The Pine Brook Hotel
As usual, the Annual Business Meeting was officially opened with the reading of The Church Discipline, Constitution and By-Laws in their entirety. The Vice President Mr. Radical Love had also read from the Scripture, and praise services were going on at the time FATHER and MOTHER made Their Personal Appearance on the rostrum, to the delight of one and all; the business part of the meeting having been temporarily postponed until this time. This, as afore said, was the occasion of the Annual Business Meeting of the Palace Mission Inc., of New Jersey, thus it was that coincidently, the Officers and Trustees and both Congregations of both Churches were present at this meeting.
The President , Mr. John DeVoute, arose to speak as follows, after FATHER and MOTHER were seated on the rostrum.
Peace FATHER Dear; Peace MOTHER Dear; We thank YOU for Your Presence with us today in this meeting, I mean Your Personal Presence, FATHER! (Thunderous applause rings out from the vast congregation.) And FATHER, we wish to do Your Will at all times, and if it is your desire, we thank YOU to turn the meeting over to YOU, if YOU wish it so.
(FATHER rises to speak as follows;)
Peace Everyone: We will further proceed with the meeting, as afore said, with devotional services. Mr. Radical and the others will continue to proceed with the election of Officers, and anything of that sort may be done by reading the Minutes and reading the names; roll call; and the election of officers, in order, according to the law. I thank you.
Mr. Devoute: Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: We thank FATHER and MOTHER at this time that Mr. Radical read another selection from the Bible.
(At this juncture Mr. Radical chose to read from the 2nd Epistle of Peter, 1st chapter, beginning with the 1st verse. At the conclusion of the reading Mr. DeVoute asked for Miss Ann Shanewise, the Secretary, to read the minutes of the previous meeting. She did so: then a motion was called for and it was made and seconded that the Minutes of the previous meeting be accepted as read. This was passed by majority vote.
He then called for the reading of the President's Report and read it himself, as follows;)
Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER and Peace Everyone: In keeping with our Church Constitution, Discipline and By-Laws, we the Officers, Trustees and Members of the Palace Mission Inc., of New York have convened here at Pine Brook this evening on the 20th day of March, 1954 A.D.F.D. to conduct our Annual Business Meeting.
The first consideration in this assemblage is to give our wholehearted thanks, appreciation, love, honor and devotion to our One FATHER — Founder, Pastor and GOD Personified, signalizing in a small degree, a recognition of HIS Love, C are Protection and Guidance granted to this church and its members. Then too, we are mindful of the same overshadowing of HIS Mind, Spirit and Divine Guidance to the many other churches, homes and meeting places as well as to the countless hearts and minds of individuals here and in foreign lands. As it was predicted, the handiwork of HIS DIVINE Work and Mission, like the handwriting on the wall, is becoming to be more evident and profoundly felt as the seasons progress, for HIS great unfoldment is being revealed Scripturally, scientifically and accurately more and more each day.For this universal enlightenment we praise YOUR Holy Name, FATHER DIVINE.
In like manner, we desire to thank YOU,FATHER DIVINE, for our Virtuous, Holy, Universal MOTHER, and honorary Pastor, whose Personal yet Impersonal Characteristics, like the Spotless Church She represents, stand as an exemplary living epistle for the individual as well as the organized group.
We again thank YOU for YOUR Holy, Immaculate Marriage and the eternal verities and principles upon which it is established — to propagate Holiness, Virtue, Honesty, Modesty and Righteousness in the land. It is coming to pass as it was spoken of in the Holy Writ, that when the whole world was in turmoil and confusion, YOU would come and set up YOUR Kingdom on earth and would not leave the task to another; and that YOU would rule the world with Truth and Grace and make the nations prove the Glory of YOUR Righteousness and the Wonders of YOUR Love. We are seeing and experiencing these very things coming to pass in the everyday affairs of life, not only in the business world, the political world, but even in the underworld, the international and scientific world, as well as all other fields of endeavor. YOUR International Modest Code, like Moses Ten Commandments, stand as a moral code not only for the individual, but also for the church, state and nation. Too numerous to mention are the bountiful Blessings of YOUR Love which we have received and know are in the storehouse, so that we cannot but Eternally Thank and Praise YOU, FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE.
We of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York desire at this time express our sincere appreciation to the Palace Mission Church of New Jersey in giving us the privilege of using their wonderful facilities here at Pine Brook, New Jersey, to carry on our various activities of church services and Divine worship, not only for the members and their friends, but also for the public in general . Through this unity and cooperation, the two churches combined to celebrate and enjoy at the same time, the beautiful and inspiring 7th Anniversary Celebration of FATHER DIVINE'S Marriage to HIS Spotless Virgin Rosebud Bride — Christ to His Church.
The wonderful accommodations here at the Pine Brook Hotel with its many spacious rooms, beautiful lobby and auditorium, and the large cheerful Holy Communion Banquet Hall, the modern kitchen, indoor swimming pool fed by artesian well water and the outdoor playgrounds, have provided wonderful facilities for the evangelical recreational, social, vocational and educational activities of the church. The scenery of the countryside from this high vantage point on which Pine Brook is located, affords many pleasant hours for those who come from the city during the summer months. Numerous picnics have been held here at which the youth groups and others of the Peace Mission Movement, have participate in serving and enjoying. Music and entertainment have been voluntary and volitionally provided by the Rosebuds, Crusaders, Lillybuds and the Band, as they were moved to express themselves.
The application of FATHER DIVINE'S Universal Modest Code has made for a clean, healthy, positive and progressive atmosphere within which neither child nor adult delinquency has place or space.
Throughout the year, the Holy Communion Table has been served to the general public, members, followers and friends alike. In feasting with the abundance of the fullness and communing together, the participants have been granted the privilege, without persuasion or coercion, to donate for such material blessings as they receive, as provided under the Peace Mission evangelical co-operative system. Devotional services have been conducted through the year. Wire recordings of speeches of FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE have ben played as well as recordings of songs and testimonies from other churches both here and abroad. Many troubled in mind and weary in body, can attest to the peace, upliftment and rejuvenation received here at Pine Brook in this fresh, wholesome atmosphere and activities where FATHER'S Mind and Spirit have free access.
The Palace Mission Parsonage at 305 West 107th Street, near the Hudson River just off Riverside Drive in New York City, has been a wonderful blessing to those who have the privilege to reside there and have work in the metropolitan area. It provides home-like accommodations with all comforts and conveniences.
The former residence of Mr. Howland Spencer with its 15 acres of land, comprising part of the Krum Elbow Estate in Ulster County , New York, located across the Hudson River from President Roosevelt's Hyde Park Estate, has been renovated and comfortably furnished, thus providing additional accommodation and conveniences, as needed, for outings, etc., in that vicinity.
Of national, international and historic significance, on September 10, 11 and 12, 1953 A.D.F.D., was the consecration and dedication of Woodmont Park, as the country estate of FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE. This million-dollar estate, known as "The Mount of the House of the Lord", is located in Lower Merion Township, along the Schuylkill River in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, a few miles from Philadelphia. Also at this time, was the consecration and dedication of the Divine International House of Palace Mission , Inc., located near the heart of Philadelphia at 1430 North Broad Street.
For the records it seems appropriate that certain excerpts from FATHER DIVINE'S remarks given in an Office Talk at HIS Headquarters in Philadelphia on June 24th and printed in The New Day of July 4th, 1953 A.D.F.D. pages 5 and 6 be incorporated in this report. They are a follows:
Therefore, a few days prior to this Office Talk, Father opened the Bible at random and pointed to a certain verse, which MOTHER read, and as it was very stressful in FATHER'S consideration, HE asked MOTHER to read it again at this particular time, which She did, and FATHER brought forth this marvelous revelation which has been hid through the ages, hid from man's understanding, awaiting the day of fulfillment, which is here and now.
(The foregoing statements are those of the transcriber, and the following is the Scriptural quotation read by MOTHER just before FATHER began speaking:)
"Then Solomon began to build the House of the Lord at Jerusalem in Mount Moriah, where the Lord appeared unto David his Father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite."
(FATHER Speaks as follows:)
Then Salomon began to build the House of the Lord at Jerusalem in Mount Moriah. Then the Lord began to build the house of the Lord in Philadelphia in Woodmont; where the Lord appeared at the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the drafting of the Constitution and its Amendments; where the people proclaimed Liberty throughout all the land and the Pilgrim Fathers came in the name of the Quakers and made Philadelphia through the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the drafting of the Constitution and its Amendments — the City of "Brotherly Love". And the Lord came and made it in the latter days — confirm9ng the City of "Brotherly Love" , the Country Seat of the World, the City of "Brotherly Love". Confirming the City of "Brotherly Love" and the Cradle if Democracy, making it the Country Seat of the World! And thence HE starts to build the Temple of GOD. Not at Jerusalem in Mount Moriah, but at the New Jerusalem, better known as Philadelphia, at Woodmont!
How I happened to stress this so vividly, is because I opened the Bible at random, and without any premeditation or pre consideration it came pointed out: II chronicles, third Chapter and first verse; and reading it volitionally in MY Cabinet, I brought out by interpretation the mystery of the repetition of history, showing quite definitely by inspiration and by interpretation that as it was with the building of the Temple of the LORD in Jerusalem, in mount Moriah, so it is in the rebuilding of the Temple of the LORD in Philadelphia, or at Philadelphia in Woodmont.
So the Scripture is now being fulfilled in your hearing. It is quite vividly depicted and it can be seen and observed, as this is the Crowning Day! The Country Seat of the World, and the Cradle of Democracy has become to be a reality in the Country Seat of the World! But the Cradle of Democracy and the City of Brotherly Love has been crowned as the Country Seat of the World; and all nations shall flow into it! And many shall say:
"Let us go up to the House of the LORD, that HE might teach us of HIS Ways."
MOTHER DIVINE: It is wonderful, FATHER DEAR!
FATHER: What says it concerning the Mystery of the House of the Lord?
(MOTHER DIVINE reading:)
And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
And many nations shall go and say Come ye and let us go to the mountain of the LORD, to the House of the GOD of Jacob; and HE will teach us of HIS ways and we will walk in HIS paths; for out of Zion shall go forth the Law, and the Word of the LORD from Jerusalem."
(FATHER Speaks again as follows:)
Go up to the mount of the House of the LORD and there you see, as has been declared, Woodmont, where the establishment of the House of the LORD shall be. It is the highest peak of the mount in Montgomery County, and even the critics cannot criticize it, neither can they dispute it!
Secretary: It is something to consider, how YOU sent Moses upon the mountain to get the Law, and Jesus went up on the mountain to give the new Law, the Sermon on the Mount, and in this day YOU go up on the mountain and YOU are dispensing the moral Law and giving it back down to the multitudes.
FATHER: It is true. When Jesus went up on the mountain apart, and was sat, the multitude came unto HIM and HE taught them out of HIS Mouth saying:
(At this pont some of the Secretaries repeated a portion of the Sermon on the Mount.)
FATHER: It is Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful!
But this was so profound and explicitly interpretationally depicted. As the Bible was opened directly to the quotation as mentioned and to see the fulfillment of the Scripture. It is not mount Moriah, but it is Woodmont!
Secretary: And to think, YOU Personally weren't seeking it, but the former owner said before she died, that she wanted YOU to have it; she wanted FATHER DIVINE to have it!
FATHER: It was predestined that we should have it. As you say, it was not that I sought it; and many other blessings beyond any comprehension of the human mind to fathom, are in storehouse for the true and faithful who will live exactly accordingly. But it has been conveyed, and still conveying from time to time, the truth concerning the Mount of the House of the LORD, and they are coming from all parts of the world that we might teach them of our ways, to enjoy and come into possession of this International Peace and Universal Peace, yet Infinite Peace that is without the beginning of days and without the end of Life, in the air, on land, on the sea!
(FATHER picks up the International Peace portrait with HIS and MOTHER'S picture and says:)
With the American Liberty Bell, which hangs here in Philadelphia, above our heads and the United States Flag on either side; in other words, on both sides; and MOTHER and I as an abstract expression of the Symbol of this Infinite Peace, Purity and Redemption for all of the people! Aren't you glad!
Above our heads hangs the Liberty Bell that hangs here in Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love and the cradle of Democracy, but now crowned as the Country Seat of the World; and the American Flag on either side is the flag that shall fly so high as you pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. I think I had better stop!
MOTHER DIVINE: You said something about the Capital beneath US; (referring to the portrait)
FATHER: I said, I think I had better stop! But the Flag on either side, in other words, on both sides, and the Capitol of the United States in Washington, portrayed as our support and the foundation upon which we are building. I thank you. (End)
Prior to the opening of "Woodmont" and the Divine International House, many co-workers from far and near who were specialists in the building trade and in the art of refurbishing and renovation, gave happily and unstintingly of their services in restoring and revitalizing these two properties. Working in unity with FATHER DIVINE'S Spirit, Mind, Aim and purpose, the results were something marvelous to behold and enjoy. Only by a personal tour of inspection of these premises, could one rightly do justice to their superb warmth and colorfulness. To add to the beauty and enjoyment of "Woodmont" , a large outdoor swimming pool, 25 x 55 feet, of the latest design together with bath houses were constructed at an appropriate place on the spacious rolling front lawn in full view of the mansion.
So great was the response of the general public to see FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE and to accept of Their open invitation to inspect "The Mount of the House of the LORD", that the Gracious and and Perfect HOSTS extended the open house one day more to accommodate them. From September the 10th to the 14th thousands of visitors, followers, Officials and friends, representing those from all walks of life, came from near and far distant lands, as well as did representatives of the press, radio and television to participate, observe and record this memorable historic event and fulfillment of the Scripture. FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE Personally served many guests in the unique chapel-like dining room of the "Woodmont" mansion and at the Divine International House and graciously escorted many of Their honored guests through the exquisitely decorated and furnished rooms.
The customary perfect weather during this dedication permitted the multitudes to gather around the pool and on the lawn of the 73 acre Woodmont estate and to hear speeches, messages and inspirational songs over the public address system. Those who wished to inspect the 32 room palatial mansion could do so in small groups that were guided and shown the various points of interest by a number of Rosebuds who were immaculately dressed in their distinctive costumes. Countless numbers came and returned again with others to enjoy the amazing beauty of this fabulous estate and to further linger in the magnetic atmosphere of FATHER DIVINE'S Peace and Influence, where Americanism, Brotherhood, Christianity, Democracy and true Judaism are synonymous.
Woodmont. The Mount of the House of the LORD
We thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER for the wonderful opening, consecration and dedication of "Woodmont" — the Mount of the House of the LORD, and the Divine International House, mansions that YOU have raised up in this dispensation, where all nations can flow into it; where the universal Brotherhood of man and the conscious realization of the Fatherhood of GOD is recognized; and where Isaiah had predicted — many people shall go and say, Come ye and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the GOD of Jacob: and HE will teach us of HIS Ways, and we will walk in HIS Paths; for out of Zion shall go forth the Law and the Word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
All the work necessary to renovate, restore and maintain the general services of the church and the various places owned and operated by the Palace Mission, Incorporated of New York, have been cooperatively, lovingly and freely contributed gratis by those among its members.
We thank YOU, FATHER for the inspirational music and songs provided by YOUR Rosebud Choir as well as the Lillybuds and
Crusaders. Also for the wire recordings of testimonies and inspirations shared with those in other lands.
For the wonderful unity and loving co-operation of all those in this, YOUR Royal Family, and for YOUR Infinite Love, Care and Blessings to all of us, we truly thank YOU, FATHER, and herewith respectfully submit this annual report.
WE thank YOU, FATHER. We thank YOU MOTHER. (signed) (Mr.) John DeVoute, President
(The President then asked for a motion.)
Member: Peace FATHER and MOTHER: I move that the President's Report be accepted as read. Another Member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that the President's Repot be accepted as read. All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye!
The Pine Brook Hotel Auditorium, a Yes Vote
President: And by the raising of your hands (All hands went up. Mr DeVoute then says:) Thank YOU, FATHER. (He then calls for the reading of the Treasurer's Report and Miss S. Endeavor, the Assistant Vice President, reads it as follows:)
Peace, FATHER; Peace, MOTHER; Peace to Everyone: The Palace Mission Inc., is a charitable, religious institution support by its immediate members only. In keeping with our Church By-Laws, we receive no collections or love offerings from the general public. No soliciting is permitted.
The Church is free and clear of all debt. Cash is paid in all business transactions. All taxes have been paid to date.
Various improvements and repairs have been made during the past year, in this Church at Pine Brook, New Jersey. The exterior of the building has been repaired and painted.
Our Beloved Pastor, Reverend M. J. DIVINE and HIS Spotless Virgin Bride, MOTHER DIVINE, are a free gift to the world — gratis to all mankind — for Their Spiritual Services.
The Officers, Trustees, co-workers, as well as Rosebuds, Lillybuds and Crusaders also give their service in the Church — gratis.
FATHER we truly thank YOU.
We thank YOU, Dear, for all that YOU have done.
FATHER, we do love YOU;
That's the sweetest story ever told!
FATER, we will Praise YOU,
We'll Praise YOUR Name throughout all eternity.
FATHER and MOTHER,we truly love YOU;
Now that's the sweetest story ever told!
Reverently and respectfully submitted,
(signed) (miss) Pearl Price, Treasurer.
(The President called for a motion which was made and seconded that the Treasurer's Report be accepted as red. The motion was carried unanimously.
A selection from the Rosebud Choir was called for, and they sang,"American Youth Come and Join Us!"" Mr. DeVoute then said:)
We thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER at this time, to have the election of officers, and the floor is open for the election of new officers if you desire. We thank FATHER for the Secretary to read the names of the officers and trustees whose terms expire at this particular time. Thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER, for those whose names are called , to stand as they are called.
(Miss Shanewise then reads the list as follows:)
Officers
President - Mr. John DeVoute, Vice President - Mr. Radical Love, Asst. Vice President - Miss Sweet Endeavor, Secretary - Miss Anne Shanewise, Asst. Secretary - Miss Great Love, 2nd Asst. Secretary - (and there is a vacancy), Treasurer - Miss Pearl Price, Asst. treasurer - Miss Sunshine Bright, 2nd Asst. Treasurer - Mr. Blessed Thomas.
Trustees (whose terms expire at this time)
Mr. Charles Calloway, Miss Claudia Pearson, Mr. John Devoute, (and there is a vacancy).
(At this point Mr. DeVouet said:)
We thank YOU, FATHER and we thank YOU, MOTHER: At this time we thank YOU to have the election of officers and the floor is open for the election of new officers. First, if you desire to elect it in this fashion we will put the office of President open as first. Thank YOU, FATHER, for any nominations for President of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York.
Member: Peace FATHER and MOTHER; Peace everyone: I move that the President, Mr. John DeVoute, be re-elected at this time.
Another member; I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Mr. John DeVoute be re-elected President of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York, All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A majority showing of hands were raised and he then said:) All of those in opposition may raise your hands and signify by saying nay.( There was silence and no hands were raised. Mr. DeVoute then said:) Thank YOU, FATHER. (Loud applause rings out. He then says) We thank YOU , FATHER, for the blessing of being re-elected. The next office is that of Vice President. I there a motion before the house, or is there a nominee before the house?
Member: Peace FATHER and MOTHER: I make a motion that Mr. Radical Love be re-elected to succeed himself for another term as Vice President.
Another Member: I second that motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Mr. Radical Love be re-elected to the office of Vice President of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York. All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye.
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A majority showing of hands went up. He then says:) It has unanimously carried. The next officer is that of Vice President. Is there a motion before the house
Member: Peace FATHER and MOTHER: I thank YOU to move that Miss Sweet Endeavor be elected or re-elected to succeed herself for another term of office as Asst. Vice President
Another Member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Sweet Endeavor be re-elected to succeed herself as Asst. Vice President of the Palace Mission Inc., of New York. All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous showing of hands were raised. The President then says:)It looks like it has been carried unanimously. (He then says:) The next office to be filled is that of Secretary. It was occupied by Miss Anne Shanewise. Is there any nominee at this particular time for Secretary?
Member: Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER: I make a motion that Miss Anne Shanewise be elected to the office of Secretary of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York for another term.
Another Member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Anne Shanewise be re-elected as secretary of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York for another term. All in favor please signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye.
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A majority showing of hands went up. Mr. DeVoute then said:) It has been passed unanimously. Thank YOU, FATHER. The next office is that of Ass. Secretary. Are there any nominations?
Member: Peace FATHER and MOTHER: I move that Miss Great Love be re-elected as Ass. Secretary for another term.
Another Member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Great Love be re-elected as ass. Secretary of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York for another term of office. All those in favor signify by saying aye and raising your hands, (A majority of hands were raised and the congregation said aye. Mr. DeVoute then said:) It has been carried unanimously. There is a vacancy for the office of 2nd Assist. Secretary. Are there any nominees?
(A nomination was offered for Miss Anita, but it was found that she was a member and also serving on the Palace Mission Church and Home, Inc., of New Jersey. Another Member then said:
Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone; I would like to move that Miss Mary Magdalene Faith be elected as second Ass. Secretary of the Palace Mission Church, Inc., of New York.
Another Member: I second the motion.
President: Is Miss Mary Magdalene
Faith in the audience? Will she please come forward to the rostrum? (She does so and the President asks;) Miss
Faith, are you a member of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York?
Miss Faith: That's right.
President: All right. Peace everyone: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Mary Magdalene Faith be elected as 2nd Ass. Secretary of this Church, the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York. All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye.
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous showing of hands went up . The President then said:) The motion has been carried unanimously. (Loud applause rings out. the President then says:)
Peace Everyone: The office of Treasurer, formerly occupied by Miss Pearl Price is now open for nominees.
Member: Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER: I move that Miss Pearl Price succeed herself for another term of office.
Another Member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Pearl Price succeed herself as Treasurer. All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye.
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A majority showing of hands were raised. He then says:) The motion has been carried. The next office is that of Ass. Treasurer. Are there any nominees?
Member:Peace, FATHER and Peace, MOTHER; Peace Everyone: I move that Miss Sunshine Bright succeed herself to the office of Ass. Treasurer.
Another Member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Sunshine Bright be re-elected to office of Assistant Treasurer. All in favor signify by the raising of your hands and by saying aye. (A unanimous showing of hands raised as the congregation said, aye!)
President: The motion has been carried unanimously. The next office is that of 2nd Assistant Treasurer, which has been held by Mr. Blessed Thomas, Are there any nominees?
Member: Peace, FATHER; Peace, MOTHER: I make a motion that Mr. Blessed Thomas succeed himself as second Assistant treasurer for another term of office.
Another Member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that Mr. Blessed Thomas be re-elected as second Assistant Treasurer for another term. All in favor, signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous showing of hands were raised, then the President said:) It has been carried unanimously.
At this time we have the expiration of the terms of the Trustees, and the following are those who have held office:
Mr. Charles Calloway, Miss Claudie Pearson, Mr. John DeVoute, (and there is a vacancy).
Member: Peace, FATHER and MOTHER; Peace Everyone: I make a motion that there be a blanket vote for the Trustees now up for re-election and also the adding of Miss Mary Magdalene Faith, the newly elected second Assistant Secretary, as a Trustee.
Another Member: I second the motion.
(Let us say here that a part of this motion was automatically voided, later, by some information revealed by the Pastor, Reverend M. J. DIVINE and the voiding of the name Mr. Charles Calloway was met with full approval and sanction of the Church and Congregation. However, this was the way the motion was voted on at this time.)
President: It has been moved and seconded that the Trustees be re-elected for another term of three years, and that Miss Mary Magdalene Faith be elected at this time to fill the vacancy. All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye
President: And by the raising of your hands.( A majority showing of hands went up. The President then says:) It has been carried unanimously. We thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER, that this concludes the election of Officers , and if there is any new business at this particular time, why, we will leave the floor open for a moment, for any new business.
(At this point, to the delight of one and all, our Beloved Pastor arose to speak as follows:)
Peace Everyone: I believe the election of Trustees and Officers could have been elected by blanket election, since everybody seem to and desires to have the Officers, as it does not seem to make much difference with them. Apparently all the Members of the Church prefer holding on to the Officers we have! Therefore, going through the process of electing each one may have been justifiable, and so it was; but blanket election could have been put up, and I AM sure all would have voted for the re-election of all of the Trustees and of all of the Officers whose term expires at this time. But there seems to have been a few vacancies that could have been voted in or voted out — those who are not attending and those who are classed as not being Members of the Church, by some cause or for some reason; all of those should have been voted out and replaced by those who are attending the meetings presently and who desire to continue in this connection according to their vows and agreement they made in the past. If anyone has anything to say to that, it might be said! I thank you.
(Loud applause rings out, then Mr. DeVoute, the President, arose to speak as follows:)
Peace, FATHER; Peace, MOTHER and Peace Everyone: We thank FATHER that the wonderful work is continuing deeper and deeper all the time and FATHER'S Spirit and HIS Mind and HIS Activities and the things HE stands for is going deeper and deeper in politics and everything else. This is merely a preface of a report or apparent report that somewhat substantiates the little card that many of the followers have — pictures that followers have of FATHER and MOTHER — the International Peace, with the Liberty Bell on top and the flags at the side and the Capitol at the base of the picture. It is a symbol, yet it's becoming more and more a Reality.
I am saying that only to say that I wish to say the greetings from another Palace Mission, Inc., of Washington, D. C.! (Loud applause rings out. Then a motion was made and seconded, at this time that Mr. Paul Truth replace Mr. Roudah Faith as Trustee of this Church. Mr. DeVoute then says:)
At this time we wish to state that if there any Members or Officers that are not active Officers or Members — that is, particularly Officers and Trustees that any of the Congregation or any of those assembled know of — that we know are not active and are not living and conducting themselves according to FATHER DIVINE'S Principles — that their names be presented at this time, or others to fill their position. We thank FATHER that if there are any names of Officers or Trustees, that they make their names known.
(At this point our beloved Pastor arose once more to speak as follows:)
Peace Everyone: It has been brought to MY attention that Mr. Charles Calloway has not been living and acting according to our Church Discipline, and that an excommunication would be in order. It's also been brought to MY attention that Mr Enoch Mental has not been and is not living according to our Church Discipline and according to our Modest Code.
Mr. Enoch Mental gave me a written resignation.
Also we have on list — I do not believe it has been completely cancelled — one, Miss Daisy Life, as she was called; has not been and is not living according to our Discipline, Constitution and Church By-Laws, and is not eligible to remain on our Church records, here, there or anywhere!
If anyone has anything to say relating to those mentioned, if you desire them officially and organizationally excommunicated, that's your privilege to do so. But I call your attention to what has been called to MY attention. ("Yes LORD!" sanctioned the Congregation.) Most of these have put in their resignations themselves, by what they have done and by what they are doing, which makes them un-eligible and unworthy to be our associates or to participate or co-operate in any manner whatsoever! We shall have a Glorious Church without a spot or wrinkle! (Thunderous applause and cheers ring out. FATHER then says:)
Now it's up to the Board of Trustees and up to the Church what they desire to do on this issue, for the time is out for that! (Again the applause and cheers that rang out sanctioning our beloved Pastor's remarks were thunderous! Then one of the Trustees arose to speak in all sincerity as follows:)
Peace, Father; Peace, MOTHER; Peace, Everyone: FATHER, I really thank YOU for everything that you have done for us all, and I know, although I do not know personally about each one of these, but just to know that YOU got up and said that much, I feel within myself that each one should be excommunicated — and as I stand, I thank YOU to make a move to excommunicate each one of these three! Thank YOU, Father!
Another Trustee: And I second that motion!
(Again thunderous applause resounds. The President then says:)
It has been moved and seconded that the following, Mr. Charles Calloway, Mr. Enoch Mental and Miss Daisy Life be excommunicated! All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye!)
President: And by the raising of your hands.
FATHER: And the names be stricken from our Church records!
President: Yes, and the names be stricken from our Church Records! (All hands were raised as the Congregation again exclaimed , Aye, Aye! Mr. Radical Love, the Vice President, then arises to say:)
Peace, FATHER; Peace, MOTHER; Peace Everyone: I thank YOU, FATHER, in that too, SIR, if it meets with YOUR approval, "and all of their associates" because if they are not worthy to be with us, those who associate with them and choose them to be their companions are not fit to associate with us in this Holy Feast! I thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER!
Trustee: I second the motion!
President: In addition to the previous motion, "those who associate with the individuals" has been added to the record. All in favor of that decision please signify by saying aye.
Congregation: (enthusiastically) Aye
President: And by the raising of your hands. (All hands were raised. The president then says:) The motion has been unanimously carried. (Thunderous applause and cheers ring out.)
(At this point one of the Trustees Mr. Precious Love rises to make a motion that Mr. Hezekiah Clyde Hopkinson be elected to fill the vacancy left by Mr. Charles Calloway. This motion was seconded. Mr. Kenneth Daire's name was also given as a nominee but it was made known that he was a member of the Circle Mission Church of Philadelphia. As there were no more nominees, the President said:) It has been moved and seconded that Mr. Hezekiah Clyde Hopkinson replace Mr. Charles Calloway as trustee. All those in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye.
President: And by the raising of your hands. (A majority showing of hands were raised. The president then said:) The motion has been carried.
Nextly a motion was made by Miss Claudia Pearson, Trustee, that Miss Rebecca Etheridge replace Miss Daisy Life on the Board0f Trustees. The motion was seconded by another Trustee..Miss Rebecca was asked if she was a Member of this Church and upon her reply in the affirmative she was asked to come forward to the rostrum and stand that all might see her, A vote was then asked for by the President:)
Peace FATHER and MOTHER: A motion has been made and seconded that Miss Rebecca Etheridge replace Miss Daisy Life on the Trustee Board of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York. All those in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye.
President: And by the raising of your hands.
(A majority of hands filled the air. The President then said;) The motion has been carried unanimously. Thank YOU, FATHER.
The Assistant Secretary then arose to say that since our Beloved Pastor and HIS Spotless Virgin Bride had done so much for us, and daily and momently are leading and directing us in the right path and causing us to know the way to go, and protecting us in our journey, that she offered a motion for a thunderous voice of approval for FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE!
The entire congregation rose immediately on their feet and cheers and applause fairly deafened the atmosphere. This lasted for several minutes, then the adoring Congregation enthusiastically sang the inspiration: "We Are Proud of Our FATHER for the Work HE Has Done!" as follows:)
We are proud of our FATHER for the Work HE has done,
For accomplishments so great could come from no other one.
They're above criticism and the whole world can see
They're the superlative works of GOD Almighty!
For HE'S working a work as only GOD can,
And the power HE displays wasn't given to man,
The people come from near and far
And behold they stand in awe.
I mean we're proud of our FATHER DIVINE!
(After the praise had somewhat subsided the motion was made for adjournment of the business part of the meeting, by one of the Trustees. This motion was seconded; then the President said:) It has been moved and seconded that the business part of the meeting be closed. All in favor signify by saying aye.
Congregation: Aye.
President: And by the raising of your hands.
(A unanimous showing of hands went up, the President then said:) We thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER for the blessing. At this point the bell for the Holy Communion Service was heard, and shortly thereafter, FATHER and MOTHER Personally left the auditorium to go into the large Holy Communion Hall to serve one and all with the abundance of every good thing!)
(Following is a list of Officers and Trustees as it now stands:)
Officers
President - Mr. John DeVoute, Vice President - Mr. Radical Love, Asst. Vice President - Miss Sweet Endeavor, Secretary - Miss Anne Shanewise, Asst. Secretary - Miss Great Love, 2nd Asst. Secretary - Miss Mary Magdalene Faith, Treasurer - Miss Pearl Price, Asst. Treasurer - Miss Sunshine Bright, 2nd Asst. Treasurer - Mr Blessed Thomas.
Trustees — (Just re-elected for another term) Miss Claudia Pearson, Mr. John DeVoute.
Trustees — (Elected at this time as replacements) Miss Mary Magdalene Faith, Miss Rebecca Etheridge.
Trustees — (Whose term expires in 1955) Miss Zaccaeus Hope, Miss Great Love, Miss Pearl Price.
Trustees — (Whose term expires in 1956) Mr. Radical Love, Miss Anne Shanewise, Mr Blessed Thomas, Miss Wonderful Experience, Mr Andrew Swanson, Mr. Brilliant Victory, Mr. Gustave Marks, Miss Sunshine Bright, Mr. Precious Love, Mr. Confidence Quietness, Miss Sweet Endeavor, Mr. Paul DeLap, Miss Sarah Love (Bud); Mr Hezekiah Clyde Hopkinson (Elected at this time to replace the vacancy of Mr. Roudah Faith).
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