FIRST SEDERUNT - Thursday afternoon, October 12, 1944
After a sermon by the Moderator of the Sixth General Synod, Ruling Elder Roland K. Armes, upon the subject, "Holding Fast the Profession of Our Faith," a worship service including the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and a recess, the Seventh General Synod was duly constituted, with prayer by the Rev. M. A. Pearson, at 4:15 p.m., on the afternoon of Thursday, October 12, 1944, in the Bible Presbyterian Church, Unaffiliated, of Greenville, South Carolina.
The roll of the Synod was called, as follows, with all present:
Ministers: Addy, John E.
Allen, Stanley P.
Anderson, Herbert J.
Arcularius, Philip duB.
Armes, Willard O.
Bachman, Lester R.
Brumbaugh, Roy T.
Buswell, J. Oliver, Jr.
Chisholm, Wm. H.
Cochran, N. A.
Cox, Robert H.
Crane, John G., Jr.
Dillard, E. A.
Donaldson, L.
Evans, C. S.
Faucette, A. F.
Fiol, Frank
Hastings, Robert
Hitchcock, A. D.
Holdcroft, J. G.
Irving, W. M.
Janbaz, John E.
Kutz, R. S.
Laird, Harold S.
Laman, Clarence
MacRae, Allan A.
Monroe, W. A.
Murry, J. W.
Pearson, M. A.
Sanderson, John W., Jr.
Saye, Sam W.
Schaeffer, F. A.
Shepperson, Flournoy
Shepperson, Flournoy, Jr.
Slaght, A. G.
Stutsman, P. R.
Toms, J. U. Selwyn
Wallis, Wilber B.
White, Earle R.
Young, John M. L.
Ruling Elders: Auffarth, G. H.
Bancroft, Clayton
Bodle, O. C.
Clark, W. H.
Cranmer, O. E.
Daniel, Holland
Greeley, James H.
Henry, John D.
Kallam, G. H.
Miller, Ralph V.
Moore, Paul R.
Stam, Peter, Jr.
Wigfield, Reginald S.
Woods, J. M.
The docket was presented and adopted, as follows:
Thursday, October 12, 1944
2:00 P.M. Opening Service of Worship
Hymn 31
Sermon by Mr. Roland K. Armes, Moderator of the Previous Synod
Subject: "Holding Fast the Profession of Our Faith"
Hymn 66
The Lord's Supper
Hymn 70
3:30 P.M. Recess
3:45 P.M. Election of Moderator and Stated Clerk
Adoption of Docket
Presentation of Fraternal Delegates and Visiting Brethren; Seating
of Corresponding Members
Miscellaneous Business
4:30 P.M. Recess
7:30 P.M. Public Worship
The Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Pastor of the Bible Presbyterian Church
of St. Louis, Mo., Presiding
Sermon by the Rev. J. Oliver Buswell, Jr., D.D., LL.D, President
of the National Bible Institute, New York, N.Y.
Subject: "The Corinthian Church"
Friday, October 13, 1944
9:00 A.M. Devotional Service led by the Rev. Willard O. Armes, Pastor of the
Faith Presbyterian Church, Faun Grove, Penna.
9:15 A.M. Report of the Committee on The American Council of Christian
Churches and Chaplains
10:45 A.M. Report of the Committee on Young People's Work
11:00 A.M. Report of the Publications Committee
11:30 A.M. Prayer Meeting led by the Rev. Kenneth A. Horner, Jr., Pastor of the
Bible Presbyterian Church, of West Philadelphia, Penna.
12:15 P.M. Picture of the Commissioners
12:45 P.M. Recess
2:00 P.M. Report of the National Missions Committee
4:30 P.M. Recess
7:30 P.M. Public Missionary Rally - The Rev. J. Gordon Holdcroft, D.D.,
General Secretary of The Independent Board for Presbyterian
Foreign Missions, Presiding
Saturday, October 14, 1944
9:00 A.M. Devotional Service led by the Rev. Lester R. Bachman, Pastor of
Seaside Bible Church, Seaside Heights, N.J.
9:15 A.M. Report of The Independent Board for Presbyterian Foreign Missions
10:15 A.M. Miscellaneous Business
11:30 A.M. Prayer Meeting led by the Rev. Earl R. White, Bible Presbyterian
Church, of Columbus, Ohio
12:15 P.M. Recess
2:00 P.M. Committee Meetings
6:30 P.M. Fellowship Dinner at Poinsett Hotel, the Rev. John W. Murray, Presiding
Rev. Allan A. MacRae, Ph.D., President of Faith Theological Seminary,
will describe the rescue of the Army fliers in the Grand Canyon
last summer.
Sunday, October 15, 1944
Public Worship at
THE BIBLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
of Greenville, S.C.
The Rev. Flournoy Shepperson, D.D. Pastor
10:00 A.M. Sunday School
11:15 A.M. Morning Worship
Sermon by the Rev. Harold S. Laird, D.D., Pastor of the First Independent
Church, of Wilmington, Dela.
Subject: "The Greatest Promise in the Bible"
3:00 P.M. Testimonies by Commissioners to the Synod
7:30 P.M. Evening Worship
Sermon by the Rev. Roy T. Brumbaugh, D.D., Pastor of the First Bible
Prebyterian Church, Tacoma, Washington
Subject: "God's Church in the Midst of Totalitarian Religion"
Monday, October 16, 1944
9:00 A.M. Devotional and Prayer Service led by the Rev. A. F. Faucette,
Pastor of the Bible Presbyterian Church, of Cleveland, Ohio
9:30 A.M. Discussion of "The Need for Evangelism in our Churches" led by the
Rev. Herbert J. Anderson, Pastor of the Central Bible Prebyterian
Church of Philadelphia, Pa.
10:30 A.M. Committee Reports
11:30 A.M. Consideration of the place of meeting of the next Synod.
11:45 A.M. Miscellaneous Business
12:30 P.M. Recess
2:00 P.M. Report of Faith Theological Seminary
2:15 P.M. Report of The National Bible Institute
2:30 P.M. Report of Harvey Cedars Bible Presbyterian Conference
2:35 P.M. Report of Hebron Bible Presbyterian Conference
2:40 P.M. Report of the Statistician
3:40 P.M. Committee Reports
4:30 P.M. Recess
7:30 P.M. Public Worship
The Rev. Flournoy Shepperson, Jr., Pastor of the Bible Presbyterian
Church of Baltimore, Md., Presiding
Sermon by the Rev. Carl McIntyre, Pastor of the Bible Presbyterian
Church of Collingswood, N.J.
Subject: "Twentieth Century Reformation"
Tuesday, October 17, 1944
9:00 A.M. Devotional and Prayer Service led by the Rev. LaVerne Donaldson,
Pastor of the Bible Presbyterian Church of Minneapolis, Minn.
9:30 A.M. Miscellaneous Business
12:30 P.M. Adjournment
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Nominations were in order for Moderator. The Rev. P. R. Stutsman nominated Rev. Roy T. Brumbaugh. Rev. J. W. Murray nominated Rev. J. Oliver Buswell, Jr. On motion the nominations were closed, and it was determined to vote on the two candidates by ballot.
While the ballots were being counted it was moved to proceed with the election of Assistant Clerk, and carried. The Rev. Lester Bachman nominated Rev. John Janbaz. Rev. Samuel W. Saye nominated Rev. Robert H. Cox, but he declined. The Rev. LaVerne Donaldson nominated the Rev. John M. L. Young but he also declined. On motion, a white ballot was cast for Mr. Janbaz.
The Moderator announced the results of the balloting according to which Dr. Buswell was elected Moderator. Mr. Armes thereupon turned the chair over to Dr. Buswell with appropriate remarks.
Visiting brethren and corresponding members were thereupon received. Dr. Shepperson presented three elders from his church, E. O. Todd, C. N. Wallace, and T. M. Cochran, and on motion they were enrolled as visiting brethren. On motion of the Rev. E. A. Dillard it was determined that all elders of Bible Presbyterian Churches, not commissioners to this Synod, be made corresponding members. They were John. G. Crane, Sr., Roland K. Armes and Floyd Chapman.
After announcements by Dr. Shepperson, the host pastor, it was voted to recess, and the Synod was dismissed with prayer by Dr. Brumbaugh.
Attest:
Stanley P. Allen, Clerk
SECOND SEDERUNT - Friday morning, October 13, 1944
After devotions, led by Rev. Willard O. Armes, the Synod was called to order by prayer at 9:30 A.M.
Committees, as appointed by the Moderator, are as follows:
Bills and Overtures Committee:
Elder R. K. Armes, Chairman
Rev. A. A. MacRae
Elder Peter Stam, Jr.
Rev. Robert Hastings
Rev. Flournoy Shepperson, Sr.
Committee on Presbytery Records:
Rev. John Young, Chairman
Rev. J. W. Sanderson, Jr.
Committee on Attendance and Expenses:
Rev. Wayne M. Monroe, Chairman
Rev. F. A. Schaeffer
Elder J. M. Woods
Committee on Resolutions:
Rev. Roy T. Brumbaugh, Chairman
Rev. E. A. Dillard
Rev. Wm. H. Chisholm
Auditing Committee:
Elder G. H. Kallam, Chairman
Elder W. H. Clark
Elder Peter Stam, Jr. was appointed Vice Moderator.
On motion, the Moderator was empowered to appoint a nominating committee. The following were appointed:
Rev A. A. MacRae
Rev. Harold S. Laird
Rev. Clarence Laman
The minutes of the previous sederunt were read and adopted.
The report of the Committee on the American Council of Christian Churches and Chaplains was called for. The Rev. Harold S. Laird gave that part of the report dealing with chaplains. He expressed thanks to God for the success of the committee in its efforts. He states that the Church has eight chaplains in the Army and four in the Navy, and that much of this success was due to the Secretary of the American Council's Commission on Chaplains. He then called on Dr. Buswell, the Secretary of the American Council's Commission, to make a few remarks, which was done. At Dr. Laird's request, Chaplain Nickles Cochran also spoke. Dr. Laird presented two recommendations, which were adopted, as follows:
1. That a memorial minute be prepared to the late Chaplain Arthur J. Dieffenbacher, who was killed in action in Normandy recently.
2. That in the future the Committee on Chaplains be elected separately from the delegates to the American Council.
The Rev. E. A. Dillard addressed the Synod regarding the action of the last Synod with respect to Chaplain Martin Luther Thomas, and moved that the unpublished minutes of last Synod's private session be destroyed. Seconded. On request the Clerk read the aforesaid minutes. The Rev. A. D. Hitchcock moved a substitute that this action of the last Synod be rescinded and the record of it expunged from the minutes. Elder Peter Stam, Jr. moved to amend the substitute to apply only to Resolutions II, III, IV and V of the action. There was discussion on the advisability of doing this owing to the fact that some parts of the resolutions had already been employed. On motion the matter was laid on the table.
The report of the Committee on Young People's Work was postponed, and in its place a report of the special committee of five regarding membership in the American Council was given by the Rev. J. Gordon Holdcroft. He reported that the wishes of the last Synod as presented by the Committee to the American Council were cordially received by the Council, which will act upon them finally in May, 1945.
The Rev. Fred Stroud, of Nashville, Tenn., was introduced by the Rev. E. C. Comfort and welcomed as a Visiting Brother.
The Rev Willard O. Armes moved to thank the Committee for its fine work, and this was carried. The Rev. F. A. Schaeffer moved that the Clerk write the Secretary of the American Council, saying that the Synod is gratified by its action regarding membership and thankful to God, and this was carried.
The report of the Publications Committee was called for but was not ready.
The Moderator appointed Dr. Shepperson as a Business Committee, pursuant to an action of the last Synod.
It was decided to hear as much as possible of the report of the Committee on the American Council. Dr. Holdcroft gave a report of the last meeting of the American Council in Indianapolis, telling of the splendid results in that city. He also gave a report of the Foreign Missions Commission of the American Council.
The Rev. John M. L. Young, an alternate delegate to the American Council, spoke of plans of the American Council being made to publish Sunday School lessons. The name of these lessons to be Evangelical International Sunday School Lessons. He reported further that two new church bodies, the American Episcopal Church and the Methodist Protestant Church, had been received into the American Council as constituent members, bringing the total representation of the American Council to approximately 1,000,000 persons.
The Rev. Philip R. Stutsman moved that the Synod express its appreciation to our delegates to the American Council for their fine work. Carried.
It was moved by the Rev. E. A. Dillard that the Clerk read to the Synod the Overtures which had been given to him and that the Synod then consider referring them to the Committee on Bills and Overtures. Dr. Buswell ruled that the Synod had the perfect right to discuss these overtures unless some action were taken by the Synod to curtail any discussion. The Rev. John M. L. Young moved an amendment to the motion that the overtures be read and referrred to the proper committee without discussion. Carried. The overtures were then read by the Stated Clerk and referred to the Committee on Bills and Overtures.
Then Dr. Buswell called on the Rev. John W. Sanderson, Jr., to lead the Synod in a prayer meeting, in place of the Rev. Kenneth A. Horner, Jr. Who could not be present because of illness.
By motion it was decided that the Synod recess immediately following the prayer meeting.
Attest:
Stanley P. Allen, Clerk
THIRD SEDERUNT - Friday, October 13, 1944
The meeting was called to order by the Moderator. A hymn was sung and prayer was made.
The minutes of the previous sederunt were adopted with certain specified exceptions, to be approved by Synod later.
The report of the National Missions Committee was given under the direction of the Rev. J. W. Murray. Mr. Murray called on Elder James H. Greeley, Jr., to present the treasurer's report, which was done. On motion the Treasurer's Report was received and ordered to be recorded and referred to the Auditing Committee with thanks.
Mr. Murray then presented the main body of the report, as follows:
REPORT OF THE NATIONAL MISSIONS COMMITTEE
The report of the National Missions Committee at the last Synod covered a period of eleven months, from November 1, 1942, until September 30, 1943. The present report will cover a period of exactly one year from October 1st, 1943, until September 30th, 1944. During this period eight meetings have been held by the committee in addition to the meetings of the committee during the last Synod.
The following churches were being assisted by the committee at the beginning of this period:
Two of these churches were without pastors and were not receiving the amount of aid which would be given if a pastor was on the field. It has been impossible to secure ministers for these two fields during this past year. These churches were Cincinnati, Ohio and Marion, Ohio. The committee has taken on new responsibilities in the following fields:
In November 1943 - Seaside Heights, N.J.
(the amount of aid as covered in the report of individual fields)
In January, 1944 - Sodus, New York
In September, 1944 - Indianapolis, Indiana
Before considering each individual field, there are some facts which we pointed out in our last report which should be emphasized again:
The report of the individual churches follow:
Marion, Ohio
Westchester, Pa.
Christ Church, Phila.
Seaside Heights, N.J.
Merchantville, N.J.
Ventor, N.J.
Wilkes-Barre, Penna.
Camden, N.J.
Cleveland, Ohio
Westville, Okla.
Newark, Dela.
Columbus, Ohio
Enon Valley, Penna.
Jackson, Minn.
Audubon Village, N.J.
Lemmon, S.D.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Bettendorf, Iowa
Reading, Penna.
Sodus, New York
Indianapolis, Indiana.
General Statement: At the present time the Marion, Ohio, church is not receiving aid due to the fact that they do not have a pastor. The Newark, Dela., church and the Seaside Heights, N.J., church now report that they no longer need the aid of the National Missions Committee as they are self-supporting. The Wilkes-Barre church has also requested a reduction in their aid. The report from the National Missions Committee churches is very encouraging, showing many activities, increased membership and increased giving to separatist channels. There is an urgent need for pastors.
We wish to point out that many members of the Committee have given their time to the establishment of Bible Presbyterian testimonies. Some of these would not be reported upon because no regular financial aid was requested from the National Missions Committee. The church in Washington, D.C. would be an example. On the other hand, we have been seriously handicapped because of the lack of men to take up the opportunities. We have sought to investigate, as much as possible, these opportunities. At the present time, the following churches on the National Missions Committee's list are without pastors:
Marion, Ohio
Jackson, Minn.
Enon Valley, Penna.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Sodus, New York
Indianapolis, Indiana.
In addition to these churches, there are others without pastors. Because of this dire shortage of men, these churches cannot be properly investigated.
The financial report shows that exclusive of individual gifts the contributions reveal the following:
Last year thirteen churches gave more than $50.00. All others contributed less than $50.00. This year 22 churches contributed more than $50.00.
As you will note, the committee has reported a substantial balance in the treasury. This would be much less if men could be found to fill the pulpits of National Missions Churches. Undesignated gifts last year amounted to 18% of the total. This year it is 42% of the total.
The Committee wishes to report to Synod that Mr. James Greeley, treasurer of the National Missions Committee, has resigned.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
To take on such a man will mean a larger responsibility on the part of us all, but it is not only needed but should be abundantly worth while. Example - Expansion of the work of the Independent Board since Dr. Holdcroft undertook the work of General Secretary.
The Committee has felt the burden of initiating some definite action on this even before Synod, and has made overtures to one of our own men about undertaking such work. He has taken the subject under advisement and is praying about the matter, but both he and we feel that such action should have the ratification and backing of the whole church. Our friend has a responsible position and does not yet have the Lord's clear leading in the matter so we cannot make his name public at this time, although any commissioner may receive this information in confidence from members of the Committee.
Your Committee would, therefore, ask you to ratify its action in deciding upon the appointment of a General Secretary, feeling confident that the Lord will bless our faith in Him in taking this forward step, and guide us to just the man of His choice whether the one the Committee has under consideration or another.
On motion the report was ordered recorded and filed and the recommendations considered seriatim. On motion, Recommendation 1 was adopted, together with an amendment to the Standing Rules adding this office, to be filled by the Committee. On further motion, Recommendations 2 and 3 were adopted.
On motion of the Rev. M. A. Pearson, it was determined that a committee of three, including the Clerk, be appointed to revise the wording of our Standing Rules to bring them into conformity with related actions of the Synod. The Moderator appointed the Clerk, Mr. Murray, and the Assistant Clerk, Mr. Janbaz.
The Rev. F. A. Schaeffer moved that clerks of all presbyteries be notified of the action of Synod relative to those under care of presbyteries as stated in Recommendation 3, and this was carried.
The Clerk presented an overture from the Presbytery of Great Lakes, and on motion it was ordered to be read and referred to the Committee on Bills and Overtures, which was done.
It was voted to recess, and Dr. Shepperson dismissed the body with prayer.
Attest:
Stanley P. Allen, Clerk
FOURTH SEDERUNT - Saturday, October 14, 1944.
After devotions led by the Rev. Lester Bachman, the meeting was called to order by the Vice-Moderator, Elder Peter Stam, Jr., and the Rev. J.U.S. Toms led in prayer.
The minutes of the Third Sederunt were approved as read.
The report of the Independent Board was given by the Rev. J. Gordon Holdcroft, its General Secretary, as follows:
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT BOARD
FOR PRESBYTERIAN FOREIGN MISSIONS
TO
THE BIBLE PRESBYTERIAN SYNOD
October 1944
As I submit this report of the Independent Board for Presbyterian Foreign Missions to this, the Seventh Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church it is with keen realization that we are meeting in a Church which from the beginning has aided greatly in the support of two of our missionaries in India, the Rev. and Mrs. T. Norton Sterrett and of one, Mrs. P. M. Lytle, in Bolivia.
Nor do we forget that the whole Bible Presbyterian Church is keenly interested in the great commission. One not altogether partial to this Church said recently, "But I have to admit that your people have a deep passion for Missions" and that is true.
The year ending at this time has seen notable evidences of that passion. Four new missionaries came forward for appointment for whom the Board felt it had places, or soon would have places and they therefore were appointed this last spring. They are the Rev. and Mrs. F. Sanders Campbell and the Rev. and Mrs. William A. Mahlow. The way to the field has not yet opened for these but we hope that ere long it may. In addition we confidently expect that at least three more will be appointed before the end of this month. If so, that will bring up the total under appointment to 42.
Gifts continue, under the blessing of God, to increase. Our income now for the year ending September 30, 1944, for current work from living donors was over $39,000.00 in addition to which some substantial sums were received from legacies, and other gifts for special purposes, as for instance the purchase of the house next door to our headquarters building, namely the house at number 145 Maplewood Avenue. The dedication of this addition is to be held at 3 P.M. on October 20, and you all, the members of Synod, are invited to attend it.
While speaking of the home base and of the Headquarters building let me say that the Board is building up there a good foreign missions library. We want more good Missions books, but we want also to serve the Churches and Societies which support the work, so feel free to write to us for suggestions and for books whenever you feel the need of them.
One other project, perhaps minor, yet important is that of attempting to gather together or to prepare a number of good programs for Women's Missionary and other Societies. Call on us for these also when you feel the need.
Of our 39 missionaries at the present time 14 are on the fields, 3 are home on health leave, 12 are on leave because of war conditions and ten are missionary appointees in waiting, but of the total number now in America we confidently look forward to 6 at least and perhaps 8 returning to their fields very soon. But whether that can be done or not we believe God is making it possible to send out a relatively large number immediately war conditions permit. We would value your prayers to this end.
The heaviest blow we have sustained this year came in the death on the battle fields of Normandy on July 5 last of our beloved Arthur Johnston Dieffenbacher, Army Chaplain and good soldier of Jesus Christ. A year ago Arthur Dieffenbacher was with us. Today he is in heaven. We honor his memory as missionary, as a soul-winner, and as a friend, but we shall miss him sorely for he was a well prepared and experienced man most valuable for our work in China. On the way across the Atlantic he and two other sound chaplains led 84 men to Christ. Shortly after his death an incident came to our attention which shows what kind of a chaplain he was. A soldier wrote to a friend telling how while he was stationed at Camp Breckenridge, Kentucky, Chaplain Dieffenbacher had visited this soldier's regiment to obtain the names of all men who had then recently accepted Christ in order that he might follow them up and do what he could to help establish them in the faith. That was characteristic of this true servant of Christ. Some are praying that from among those whom he had led to Christ in the army may come forward one or more to take his place eventually in China.
When we turn to the fields we have had a very remarkable development in Arabia which leads us to expect that God is about to do a new thing in that land. We cannot describe it in detail but on the recommendation of Dr. Hosmon the Board has authorized the removal of our Station from Saham in Muscat Province to Kalba far up the Gulf of Oman where a Station site has been acquired and we hope that ere too long we may have another consecrated physician besides Dr. Hosmon, an evangelistic man and possibly a second nurse in addition to Miss Barter who is one of the six or eight who may be able to go out very soon.
In India also war restrictions are easing up, so that we confidently expect that Mr. and Mrs. Fiol with their family and also Miss Elsie R. Hudec may soon be on their way to our mission there. When they start we shall be glad to have Mr. And Mrs. T. Norton Sterrett return on a furlough long overdue.
Possibly the most significant news I can report is that in China a great new development is financially possible under the direction of our Board and Mission. Dr. Dodd is ready to go out to investigate this and to make it possible as we believe it may be possible under the blessing of God.
In Bolivia we have not yet settled finally upon a field but expect to be able to do so, very soon. Our four missionaries there are obtaining a good start on the language.
Peru we had expected to re-enforce at about this time. However, owing to the unexpected illness of the two who are appointed to our field there, such plans have had to be postponed for a time.
Of Africa I can only say that our plans have not come to fruition as yet, but we are continuing to seek a way through the obstacles that have arisen.
Korea and Manchuria are still fast closed by the war, yet many Christian people there require our prayers and in all probability God's speedy deliverance from persecution and trial which must be very severe. Needless to say the Independent Board hopes to re-establish its Missions there when the time comes.
In closing this report I would like to say that the very conditions we face here of unbelief and of apostasy are present in many, many foreign mission fields. That means that such testimony as that to which we have set our hearts and lips is absolutely necessary on these fields. It is also so great and so pervasive and the plans of the modernists for post-war Missions are so vast that beyond all doubt the greatest post-war problem that any Board or Mission will have to face upon the field is that of modernism. Whole fields have seen it come in like a flood. The Lord will raise a standard against it we believe, perhaps will soon bring that Standard Himself. In the meantime, everyone who fights modernism at home helps fight it also abroad. In that fight I trust the Bible Presbyterian Church may have an honorable, even a leading part. But also I trust it may have a significant part constantly in a true, understanding and loving presentation of the Gospel in many a field.
Elder R. K. Armes moved that a committee of three be appointed by the Moderator, to be called the Committee of Foreign Missions, to promote and co-ordinate our work in the Independent Board. Seconded and carried.
On motion a vote of thanks was given to Dr. Holdcroft for his fine report.
The Bills and Overtures Committee gave a partial report through its chairman, Elder R. K. Armes. He announced that the Committee was ready to report on Overtures I, II, IV, and VI.
Overture I was read as follows:
"The Presbytery of New Jersey respectfully overtures the 1944 Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church that:
Mr. Armes reported that the Committee answers Section 2 in the affirmative, recommending this section of the Overture to Synod, and that with respect to Section 1 and 3 the Committee believes the first line of Section 1 is not necessary and, in view of the present growing stage of the church, the remainder of Section 1, as well as Section 3, is inadvisable, and would, therefore, answer in the negative. It was moved that the report of the Committee regarding Overture I be adopted. An amendment was moved that Presbytery be instructed to review at least once a year the case of each of its members laboring outside of its bounds and inform him to join the presbytery in whose bounds he is laboring if there be no good reason for him to do otherwise, but this was lost. The original motion was thereupon carried.
Overture II was read, as follows:
"The Presbytery of New Jersey respectfully overtures the Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church of 1944 that:
The Committee recommended this Overture to the Synod, urging, however, the necessity of preserving sanity and balance in the matter. By motion, the recommendation was adopted.
Overture IV was read, as follows:
"It is unanimously agreed that the Presbytery of the Pacific Northwest overture the Bible Presbyterian Synod meeting at Greenville, South Carolina, October 12 to 17, 1944, to recognize the CHRISTIAN BEACON as the official organ of the Bible Presbyterian Church of America."
The committee recommended a negative reply to this overture and referred to the action of the previous Synod regarding the Christian Beacon as recorded on Page 33 of the Minutes. It was moved that the recommendation be adopted by the Synod, and after discussion, carried.
Overture VI was read, as follows:
"The Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area hereby overtures the General Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church to hold its yearly meeting at a time convenient for Seminary members."
The Committee recommended the adoption of this overture, and suggested as a possible time the last week of May. The recommendation was adopted.
Mr. Armes at this time asked to be excused from the Synod. Permission was granted, and on motion a vote of thanks was extended to Mr. Armes for his good work.
The report of the Publications Committee was presented by its chairman, the Rev. J. Gordon Holdcroft, as follows:
Report of The Publications Committee to the
Seventh General Synod of the Bible
Presbyterian Church
Start Here, p15…The Publications Committee has through the years kept in touch with its members with a view of discahrging, at the earliest possible opportunity, the commission received from the Synod and to accomplish the other work which properly comes within its province.
One book has been published during the year. This is the pamphlet, "Infant Baptism, What Saith the Scriptures?" This pamphlet was written by the late Chaplain Arthur J. Dieffenbacher and has been favorably received and met a very great need, not only in our own communion, but also in other communions. One thousand copies were printed. Of these about one-half or more are already disposed of.
In addition we have continued to sell as opportunity came Dr. Edmund H. Fairfield's book on Baptism, also Dr. Wm. H. Chisholm's book, "Vivid Experiences in Korea."
This has at times entailed considerable work, which has, however, been willingly contributed to the committee so that all profit accruing from these sales has gone to create a working capital with which we will be able to publish other books.
The Treasurer's Report will show that there is now in his hand, with all bills paid, a balance of $750.27, beside which there is a considerable stock of all the books which have been mentioned in the foregoing paragraphs. This is an even better financial showing than the Committee had anticipated a year ago.
The Treaurer's books have been turned over to the Synod's Audit Committee. They show total receipts of $935.45, expenditures amounting to $185.18, and, as I say, a balance of cash to the amount of $750.27.
In addition to the profit from the sale of books, there has come into the treasury, this year also as last year, a gift from the Bible Presbyterian Church of Collingswood of $250.00.
The Sixth General Synod commissioned the Publications Committee to publish as soon as possible "a booklet containing the Confession of Faith, the Form of Government, the Book of Discipline, and the changes made by the Bible Presbyterian Church in the Larger Catechism."
The Committee has given attention to this task during the year. However, due to verious obstacles we can only report that the work is in progress and the Committee hopes to have it competed before another Synod convenes. We trust Synod will bear with the Committee in that it has not as yet been able to see this badly needed work through the press.
Other pamphlets are under consideration also for publication by the Committee, but as yet none other than those mentioned have actually been decided upon.
In accordance with the instructions of the Sixth Synod the Committee has classified its members by years and would report that according to that classification terms of Committee membership will expire as follows:
1944 - Mr. Allen, Dr. Holdcroft
1945 - Mr. Stam, Mr. Schaeffer
1946 - Mr. Sanderson, Mr. Edwards
The Committee would recommend:
- - - - - -
The report was received and the recommendations considered seriatim and adopted, after which the recommendations were adopted as a whole.
Further report of the Bills and Overtures Committee was made by Mr. Armes. Overtures III and V were read, as follows:
"The Presbytery of New Jersey respectfully overtures the Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church of 1944, that:
WHEREAS, many of our members spent the years between 1924-1936 in fighting the elements of modernism within the Presbyterian Church of the U.S.A. before the issue was brought to a point of separation: Therefore,
"The Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area hereby overtures the General Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church to declare that in our jedgment toe Presbyterian Church in the U.S., and other denominations in the Federal Council are in a position of compromise, and therefore sin, and that we urge Christian brethren in these denominations to obey God's Word and 'Come out and be separate'."
The Committee recommeded that the Synod adopt the following substitute overture:
"The General Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church calls to the attention of Christian brethren in denominations belonging to the Federal Council of Churches of Christ in American the apostate actions of that body, and urges upon such brethren that they consider seriously the desirability of separating themselves from such denominations, in view of the repeated declarations of God's Word urging separation from sin and unbelief; at the same time the Synod affirms its feeling of Christian sympathy and brotherly love to all such members of these denominations as are endeavoring to arouse their fellows to the need of cleansing the elemtnes of unbelief from the House of God, and declares the desire of its members to give all possible aid and encouragement in such efforts."
It was moved to adopt the substitute overture. On motion the overture was amended so that the word "desireability" was replaced by the word "necessity." The overture as amended was adopted.
There was some discussion regarding just what expense allowance would be hade to commissioners, and upon motion it was determined that each commissioner be required to itemize his travelling expenses.
The Auditing Committee reported that it has examined the treasurer's books of the National Missions Committee and found them correct and in order, and also the books of the Committee on Attendance and Expenses.
The session adjourned with prayer and was dismissed for the picture of the Commissioners to be taken.
Attest:
Stanley P. Allen, Clerk
FIFTH SEDERUNT - Monday Morning, October 16, 1944
After devotions conducted by the Rev. A. F. Faucette and a discussion on "The Need for Evangelism in Our Churches" led by the Rev. Herbert J. Anderson, the Moderator constituted the Synod with prayer.
The minutes of the previous sederunt were read and approved.
The Moderator announced the addition of the Rev. Philip duB. Arcularius and the Rev. P. R. Stutsman to the Committee on Resolutions.
The report of the Young People's Committee was given by the Rev. J. W. Murray as follows:
REPORT OF THE YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMITTEE
At the last General Synod the Young People's Committee presented the two following recommendations:
At that time action was taken that the Young Peple's Committee be instructed to take steps to implement the organization of a Bible Presbyterian Young People's organizations and report back to this Synod. The second recommendation was not passed but rather a committee to cooperate with the Christian Beacon was set up.
The Committee wishes to report that to a large extent organization depends upon publication in order to become an effective work. Therefore, the two recommendations more or less rise and fall together. We wish to report back to the Synod that as a committee we are desirous of
INTRODUCTION
This magazine is designed for Bible Presbyterian young people. For some time we have felt the need for the formation of our young people's groups into a denominational organization and hand in hand with that, the need for a young people's magazine that would aid us in our weekly meetings. The question may be asked - why not use the writings on young people's meetings in many fundamental periodicals? The answer to this question reveals how great the need is for such a magazine as we seek to originate. First of all, there is a dearth of young people's literature written from a true Biblical Prebyterian viewpoint. Ours is a glourious heritage to be preserved and propagated, not just in the creeds of our church but also in the popular youth literature of our times. In the second place, there is a need for a young people's paper that will not compromise on the great religious issues of our day. The separation issue will not be evaded or minimized but rather defended form the Word of God. We seek not to serve and please the greatest possible people but rather to strengthen that group which we believe is standing for the truth.
Youth today is a gigantic mission field. To evangelize such a body will require a determination to understand the basic needs of youth and also to secure a more adequate comprehension of the Gospel which is the power of God unto their salvation. The usual conception among young people today is that the Gospel is out-moded and shopworn for such a progressive age as ours. It is our task to reveal to this group that the Gospel is not behind the times but ahead of the times and that it is a message for the world today and that it works.
This magazine is a handbook for the weekly meetings but not the meeting itself. The leader should use his own ingenuity in adaption the material for its use. Many meetings are dull and superficial because the leaders take no time or effort to work out an effective program. Month after month you will receive suggestions for interesting song services, valuable discussion times, and adequate social activities. We shall seek to make our ideal practical throughout the youth groups of our church.
With the assistance of this publication, we are suggesting a proposed plan for organization. We suggest:
The Committee did not fee it wise, or rather found it almost impossible to organize the young peple along conventional lines. We believe that the organization must be prepared by local and presbyterial organization frist. Then, and only then, will we be ready to set up a young people's organization which will cover the entire Synod.
It was moved to empower the Young People's Committee to publish a young people's magazine. An amendment was passed stipulating the provision that funds be raised. The motion as amended, was carried.
The report of the Committee to Cooperate with the Christ Beacon was given by the Rev. John G. Crane, Jr., in which he told of the generous publicity which had been given Bible Presbyterian news. The Committee recommended that the Synod extend sincere thanks to the Beacon and to the ministers who contributed news items. On motion of the Rev. E. A. Dillard the recommendation was adopted. The Rev. A. A. MacRae moved to continue the Committee for another year with the same membership. The Rev. John M. L. Young moved an amendment that the Committee be called the Bible Presbyterian News Bureau, for gathering and disseminating Bible Presbyterian news to various outlets. The Rev. P. R. Stutsman moved an amendment to the amendment that the Executive Secretary of the National Missions Committee, if and when one is secured, be chairman of the committee proposed by the amendment, but this was lost. By unanimous consent the amendment was withdrawn. The previous question was moved but lost. The Rev. E. A. Dillard made a substitute motion to continue the committee but refer the matter of the personnel of the committee to the Nominating Committee, and this was passed. The main motion as amended by the substitute was then passed.
The Rev. John M. L. Young then moved that the chair appoint a committee, to be called the Bible Presbyterian News Bureau, for gathering and disseminating news, and this was passed. The Moderator then appointed as chairman whoever will become the executive secretary of the National Missions Committee, with the following as members:
Elder Peter Stam, Jr.
Rev. John W. Sanderson
Rev. F. A. Schaeffer
Rev. John M. L. Young
The Bills and Overtures Committee made further report through the Rev. Robert Hastings. He read Overture VII, as follows:
"The Presbytery of the Great Lakes respectfully overtures the Seventh General Synod to give its counsel regarding the propriety and wisdom of a presbytery's receiving or retaining a minister who does not adhere to the doctrine of Infant Baptism."
The Committee recommended the following reply:
"The General Synod advises that in the light of the Word of God and our Reformed Standards, it would not be proper for a presbytery to receive a minister who does not adhere to the doctrine of Infant Baptism. In the case of a minister holding such views who may already be a member of a presbytery, Synod recommends that he be dealt with with patience and sympathy, in an effort to cause such a one to see the Scripturalness of our Bible Presbyterian position."
It was moved that the recommendation be adopted, and after discussion, the motion was passed.
The Committee on Presbytery Records reported through the Rev. John M. L. Young, the order of the day being deferred by motion. The Committee reported that the records of the Presbyery of New Jersey and also those of the Presbytery of the Midwest had been approved in toto, and that those of other presbyteries were to be approved with specified exceptions, excepting in the case of the Presbytery of Southern California, whose records had not been presented to the Committee. The Committee made two recommendations:
On motion the recommendations were adopted, and by another motion it was directed that the errors noted by the Committee be called to the attention of the respective presbyteries.
The Rev. J. Oliver Buswell, Jr., presented a request of the First Bible Presbyterian Church of New York City that it be permitted to join the Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area, even though it is within the bound of the Presbytery of New Jersey. After much discussion, it was moved and seconded to limit debate to three minutes, but a motion was passed to lay the matter on the table.
The meeting was adjourned and dismissed with prayer by Elder Paul Moore.
Attest:
Stanley P. Allen, Clerk
SIXTH SEDERUNT - Monday Afternoon, October 16, 1944
The meeting was called to order by the Vice-moderator, and Elder R. V. Miller led in prayer.
The Rev. J. Oliver Buswell, Jr. Moved that the request of the New York church to be received into the Presbytery of the Philadelphia Area be granted. After discussion the previous question was moved and carried, after which the main motion was passed.
The Moderator presented a request that the order of the day be set aside and a half hour discussion be conducted on the subject of "Separation." A motion to proceed with the order of the day was lost. By another motion, the request for the discussion was granted, after which the discussion was held.
The body retgurned to the order of the day, which was the consideration of a place of meeting for the next Synod. The Rev. J. W. Murray presented an invitation to the Synod to meet at the Harvey Cedars Bible Presbyterian Conference. It was moved and seconded to accept the invitation. And amendment was passed that Synod meet immediately following Faith Seminary commencement. The motion as ammended was passed. On motion it was determined that a committee of three be appointed to study the question of the exact dates, to report a tht evening session. The Moderator appointed the Rev. Allan A. MacRae, the Rev. J. Gordon Holdcroft, and the Rev. J. W. Murray.
It was moved that the Chair appoint a committee to nominate a Moderator before the Synod next year. Seconded and lost.
The Faith Theological Seminary report was presented by Dr. Allan A. MacRae, President of the Seminary.
Dr. Buswell then gave the report of the National Bible Institute.
The Rev. J. W. Murray gave a report of the Harvey Cedars Bible Presbyterian Conference.
The Rev. Sam. W. Saye gave the report of Hebron Bible Conference, as follows:
REPORT OF HEBRON BIBLE CONFERENCE
One hundred paying guests visited Hebron this summer in spite of the gas shortage and the polio restrictions on all children and warning to parents. Many returned once and again throughout the five-week season so as to enter in on the blessing of each conference.
Speakers during the 1944 season were: Rev. Larry McGuill, Rev. and Mrs. E. A. Dillard, Rev. Robert H. Cox, Rev. Allan MacRae, Rev. Francis A. Schaeffer, Rev. Wm. H. Chisholm, Rev. M. A. Pearson, Rev. R. A. Bolsham, Mr. J. B. Spillman, Mr. R. K. Armes, Rev. Sam W. Saye.
The property now enjoyed by Hebron guests was given to the Carolina Bible Conference Assoc. Inc. by the Rev. Charles McKaraher and his wife three years ago. Facilities on the fifteen acres of beautiful mountain land overlooking Boone Fork of the Wagauga River include a former boys' dormitory which accomodates over 40 guests and an historic grist mill on the stream now being used as the chapel, boys' sleeping quarters, and recreation room.
Surrounded by mountain ranges, Hebron not only offers scenic beauty and mountain recreations but affords relief from summer heat. Old Grandfather mountain, one of the highest peaks in the southeast, is only a few miles from the grounds.
Hebron, located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, is central to the growing Bible Presbyterian testimony and being only five miles from the Skyline Drive offers easy access to sight-seers from all parts of the country.
The facilities of Hebron have been supported and enjoyed almost entirely by members of the Charlotte Bible Presbyterian Church. We trust, however, that Hebron will become more and more a center for Bible Presbyterians from all sections of the country.
Directors of this conference which is devoted to the interests of the Bible Presbyterian Testimony are all Bible Presbyterians. They are:
Mr. Kirk S. Lamb, of Charlotte - President
Mr. G. Harry Kallam, of Charlotte - Treasurer
Rev. E. A. Dillard, of Charlotte
Rev. Flournoy Shepperson, Sr., of Greenville
Morris E. Trotter, of Charlotte
Curry L. Betts, of Charlotte
Sam W. Saye, Conference Director
Winter address - 1800 E. 4th St. Charlotte
Summer address - Shulls Mills, N. C.
We are confident that increasing crowds will attend Hebron after the war, and expansion of facilities is necessary. We present this matter as a challenge to the Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church, and we earnestly covet your prayers, your interest, and your support for this vital testimony to our movement.
We are happy to announce that a missionary and his wife, Mr. And Mrs. W. J. Alexander, who have served for several years in the mountains of Virginia, are making arrangements to live at Hebron as care-taker and do mission work in the vicinity of the grounds.
The Rev. J. U. S. Toms, Statistician, reported, as follows:
REPORT OF STATISTICIAN 1944
While the Statistician believes it is quality and not quantity that counts, yet knowing the quality that there is in the Bible Presbyterian Church he is glad to report that numerically there is progress. There is one thing that makes the value of this year's report uncertain, and that is the rule passed by the last Synod as to the report year. Reports in some cases do not cover a full year. The Statistician asked the Stated Clerks of the Presbyteries to report up to September 1 st in order that he might get the reports early in September and have time to prepare his report. The palm for promptness again goes to Mr. Janbaz, Clerk of Presbytery of New Jersey, whose report as Stated Clerk was received September 8 th, and second place to Mr. Hastings of Presbytery of Philadelphia Area. I regret t o report that in each of those Presbyteries there are still three churches from which I have no report. Two of these are churches newly affiliated this year.
The Statistician wishes to thank the Clerks for their diligence in sending in their reports. Some in the larger Presbyteries have some appreciation of the efforts of the Synod's Statistician. I mention Mr. Peter Stam, Jr., Midwest, and Mr. Robert Hastings of Philadelphia especially. The replies on the church blanks received have been filled in quite accurately, especially in the item, Constituents. One church reported more communicants thatn constituents so the Statistician had to estimate the number of all affiliated with that church. In the item Building, Radio and Repairs, Specify, some did not specify and some went into too much detail, as ads, printing, pews etc. The Statistician will eliminate the "etc." he put on the blank and ask that only the tree items be specified.
And now for the report from the Prebyteries and the churches. The Stated Clerks report 121 ministers in the Bible Presbyterian Church, 37 pastors of affiliated churches, 3 assistant pastors, 13 pastores of un-affiliated churches, 2 stated supplies, and 66 not pastors. Ten were ordained this year. There are 51 affiliated churches, 5 affiliated this year. There are 14 un-affiliated churches having Bible Presbyterian pastors, making a total of 65 as against 54 last year.
Nine churches have not reported from Great Plains Presbytery, three from New Jersey, three from Philadelphia Area, and one from Southern California, sixteen in all. For the sake of comparison, the figures from four of the churches as reported last year have been filled in. Some one asked to give the percentage of gain in some items. For two reasons I shall not comply with this request. In the first place, the figures are not complete for any of the last three years in which statistics are at hand, and in the second place percentages are in many cases misleading. One man may have had 300% gain in his Sunday School and another man only 100%, but if the first man started out with three and the second man with fifty, there is a vast difference in the increase. I shall, when I send the tabulation to the Stated Clerk, give a summary for 1943 and 1942 and you can each juggle your percentages. The confession must be made that there was omitted from the blank what is perhaps the most important item in a Presbyterian church, the number of elders, but no one supplied this omission except one church which typed out a blank evidently following last year's blank. I shall not weary you with the recital of all the items, unless they are called for. Families have increased from 2282 to 2393, communicant members from 4430 to 4785. Members received, 513 for both years, 391 received in 1942. Some of the Total Constituent items I was obliged to estimate, but the figures for the past three years show a continued increase - 3,882; 5,129, 6,882. There has been an increase in Sunday School pupils, but not in the same proportion. Three more items, and I will conclude the figures. Benevolences for the past three years are respectively $38,798; $54,846 and $70,498; Current Expense $58,889; $91927 and $120,742: Building; 1943, $30,140; 1944, $55,438.
I am still hoping that two of the men here to whom I have given blanks may hand them in to me this afternoon and that I may locate one blank that has evidently gone astray. Therefore I ask permission as I did last year to type a clean complete report to send the the Stated Clerk for incorporation in the minutes.
I am glad to report the steady growth of our young ecclesiastical tree. May God keep it from gnawing borers, decay, or blight is my prayer.
Respectfully submitted,
J. U. Selwin Toms, Statistician
(See the following page for supplementary report of the statistician)
Familie Commun Receive Tot. Pupil Benevo Current Buildin
s icants d Constitu s of -lence g
ents SS s Receipt
s
Carolina
Presbytery
BPC 372 648 15 1,000 345 6,279 8,968 2059
Chrarlotte
BPC Concord, 20 39 -- 250 170 195 1,825 276
NC
BPC Bowling 60 87 3 120 120 1,546 3,649 4315
Green
Philadelphia
Area
BPC 40 63 -- 75 60 500 1,750 385
Baltimore
BPC West 16 26 -- 65 50 333 1,836 ---
Chester
BPC West 30 60 -- 72 46 2,408 2,521 3438
Phila.
BPC 20 30 -- 70 35 657 888 ---
Wilkes-Barre
Central BPC 31 41 1 57 -- 128 3,643 ---
Phila.
Christ BPC 23 47 -- 75 -- 815 2,659 ---
Phila.
BPC 26 39 -- 75 50 880 1,660 ---
Coatesville
First BPC 12 45 2 50 30 62 327 ---
Duryea
N. E. BPC 19 30 -- 50 63 228 2,307 ---
Phila.
S. Baltimore 37 61 24 85 55 388 1,101 3860
BPC
BPC Newark 17 40 -- 50 37 337 2,275 2152
BPC No
Washington Report
DC
New Jersey
BPC Camden 32 -- -- 60 64 373 1,985 476
BPC 784 1555 29 2,300 700 33,160 28,935 22988
Collingswood
BPC East 46 79 4 92 165 --- 715 1020
Camden
BPC 9 23 -- 94 48 250 2,000 ---
Merchantville
Seaside 10 17 -- 40 55 765 203 3000
Bible Ch.
BPC Ventnor 17 34 3 65 35 280 1,850 ---
Emmanuel BPC 13 24 -- 75 60 --- --- ---
Star
Open Door No
BPC Trenton Report
Great Lakes
BPC 4 3 -- 4 4 168 776 ---
Cincinnati
BPC 48 90 13 269 110 3,859 4,022 300
Cleveland
BPC Columbus 13 25 2 101 85 210 3,237 ---
Cov. BPC Gr. 25 110 1 210 150 550 2,650 1100
City
BPC Enon 27 65 -- 89 36 253 1,311 170
Valley
BPC Marion 7 9 -- 14 5 1,263 --- ---
Midwest
BPC Affton, 15 30 6 120 105 --- --- ---
Mo.
BPC Cedar 5 7 -- 20 55 --- --- ---
Grove
BPC Jackson 6 18 -- 26 16 364 1,373 ---
BPC 25 50 7 125 65 1,659 2,700 ---
Minneapolis
S.Side BPC, 21 40 -- 50 25 100 150 ---
Chic.
BPC St. 94 166 5 375 100 4,207 4,794 ---
Louis, Mo.
BPC 5 8 -- 21 25 --- 1,000 ---
Indianapolis
BPC Valley 7 9 -- 65 30 25 900 ---
Park
Great Plains
Lemmon 13 29 1 60 40 60 1,460 ---
Circuit
Pacific
Northwest
Calvary BPC 160 373 20 500 115 300 6,000 3150
Wenatchee
First BPC 392 674 25 900 475 6,496 15,700 7134
Tacoma
Knox BPC 42 91 3 113 45 400 600 ---
Tacoma
Southern
California
BPC Los No
Angeles Report
TOTALS 2,543 4,785 164 7,882 3674 69,498 117,760 55823
On motion the report was received with thanks and permission granted to give the Clerk further statistics to be sent out by him.
The Rev. A. A. MacRae presented the report of the Nominating Committee, which was adopted seriatim, as follows:
COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL MISSIONS
Class of 1947 Rev. Roy T. Brumbaugh, D.D.
Rev. A. Franklin Faucette
Rev. Thomas G. Cross
Rev. J. W. Murray
Elder Clayton Bancroft
Class of 1946 Rev. John C. Page, replacing Elder Clayton Bancroft.
PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
Class of 1947 Rev. Stanley P. Allen
Rev. J. Gordon Holdcroft, D.D.
COMMITTEE ON YOUNG PEOPLE'S WORK
Rev. John W. Murray
Elder R. S. Wright, M.D.
Rev. Kenneth A. Horner
Rev. John E. Addy
Dr. Roy T. Brumbaugh
Rev. Robert H. Cox
Rev. Stanley P. Allen
Rev. Francis A. Schaeffer
Rev. Earle R. White
STATISTICIAN
Rev. J. U. Selwin Toms
TREASURER OF THE SYNOD
Elder Presley W. Edwards
DELEGATES TO THE AMERICAN COUNCIL
Rev. Carl McIntyre
Rev. J. Oliver Buswell, Jr., D.D.
Rev. Harold S. Laird, D.D.
Alternates:
Rev. John M. L. Young
Rev. E. A. Dillard
Elder Peter Stam, Jr.
Rev. F. A. Schaeffer
COMMITTEE ON CHAPLAINS
Rev. H. S. Laird, D.D.
Rev. Carl McIntyre
Rev. J. Oliver Buswell, Jr., D.D.
COMMITTEE TO COOPERATE WITH THE CHRISTIAN BEACON
Rev. R. Laird Harris, chairman
Rev. Robert H. Cox
Rev. John G. Crane, Jr.
Rev. E. A. Dillard
Rev. Joseph P. Free, Ph.D.
Rev. Allan A. MacRae, Ph.D.
Rev. J. W. Murray
Rev. F. A. Schaeffer, Jr.
Elder Peter Stam, Jr.
Rev. J. M. L. Young
The Moderator announced the appointment of the following to the Foreign Missions Committee:
Rev. H. S. Laird
Rev. J. Gordon Holdcroft
Elder R. K. Armes
He also announced that Dr. Laird had been appointed to prepare the Memorial Minute to Chaplain Arthur J. Dieffenbacher, and that Elder Holland Daniel had been added to the Publicity Committee.
The Assistant Clerk presented further report of the Auditing Committee, that the books of the Treasurer of the Synod had been found correct and in order.
On motion of the Rev. J. W. Sanderson, Jr., it was decided to record in our minutes the advice of this Synod to the next Synod that the Nominating Committee report soon enough to permit vote by secret ballot.
On motion it was determined that at least two theological papers be arranged to be delivered at the next Synod.
Adjournment was voted, and the Rev. Carl McIntyre dismissed the assembly with prayer.
Attest:
Stanley P. Allen, Clerk
SEVENTH SEDERUNT - Tuesday Morning, October 17, 1944
After devitions conducted by the Rev. Laverne Donaldson, the Moderator constituted the Synod with prayer.
The minutes of the two previous sederunts were read and approved.
By motion, it was determined that the dates of the next Synod shall be May 24th through May 29th, 1945.
By motion the Synod expressed its appreciation to the Board of the Harvey Cedars Bible Conference and to Miss Ruth Trato, conference secretary, for giving Miss Trato's services to this Synod.
The report of the committee to revise the Standing Rules was given by the Clerk, as follows:
Add to Article IV "including the publishing of the minutes of each Synod and sending them to each minister, to each clerk of session, and to each elder commissioner. The expenses of the Clerk shall be paid by the Treasurer of the Synod."
Article VI shall be entitled "TREASURER" and shall read "The treasurer shall be elected annually." The following articles shall be renumbered accordingly.
Under Article VI (which will become Article VII) a section B shall be added to read as follows: "PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE. The Publications Committee shall be composed of six members, in three classes of two members each."
Under Article VIII (which will become Article IX) a section F and a section G shall be added to read as follows:
"NOMINATING COMMITTEE. There shall be a Nominating Committee of an unspecified number."
"BUSINESS COMMITTEE. There shall be a Budiness Committee of one, whose duties shall be to act as a clearing house in finding time and places for committee meetings, in making announcements, and in making such other arrangements as will best expedite the business of the Synod."
The recommended changes were considered seriatim and adopted, after which the revised Standing Rules were adopted as a whole.
The Rev. Harold S. Laird presented the Memorial Minute to Chaplain Dieffenbacher, which was adopted by rising vote unanimously, and the Clerk was directed to send copies to his widow and mother. The Minute follows:
The Rev. Arthur J. Dieffenbacher was born in Titusville, Penna., April 29, 1909. He early gave his heart to Christ. Following his public school education, he entered a local college in Eric, Pennsylvania, where he studied for two years, then entering Grove City College for the junior and senior years. Upon his graduation from college, he entered Dallas Theological Seminary, where he completed his training for the ministry of the gospel. In both college and seminary he proved to be zealous in his Christian life and testimony, as well as in his scholastic activities, in which he excelled.
Soon after graduation from seminary, Mr. Dieffenbacher was ordained to the Christian ministry and sailed for China. There for eight years he served with devotion, first under the China Inland Mission and then later after his marriage to Miss Junia White, daughter of long-time missionary parents, Dr. and Mrs. Wayne R. White, under the Independent Board for Presbyterian Foreign Missions. It was during his service in China that he became affiliated with the Bible Presbyterian Church.
During Mr. Dieffenbacher's prolonged furlough from the field, due to the war, in June of 1943 he offered his services and was accepted as a chaplain in the United States Army. Soon after the completion of his training, he was sent to England with the United States Expeditionary Force. Mr. Dieffenbacher's regiment took part in the invasion of Normandy, where in connection with the carrying out of his duties, he was instantly killed by German artillery fire.
Though in the service for but a short time, he served both his country and his Lord faithfully and with a marked degree of success. It is definitely known that he was used of God in leading a large number of his fellow soldiers to Christ.
In the death of Mr. Dieffenbacher the Synod has sustained a great loss, and we deeply mourn his departure but rejoice in his great gain. We thank God for the contribution Mr. Dieffenbacher has made to the testimony of the Bible Presbyterina Church. He faithgully served for a number of months the Cincinnati Bible Presbyterian Church. He also made a real contribution in the writing of a splendid pamphlet on "Infant Baptism, What Saith the Scriptures"? His personal life and activity in our church will continue to be an inspiration to many of us as long as we live. Our hearts go out in deepest sympathy to the members of his family, and we affectionately commend them to the love and care of the Heavenly Father who in His own infinitely wise providence has called His servant Home.
The Committee on Resolutions submitted the following resolutions through the Rev. P. R. Stutsman; which were considered seriatim and adopted:
RESOLUTION I
Whereas past Synods of this church have made resolutions with respect to various matters be it therefore resolved that this Seventh General Synod concur in, commend, and recommend the spirit of these past resolutions and commend the publicity of matters relevant to their testimony.
RESOLUTION II
In confomity 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 them in 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 seets dangerous temptations before the young. We also desire to declare that we deem it wise to pursue the course of total abstinence; and furthermore we are unalterably opposed to the modern saloon and the liquor traffic in general. 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 testimony uncompromisingly against all forms of sin.
RESOLUTION III Publications
We commend to the attention of our constituency the Christian Beacon and the Clarion, trusting that God will use them to His glory.
RESOLUTION IV 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 the 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 may give us the grace to obey God rather than men.
RESOLUTION V
Whereas the Board of National Bible Institute in New York has testified to the fundamentals of the faith, including an exclusive policy with regard to apostate and modernistic denominations and groups; whereas it stands at this time in special need of gifts from the Lord's people, Therefore, be it resolved that we commend it to the prayers and support of the church.
RESOLUTION VI
Whereas it is the express purpose of the Harvey Cedars Bible Presbyterian Conference, the Camp Hebron Bible Conference, and the Washburn Bible Conference of the Great Plains Presbytery to conduct a program of Bible teaching and evangelism wherein the great issues of the day are not obscured; therefore the Synod commends these conferences to the support and prayers and attendance of the church.
RESOLUTION VII
We appeal to the people of this country to realize that we are at war primarily because as a nation we have departed from the Living God and His Word. Our educational institutions and to a lamentable degree even our churches and seminaries have turned to a false gospel. In Israel, apostacy always resulted in war, God having raised up enemies to chastise the Israelite nation. In such cases repentance, humiliation, and turning from sin always resulted in God's showing mercy and delivering the nation from the scourge of war. Therefore, be it resolved that we appeal to the people of this nation to turn from modernism and unbelief and turn back to the Living God.
RESOLUTION VIII
Whereas we believe that the State has no authority to interfer with the work of the Church; whereas we believe the church has no authority to interfer in the affairs of the state; Therefore realizing the dangers before our statesment in deciding peace terms, we call upon them to make terms for peach in accordance with our historic American principles of complete separation of Church and State with full freedom of religion and missionary endeavor in this and in foreign langs; and in regard to the proposed new world order following this war, we favor an attitude of realism, believing that a perfect world order will not be possible until Jesus returns with his supernatural kingdom to be established on earth. At the same time we call for a full and complete recognition of the rights of oppressed minorities such as the Jews, who have received most brutal treatment at the hands of our enemies; and we urge true Christians to manifest toward them the spirit of true love with deep concern for their collective welfare and individual salvation.
RESOLUTION IX
Whereas our public school system is generally devoid of a positive inculcation of Christian doctrine and is often decidedly anti-Christian; Therefore be it resolved that we recommend the desireability of our churches' establishing parochial schools wherever and to whatever extent it may be possible; and that we commend to all members of our Bible Presbyterian Church the duty of intercession for our children of school age and for the establishment of such schools.
RESOLUTION X
Whereas it is of great consequence both to discover truth and to embrace it; whereas a Scriptural understanding of the principals of Christian separation from idolatry, apostasy, and worldliness is highly desireable if we are to walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing; Therefor, be it resolved that we commend to the people of our church a prayerful study of the Word of God to ascertain the Biblical basis and meaning of Christian separation.
RESOLUTION XI
Whereas our brother and fellow presbyter, Rev. Philip duB. Arcularius, is engaged in a faith work separate from other agencies endeavoring to evangelize the Jews, Whereas this work maintains our testimony against apostasy, Therefore be it resolved that we commend this work among the Jews to the prayers and gifts of our people.
RESOLUTION XII
Whereas the substance of these resolutions is a matter for prayer and interest of all our people, Therefore be it resolved that we urge the Bible Presbyterian News Bureau to eandeavor to secure for them all possible publicity.
RESOLUTION XIII
Whereas in the Providence of God, the Bible Presbyterian Church, in spite of the exigencies of war, has been permitted to hold its Seventh General Synod in Greenville, South Carolina, we, at this time, would express our gratitude to Almighty God for His goodness in making this possible; for journying mercies granted to the commissioners and friends; for the preservation of health; for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our deliberations; and for the many evidences of blessing upon our gathering in the name of His dear Son, our Lord and Saviour.
Be it resolved, also, that this Synod express its deep appreciation to the members and pastor of the host church, Dr. Flournoy Shepperson, the Bible Presbyterian Church (unaffiliated) of Greenville, South Carolina, for their part in bringing this about; for the thoughtful and untiring labor that planned and carried out the program and our entertainment; and for their generous hospitality in opening to us their homes.
The Committee also reported the following: The first matter we have was given to us as a signed appeal by several commissioners to Synod. Although we feel that it is not a proper subject for a resolution, yet we as a committee thing this to be a matter of importance for the future progress and strength of our church. Therefore, we move that to further promote the interests of our church, this General Synod recommend to the Moderator and to the Nominating Committee of each succeeding Synod the placing of some of the younger men on the small committees of Synod; that if necessary, these committees be enlarged by one or two members in order to provide for the training of these young men.
On motion of Elder Peter Stam, Jr., the Synod definitely reaffirmed the resolutions of the last Synod not specifically mentioned by the Committee, namely those repecting the Independent Board, Faith Theological Seminary, and The American Council of Christian Churches.
In connection with Resolution X the Committee presented the following motion, which was adopted: We move that the Nominating Committee appoint a committee to make an intensive inquiry into this problem, to present its findings at length to the next General Synod.
The Rev. Arthur G. Slaght introduce the Rev. Anthony Zeoli who was seated as a Visiting Brother. The Rev. Flournoy Shepperson, Jr. Introduced the Reverends J. B. Henderson and Spencer, and they also were seated as Visiting Brothers.
It was moved that the Program Committee for the next Synod allow more time for testimonies from the commissioners than was had this year. It was moved that the above matter be referred to the Program Committee. An amendment was moved that the Program Committee for next year's Synod instruct the commissioners to prepare notes ahead of time for their testimonies, but this was lost. The motion to refer was then passed.
It was moved and seconded that the fiscal year of the Bible Presbyterian Church coincide with the calendar year. After discussion it was moved and carried to lay the matter on the table.
The Rev. Wayne A. Monroe reported for the Committee on Attendance and Expenses, saying that, at 75% of the the expenses of commissioners presented to the Committee, a total of $841.03 was being disbursed. He reported that all but $46.87 of this amount had come to the Committee, the remainder being advanced by the Committee. He further stated that the Committee will appreciate any further gifts to repay this advance and that funds for the purpose may be sent to Mr. Presley W. Edwards, Treasurer of the Synod, 409 North 8 th Street, St. Louis, Missouri.
On motion it was determined that the Committee on Arrangedments for the next Synod send out itemized expense blanks to commissioners before the Synod.
It was moved and passed that the Synod adjourn. The minutees of the present sederunt were read and adopted, and the roll was called with the following results:
Ministers Present: Addy, John E.
Allen, Stanley P.
Anderson, Herbert J.
Arcularius, Philip duB.
Armes, Willard O.
Buswell, J. Oliver, Jr.
Chisholm, William H.
Cox, Robert H.
Crane, John G., Jr.
Dillard, E. A.
Donaldson, Laverne
Faucette, A. F.
Fiol, Frank L.
Hastings, Robert
Hitchcock, Len D.
Holdcroft, J. Gordon
Irving, William M., Jr.
Janbaz, John E.
Kutz, Robert D.
Laird, Harold S.
Laman, Clarence
MacRae, Allan A.
McIntyre, Carl
Monroe, Wayne A.
Murray, J. W.
Pearson, M. A.
Sanderson, John W., Jr.
Saye, Sam W.
Schaeffer, F. A.
Scholor, Archie W.
Shepperson, Flournoy, Jr.
Shepperson, Flournoy, Sr.
Slaght, Arthur G.
Sterrett, Charles C.
Stutsman, P. R.
Wallis, Wilbur B.
White, Earle R.
Young, John M. L.
Ministers Absent: Bachman, Lester R.
Brumbaugh, Roy T.
Cochran, N. A.
Comfort, E. C.
Cross, Thomas G.
Evans, Charles S.
Leonard, William B., Jr.
Russell, R. Y.
Toms, J. U. S.
Elders Present: Bancroft, Clayton A.
Boddle, O. C.
Crane, John G.
Cranmer, Oscar E.
Greeley, James H., Jr.
Henry, John D.
Lamb, K. S.
McClintock, J. H.
Miller, R. D.
Moore, Paul R.
Stam, Peter, Jr.
Wigfield, R. S.
Woods, J. M.
Elders Absent: Dalton, Luther
Clark, W. H.
Daniel, Holland
A time of prayer was conducted by the Moderator after which he declared the Synod adjourned and dissolved it.
Attest:
Stanley P. Allen, Clerk