Newsletter PDFs

Meeting under the theme of “Let Brotherly Love Continue,” the 74^th General Synod of the Bible Presbyterian Church gathered at Grace Bible Presbyterian Church, August 5-10.  Retiring moderator, Dr. Len Pine, convened the meeting with a message calling for a faithful demonstration of godly and holy love to the brethren in our own circles and beyond. Other speakers throughout the Synod developed this theme from Hebrews 13:1-15. The messages and forums were a blessing to all as delegates were encouraged to live out their love in tangible ways in the body of Christ.

Rev. Ben Robinson of Claritin, PA, was elected moderator for the 74^th Synod. Other officers of the Synod are Dr. John Battle, Vice-moderator; Rev. John Dyck, Stated Clerk; Rev. Steven Brinegar, Assistant Stated Clerk; Elder Frank Williams, Treasurer; and Elder Eric Lasch, Assistant Treasurer. Business of the Synod was conducted with grace and efficiency.

The Synod redrew presbytery boundaries in order to address some logistic needs. The Southwest presbytery was dissolved and absorbed into the Northwest to create a large western presbytery, with some of the Midwestern states then being covered by the eastern presbyteries, for a total of four large presbyteries in all.

Changes were made to the standing rules and form of government. One of those changes has to do with making it explicit that homosexuality and other moral perversions will not be tolerated among ministers and elders, and that biblical marriage is defined as the union of one man and one woman in a faithful, public, and covenant relationship. Heterosexuality and monogamy are requirements for BP ministry.

The Vision Statement Committee presented its work to the Synod, which then referred the statement to the presbyteries for consideration this year, with final action to be taken by the Synod in 2011.

The Synod is grateful for the hospitality of the Cincinnati church family. One of the blessings bestowed on the delegates was a complimentary trip to the Creation Museum in Kentucky.

The 75^th General Synod will gather at the Tacoma Bible Presbyterian Church in Tacoma, Washington, on August 11-16, 2011.