrew T. Crossgrove (1999). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Souderton, PA
Willis I. Dowling (1998). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chesapeake, VA
William J. Dunn (1999). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Emmaus, PA
Donald R. Hibbs (1991). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saylorsburg, PA
Kenneth J. Hurst (1998). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Richmond Hill, GA
Alvin A. Low. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Colorado Springs, CO
Thomas J. Maurer (1999). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kondoa, Tanzania
Duane E. Moyer (1998). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bananier, Guadeloupe
Richard A. Moyer (1995). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mays Landing, NJ
Elliot H. Ramos (1998). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Allentown, PA
Jeffrey L. Ruhl (1997). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nazareth, PA
Hal J. Russell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elmer, NJ
David H. C. Sng. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lansdale, PA
Candidates
Kevin W. Clineff. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Spring City, PA
Louis S. Curcio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hatfield, PA
Peter J. Gunderson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Souderton, PA
Donald E. Kuntzman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Center Valley, PA
James D. MacArthur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oley, PA
Bruce D. McIntosh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .York, PA
Arthur J. Simpson, Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Normal, IL
Vinton A. N. Upham. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harleysville, PA
William J. Whalen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lancaster, PA
Applicants
Charles Larry Bennett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lebanon, PA
John Brooks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Houston, TX
Gerald D. Clark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stanfordville, NY
Raymond L. Cole. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newark, DE
Michael L. Easton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Newark, DE
John C. Elias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Coopersburg, PA
Gerald L. Evens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Orwigsburg, PA
Robert K. Fields. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Zionsville, PA
Ondrej Franka. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Petrovac, Serbia
Elijah Mwatanti. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Long Valley, NJ
Stephen T. Roth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harrisburg, PA
Vincent S. Russ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Staten Island, NY
Report of the Board of Higher Education (see page: )
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved that the Annual Conference ratify the election to the Pinebrook Educational Foundation of Gary E. Karch and Robert C. Newman for terms to end in 2003.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
The meeting was adjourned as Jansen E. Hartman closed in prayer especially remembering Gail Beil who is gravely ill and James A. Beil for strength and grace.
Second Meeting
Monday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. Brian D. Frable led the Conference in singing Amazing Grace and Victory in Jesus. J. Mark McCreary led the Conference in prayer remembering Bernard N. Coble who has been weakened with lung cancer.
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Report of the Director of Church Extension (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Church Extension (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, Daniel G. Ziegler has served his Lord and the Bible Fellowship Church as Executive Director of Church Extension for thirty-two years, and
Whereas, the Bible Fellowship Church has grown under his vision and leadership resulting in vibrant congregations in existence today, and
Whereas, he will retire from this position as of May 1st, 2000, therefore, be it
Resolved, that we praise the Lord for Daniel's dedicated service, and extend thanks for the leadership and vision provided this conference for many years, and further
Resolved, that we pray for the Lord's blessing on Daniel and his wife, Jacquelene, as they continue to serve Him in their retirement years.
Delbert R. Baker, II, thanked the Lord for Daniel Ziegler’s thirty-two years of dedicated service to the BFC as Director of Church Extension and asked for the Lord’s richest blessings on Dan and his wife Jacquelene.
Whereas, Daniel G. Ziegler will retire as Executive Director of Church Extension as of May 1st, 2000, following thirty-two years of service, and
Whereas, the Board of Church Extension has carefully re-evaluated and re-defined this position as it relates to the fulfilling of the Board's responsibilities in the 21st century, and
Whereas, the Board has prayerfully determined that David E. Gundrum demonstrates the character and qualities necessary to fulfill the responsibilities as Executive Director, and
Whereas, David E. Gundrum has been elected by the Board of Church Extension to serve as Executive Director, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the election of David E. Gundrum as Executive Director of Church Extension be ratified for a term of three years, and further
Resolved, that Annual Conference pray for David in his new role and seek to assist him in this time of transition of leadership in the work of church planting.
Richard E. Taylor, Chairman of the Board of Church Extension, led the conference in praying for David E. Gundrum as he begins his role as Executive Director of Church Extension.
Whereas, the Fund to Promote Church Extension (FTPCE) is vital to the work of planting churches in the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, the FTPCE has in the past supplied funds to developing churches for the acquisition of property in ways that otherwise would have been extremely difficult for the new churches, and
Whereas, the future of church planting and acquiring property for our young churches is vitally dependent upon a healthy FTPCE, and
Whereas, there are an estimated fifteen churches who are presently or in the near future in need of assistance from the FTPCE, and
Whereas, the FTPCE has in the past and will in the future prove to be a vital and significant dynamic to growing the BFC as well as enhancing the recruitment of church planting pastors, therefore, be it
Resolved, that the Annual Conference view the Fund to Promote Church Extension as a vital element in the work of planting churches and the growth of the Bible Fellowship Church, and further
Resolved, that the Annual Conference prayerfully and cooperatively seek to replenish the FTPCE under the leadership of the Board of Directors.
Report of the Board of Missions (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Whereas, Dana E. Weller has been elected by the Board of Missions to serve as Director for three years, therefore be it
Resolved, that the election of Dana E. Weller as Director of the Board of Missions be ratified for a term of three years.
LeRoy S. Heller gave an update about his physical condition, thanking all who prayed for him during the time of his surgery and recovery. Calvin T. Reed thanked the Lord for the deliverance He gave to LeRoy and prayed for continuing recuperation.
Whereas, Charles J. Albert, Jr. has been elected by the Board of Missions as Financial Secretary for three years, therefore be it
Resolved, that the election of Charles J. Albert, Jr. as Financial Secretary of the Board of Missions be ratified for a term of three years.
Whereas, the Task Force and the Boards Of Church Extension and Missions have agreed that the creation of a new missions agency is God's desire and a viable endeavor, and
Whereas, the Annual Conference needs to be supportive of such an effort in order for the Task Force to move ahead in its work, therefore be it
Resolved, that the Annual Conference is in agreement with the work of the Task Force in seeking to create a new missions agency from the Board Of Church Extension and The Board Of Missions, and that the Boards of Church Extension and Missions will then cease to exist.
Whereas, the Boards Of Church Extension and Missions have approved a new missions statement of purpose for the work of missions in the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, the new missions statement of purpose gives a more comprehensive view of missions and focuses upon the priority of church planting as the basis for carrying out the Great Commission,
Resolved, that Annual Conference approve for first reading the following BFC Missions Statement Of Purpose:
THE BFC MISSIONS STATEMENT OF PURPOSE:
The Biblical mandate for missions is to make disciples through preaching the Gospel to all people everywhere. This mandate will be accomplished in the Bible Fellowship Church through an aggressive and comprehensive missions program that is focused on church planting in our Jerusalem, our Judea and Samaria, and the world (Acts1:8).
[FIRST READING]
Whereas, the Task Force is working on a new missions Paradigm for the Bible Fellowship Church, and
Whereas, the new Paradigm will be creating a new leadership and organizational structure, and
Whereas, the names of the two Boards will no longer be relevant to the new Paradigm,
Resolved, that Annual Conference approve for first reading the following name for the new missions agency: GREAT COMMISSION MINISTRIES The Missions Agency Of The Bible Fellowship Church
[FIRST READING]
Resolved, that The Great Commission Ministries Board will be composed of five (5) ordained pastors and five (5) elders, and further
Resolved, that classes be formed as follows:
Class I Two pastors and two elders
Class II Two pastors and two elders
Class III One pastor and one elder [FIRST READING]
Report of Board of Directors of Bible Fellowship Church Homes, Inc. (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Board of Victory Valley Camp (see page:)
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.
David N. Schoen led the conference in praying for BFC 2000 that the meeting would be honoring to the Lord.
Report of the Board of Christian Education (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading:
512-18 Board of Youth and Young Adults
512-18.1 Purpose
The purpose of the Board of Youth and Young Adults of the BFC is to bring glory and honor to God as it ministers to the adult youth leaders, teens, and young adults of the Bible Fellowship Church (BFC). It will be done by:
(1) Promoting unity in youth and young adult ministry within the BFC
(2) Providing training and resources for youth and young adult ministries of Particular Churches within the BFC
(3) Being a catalyst for networking of youth and young adult ministries of Particular Churches within the BFC.
512-18.2 Composition
(1) The Board will be composed of three ordained pastors and six laypersons.
(2) They will be elected for a term of three years in classes as follows:
Class I one ordained pastor, two laypersons
Class IIone ordained pastor, two laypersons
Class IIIone ordained pastor, two laypersons
512-18.3 Duties
(1) It shall offer guidance to Particular Churches in developing a ministry to youth and young adults.
(2) It shall oversee denominational youth and young-adult activities.
(3) It shall provide training and resources for Particular Churches in equipping them for youth and young adult ministries.
(4) It shall receive, safeguard and disburse funds for the needs of its work.
(5) It shall provide networking between youth and young adult ministries of Particular Churches within the BFC.
(6) It shall submit a written report to Annual Conference of the BFC.
[SECOND READING]
Jeffrey L. Ruhl prayed for the newly-created Board of Youth and Young Adults and for the election process of this new board.
Report of Board of Publication and Printing (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that a contribution of $325.00 for the conference year 2000 be given to the Board of Publication and Printing from each agency to help underwrite the cost of printing and distribution of Fellowship News. Payments are to be made to the Business Manager, c/o Bible Fellowship Church of Ephrata, by December 31, 2000.
Resolved, that $1.75 per member of the Bible Fellowship Church for 2000 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 Board of Publication and Printing table at the 117th Annual Conference.
Resolved, that the cost of the 2000 Yearbook be $7.50 per copy.
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 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.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. as Mark W. Tress closed in prayer.
Third Meeting
Monday Evening, 6:30 PM
The Chairman called the meeting to order. Brian Frable led the Conference in singing praise choruses and prayed for the Lord’s blessing on our sessions. The Board of Missions presented a short video about the mission trip taken by eight of our men to Kenya. Dana E. Weller introduced the following missionaries: Kevin Kirkpatrick, Ronald K. Denlinger, Joy Pattison, Mike & Jocelyn Easton, Rick Erb, Barbara Chappel, Frances Sears, Jaroslav Elijas, Paul G. Zimmerman, Jerry Moyer, Chris Merrick, Byron Barnshaw, John C. Studenroth, William W. Mull, John Pello, Robert & Lois Draper and Ronald W. Hoyle.
Louis Prontnicki thanked the Lord for our missionaries, for their sacrificial service and asked that He would supply for all their needs. He also asked the Lord for sharp minds and wisdom as we proceed in our meetings.
Resolved, that the minutes of the first meeting be approved.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee
Lee E. Boyles (3 years)
Ronald W. Reed (1 year)
Board of Church Extension
W. David Armstrong (3 years)
William G. Schlonecker (3 years)
Dennis M. Cahill (1 year)
Board of Christian Education
Mark L. Morrison (3 years)
Richard T. Paashaus (3 years)
Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc.
Glenn D. Ruoss (3 years)
Hans R. Waldvogel (3 years)
Board of Missions
Thomas P. Shorb (3 years)
David R. Way (3 years)
Gerald L. Schlonecker (3 years)
Strategic Planning Committee
Dana E. Weller (3 years)
Robert H. Zentz (3 years)
Board of Pensions
David N. Schoen (3 years)
Thomas P. Shorb (1 year)
Keith E. Plows (1 year)
Robert Gaugler (3 years)
William R. Singletary (3 years)
Board of Publication and Printing
Jonathan P. Tait (3 years)
Stephen C. Mann (3 years)
Report of the Committee on Examination of Annual Conference Minutes (See pg.)
Resolved, that the report be adopted.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second 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 Pastors
Class II Two Pastors
Class III One Pastor [SECOND READING]
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second 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.[SECOND READING]
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading
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 the succeeding Annual Conference and shall establish the times of the meetings of Annual Conference.
[SECOND READING]
Thomas P. Shorb gave an encouraging update on the church plant in Hellertown, PA. Gene E. Parris, Delegate of Coopersburg BFC prayed for the Lord’s continuing blessing on the church plant in Hellertown, PA.
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second 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.
[SECOND READING]
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading
Resolved, that the following be placed immediately after Article 507 - “Officers of Annual Conference”:
“These officers shall have a one year term beginning at Annual Conference and ending the day prior to the following Annual Conference.”
[SECOND READING]
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading
Resolved, that the following change be made to Article 507-1. Election (2). Replace the word “twice” with “three times” to read: “A Chairman shall be eligible to succeed himself three times.”
[SECOND READING]
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading
Resolved, that the following be added to the “Duties” of the Chairman of Annual Conference: [§507-1. Duties]
(4) He shall be the spokesman for the Bible Fellowship Church during his year of office.
(5) He may attend any meetings of Conference Agencies, Boards and Committees in an advisory capacity.
(6) He shall be a member of the Strategic Planning Committee.
[SECOND READING]
YES - 105 NO - 14
The Board of Directors of the BFC Homes, Inc. presented its plans for future additions to its facilities. Robert H. Zentz, Director of the BFC Homes, Inc. made the presentation. Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., read a press release reporting that Robert H. Zentz was chosen “Administrator of the Year” by the National Association of Activity Professionals. He was selected from nominees submitted by activity professionals in geriatric health care throughout the U.S., Canada, and Bermuda.
Resolve, that we adjourn.
Kenneth Bowman, Delegate of the Royersford BFC closed this meeting in prayer at 8:45 p.m.
Fourth Meeting
Tuesday Morning, April 25, 2000, 9:00 AM
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. Brian D. Frable led the conference in a time of worship that included the singing of praise choruses and gospel songs. Raymond L. Cole read Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 20:28 and Colossians 1:28-29. Robert H. Cox led in prayer. Brian H. Cooper spoke on the Purpose of Ministry, encouraging us to make disciples, followers of our Lord Jesus Christ.
James A. Wickstead prayed, asking the Lord’s blessing on our proceedings today.
The following asked to be excused from part or all of the remaining sessions: James F. Wetzler, David J. Keevil, Albert J. Dommel, Edgar H. Munyan, W. David Armstrong, Jr. and Eric A. Overhalt.
Resolved, that the above requests be granted.
Resolved that the Alternate Delegate from Scranton, Larry D. Kellerman, be seated.
Resolved, that the minutes of the Second Meeting be approved.
The following were elected:
Ministerial Relations Committee
Ronald C. Mahurin (3 years)
Board of Church Extension
Byron Widger (2 years)
William R. Singletary (3 years)
Board of Christian Education
Annette E. Kuhns (3 years)
Mark S. Matson (3 years)
Board of Directors of BFC Homes, Inc.
William H. Bartron (3 years)
Dennis W. Spinney (3 years)
Board of Victory Valley
Carl J. Fischer, Jr. (3 years)
Jonathan D. Reynolds (3 years)
David L. Weller (3 years)
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference
Lee E. Boyles (3 years)
Gerald L. Schlonecker (3 years)
Hans R. Waldvogel (3 years)
Board of Higher Education
John C. Studenroth (3 years)
Alan H. Russell (3 years)
Raymond R. Dotts (1 year)
Claude L. Gates (1 year)
Credentials Committee
Ralph M. Soper (3 years)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
Robert S. Commerford (3 years)
Historical Committee
Jill A. Davidson (3 years)
Daniel G. Ziegler (3 years)
Stewardship Council
Gary E. Karch (3 years)
Secretary of Annual Conference
David A. Thomann (1 year)
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading:
Resolved, that §507-2. Duties: (1) be amended to read, “He shall function as Chairman of Annual Conference and fulfill all other duties in the absence of the Chairman.” and further
Resolved, that the following replace §507-2. Duties: (3) “He shall assist the chairman by performing duties delegated by the Chairman.”[SECOND READING]
Raymond R. Dotts gave an update on the Camden, Delaware BFC. Robert A. Sloan, Jr. prayed for the church and especially for Carolyn Barber as she continues to deal with her physical needs.
Report of Committee to Study the Role of Women in the Church (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Report of the Intercultural Ministries Study Committee (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Resolved, that the following article “Christian Liberty and Servanthood” be adopted at First Reading:
115 Christian Liberty & Servanthood
115-1 Christian liberty is the freedom of the believer to practice everything that is not sin.1 It is a privilege obtained by the obedience of Jesus Christ.2 The believer’s authority for faith and conduct is the Holy Scriptures,3 revealing the unchanging holiness of God. With Jesus Christ as Lord, every thought and action of the believer should be submitted to Him.4 Christ’s death has broken the believer’s slavery to sin5 and has freed the believer to yield obedience to Christ in all things.6 Though all things apart from sin are permissible, the believer should direct his actions according to what will please the Lord and what will benefit others.7 Liberty should not be used as a cover-up for evil!8
115-2 Believers will find that there are issues of lifestyle and worship not clearly addressed in scripture.
On these issues they may disagree due to differences in spiritual maturity, varieties of cultural or economic backgrounds, personal conscience or associations with their former lives.9 In these instances, believers should come to their convictions through studying the scripture, prayer, and godly counsel, knowing that they will give an account to God.10 They must not look down upon or withhold acceptance of those who differ.11 In love they must be willing to limit their actions for the sake of building up rather than harming their brothers and sisters.12 In so doing, they follow the example of their Lord who laid aside His rights for their good.13
115-3 Occasionally, concerns may arise that will trouble the life and witness of the church. Clear and consistent teaching of the scriptural principles that govern the life of the believer should prepare the church for a peaceful consideration and resolution of these issues. The Particular Church or the fellowship of churches may counsel concerning that which is beneficial and that which may well be avoided in a particular setting and time.14 Church leaders must be careful to avoid unnecessarily burdensome rules, communicate clearly this counsel and provide the biblical basis for their thinking.15 They should be ready to acknowledge and accept the sometimes temporary nature of such decisions.16
115-4 Secular notions of freedom imply unlimited exercise of desires and rights. Christian liberty, on the other hand, includes submission to divinely-established authorities and to the needs of others. Obedience to God’s appointed overseers17 does not limit freedom but is an active exercise of it. Great care must be taken to discern what are rightful directives of authority under God for good18 and what are improper attempts to curtail Christian liberty.19
115-5 Christian liberty is not forfeited when it is set aside for the sake of others20 or the pursuit of one’s own spiritual discipline. Glorifying God,21 edifying fellow believers,22 growing in grace23 and avoiding all sin24 justify yielding up one’s rights and desires in keeping with the call to servanthood in the Christian faith.25
1 Gal.2:4; 5:1; Col.2:20-22
2 Col. 2:13-14; 1 Pe.2:24
3 Deu.6:1-3; Mat. 5:17; 2Tim.3:16-17
4 2 Cor. 10:4-5; Eph.4:1; Phil.1:27
5 Rom.6:5-7, 11; Col.3:3-5
6 Rom. 6:11-14, 19
7 1 Cor. 9:15, 23; Phi.2:4-5; Col. 3:1-2
8 Gal. 5:13; 1 Pe.2:16
9 Rom. 14:1,2,14,23; 1 Cor. 8:7; 10:27-30
10 Rom. 14:5-12; 1 Jn. 3:21-22; Col.3:16
11 Rom. 14:1,3,4,13; Rom. 15:7
12 Rom. 14:13-21; 1 Cor. 8:9-13; 1 Cor. 10:32-33
13 Phil.2:5-8; 1 Pe. 2:21-25
14 Acts 15:13-30
15 Acts 15:19-21; 28-29; 1 Cor. 11:14-15
16 Acts 15:29; 1 Cor. 7:25-28; 1 Cor. 8:4,8
17 Heb. 13:7, 17; 1 Pe. 5:1-4
18 Acts 15:19, 20, 28; 2 Cor. 1:12
19 Mark 7:7-8; Gal. 2:3-4
20 1 Cor. 8:9-13; 1 Cor. 10:23-24
21 1 Cor. 10:31-11:1
22 1 Thes. 5:11
23 James 4:6; 2 Pe. 3:18
24 1 Thes. 5:22
25 Gal. 5:25-6:2; Rom. 12:9-13
[FIRST READING]
David J. Watkins introduced John Janney, Executive Director of Homosexuals Anonymous Fellowship Services, Reading, PA. He encouraged us to minister to the homosexual community proclaiming the power of God to change lives.
Resolved, that the following article “The Preamble” be adopted at First Reading:
PREAMBLE
The Bible Fellowship Church sets forth these Biblical Principles for Living to inform and guide disciples of Jesus Christ in making moral decisions and living lives of obedience.
The BFC acknowledges the Scriptures as the supreme and final authority of faith and conduct and the Holy Spirit as the source of power and guidance for the believer. These principles are summaries of the biblical truth that reveals the Lord’s directives in various aspects of life.
Increasing ethnic and cultural diversity in many of the churches and the prospect of new congregations being formed among the various people groups have prompted the BFC to seek to state the principles so that they may be understood and applied by believers in any cultural context.
These principles are not exhaustive in that they do not cite all that the Bible says in any of the aspects included and that they do not cover all areas of life that the Scriptures address. In the future it may become apparent that additional aspects of life may need to be addressed and that the current principles may need to be reconsidered with a view to amending them after further reflection on the biblical truth.
Every believer is accountable to God for all that the Bible says. Moral choices and actions should be based on the whole counsel of God. Each believer must constantly read, study and review all parts of the Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:16, 17).
In seeking moral guidance, the believer should study the Old Testament books of the Law with special focus on the Ten Commandments (Exo. 20:1-17). The implications of the Law are drawn out in the Proverbs and the Prophets.
The Lord Jesus summarized the Law in the Great Commandments (Mat. 22:34-40; Mark 12:30, 31) and explained the spiritual depth of the Law in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat. 5-7). The application of the Law in the individual life of the believer and the corporate life of the church is set forth in the New Testament letters.
As each believer is indwelled and empowered by the Holy Spirit, there is an enabling to obey God’s requirements (Rom. 8:3, 4). The Spirit controlled person will demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22, 23). He or she will receive and employ the gifts of the Spirit (1 Pe. 4:10, 11; Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:1-11). Where the life and power of the Holy Spirit are present in an individual or church, the three abiding qualities, faith, hope and love, will be evident (1 Cor. 13:13; 1 Thes. 1:3, Rom. 5:1, 2). The greatest of these is love, and “love is the fulfillment of the law” (Rom. 13:10).
[FIRST READING]
Richard E. Taylor, Secretary of the Ministerial Candidate Committee introduced a number of men who are under their care.
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 for their congregations and further,
Resolved, we encourage that lesson plans be developed and submitted to David E. Gundrum for ideas in the development of teacher guides.
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, be encouraged to work with their churches to budget monies for ethnic church planting.
Whereas, the work of the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee is not yet complete, and the Committee would like to review the Declarations On Particular Issues, presently Articles 110,112,113,and 114, in order to determine if there is any language which is not culturally transferable, and
Whereas, the Committee would like to prepare the Biblical Principles For Living for second reading,
Resolved, that the 117th Annual Conference direct the Inter-Cultural Ministries Study Committee to continue its work.
Resolved, that we adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:15 p.m. by Bert N. Brosius as he gave us an update on his physical condition, thanking the Lord for the way in which his tumor was discovered and for His healing through surgery. He closed the meeting in prayer.
Fifth Meeting
Tuesday Afternoon, 1:30 PM
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. Calvin A. Boyle, Delegate from Whitehall BFC opened in prayer.
The following were elected:
Chairman of Annual Conference
Randall A. Grossman (1 year)
Historical Society
Robert W. Smock (1 year)
Conference Judicatory
Ronald C. Mahurin (5 years)
Ronald W. Reed (5 years)
Board of Victory Valley
Dennis W. Spinney (2 years)
Nominating Committee
Howard N. Wells (3 years)
Charles A. Lavigna (3 years)
Board of Youth and Young Adults
Clyde D. Bomgardner, Jr. (3 years)
Billy J. Dunn (3 years)
Report of the Study Committee on Baptism and Church Membership (see pg)
Resolved, that the report be accepted.
Paul G. Zimmerman prayed for the Lord’s direction in the vote to be taken on the recommendations of subcommittee A of the Study Committee on Baptism and Church Membership.
The following resolution was defeated.
Whereas, the NT teaches that there is “one baptism” and “one body” despite also teaching that there is baptism in the Spirit and baptism in water and teaching that the church has universal and particular manifestations; and
Whereas, baptism in the Spirit and the church universal are the realities of which baptism in water and Particular Churches and their unions are representations; and
Whereas, the representations must be based on the realities; and
Whereas, baptism in water is a visible declaration of the life given to those born of the Spirit (baptized in the Spirit); and membership in the church visible a declaration of the union with other regenerate or Spirit-baptized people; and
Whereas, there is in church history and in practice today diversity of conviction about the identity of proper candidates for and proper mode of water baptism, and diversity of conviction about the meaning of membership in the church visible; and
Whereas, Bible Fellowship Church is convinced from Scripture of its “gathered church” (regenerate membership) position and its reformed understanding of redemption (that God initiates our salvation in election and brings it to fulfillment in the death of Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit applying Christ̓s work to us individually), and its conviction that there is only one church which is Christ̓s, not ours, and the union of congregations under His headship; therefore be it
Resolved, that we recommend to the Annual Conference that we reaffirm the following:
(1) that only those who are regenerated by God and baptized in the Holy Spirit are spiritually alive and all those who are so regenerated are spiritually alive (Article 14--Regeneration);
(2) that only those and all those so regenerated and baptized are members of the church of Jesus Christ (Article 18 - The Church);
(3) that all those born from above (regenerate) and baptized in the Spirit should give outward evidence of the inward work of God by being immersed in water (Article 20-1); and further
Resolved, that we recommend to the Annual Conference that we declare:
(1) that membership means the individual professes to have been born from above and that the church accepts that person as part of the body; membership means “life” not “maturity”.
(2) that F & 0, 202-3.1 be revised to read as follows:
“Anyone desiring to be a member of the BFC shall give testimony of faith in Christ and the new birth. He shall be in sympathy with the F & 0 and manifest holiness toward God and separation from the world (Acts 2:41-47).”
YES - 19 NO - 112
Scott Hoffman from the Emmaus BFC gave a short presentation on a ministry he is involved in called “Push the Rock.” It is a sports ministry, seeking to help local churches use sports to bring the Gospel of Jesus to their communities.
Resolved, that the Committee to Study Baptism and Church Membership continue its work to answer particular questions from the conference body and that they will report to the 118th Annual Conference.
The following were elected:
Pinebrook Bible Conference
David T. Allen (2 years)
Conference Judicatory
Calvin T. Reed (1 year)
L. James Roberts, Jr. (4 years)
Vice Chairman of Annual Conference
William G. Schlonecker (1 year)
Report of the Committee to Study Multiple Staff (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at First Reading:
Resolved, that Article 401-1.1 be changed to read: 401-1.1 The Board of Elders shall be composed of the senior pastor and elected elders of the congregation. The relationship of any other credentialed member of the pastoral staff to the Board of Elders shall be determined by each Particular Church. The lay elders shall be elected by majority vote of the congregation. They shall be mature men who meet the qualifications of Scripture (1 Tim. 3; Titus 1; 1 Peter 5). If the congregation has more qualified elders than are needed to serve at one time, the number of active elders shall be determined by the congregation by ballot vote upon recommendation of the Board of Elders.
[FIRST READING]
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at First Reading:
Resolved, that the following be placed at the end of Article 401-1.2. “Each Particular Church shall determine the voting status of any additional pastoral staff members.”
[FIRST READING]
Resolved, that the following petition from New Life Bible Fellowship Church, Oley, PA be received and adopted:
Whereas, Faith & Order, Article 502-3, provides for the acceptance of “Ministers Received From Other Churches,” and
Whereas, all candidates are now required to follow the procedures of Article 502-1 for “Men Entering the Ministry”, whether or not they are already ordained, and
Whereas, New Life Bible Fellowship Church in Oley found it extremely difficult and time-consuming to locate ordained pastors with extensive experience who were willing to invest considerable time and effort in what is essentially a re-ordination process, without any assurance of acceptance by the local church at completion,
Resolved, that the Chairman of the 117th Annual Conference appoint a committee of five to study the process of recognizing pastors with prior ordinations.
The Chairman appointed Calvin T. Reed, David J. Watkins, Randall A. Grossman, Richard E. Taylor and Jan Musser as the committee to study the process of recognizing pastors with prior ordinations.
Resolved, that these appointments be ratified.
Resolved, that the minutes of the third meeting be approved.
Resolved, that the meeting be adjourned.
Michael T. Littlejohn, Delegate at Trinity BFC, Blandon, PA, closed the meeting in prayer at 5:10 p.m.
Sixth Meeting
Wednesday Morning, April 26, 2000, 9:00 AM
The Chairman called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. Brian D. Frable led the Conference in worship singing the theme chorus for the week, “A Song for the Nations” and other praise songs. Andrew Crossgrove read 1 Timothy 4:6-16 and Timothy D. Weaber prayed. The pastors who went to Kenya on the Africa mission trip sang “Like a River Glorious.” Ronald C. Mahurin spoke on Power for Ministry.
After worship Roger L. Reitz led the Conference in prayer asking for wisdom and direction in our proceedings.
The following submitted requests to be excused from various meetings of conference: Thomas L. Ward, Kenneth J. Hurst, David M. Markuson, Henry U. Sandt, R. Jerry Brush, Harvey J. Fritz, Jr., Douglas Wynne.
Resolved, that these requests be granted.
The following were elected:
Board of Church Extension
John C. Elias (3 years)
Board of Directors of Pinebrook Bible Conference
Charles E. Cole (3 years)
Robert F. Johnson (3 years)
Ministerial Candidate Committee
David E. Gundrum (3 years)
Board of Youth and Young Adults
Dennis J. Lawrence (2 Years)
Resolved, that the following legislation be adopted at Second Reading:
Regionalization (1999 Yearbook, 44-45)
Article 601 Regionalization
601-1 Purpose and Duties
(1) The purpose of regionalization is to strengthen denominational impact by developing stronger ties between sister churches within reasonable geographic proximity to one another.
(2) Regionalization will provide corporate ministry opportunities, accountability, increased communication, fellowship, and training for ministers and lay leaders in the BFC.
(3) Regions shall be responsible to the Annual Conference.
(4) Regions shall give oversight to ministry within their region in accordance with the Faith & Order of the BFC.
601-2 Organization of Regions
(1) Regions of the BFC shall be made up of no less than five churches in reasonable geographic proximity to one another.
(2) Regions shall be approved by the Annual Conference and listed in the Addendum to the Faith & Order.
(3) Changes in, and additions to the composition of regions shall be made by the Annual Conference with the input of regional leadership.
601-3 Composition and Meetings
601-3.1 All Ministers and Annual Conference Delegates within a region shall comprise the regional leadership. One Minister and the First Delegate from each congregation shall have voting privileges.
601-3.2 Ministers within each region shall meet at least bi-monthly for prayer and interaction. Ministers and delegates within each region shall meet at least once annually, other than during Annual Conference, for prayer and interaction.
601-4 Regional Leadership
601-4.1 Regional Coordinator
(1) The coordinator for each region shall be chosen by the Ministers and Delegates from among the Ministers serving within a given region.
(2) He shall be responsible to call for and oversee meetings of Ministers and Delegates within the region, to insure adequate communication between churches within the region, and to coordinate corporate ministries between the churches.
601-4.2 Regional Secretary
(1) The secretary shall be chosen by the Ministers and Delegates within a given region.
(2) He shall be responsible to maintain communication between churches within the region and between the region and the Annual Conference as needed.
(3) He shall submit a brief written report to the Annual Conference each year to be included in the Yearbook. This report shall include the number of times the regional representatives met, the shared ministries that took place, the names of the coordinator and secretary, and plans for future ministries. The report shall be sent to the distribution point at the designated time.
[SECOND READING]
David E. Gundrum introduced Linnette Smith, the new secretary of the Church Extension Department. He also brought us greetings from Jack H. Becker, organizing pastor of the mission in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Report of Committee to Study Divorce as it Relates to Eldership (see page:)
Resolved, that the report be accepted:
LeRoy S. Heller led the