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. Minutes of the Committee for Unity
Met at the home of George Rawlins,
2:00 p.m., April 5, 1998
(Corrected)
The meeting convened with Joseph F. Smith, George Rawlins, Dwight Deitrick, Jack Evans, Peter Gould, Leroy (Buddy) Ormsbee, William Whenham, Gary Wheeler, and Wayne Bartrow all in attendance. The whole committee being present, brother Joseph Smith called the meeting to order as chairman, and all knelt and prayed to our Heavenly Father, that his blessings would attend our efforts. The minutes of the previous committee meeting (Feb. 15, 1998) were read and approved.
Joseph then read a letter from Lloyd Kesslar, regarding the feeling of the quorum of apostles of the Church of Christ (Restored) on the work of the Committee for Unity. Among other items, the letter stated that this quorum felt that the work of this committee was a "much needed endeavor", and that they would welcome input from the committee, as to how they might assist in the work, as well as an affirmative statement on financial assistance. Wayne clarified this last matter, that financial assistance would be considered on an individual request basis, unless otherwise approved by the 'elders' conference'. Leroy corroborated this statement.
Joseph then brought up the missionary teams, and noted that he and Wayne had made a trip to San Angelo, TX which was very well received by the saints there who were hungering for this message of hope of unity among the scattered saints of God. He also noted a contact in Kansas whom he hoped he would be able to address in May. He felt that we should encourage this effort all the more especially in light of the recent events in the Church of Christ (TL), which seem to be shifting more away from the historic beliefs of the restored gospel. He urged that we need to be stronger as a unity movement to meet these needs - "If we do not guide God's people to zionic community, who will?". He also stressed the need to keep in mind the things established in the last meeting, our "vision", "goals", and "mission" and to build upon these.
Joseph then opened the meeting for discussion. Bill Whenham asked if there is anything that others of the unity effort might do to help those in the Church of Christ (TL)? Peter noted that there would be a church reunion at Whitewater State Park just outside of St. Charles, MN. On Labor Day weekend (Sept. 5-7) and that it is really needful for the members of the Church of Christ to know these of the unity effort better, that they might have the benefit of their spiritual countenance and strength in our meetings, to show that this is the work of God.
Dwight mentioned similarly an effort in Maine (Brookfield, Maine retreat on June 27th) in an effort to reunite the ties with some of their brethren there. Also, a Labor Day retreat in New York, that he hoped we might also support.
We then were reminded of the Geneseo youth camp the week of July 26th, and the following reunion there August 1-8th.
Buddy noted also the Cheboygan, MI reunion July 11-18th.
Gary reported of a Center Place Branch/ Zion's Hill meeting March 8th where Apostle Roland Sarratt (Church of Christ - TL) was the speaker, which was a good experience. Some discussion followed about the scattered saints in Maine.
Joseph then read some of the recent events as they were recorded in the "Journal of LDS History" put out by S.L.Shields. The comments reflected on (among other things) the recent division within the Church of Jesus Christ (the Lamb of God). Some comments followed by Dwight on the matter.
Dwight then asked about "The Branch" printing. Gary informed us that the Central Missouri Conference of Pastors got together for a nationwide pastors' retreat, and in a desire to open communication better between them, the "Branch to Branch" publication was formed. Gary further commented that this "Branch to Branch" newsletter is also somewhat in opposition to the "Elders' Conference". Jack noted that this follows Richard Price's attitude that the branch is the highest authority.
Joseph then asked to refresh our minds on the "Advertising Committee" members. These were reported as: Doug Virgil, Gary Wheeler, Jack Evans, and Sam Gould. Neither Gary, nor Jack were able to report any activity of this committee, but Jack had brought a large list of names and addresses of potential contacts, and those that might desire to receive the committee newsletter. These were given to Wayne who is handling the newsletter for the committee.
Bill suggested that Blair Bryant who is translating the Anton Characters had offered to present this information at our next priesthood retreat in Geneseo. Some discussion followed, with the result being that we would like to have him speak instead (if possible) at the family retreat in May or at the Reunion in August. Bill said that he would take it as an action item to make this request.
The committee discussion was then opened up for development of the schedule for our April 23/24th priesthood retreat in Geneseo. The following schedule was adopted:
Saturday Schedule:
10-10:30 - Call to worship with Brother Joseph Smith IC.
10:30-12:00 - Presentation on the law of consecration by Jack Evans.
1:30-2:30 - Questions - Joseph Smith IC
2:45-5:00 - Unfinished/New Business with Joseph Smith IC.
6:30-7:00 - Song Service, Doug Virgil IC.
7:00-9:00 - Conclusion of Business, Joseph Smith IC, followed by Prayer and Worship, Peter Gould IC
Sunday Schedule:
8:30-10:30 - Prayer & Testimony. Bill Whenham IC
11:00-12:00 - Worship, Wayne Bartrow to preach, Dwight Deitrick IC
The desire was to stress fasting and prayer at this retreat. Sandwich preparations and Soup will be provided for those who require it. A full meal will be served after the services on Sunday.
The discussion was then opened for the development of the schedule for the family retreat at the end of May. The following schedule was adopted:
Theme: -- "A Call to Celestial Living"
Saturday Schedule:
7:00-7:15 - Devotion (led by participants from MN)
7:30-9:00 - Breakfast
9:00-10:45 - Prayer and Testimony (Gary Wheeler IC)
11:00-12:00 - Class (lesson by Doug Virgil?)
12:00-2:00 - Lunch
2:00-3:30 - Class (Anton Characters - Blair Bryant?)
3:30-5:00 - Fellowship/Recreation (Mark Deitrick/Albert Fike Jr)
5:00-6:30 - Supper
6:45-7:00 - Song Service (Doug Virgil?)
7:00-8:30 - Preaching- Sam Gould, Peter Gould IC
9:00-10:00 - Campfire
Sunday Schedule:
7:00-7:15 - Devotion (led by participants from MI)
7:30-9:00 - Breakfast
9:00-10:45 - Prayer/Testimony Jack Evans IC
11:00-12:00 - Preaching Joseph Smith, Mark/Dwight IC
Dwight and Mark Deitrick are in charge of the schedule for the July Youth camp, and the August Reunion a Geneseo.
Gary asked about the location for the meeting on June 28. Tentatively this is scheduled as an afternoon meeting at the Temple Lot, if the facilities can be reserved for this purpose. Peter will take this as an action item.
With the consent of the members of the committee, the fall conference was moved to 31st of October and 1st of November. It was also decided that Gary should continue to be in charge of taking minutes at the retreat, and to prepare forms for the ministry to fill out, for records of attendance.
Gary noted the pastors' retreat in Oak Grove, MO on Oct. 17 & 18th. Also note was made of the retreat in New Braunsful, TX. Nov. 16-29th.
Wayne passed out copies of the financial report prepared by himself and George Rawlins. And note was made that we need to discuss tax status at our next meeting. Peter Gould closed the meeting with prayer.
Peter Gould, Secretary - Committee for Unity.