After sermon by the Moderator of the Second General Synod, Dr. Harold S. Laird, of the Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area, and the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, the Third General Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church was constituted with prayer by the Moderator of the previous Synod. The Synod was convened at 4 p.m.

The roll call resulted as follows:

Ministers: S. P. Allen, NJ; P. D. Arcularius, Phila.; M. N. Buffler, NJ; J. O. Buswell, Jr., Chic.; E. C. Comfort, Chic.; W. G. Cross, Phil.; A. J. Dieffenbacher, GP; E. A. Dillard, Phila.; H. P. Emerson, Phila.; A. F. Faucette, GL; H. McA. Griffiths, Phila.; Frank Hamilton, NJ; J. W. Hanna, GL; R. L. Harris, Phila.; A. J. Koonce, GL; H. S. Laird, Phila.; J. W. Lipscomb, NJ; A. A. McRae, Phila.; Carl McIntire, NJ; W. W. Mayle, Chic.; J. F. Misicka, NJ; M. A. Pearson, Iowa; W. H. Richie, Jr., Phila.; F. Shepperson, Phila.; B. B. Smith, Phila.; P. R. Stutsman, Phila.; F. B. Toms, NJ; J. U. S. Toms, NJ; H. G. Welbon, Phila.; V. V. Wortman, Iowa; G. D. Young, Phila.

Ruling Elders: Ed. McKim, GL; R. V. Miller, GL; H. H. Iaggi, Chic.; O. E. Cranmer, NJ; C. M. Blazer, NJ; W. A. Chamberlin, NJ; A. N. Marsh, Phila.

It was regularly moved, seconded, and passed that the docket, hereafter known as Document A, be adopted as presented.

Regularly moved, seconded, and passed that the minutes of the Second General Synod be received.

Nominations for clerk of the Third General Synod were called for. The Rev. G. D. Young (Philadelphia Area) nominated the Rev. M. Nelson Buffler (NJ). The Rev. H. McAllister Griffiths (Philadelphia Area) nominated the Rev. G. D. Young. The Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa) moved that the nominations be closed. Seconded and passed. The Moderator appointed as tellers the Rev. A. J. Koonce (GL) and Mr. H. H. Iaggi, Ruling Elder (Chic.). The balloting resulted in the re-election of the Rev. G. D. Young.

While the balloting was in progress, the clerk presented the following:

1. Reply from the Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church in the U.S. to our letter of the last Synod, in which we expressed our regrets that his church had refused our delegate.

2. Reply from the National Bible Conference of Brethren Churches, through their secretary, the Rev. Joseph L. Ginrich, in recognition of our fraternal greetings as of the last Synod.

3. Overture from the Presbytery of the Great Plains, hereafter called Document B.

4. Letter from the clerk of the Presbytery of the Great Plains, expressing the regrets of the brethren on account of their inability to attend the Third General Synod.

5. Notice of the Homegoing of the Rev. Fred A. Geisenheiner, of the Presbytery of Chicago.

It was moved by the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa), regularly seconded, and passed that an assistant clerk be elected to serve in that capacity during the remainder of this session of Synod. It was moved by the Rev. W. H. Richie, Jr., (Phila. Area), that a white ballot be cast for the Rev. M. N. Buffler (NJ). Motion was regularly seconded and passed.

Nominations for the office of Moderator were called for. The Rev. A. J. Dieffenbacher (GP) tendered in nomination the name of the Rev. Allan A. MacRae (Phila. Area). The Rev. Homer P. Emerson (Phila. Area) moved, and the Rev. Walter G. Cross (Phila. Area) seconded the motion, that a white ballot be cast for Dr. MacRae. Motion was passed.

The Moderator of the Third General Synod was installed by the Moderator of the Second General Synod.

The Rev. W. H. Richie, Jr., (Phila. Area) moved that the Synod adjourn to reconvene at 9.30 a.m. on October 23, 1940.

The session of Synod was concluded with prayer by the Moderator.

Attest:
G. Douglas Young
Stated Clerk Third General Synod.

Second Sederunt, Wednesday, October 23, 1940

After prayer meeting led by the Rev. Francis A. Schaeffer, Jr., of the Presbytery of the Great Lakes, the Synod was convened when the Vice-Moderator, the Rev. E. A. Dillard, of the Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area, requested the Rev. E. C. Comfort, of the Presbytery of Chicago, to lead in prayer.

The roll call resulted as follows:

Ministers: Unassigned - Laman, Clarence; Presbytery of Chicago - Campbell, C. L., Comfort, E. C., Mayle, W. W., Sanderson, J.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - Faucette, A. F., Hanna, J. W., Koonce, A. J., Schaeffer, F. A., Jr.; Presbytery of Iowa - Pearson, M. A., Wortman, V. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Allen, S. P., Buffler, M. N., Chrisman, C. D., Lipscomb, J. W., McIntire, Carl, McIntire, H. B., Misicka, J. F., Toms, F. B., Toms, J. U. S.; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Cross, W. G., Dillard, E. A., Harris, R. L., Laird, H. S., MacRae, A. A., Richie, W. H., Jr., Shepperson, F., Welbon, H. G., Young, G. D.

Elders: Presbytery of Chicago - Iaggi, H. H.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - McKim, Ed., Miller, R. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Cranmer, O. E.; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Marsh, A. N.

The minutes of the previous session were read and, on motion, adopted as read.

The following committees were appointed by the Moderator, having been announced at the evening general meeting on October 22.

1. Bills and Overtures: The Rev. H. S. Laird (Phila. Area), the Rev. Carl McIntire (NJ), the Rev. H. McA. Griffiths (Phila. Area).

2. Presbyterial Reports: The Rev. V. V. Wortman (Iowa), the Rev. H. G. Welbon (Phila. Area), the Rev. John Sanderson (Chic.).

3. Resolutions: The Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa), Ruling Elder R. V. Miller (GL), the Rev. C. L. Campbell (Chic.).

Coming to the order of the day, the Rev. Carl McIntire (NJ), a member of the committee, commenced reading from Chapter 3 of the proposed Book of Discipline. The Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Jr. (GL), reported for the committee appointed by the previous Synod to examine Section 2 of this chapter. The Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Jr., moved, and the motion was regularly seconded, that the phrase, "or the time that it becomes known," be inserted after the phrase "the commission of the alleged offense." An amendment was moved by the Rev. J. U. S. Toms (NJ) that the words "to the court" be appended to the phrase "or the time that it becomes known." Motion was regularly seconded. A substitute motion was presented by the Rev. F. Shepperson (Phila. Area) that Chapter 3, Section 2, be left as it appears on the document known as C.

It was moved by the Rev. E. C. Comfort (Chic.), and seconded by the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa) that Chapter 3 be adopted as a whole. Motion was passed.

The Vice-Moderator, the Rev. E. A. Dillard (Phila. Area) relinquished the chair to the Moderator.

Chapter 4, having been read, it was moved by the Rev. H. B. McIntire (NJ), and seconded by the Rev. H. S. Laird (Phila. Area) that this chapter be adopted as read.

It was moved by the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa) that the Synod be recessed at the discretion of the Moderator for the Synod picture.

Chapter 5 was read from the proposed Book of Discipline.

Synod was recessed at the word of the Moderator, to reconvene for the prayer meeting at the conclusion of the time spent in taking the Synod picture.

The picture having been taken, the Moderator requested the clerk to reconvene the Synod with prayer.

It was moved by the Rev. C. D. Chrisman (NJ), and regularly seconded that the Synod adjourn at the close of the prayer period to reconvene this afternoon at 2 o'clock.

The prayer meeting was conducted by the Rev. W. G. Cross (Phila. Area).

Attest:
G. D. Young
Clerk of Synod.

Third Sederunt, Wednesday, October 23, 1940

The Synod was convened with prayer by the Moderator.

The roll call resulted as follows:

Ministers: Unassigned - Laman, Clarence; Presbytery of Chicago - Campbell, C. L., Comfort, E. C., Mayle, W. W., Sanderson, J., Buswell, J. O., Jr.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - Faucette, A. F., Hanna, J. W., Koonce, A. J., Schaeffer, F. A., Jr.; Presbytery of the Great Plains - Dieffenbacher, A. J.; Presbytery of Iowa - Pearson, M. A., Wortman, V. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Allen, S. P., Buffler, M. N., Chrisman, C. D., Hamilton, Frank, Lipscomb, J. W., McIntire, H. B., Misicka, J. F., Toms, F. B., Toms, J. U. S.; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Arcularius, P. D., Cross, Walter G., Dillard, E. A., Emerson, H. P., Harris, R. L., Hitchcock, L. D., Laird, H. S., MacRae, A. A., Richie, W. H., Jr., Shepperson, F., Stutsman, P. R., Welbon, H. G., Young, G. D.

Ruling Elders: Presbytery of Chicago - Iaggi, H. H.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - McKim, Ed., MIller, R. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Cranmer, O. E., Black, S; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Marsh, A. N.

The minutes of the previous session were read. On motion of the Rev. J. U. S. Toms (NJ) they were adopted as read with one minor correction (substituting the word "Iowa" for "Great Plains" as the Presbytery of the Rev. M. A. Pearson in the roll call).

The Moderator appointed the Rev. J. U. S. Toms and the Rev. Joseph F. Misicka, both of the Presbytery of New Jersey, a committee to receive the expense accounts of the delegates to the Synod, and to make whatever arrangements possible and necessary to meet these expenses from the free-will offerings taken at Synod.

The Synod passed to the order of the day, the testimonies of the commissioners. Testimonies were heard from all the commissioners who answered the roll, with the exception of the following, who were unable to remain: Ministers - Harris, R. L., Stutsman, P. R. (Phila. Area); Ruling Elders Marsh, A. N. (Phila. Area).

The Rev. Lon Hitchcock (Phila. Area), who has just returned from a tour of the West and Middle West, gave a report of the work of the Presbytery of the Great Plains as he had observed it. He stressed the importance of this work and the necessity and obligation resting upon us to support it.

Testimonies were also heard from the following: The Rev. J. G. Holdcroft, General Secretary of the Independent Board; the Rev. A. L. Lathem, Pastor of the host church; Ruling Elder R. K. Armes, Treasurer of Faith Seminary and the Independent Board.

Mr. J. W. Murray, Assistant Pastor of the host church, lead the Synod in a song.

On motion the Synod was adjourned to reconvene at 9.30 a.m. on Thursday, October 24, 1940.

The Synod was dismissed with prayer by the Vice-Moderator, the Rev. E. A. Dillard (Phila. Area).

Attest:
G. D. Young
Clerk of Synod.

Fourth Sederunt, Thursday, October 24, 1940

The Synod was convened with prayer by the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa).

The Vice-Moderator, the Rev. E. A. Dillard (Phila. Area) was in the chair.

The roll call resulted as follows:

Ministers: Unassigned - Laman, Clarence; Presbytery of Chicago - Campbell, C. L., Comfort, E. C., Mayle, W. W., Buswell, J. O., Jr.; Presbytery of Great Lakes - Faucette, A. F., Hanna, J. W., Koonce, A. J., Schaeffer, F. A., Jr.; Presbytery of Iowa - Pearson, M. A., Wortman, V. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Allen, S. P., Buffler, M. N., Hamilton, Frank, Lipscomb, J. W., McIntire, Carl, McIntire, H. B., Misicka, J. F., Toms, F. B., Toms, J. U. S.; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Arcularius, P. D., Cross, W. G., Dillard, E. A., Griffiths, H. McA., Harris, R. L., Laird, H. S., Richie, W. H., Jr., Shepperson, F., Young, G. D.

Ruling Elders: Presbytery of Chicago - Iaggi, H. H.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - McKim, Ed., Miller, R. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Cranmer, O. E.

The minutes of the previous session were read. It was moved by the Rev. J. U. S. Toms (NJ), regularly seconded, and passed that the minutes be approved as read.

The Synod proceeded to the order of the day, the report of the National Missions Committee. The convener of the Committee, the Rev. J. W. Lipscomb (NJ), introduced the treasurer of the Committee, Mr. James H. Greeley, Jr., 8200 Arlington Avenue, Ridley Park, Pa., who presented the financial report, summarized as follows:

	Balance, October 24, 1939	$227.06
	Receipts, October 1939 to October 1940	4,727.31

	Total Receipts, October 1940	$4,954.37
	Total Disbursements	4,241.33
	Balance Undesignated	$713.04

	Designated Receipts	$4,274.59
	Undesignated Receipts	452.72

	Disbursements:	Salaries to Ministers	$4,092.83
		General Administration	148.50
			$4,241.33

The Vice-Moderator appointed as an auditing committee the Rev. A. F. Faucette (GL) and Ruling Elder O. E. Cranmer (NJ).

The Rev. G. D. Young (Phila. Area) moved that the Synod extend to Mr. Greeley a very hearty vote of thanks for his fine work and unstinted interest in the affairs of the Committee and its missionaries. The motion was seconded by the Rev. M. N. Buffler (NJ). The motion was passed by a unanimous standing vote.

The Rev. J. W. Lipscomb continued with the report of the National Missions Committee. During the past year the Committee has taken on three new missionaries. A budget of $11, 000 is suggested, rather than the $5,000 under which the Committee has been working. It was stressed that, in order to carry on as the Committee would like to do, a minimum of $8,800 is needed. The Rev. J. W. Lipscomb made an urgent plea for greater support of this work, both for the missionaries' sakes and in order that, as the home bases become stronger, they would be enabled more adequately to support the other two agencies in which the Synod is interested, namely the Independent Board for Presbyterian Foreign Missions and Faith Theological Seminary.

The following recommendations were submitted:

1. The churches of the Rev. W. W. Mayle, now of the Presbytery of Chicago, should affiliate themselves with the Presbytery of Iowa.

2. The Rev. J. A. Van Gorkum, as yet unassigned to any presbytery, should seek affiliation with the Presbytery of the Great Lakes.

3. The members of Synod be urged to do all in their power to increase the amount raised for National Missions this year from $5,000 to $11,000.

4. The members of Synod be urged to encourage donors to send in some undesignated money, so that the Committee shall be free to use it where the need may be great, and where the donor may not be aware that there is a need.

5. Due to the fact that the work being built up by our home missionaries is both a stable work and a work which in turn will have a definite interest in the forward movement of the Bible Presbyterian Church, and whereas there are works which have no particular interest in our cause, the members of Synod are urged to consider the National Missions Committee's work in preference, perhaps, to other home mission agencies, and so to support this work.

It was moved by the Rev. H. B. McIntire (NJ), and seconded by the Rev. Frank Hamilton (NJ), that the report of the National Missions Committee be adopted. The Rev. H. McA. Griffiths (Phila. Area) moved an amendment, that the Synod express hearty thanks to Almighty God and to the donors for all gifts, whether designated or undesignated. The amendment was seconded and regularly passed. The Rev. H. McA. Griffiths moved that the liberty of the floor be granted to Mr. Presley Edwards, Ruling Elder of the Bible Presbyterian Church of St. Louis and a member of the National Missions Committee. Motion was seconded and passed. Mr. Edwards spoke stressing the need of funds for the proper carrying on of the work of the Committee, and expressing thanks especially to the Bible Presbyterian Church of Collingswood and to the First Independent Church of Wilmington, Delaware, for what they have already done for this Committee. The motion being put to the Synod, it was passed.

The Rev. Carl McIntire (NJ) suggested that he be allowed to resign from the Committee on National Missions. No action was taken.

It was moved by the Rev. J. U. S. Toms (NJ) that the Vice-Moderator appoint a committee to nominate persons for the class of 1943 of the National Missions Committee. The committee was appointed as follows: The Rev. R. L. Harris (Phila. Area), the Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Jr., (GL), and Ruling Elder H. H. Iaggi (Chic.).

It was moved by the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa), regularly seconded and passed that this class be elected to serve three years.

The Synod proceeded to the order of the day, the continuation of the study of the proposed Book of Discipline. The Vice-Moderator asked the Rev. Clarence Laman, Auburn, New York, to take the chair. The Rev. E. A. Dillard (Phila. Area) spoke concerning the clause, "The trial court shall appoint one of its members as a prosecutor ...," of Chapter V, Section 6. It was moved by the Rev. E. C. Comfort (Chic.) that this clause be changed to read, "The trial court shall appoint as prosecutor the accuser or the accuser's appointee." The motion was seconded by the Rev. R. L. Harris (Phila. Area), and was regularly passed.

The Vice-Moderator took the chair.

A motion to reconsider Chapter V, Section 6, at the next session was made by the Rev. J. W. Hanna (GL). Motion seconded and passed.

It was moved by the Rev. Carl McIntire (NJ), seconded by the Rev. J. U. S. Toms (NJ), that the clerk be instructed to write the clerk of the Presbytery of Puerto Rico to ascertain the reason no report had been received from this Presbytery. The motion was passed.

The Rev. W. H. Richie, Jr., (Phila. Area) moved that the clerk be instructed to prepare a statistical report of the Synod and to have this printed in the Beacon, or by mimeograph, together with the names and personnel of the various committees. Motion was seconded and passed.

The Rev. J. W. Hanna (GL) moved that the Synod adjourn to reconvene at 2 p.m. Seconded and passed.

The session was concluded with prayer by the Vice-Moderator.

Attest:
G. D. Young
Clerk of Synod

Fifth Sederunt, October 24, 1940

The Moderator called upon the Rev. C. L. Campbell (Chic.) to convene the Synod with prayer.

The roll was called and resulted as follows:

Ministers: Unassigned - Laman, Clarence; Presbytery of Chicago - Campbell, C. L., Comfort, E. C., Mayle, W. W., Sanderson, J.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - Faucette, A. F., Koonce, A. J., Schaeffer, F. A., Jr.; Presbytery of the Great Plains - Dieffenbacher, A. J.; Presbytery of Iowa - Pearson, M. A., Wortman, V. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Allen, S. P., Buffler, M. N., Lipscomb, J. W., McIntire, Carl, McIntire, H. B., Misicka, J. F. , Toms, F. B., Toms, J. U. S.; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Arcularius, P. D., Dillard, E. A., Harris, R. L., Hitchcock, L. D., Laird, H. S., MacRae, A. A., Richie, W. H., Jr., Shepperson, F., Stutsman, P. R., Young, G. D.

Ruling Elders: Presbytery of Chicago - Iaggi, H. H.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - McKim, Ed., Miller, R. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Cranmer, O. E.; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Long, W. W.

The minutes of the previous session were read. It was moved by the Rev. H. B. McIntire (NJ), regularly seconded, and passed that the minutes be adopted as read.

The Rev. H. McA. Griffiths (Phila. Area) reported for the Committee on Bills and Overtures.

Concerning the overture which was read to the Synod from the Presbytery of the Great Plains, known as Document B, this Synod calls to the attention of any presbyteries which were a part of the Synod before the adoption of the Constitution the provisions of the Form of Government, Chapter IX, Section 1, and asks them to bring their practice into line with these provisions as soon as possible.

It was moved by the Rev. H. McA. Griffiths (Phila. Area), seconded by the Rev. H. B. McIntire (NJ), that the report be adopted. The motion was passed.

The Rev. V. V. Wortman (Iowa) submitted the report of the Committee on Presbyterial Reports. No minutes were received from the Presbyteries of Southern California, the Pacific Northwest, and Puerto Rico. The others were all found to be in good order. The Presbytery of Chicago, Ruling Elder Peter Stam, Jr., was particularly commended on their minutes. Moved by the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa), seconded by the Rev. H. B. McIntire (NJ), that the report be adopted.

The Rev. R. L. Harris (Phila. Area), reporting for the committee appointed to make nominations for the class of 1943 of the National Missions Committee, presented the following: Ministers - the Rev. E. C. Comfort (Chic.), the Rev. Clarence Laman (Unassigned), residing in Auburn, N. Y., the Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Jr., (GL), Ruling Elder J. H. Rue (NJ).

It was moved by the Rev. A. J. Dieffenbacher (GP), seconded by the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa), that a white ballot be cast for Ruling Elder Rue as the Elder member. Motion was passed. The Rev. J. W. Hanna (GP) tendered in nomination the Rev. A. F. Faucette (GL). It was moved by the Rev. E. A. Dillard (Phila. Area) that the nominations be closed. Seconded and passed. The Moderator appointed as tellers the Rev. J. W. Lipscomb (NJ) and the Rev. C. L. Campbell (Chic.). The balloting resulted in the election of the Rev. E. C. Comfort, the Rev. Clarence Laman, and the Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Jr.

The Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa) reported for the Committee on resolutions as follows:

1. In memory of the Rev. Fred A. Geisenheiner. Rev. Fred A. Geisenheiner, who died on August 29, was a faithful and active member of Chicago Presbytery since its original organization.

Mr. Geisenheiner was 65 years of age at the time of his decease. His early ministry had been rendered in a succession of pastorates in connection with the Methodist denomination. Thirty-five years ago he changed his denominational affiliation to the Presbyterian body, and throughout the years succeeding that transfer he labored exclusively in evangelistic appointments.

It was a distinct shock to us all to hear of the Home-going of our friend and fellow Presbyter. His genial presence seems yet with us today. His interest in the things of the Kingdom was undiminished to the end.

In these days of wide-spread declension from the faith once delivered to the saints he hewed to the line with a clear testimony and the preaching of a Gospel which was not another gospel, but that of one saved, washed, and kept by the power of Calvary. When we heard of his wide ministry at the funeral in Moody Memorial Church, our hearts thrilled at what must be the bright and blessed memories of those loved ones left behind for a season.

To his beloved wife and such others of the remaining relatives we, as a Synod, extend our heart-felt sympathy. Yet, we do not try to restrain the note of exultant joy with you over the passing of such an one into the Presence Chamber of the King.

It is as though he must have said with Moses:

2. Resolution on Religious Liberty.
Whereas many feel that our civil liberties are in danger and if they are taken from us, no doubt our freedom to worship God and to preach the true Gospel will be taken away also; Therefore, be it resolved by the Bible Presbyterian Synod that we urge all ministers, elders, and churches to pray that, if it be pleasing to the Lord, our present liberties might be preserved to us, and to use every legitimate Christian means to preserve our present liberty to worship God and preach the Gospel. If, in the providence of God, our liberties should be taken away from us, let us pray that God might give us the grace to obey God rather than man.

3. Resolution of thanks.
Resolved that we thank God for His care over us, since we have been permitted to meet and have fellowship with Him and with one another and with the Pastor and people of the Bible Presbyterian Church of Chester; that we thank the Pastor and people of the Bible Presbyterian Church of Chester for the privilege of meeting with them and for their kind hospitality during our stay.

The report of the Resolutions Committee was adopted on motion of the Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa).

The Rev. M. A. Pearson (Iowa) moved that we consider at this time the suggestion of the Rev. Carl McIntire (NJ) that he be allowed to resign from the National Missions Committee, and that, if resignation was upheld, we proceed to elect his successor. It was moved by the Rev. E. C. Comfort (Chic.), and seconded by the Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Jr., (GL) that the resignation be rejected. Motion was passed.

The Rev. A. F. Faucette (GL) reported for the auditing committee, and submitted that the books of the National Missions Committee were found to be satisfactory. The Rev. A. J. Koonce (GL) moved the adoption of the report. Seconded and passed.

The Rev. Clarence Laman, Auburn, N. Y., requested permission to retire.

The Rev. A. J. Dieffenbacher (GP) moved that the Presbyteries be instructed to look over any or all matters published by their members, and confer with these members on matters therein contained contrary to our standards. Motion was seconded. Since the Book of Discipline already has made provision for such matters as these, the motion was defeated.

The Synod continued to discuss the proposed Book of Discipline, taking up the motion to reconsider Chapter V, Section 6. It was moved by the Rev. E. A. Dillard (Phila. Area) that: Section 6, which now begins, "The trial court shall appoint one of its members as a prosecutor," shall begin, "In a case initiated by a court, it shall appoint one of its members as a prosecutor." Section 7 shall read, "Private parties shall have the right to act before any court as prosecutors or be represented by counsel, who shall meet the qualifications set forth in Chapter IV, Section 9." The old Section 7 shall be henceforth Section 8, etc., etc. Motion seconded and passed.

It was moved by the Rev. F. Shepperson (Phila. Area) that Chapter V be adopted as amended. Motion seconded and passed.

It was moved by the Rev. Carl McIntire (NJ) that the rest of the Book of Discipline be adopted provisionally for another year, until the next General Synod. Motion seconded and passed.

It was moved by the Rev. F. Shepperson (Phila. Area) that we consider the place where the next Synod shall be convened. The Rev. E. A. Dillard (Phila. Area) invited the Synod to Charlotte, N. C. The Rev. H. S. Laird (Phila. Area), after stating that he had considered proposing such an invitation to his session, and through it to the Synod until he learned of the invitation from the session at Charlotte, moved that the Synod accept this very gracious offer. The motion was seconded by the Rev. F. Shepperson. The Rev. J. Sanderson (Chic.) extended the invitation of the Bible Presbyterian Church of St. Louis, and moved that the Synod accept this invitation. The Rev. E. C. Comfort (Chic.) seconded the invitation. After lengthy discussion Ruling Elder O. E. Cranmer (NJ) moved that we cast a white ballot for Charlotte. Motion was seconded. The Rev. H. McA. Griffiths (Phila. Area) moved a substitute motion, that the clerk be instructed to ascertain the wish, by letter, of every minister and elder delegate as to whether it would be more convenient for them to go to Charlotte or to St. Louis. The substitute was seconded but defeated. The original motion was passed.

It was moved by the Rev. M. N. Buffler (NJ) that the Synod appoint a committee with power to formulate and publish a pamphlet outlining the history of the Bible Presbyterian Church. Motion was seconded and passed.

It was moved by the Rev. H. S. Laird (Phila. Area) that the National Missions Committee be instructed to loan the amount necessary to pay the expenses of the delegates to the Synod, over and above that secured by the offerings taken at Synod. This amount shall be repaid by the churches. Motion was seconded and passed.

The following additional resolutions, being also resolutions of the previous Synod, were moved by the Rev. G. D. Young (Phila. Area).

1. Independent Board.
"That this General Synod recommends the Independent Board for Presbyterian Foreign Missions to the ministers and members of the Bible Presbyterian Church as a suitable channel for carrying out the Great Commission to go to the uttermost parts of the earth, and that they support it by their gifts and prayers."

2. Faith Theological Seminary.
"That this General Synod commends to the support and prayers of the church in the great work of theological education the Faith Theological Seminary, of Wilmington, Delaware, for the training of young men for the Christian ministry."

3. Separated Life.
"In conformity to the Word of God and without adding thereto any rules binding the conscience, we do hereby urge our membership to lead a holy life separated from worldly sin. We hold that the participation in games commonly used for gambling sets a snare for our young people, introducing them to gambling associates and leading themselves into this evil practice. We hold that the patronage of the commercial theatre is not conducive to the development of the spiritual life. We hold that the promiscuous familiarity between the sexes in modern society in the modern dance and in other modern social customs sets dangerous temptations before the young. We urge all ministers and Christian leaders among us to discourage these and other worldly practices among the Lord's people, and to give their Christian testimony uncompromisingly against all forms of sin."

4. Intoxicating Beverages.
"We, the members of this Assembly, in the interests of making clear our position on this particular matter, namely the question of a Christian's relation to the use of intoxicating beverages, and with no slightest intention of setting ourselves up in judgment on the conscience of any man where the Word of God has not bound him, do desire to declare that we deem it wise to pursue the course of total abstinence; and furthermore, we lament the widespread tendency of the American people toward intemperance, and we are unalterably opposed to the modern saloon and the liquor traffic in general, which, as now carried on, is associated with and leads to sinful abuses, and is subversive of the general welfare of society."

5. Christian Beacon.
"That this General Synod express its gratitude and sincere thanks to the staff of the Christian Beacon for their devoted service in making this paper possible. We thank God for the establishment of the Christian Beacon and the news of the Bible Presbyterian Church contained therein."

The motion was seconded and passed.

It was moved, seconded and passed that the Synod adjourn to reconvene at 7.30 p.m.

The session was closed with prayer by the Moderator.

Sixth Sederunt, October 24, 1940

The Synod was convened with prayer by the Rev. W. W. Mayle (Chic.). The Moderator was in the chair.

The roll was called and resulted as follows:

Ministers: Presbytery of Chicago - Campbell, C. L., Comfort, E. C., Mayle, W. W., Sanderson, J., Buswell, J. O., Jr.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - Koonce, A. J., Schaeffer, F. A., Jr.; Presbytery of the Great Plains - Dieffenbacher, A. J.; Presbytery of Iowa - Wortman, V. V.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Allen, S. P., Buffler, M. N., Lipscomb, J. W., McIntire, Carl, McIntire, H. B., Misicka, J. F. ; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Arcularius, P. D., Cross, W. G., Dillard, E. A., Griffiths, H. McA., Harris, R. L., MacRae, A. A., Shepperson, F., Young, G. D.

Ruling Elders: Presbytery of Chicago - Iaggi, H. H.; Presbytery of the Great Lakes - McKim, Ed.; Presbytery of New Jersey - Cranmer, O. E.; Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area - Waterson, J. M.

The minutes of the previous session were read. It was moved by the Rev. A. J. Dieffenbacher (GP) that the minutes be adopted as read. Seconded and passed.

The Rev. P. D. Arcularius presented the following resolution and moved its adoption: Resolved that this General Synod appoint a committee to negotiate with other evangelical bodies not connected with the Federal Council of the Churches of Christ in America, looking toward the establishment of a truly Christian council to represent them publicly in matters of common interest and concern. Motion was seconded and passed.

It was moved by the Rev. H. B. McIntire (NJ) that the committee be appointed by the Moderator. Seconded and passed.

It was moved by the Rev. E. C. Comfort (Chic.) that the Synod be adjourned. Seconded and passed.

The vote to dissolve the Synod having been taken, the Moderator offered prayer, and then said: "Let this Synod now be dissolved, and I do hereby dissolve it, and require another General Synod, constituted according to the Form of Government of this church, to be held at Charlotte, N. C., at a time to be decided by the Moderator of the Third General Synod and the Clerk of Synod."

The Moderator pronounced the benediction.

Attest:
G. D. Young
Clerk of Synod.

Document B
Copy.

The Great Plains Presbytery at its Second Annual (Stated) Meeting, at Watford City, North Dakota, October 2 and 3, 1940, after deliberate action, passed the motion unanimously to overture the General Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church, meeting at Chester, Pennsylvania, October 23, 1940, as follows:

The Great Plains Presbytery, at its Second Annual Stated Meeting, October 2 and 3, 1940, in Watford City, N. Dak., respectfully then, and now through its Stated Clerk, overtures the General Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church in its stated meeting of October 23, 1940 in Chester, Pennsylvania

1. To instruct member presbyteries of Synod that within one year after the date of this Synod meeting all presbyteries shall come up to the standard of minimum requirements of the Synod for presbyteries, especially those standards requiring a minimum number of ministers and elder representatives from congregations within the district or bounds of the presbytery, as set forth in the Form of Government of the Bible Presbyterian Church, Chapter 9, Art. 1, to wit: "A Presbytery consists of all the ministers, in number not less than three, and regularly elected ruling elders from each congregation, within a certain district."

2. To rule that in the case of any member presbytery of Synod which, at the time of Synod meeting, does not then come up to the minimum standards especially indicated above, this same presbytery (or these presbyteries, if more than one), failing to come up to the minimum standards stated, within one year after this Synod, it shall be the Synod rule that that presbytery (or those presbyteries) shall be automatically dissolved.

3. To decide that in the case of any member churches of the dissolved presbytery, or presbyteries, these, by this action of Synod (contingent to their agreement ) shall be automatically assigned to the next nearest presbytery of Synod (nearest to the church involved).

4. To order that, in the case of any minister member of such dissolved presbytery, or presbyteries, that such minister, or ministers, may apply to the next nearest presbytery of Synod for regular admission as minister member of such presbytery in good standing in the Synod.

5. To rule that, in the case that dissolution should not, in the opinion of Synod, be the proper or legal step in the matter, then, instead of above overtured "dissolution" actions, Synod then take these steps in order either to suspension, or the declaring null and void the association organizationally with such lacking and unconstituted prebyteries, as far as minimum requirements of the governmental standards are concerned. In short, to order that, whatever be the name or procedure of the step required to make it so, such presbytery, or presbyteries, shall become no longer part of, or member of the Bible Presbyterian Church.

Respectfully submitted to the Clerk of the General Synod, to which I have given witness this 7th Day of October, in the Year of our Lord, 1940. The Churches of the Great Plains Presbytery salute you.

Signed: David K. Myers, Stated Clerk, The Great Plains Presbytery.

Document D
Copy.

OVERTURE FROM THE PRESBYTERY OF NEW JERSEY

The Presbytery of New Jersey respectfully overtures the General Synod to appoint a committee with power to draw up and print pamphlets

1. To give a brief history of the Bible Presbyterian Church.

2. To outline the doctrine and polity of the Bible Presbyterian Church.

Suggesting:

A. It should be put in simple form.

B. It should be brief.

C. It be put in an attractive form so as to hold attention of recipients.

* * * * * * * * *

Document E
Copy.

OVERTURE FROM THE PRESBYTERY OF NEW JERSEY

The Presbytery of New Jersey respectfully overtures the General Synod that the government of the Bible Presbyterian Church be amended to permit the licensing of qualified elders to preach the Gospel.