Circle Mission Church,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
According to the schedule, the Annual Business Meeting was officially opened at seven thirty in the evening and the Church Discipline, Constitution and By-Laws were read in their entirety by various members, or rather Officers of the Church taking turns in reading same. During the reading, to the delight of the entire congregation which packed the auditorium, our beloved Pastor and HIS Spotless Virgin Bride Personally entered and took seats on the rostrum.
At the conclusion of the reading the entire congregation volitionally sang an inspirational song; then Miss St. Mary Bloom, the President arose to speak a follows:
Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: Thank YOU, FATHER. We have had the By-Laws read in their entirety and now I thank YOU, FATHER, to open the business meeting of the Circle Mission Church of Pennsylvania and the Circle Mission Church of the Bronx, New York. We will now open our business meeting, our annual business meeting by having a part of the scripture read by our assistant Pastor. Thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER Dear.
(Rev. Paul Selfless, the Assistant Pastor, arose and stepped forward to the pulpit to say:)
Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: We thank YOU to read for us the sixth chapter of Matthew begriming with the first verse. (Rev. Selfless completed the reading of said chapter — then Miss Bloom , the President, arose to say:) Peace FATHER Dear; Peace MOTHER Dear; I thank you for a selection from the choir.
(Accordingly the Rosebud Choir sang the inspirational composition, "A Nation Is Rising". Then Miss Bloom said:)
Peace FAther Dear; Peace MOTHER Dear: I thank YOU, FATHER, we will now have the minutes of the last annual meeting read. I thank YOU, FATHER, for the secretary to read them.
(Miss True Love, the secretary read the minutes of the last annual meeting for the fiscal year ending February 10, 1954 A.D.F.D. Then Miss Bloom said:)
I thank FATHER, you have heard the reading of the last Annual Meeting's minutes. It is now in order to have it approved — those who are in favor of the minutes.
Member: I move that the minutes be adopted and recorded as read.
Another member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that the minutes be adopted and recorded. All who are in favor of it, thank FATHER for the usual sign, ay.
Congregation: Ay.
President: Those who appose? (No answer.
The President then says:) Thank YOU, FATHER, it has been passed. (Loud applause resounds.)
Next we have — thank FATHER and MOTHER Dear for the President's Report to be read by one of the assistant secretaries. Thank YOU, FATHER.
(Accordingly Miss Pleasant May, the Assistant Secretary, read the Presidents Report for both Churches as follows:)
Annual Report of the President - Circle Mission Church, Home and Training School Inc. of New York, 2964 Boston Road, Bronx,N,. — for the fiscal year ending February 10th, 1954 A.D.F.D.
It is the good pleasure and privilege of the Circle Mission Church to make a report of this past year of some of the outstanding blessings enjoyed by those in every walk of life regardless of race, creed or color.
Many hungry, sick and afflicted ones have found their satisfying portion here, not only materially but mentally and physically. They have gained that new birth of freedom under GOD, FATHER DIVINE, the Fount of the Abundance of all good things.
This universal work and Mission is interracial, interdenominational and non-sectarian.
Many attended the Righteous Government Forum held every Wednesday night, and all had an opportunity to express fully on any subject that was constructive and beneficial to all.
Every Friday night bible classes were conducted with bibles being provided. The Holy Communion Table and Snack Bar provided the abundance of the fullness of all good, wholesome food, and we praise and thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER, for everyone that enjoyed these unbelievable blessings, for only YOU have set this Table "Solomon spoke about"; not only in New York but throughout the world at large wheresoever YOUR Church is established!
We truly praise and thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER for the privilege you have granted each individual to hear YOUR Voices giving Words of Spirit and Life to the hungry souls of men. Words can never thank YOU for this great blessing as many hearts have been lifted and set free by imbibing YOUR Holy Words!
The New Day carrying FATHER'S and our Virgin MOTHER's Messages is available at all times.
In accordance with our Church Discipline, Constitution and By-Laws, no collections, donations or love offerings were taken from the public and no salaries were paid to anyone in connection thereof.
For all YOUR Wonderful Blessings may we express our thanks to our Beloved Pastor and HIS Spotless Virgin Bride, the Church, by reproducing in our lives the foundation of YOUR Spotless Church as recorded in the four Gospels, and especially the Sermon on the Mount!
Respectfully submitted, (Miss) St. Mary Bloom, President.
Next we have — the Presidents report - The Circle Mission Church, Home and Training School of Pennsylvania, 764-772 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia,PA, — for the fiscal year ending Feb. 10th, 1954 A.D.F.D.
The activities of this Church have grown by leaps and bounds as the Spirit of this True Religion is contagionizing the atmosphere and spreading it from continent.
In accordance with the Church Work, the spacious auditorium is open at all times to the members, followers and the general public to participate in the religious services whenever it is desirable and convenient. Wednesday night has been set apart as the Rosebud's Devotional Hour, which has been attended and by many friends and followers from far and near. This is the time se apart for the youth of the Peace Mission Movement to give expression and to further devote and dedicate their lives to this cause of Righteousness, Truth and Justice. Particularly this year, we have been blessed to have one of the Rosebuds from Australia to be with us, bringing us greetings from the Followers and Rosebuds in that country, and making us realize more fully the oneness and unity that exists between all of us. As an international teacher and traveler, our Australian Rosebud gave us an interesting outlook on the universal scope of FATHER DIVINE;S Work and Mission.
We were also entertained with a puppet show which was enjoyed by everyone.
The school room has been used through the year as usual, for educational purposes, with those who are teaching, giving their time and service absolutely gratis.
The Church also has in operation a Dress Shop, which has been recently remodeled with modern fixtures and equipment. The Dress Shop and also the Barber Shop, which is also operated by the Church, give first class service to one and all — they, in turn, being free to to donate according to the dictates of their own conscience.
Also in the past year many strangers have come seeking assistance, and have been given food and shelter and a chance to get back on their feet and become self respecting and independent citizens, as FATHER has taught all HIS Followers to be. This aid has been given without any thought of remuneration on the part of the Church.
The Private Banquet Hall has been opened to Members and the general public, as well as the public dining room, where delicious meals are served regularly.
As another great step in the activities of this Church, we have been blessed to have added to our fast-growing network of Churches, two additional branches on the West Coast, one in the State of Washington and one in Vancouver, B. C. Canada. FATHER'S Spirit is permeating the hearts and lives of the children of men and causing them to desire to be a part of this great Work and Mission and to take an active part in so doing. Truly the Spirit of True Christianity is spreading like wildfire in the hearts and lives of millions all over the world!
As is recorded in the beginning of the Book of Deuteronomy, the twenty-fifth chapter, from the first to the fifteenth verse, the Lord has truly blessed us in our baskets and in our storehouses and in our going out and in our coming in, and in the fruit of our land, to such an extent that we in turn have been able to help others who have not been blessed as we have! We are truly grateful to YOU, FATHER and MOTHER for extending to us the beautiful inspiration of YOUR Mind and Spirit and for making us willing to trust YOU to lead and guide us in the paths of Prosperity and Abundance, for we well know that without YOUR Spirit and ceaseless Guidance, we would be unable to express the Independence and Prosperity we have enjoyed since the day we were established as a Church.
As is a well established fact, the work of the Churches under the Peace Mission Movement cannot be confined to the benefits derived by Followers and Members alone, but it reaches out all over the world, and all who will harmonize with its precepts are equally blessed, just by thinking harmoniously with us! This abundance is the fruit of well doing and can be enjoyed by all who are willing to make the sacrifice to become to be partakers of it.
We will praise and thank YOU eternally, FATHER, for the limitless blessings YOU have bestowed upon us, as we endeavor to carry on in the future as we have been blessed to do in the past. We thank to be with those in other parts of the world who have joined with this Church, as national and foreign branches, desiring to be of service to humanity, as all of the churches under the Peace Mission are doing!
I thank you FATHER and MOTHER to close my report with the 111th Psalm, which is my testimony of praise eternally to YOU.
Praise ye the Lord,
I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.
The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.
His Works is honorable and glorious: and
His Righteousness endureth forever.
HE hath made HIS Wonderful Works to be remembered;
The Lord is gracious and full of compassion.
HE hath given meat to them that fear HIM:
HE will ever be mindful of HIS Covenant.
HE hath shewed HIS people the power of HIS Works
That HE may give them the heritage of the Heathen
The works of HIS hands are verity and judgment:
All HIS commandments are sure.
They stand fast forever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness
HE sent redemption unto HIS people:
HE hath commanded HIS covenant forever:
Holy and reverent is His Name.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
A good understanding have all they that do HIS Commandments:
His Praise endureth forever.
Respectfully submitted, (Miss) St. Mary Bloom, President.
(The President then arose to say:)
Thank YOU, FATHER, a motion is in order.
Member: Peace FATHER, Peace MOTHER: Peace Everyone: Thank FATHER that the President's Report of both Circle Mission Church of the Bronx, New York, and also the Circle Mission Church of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania , be accepted as read.
Another Member: I second that motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that the Presidents Report of the Circle Mission Church of Pennsylvania and of New York also, be accepted as read. All who are in favor please let it be known by the usual sign ay.
Congregation: Ay!
President: And also by the raising of the hands.(A unanimous showing of hands were immediately raised. Then the President said:) Any contrary? (There is no answer. Then the President said:) Thank YOU, FATHER. The motion is passed. (Loud applause resounds.) Now we thank YOU, FATHER, for the Treasurer's Report.
(Miss Peaceful Rachel, the Treasurer, arose to speak as follows:)
Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER: Thank FATHER that the Secretary read the Treasurer's Report.
(Accordingly Miss True Love, the Secretary read the joint Treasure's Report as follows:)
Treasurer's Report of the Circle Mission Church, Home and Training School, of Pennsylvania, for the fiscal year ending February 10th, 1954 A.D.F.D.
All of the business of this church has been handled on a cash and carry basis, as is our custom, and there is sufficient funds in the treasury to take care of any bills incurred in the near future.
Donations have been received from immediate members for meals and sleeping accommodations, and at no time have there been any collections taken up at any of the Church Services — all donations from immediate members being made without any solicitations.
There have been various minor improvements made on the premises, which have been paid for, cash; all materials used for such, and the labor in most instances have been donated by members of the Church.
All taxes have been paid and the church is free and clear of any encumbrances and obligations.
At no time has a salary been given to the Pastor, Officers, Trustees and any of the Coworkers of the Church, as all of their time and services ha been donated absolutely gratis; they, in turn, receiving every comfort and convenience necessary for their well being.
We thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER for every blessing!
Respectfully submitted,
(Miss) St Mary Bloom, (Acting Treasurer)
(Next we thank FATHER to read:)
Annual Report of the Treasurer for the Circle Mission Church, Home and Training School, Inc. of New York, 2064 Boston Road, Bronx, N.Y. — for the fiscal year ending February, 1954 A.D.F.D.
As a beacon light this Church stands among the Churches of the universe at large, a charitable and religious institution free from the dogmas of races, creeds and colors; free in religious liberties to worship the True and Living GOD, FATHER DIVINE, of all creation; not bound or supported by donations and love offerings but established on an entirely non-profit basis; accepting donations only for material services rendered, such as meals and sleeping accommodations.
At no time have the PASTOR, Assistant Pastor, Officers, Trustees or Co-workers received any remuneration for their services, as all service is voluntary, without any thought of solicitation.
Various improvements have been made during the past year, with all equipment paid for, cash.To date, all bills and taxes are paid, and sufficient funds are in the treasury to meet all expenses.
For all these blessings extended to everyone regardless to race, creed or color, we truly thank and praise our Beloved PASTOR and FOUNDER and BISHOP and HIS Spotless Virgin Rosebud BRIDE, The Perfect CHURCH!
Respectfully submitted, Miss Peaceful Rachel, Treasurer.
(The President says:)
Peace FATHER, Peace MOTHER, Peace Everyone: May I have a motion please?
Member: I move that the Treasurers Reports jointly be accepted as read and so entered on the Minutes.
Another member: I second the motion.
President: It has been moved and seconded that the Treasurer's Reports jointly be received as read. All who are in favor of it, let it be made known by the usual sign, ay.
Congregation: Ay!
President: And by the raising of the hands , please. (A sea of hands were raised. The President then said:)Any contrary? (There was no answer. The President then says:) I Thank YOU, FATHER, now, to have the report from the Executive Secretary as appointed.
(Accordingly Mr John Germain steps forward to speak as follows:)
Peace FATHER, Peace, MOTHER, Peace Everyone: FATHER, I thank YOU for this privilege of serving during the last year. I thank YOU, FATHER Dear. And I thank YOU, it has taught me the lesson that has needed to be taught. And I thank YOU for the progress that has been made in the Circle Mission Church. It has encircled the globe. Many new branches have been added and a great good has been done in this Mission or Church, and in all of them. The Great Love that YOU have been pouring out — that infinite Love that reaches mankind all over the face of the earth — it is wonderful to be in that Great Love. And it seems as though I appreciate it now more than ever before in my life, FATHER, and I thank YOU eternally for the privilege of being a member of this Church, and of serving in whatever capacity, and be more meek, and humble so that I may be of service in the future! I thank YOU, FATHER, Dear!
(The President then speaks as follows:)
Peace FATHER, Peace MOTHER, Peace Everyone: I am indeed grateful to YOU, FATHER, Dear, for YOUR Personal Presence and MOTHER's Presence in the meeting. (Thunderous applause bursts forth.) It is a wonderful blessing to have YOUR Personal Presence! We know that YOU are always here, Dear. It is wonderful to have YOU and to know that YOU are here, there and everywhere, and we can never be without YOU! (Again thunderous applause resounds. Then the President continues:) We have now come to the part of the meeting — election of officers. I thank YOU, FATHER, for the secretary to read the names of the officers, and I also thank YOU, FATHER, if it is YOUR Will to do so, to take over the meeting from here; and it is a great joy to our hearts for YOU to Personally officiate! — so much more joy in the meeting. I thank YOU, FATHER, Dear! (Again thunderous applause and cheers burst forth. Then Miss True Love, the secretary, rises to say:)
Peace FATHER and MOTHER Dear: I thank FATHER to read the names of the officers whose terms of office expire at this time, and I'll ask them to please stand:
President - Miss St. Mary Bloom, Vice President - Miss True Sincerity, Asst. Vice President - Miss Eunice E., Secretary - Miss True Love, Asst., Secretary - Miss Pleasant May, 2nd Asst. Secretary - Miss Ann Born, Treasurer - Miss Peaceful Rachel, Asst. Treasurer - Miss Margaret Faith, 2nd Asst Treasurer - Miss Bethel Light.
(Miss True Love then says:)
Those are the Officers — and this is the list of the Board of Trustees whose term of office expires at this time: Will you please stand also?
Miss Faithful Hannah, Miss Love Joy, Miss Peaceful Love, Miss Ann Born, Miss Enoch Joseph, Miss Sunshine Love.
Also, the coming election will require the six senior members of the Board of Trustees whose term of office has expired to stand for re-election, or have any new candidates nominated and voted upon to fill the vacancies. In any event, those Trustees involved will start a new term at the bottom of the list. Thank YOU, FATHER and MOYHER, Dear. You may resume your seats.
(A loud burst of applause and cheers comes from the delighted Congregation as our Beloved PASTOR steps forward to speak as follows:)
Peace Everyone: There being a number of Trustees and Officers to be re-elected or elected to fill the places of those whose term expires at this time, if any of you have any nominees to replace those whose term, or any one of whose term expires, you may present your nominee. It is not compulsory to be re-elected and it is not necessary to have a blanket election, for if you find any of your officers of the church from Bishop, Founder and Pastor down to the least, as it may be termed officially, has not proven themselves worthy, it is your privilege to elect others to replace them, by others in some way. (Loud protests arise from the adoring Congregation. FATHER continues speaking:) Of course it is true, the By-Laws do give the Pastor quite a long reign! (Merriment rings out.) But if peradventurely, you find someone better! — (A stormy protest rises from the adoring assembly as FATHER continues with a twinkle in HIS eyes:) someone more suitable — and someone more eligible — you may choose your nominee and replace HIM; and any and all of the others! And if it would be necessary that I would have to go and build up again — (Thunderous protests followed by merriment, raised by the adoring throng, made it impossible for FATHER to finish, and HE sweetly said:) I thank you. Miss True Love arose, as FATHER resumed HIS seat, to speak as follows:)
Peace FATHER and MOTHER, Dear; Peace Everyone: Of course I know a motion is not necessary but I would just like to voice the sentiments, FATHER — I know of all who love YOU as we do, that there is nothing or no one in the world, FATHER, Dear, that could ever take YOUR place! (Thunderous applause and cheers fairly deafen the atmosphere! Then as one body, the entire Congregation rises upon it's feet in tribute to our Beloved PASTOR and HIS Spotless Virgin BRIDE, the Church Personified and continues clapping and cheering! When all had once more resumed their seats Miss True Love continues: And as far as speaking of building up again, we truly thank YOU for the lives and hearts and bodies that you have built up! In all of the years that we have known YOU, YOU have made something out of nothing, because all of us were nothing! (Loud applause sanctions this) And we desire to remain nothing, under YOUR supervision and Pastorship, because it is a great Blessing beyond words to have YOU officiate as the PASTOR of these Churches, and we thank YOU very deeply, FATHER, for allowing us to have a little part, and give us a chance to consecrate and dedicate ourselves to some cause that is beneficial to everyone! (Again loud applause resounds.)
So we thank YOU — we know there is no move necessary, but I just wanted everybody to express the way I know we all feel! I thank YOU, FATHER, Dear. (Again thunderous applause rings out, and increases in volume as our beloved SAVIOR and PASTOR rises and steps forward to speak once more as follows:)
"Peace Everyone: Of a most recent date I depicted the insignificance and nothingness of Personalities. In the Sonship Degree I did say,
"The Flesh profiteth nothing."
And in this most recent Message given, throwing of mortality and mortality's version, I told you all conclusively just as you declared ME to be, before I had any body and before the earth was formed, GOD was as HE IS and has Always Been, with or without a Bodily Form! Therefore, I depicted the mystery of the significance of MY Majesty absolutely impersonally, absolutely untouched, absolutely incorruptible and undefiled!
"I have striven to get MY adherents to recognize MY EVER and OMNI, SUPERNATURAL PRESENCE, so that you might build upon a Foundation that cannot be shaken; for if you are building upon the Foundation of the Likeness of the Body called JESUS or the Likeness of the Body you observe as FATHER DIVINE, that is a MORTAL version from a Personal point of view you are observing! From the personal, mortal-versionated point of view, if you build, there will be a lack in your life somewhere, since as I have declared all the way down from the foundation of this world, as it was in the beginning of the creation, GOD as SPIRIT and SPIRIT ALONE moved out upon the face of the waters and began that One Eternal Creation of All Creations. I did not have to be VISIBLE to do it! It was not the Visibilization of MY MAJESTY, DOMINION and AUTHORITY that did it! It was not the Tangibilization nor even the Materialization of MY MAJESTY and INFINITENESS that did it, but it was, as it is and shall eternally be, with or without that which is termed you or ME! I AM speaking historically now, and according to the historians. I AM speaking according to the Bible, yea, all of the Bibles of our past and present history! But as we are founded on the Bible commonly known as the King James version of the Bible, I AM calling your attention to the same.
"GOD as SPIRIT and SPIRIT ALONE moved out upon the face of the waters and began HIS EVER and ETERNAL CREATION of ALL CREATIONS and said,
"Let there be light and there was light!"
The SAME SPIRIT is SPEAKING TODAY! That is why I speak so OFTEN and
PERSISTENTLY
of FUNCTIONING WITH OR WITHOUT A BODY! Aren't you glad!
Then I say, it is essential for you to lift up you heads, yea, even your minds that hang down to materialism, mortality, personality and individuality, and recognize the REALITY of the ALMIGHTY in HIS great MAJESTY, without personality! Aren't you glad! (So glad came the response,)
Upon this foundation, as depicted, if you will stand and if you will build, you will be fortunate enough, no doubt, to get some of MY Words I gave more than seventy-five years ago--the same Words I AM SPEAKING TODAY! For I AM the SAME TODAY, YESTERDAY and THROUGHOUT ETERNITY! (Loud applause rings out.)
"Then I say, build upon the Foundation that I have laid for you as SPIRIT and SPIRIT ALONE, moving out upon the waters, and Spoke into outer expression light, where there was none! Aren't you glad! Then Spoke into outer expression and into visibility the earth when the earth was void and without form! That is what I AM talking about! GOD is the SAME TODAY, YESTERDAY and THROUGH- OUT ALL ETERNITY! (So true came the sanction.)
I did not have a Body, according to the historians, but I brought into outer expression the EARTH that was created, there and then, but was void and without form. Can you not see the mystery? (Yes LORD came the immediate sanction.) I have brought into outer expression MY INFINITE LOVE and MERCY and INFINITE BLESSINGS when and where there was none! I mean, I AM doing that as I did it--I AM doing it in the LAST TIME! Aren't you glad!" ("Yes, so glad LORD!" came the joyous exclamation.) It cannot be accomplished by the power of man. I declared prophetically and I AM re-declaring it again,
"It is not by power nor by might, (or vise versal) not by might nor by power but by MY Spirit, says the LORD GOD of Hosts!"
(Loud applause resounds.)
I know there are mortals — since you are shaped and fashioned in your mortal bodies, in the likeness and after the similitude of the mortal version — a good many do not wish to give up the mortals; they do not wish to give up those mortal bodies! The want something to be represented for them mortal-mindedly! But I did say,
"To be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is Life and Peace!"
("So true!" came the sanction!)
There are many things I could say, but it is essential to get MY thoughts on record just now, in this annual meeting, to let you know in the future, and others that may come after you, that I AM not building upon materialism, I AM not building upon mortality, I AM not building upon the Mortal version but I AM building upon the same as I AM,, yea, as I was before I had any Body! It came forth into expression, according to the historians, and that is the Foundation from whence we are building! Aren't you glad! ("So glad , GOD, Almighty!" came the reply!) GOD spoke into outer expression the earth, when it was void and without form, and from that dry land that I said Let Appear, GOD formed man out of the dust of the dry ground. The same Spirit is speaking today! What power did mortality have? ("None!" came the reply.)
So then, I will have you build upon a foundation that cannot be shaken! — a Foundation that is incorrupt able! — A Foundation that is undefiled — A Foundation that fadeth not away! That is why I say, anyone as a person you desire to have replaced in your branch of the Circle Mission Church, it is your privilege to replace them. Why should I care? If I did not have anything to stand on — I did not have anything to stand on in the beginning of creation when I moved out on the waters! — I AM just the same today! That is what I AM talking about! I would not care if everything visible would be moved out of its place and left only the water, I would stand anyway! That is what I AM talking about! Aren't you glad! ("So glad!" came the reply.)
Then I say, live in this recognition and know with Whom you are dealing! I know the metaphysicians and the many truth teachings have spoken metaphysically, but I AM speaking GODLY! — Infinitely! (Loud applause sanctions this.)
Live in this Recognition, build upon this Foundation, and if you find anyone not suitable for you, or not satisfaction, replace them; ME, and all the others! ("Oh, FATHER!" came the protest from the adoring Congregation.) Aren't you glad!
Upon this Foundation if you will stand, you will be as it was in the beginning — just as GOD made you, and being the kind of people GOD made, if any!
I said of a very recent date that not only have kingdoms risen and waned, but civilizations have perished! I mentioned civilizations perishing, but I did not publicly say that there were so many civilizations perished — not until I had gone into MY Office Study with MY Personal Cabinet, and I did mention, if this civilization would perish even as the other three recorded, that you don't know anything about, I would be the same! (Loud applause rings out.)
If you Recognize the Allness of GOD and the Nothingness of matter you will also recognize the Allness of Spirit and the Nothingness of the Flesh — for the flesh profiteth nothing!
Therefore, there are many things I will say to you some day in the future, if not in Person I will say it! Aren't you glad! ("So glad!" came the reply.)
Oh, how marvelous it is! The earth being void and without form, as afore said, GOD created the earth, but though it was void and without form, GOD spoke into visibility the earth — the dry land — when He said,
"Let dry land appear"
— and so it did! And
"Let the earth bring forth!
The earth brought forth! So the same Spirit is speaking today! (Thunderous applause resounds.)
Now if there be any nominations for your elections to the office to the Board of Trustees or any other member to fill official duty, or duty of servitude in connection with the Church, make your selections by nomination and place them on record, and have those who you desire to discontinue their service replaced!
I would just like to say, it has been said that no man — I AM speaking of a man now — in the man world — in the world of men — no man is indispensable! (Laughter rings out.) Mr Truman said that, did he not? Aren't you glad! ("So glad,LORD!" came the joyous exclamation.) So it is with mortality's version, with all of your mortal ideas and opinions, your mortal human fancies, pleasures and their tendencies — not any of them are indispensable! But GOD is the same today, yesterday and throughout eternity! (Thunderous applause resounds.)
So then I say, wear the world and the mortal version of things as a lose garment, for as civilizations have perished I shall let many of your mortal versions perish! (Loud applause rings out.)
Nominate your candidates and replace any and all of them, if you can — those of whom you do not want to fill office. If you feel that any of them are not eligible to fill office nominate your candidates and present them to the Board of Trustees and thence to the Church, and make your elections. I thank you. (Thunderous applause rings out as Our Beloved Savior resumes HIS seat. As there is no motion forthcoming in the pause that follows, FATHER says, as HE remains seated:)
Aren't you glad! You don't have to fear and you don't have to feel afraid. You may elect someone to replace all of us , if you wish to! (Again merriment rings out.)
Member: FATHER, I thank YOU that all the officers and all the trustees be elected for another term of office. Thank YOU, FATHER. (There is no second to this motion, and a burst of applause echoes throughout the auditorium as FATHER rises to say:)
Peace Everyone: I AM not catering to flesh, mortality, nor human versions, human affection, nor any such an expression! If at this time there is another eligible to fill any of the Officers' place or places, any of the Trustees' places, nominate them, if any of you feel that there is someone else more eligible! Self and mortality think that things shall go on as they would have it, but I say , not so! I thank you.
(At this point MOTHER rises, midst thunderous applause, to speak as follows:)
I thank FATHER to suggest that the Secretary read again the roll call of the Officers and Trustees so that we may see exactly who does fill the various offices, and reconsider, in light of what FATHER has said to us.
(Accordingly, Miss True Love the Secretary rises and commences to read the list of Officers and Trustees whose terms expire at this meeting, over again, and FATHER says:)
Walk out so everybody can see you!
(Merriment resounds a each of the Officers and Trustees called, steps forward on the rostrum so that everyone can see them. Then the Assistant Pastor, Mr Paul Selfless, rises to speak ass follows:)
Peace, FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: In line with our wonderful instruction from the Holy Lips of MOTHER, in order to save time, why, I thank FATHER to take each one of these candidates as their names are called, and anyone who has a nominee in place of them, please name it immediately so we can conserve FATHER'S time and get on with the meeting! (Loud applause sanctioning this rings out.)
Starting with the first one called — any nominations to take the place of the first one called? If the answer is no, then we can go to the second one. Lets not all sit here.
(Miss True Love then says:) The President is Miss St. Mary Bloom. Any nominations?
(FATHER then says:) Raise your hand if you desire anyone else to replace Miss St. Mary Bloom. You don't have to be afraid.
(Miss Valor St. John rises to say:) I make a motion that Miss True Love be President.
(Rev. Selfless then asks:) Has anybody seconded the motion?
(As there is still no second to the motion, FATHER asks:) Has anyone seconded the motion?
Member: I second the motion.
Miss True Love , the Secretary then says:) I would like to remind everyone that we have two Miss True Loves (on the list. We have Miss True Love who is the Secretary and we have Miss True Love who is one of the Trustees whose term does not expire at this time. She could be the Miss True Love you are speaking of.
(It is then established that Miss St. John is speaking about Miss True Love the Secretary of the Church, as there is another pause, a member rises to speak with much feeling as follows:)
Peace FATHER, Peace MOTHER, Peace Everyone: FATHER Dear, I thank YOU for what YOU said about personalities and we are not putting personalities to fill the offices, FATHER, but I do feel like it is not a personality that has filled the office of the President but it is YOUR Service, YOUR Consecration, YOUR Self Denial and YOUR Sacrifice that has filled that office in the body of Miss St. Mary Bloom! (Thunderous applause and cheers ring out.) And I do not feel I would be giving her any credit to nominate her since she has impersonally filled the Office. If she took glory in taking glory away from YOU, or doing things in her own mind, I would be unafraid to nominate somebody else; but I do not feel at this time, as far as my eyes can see, that there is another person who can fill it with the same impersonality and consecration. Therefore, I nominate Miss St. Mary Bloom!(Again thunderous applause and cheers resound,)
Another member: I second that motion.
(FATHER then rises to say:)
Peace everyone: All on favor of the election of the nominee that has been nominated by someone over on this side, as President — who is that? (Miss Valor St. John rises and says that she made the motion, Then FATHER continues;) Miss Valor St. John nominated miss True Love the Secretary, and it was second. Someone did second the motion.("Yes Sir." came the reply.) Now if you feel now that Miss True Love should be elected as well as nominated to fill the office of these two joint Churches, let it be known by the rising your hands and by saying ay. (Two hands were raised — the one who made the motion and the one who second it and they say "Ay". FATHER then says:) The time is fastly passing. There was another one nominated — Miss St. Mary Bloom, as one to be re-elected to fill the place as President to succeed herself. All in favor of it , let it be made known by the usual saying ,ay!
Congregation: Ay!
FATHER: And by the raising your hands. (A sea of hands immediately filled the air — then FATHER says;) AY carried it and all hands have it! (Thunderous applause resounds.)
(Miss True Love then says:) The next one in order for re-election or replacement is the Vice-President, Miss True Sincerity. A motion is in order.
FATHER: Does anyone have a nominee for the replacement of Miss True Sincerity as Vice President or for the election to the office of Vice President? Present your nominee!
(Rev. Paul Selfless then rises as there is a long pause, and says;)
Peace, FATHER; Peace, MOTHER; Peace Everyone: I the absence of any nominations, I move that the officer be elected to succeed herself in the ensuing year!
A Member: I thank FATHER to second the motion.
FATHER: All in favor of Miss True Sincerity being re-elected to succeed herself for another year, let it be made known by the usual saying, ay.
Congregation: Ay.
FATHER: And by the rising of your hands.(A unanimous showing of hands are raised, FATHER then says;) All hands carried it unanimously and I said it. I thank you. (Loud applause rings out — then Miss True Love says:)
The next in order is the Assistant Vice President, Miss Eunice E.
(At this point a Member rises to say:)
Peace FATHER and Peace MOTHER: I rise to move that Miss Eunice E be re-elected to succeed herself. Thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER.
(FATHER then asks;) Does anyone have any nominees, or have a nominee to replace Miss Eunice? I want to give the contraries a chance! (Merriment rings out, but there is no other motion made. Then FATHER says:) No contrary? Remember, Mr. Truman said no man is indispensable! (Again laughter rings out — then FATHER asks:) Has anyone made a motion?
Member:I made the motion, FATHER, Dear, that Miss Eunice E succeed herself. Thank YOU FATHER and Mother.
FATHER: has it been seconded?
Another Member: I second the motion.;
FATHER: It has been moved and seconded that Miss
Eunice E succeed herself for the next year. All in favor of it let be made known by the usual saying ,ay.
Congregation: Ay.
FATHER: And by the raising of your hands.(A sea of hands fills the air, then FATHER says with a twinkle in HIS Eyes:) I AM going by the hands, most especially. A unanimous decision! I thank you. (loud applause and cheers ring out, then Miss True Love says:) The next for nomination or replacement is Miss True Love. (merriment resounds as FATHER asks:)
Who has a motion?
Member: Peace FATHER, Dear! I Move that Miss True Love succeed herself.
Another member: I second the motion. (As there is no other motion made, FATHER says;)
It has been moved and seconded that Miss True Love succeed herself as Secretary to this Church, all in favor of it, let it be made known by the usual sign, ay.
Congregation: Ay.
FATHER: and by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous showing of hands go up. FATHER then says:) All hands have it! (Loud applause rings out; then Miss True Love says:)
The next officer is Assistant Secretary Miss Pleasant May.
Member: Peace FATHER and MOTHER, Dear. I make a motion that Miss Pleasant May also succeed herself for another term of office.
Another member: I second that motion.
FATHER: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Pleasant May also succeed herself for another term of Office of assistant Secretary. All in favor let it be made know by the usual saying ,ay.
Congregation: Ay!
FATHER: and by the raising of your hands. (A sea of hands go up. FATHER then says:) It has been carried! I thank you.(Miss True Love then says, after the applause subsided:) Next in line is the second Assistant Secretary, Miss Ann Born. Any motion?
Member: I make a motion that Miss Ann Born succeed herself, FATHER.
Another member: I second the motion.
(As no other motion is offered, FATHER says:)
It has been moved and seconded that Miss Ann Born be re-elected as Second Assistant Secretary. All in favor let it be made known by the usual saying.
Congregation: Ay.
FATHER: And by the raising of your hands. (All hands are raise. FATHER then says:)
I thank you. (Loud applause resounds, then Miss True Love says:)
The next Officer is the Treasurer, Miss Peaceful Rachel.
(FATHER then says:) Step out Miss Rachel! Let them see you. (Merriment resounds as Miss Rachel steps forward that all may see her. A member then rises to say:)
Peace FATHER and Peace MOTHER: I make a motion that Miss Peaceful Rachel succeed herself as treasurer for another term of office.
Another member: I second the motion.
FATHER: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Peaceful Rachel be re-elected as Treasurer All in favor let it be made known by the usual saying, ay.
Congregation: Ay!
FATHER: And by the raising of your hands. (A sea of hands fills the air. FATHER then says:) lets see, did everybody raise their hands? (The hands again are quickly raised. FATHER then says:) I see they have carried it. I thank you. (Loud applause rings our. Miss True Love then says:) The next officer is the Assistant Treasurer, Miss Margaret Faith.(Father then asks:) Is there a motion or is there a nomination? I did not Personally hear the motion whether you desired to have her re-elected or to fill the office. If you do, please repeat the motion. (A member rises to say:)
Peace FATHER, Dear: I make a motion that Miss Margaret Faith be re-elected to succeed herself.
Another member: I second that motion.
FATHER: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Margaret Faith be re-elected as Assistant Treasurer All in favor let it be made known by the usual saying, ay.
Congregation: Ay!
FATHER: And by the raising of your hands. (A sea of hands fills the air. FATHER then says:) If anyone does not want her to fill the office as a second term let it be made known by the usual saying nay.(There is no answer to this; then our Beloved PASTOR says:) I said it and all hands carried it. I thank you.(Then Miss True Love says:)Next we have the Second Assistant Treasurer, Miss Bethel Light. (A member rises to say:) I would like to make a motion that Miss Betel Light be re-elected to succeed herself.
Another member: I second the motion.
FATHER: It has been moved and seconded that Miss Bethel Light be re-elected to fill the office she has filled so faithfully until now. All in favor let it be made known by the usual saying, ay.
Congregation: Ay!
FATHER: And by the raising of your hands. (All hands go up. Then FATHER says:) All hands carried it , so now I have it — in other words , all hands carried it so now she has it! I thank you. (Merriment and applause ring out. Miss True Love then says:)
Now we have six Trustees whose term of office expires at this time. They are:
Miss Faithful Hannah, Miss Love Joy, Miss Peaceful Love, Miss Sunshine Love, Miss Ann Born, Miss Enoch Joseph.
(As they all rise, FATHER says:)
I AM waiting for a motion.
Member: Peace FATHER; Peace Mother; Peace Everyone: I make a motion that the six Trustees succeed themselves, as a blanket election.
Another member: I second the Motion. (As there is no other motion offered, FATHER rises to say:)
Peace Everyone: It has been moved and seconded that those of the Trustees here, that are standing on the platform, whose term expires at this present meeting, be re-elected by a blanket election. All in favor let it be known by the usual saying, ay.
Congregation: Ay.
FATHER: And by the raising of your hands. (All hands are raised. Then FATHER says:) All hands have it and you all carry it. I thank you. (Loud applause rings out. Miss True Love then says:)
We have by appointment by the will of the Pastor, the Assistant Pastor who is Mr. Paul Selfless — and I imagine it just calls for a substantiation of his office as Assistant Pastor.
(At this point Rev. Paul Selfless rises to speak as follows:)
Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: I thank YOU, FATHER, not to make a political speech, but you know the heart! The children have not see this temple in Philadelphia as regularly as I would like to be, and the reason for this is in one instance, death in the line of business, and the Army, over which the temple has no control. So that has changed the schedule, and because of that I would like to say to you that that is the only reason that the temple has not been in attendance here more often — simply due to causes beyond control, which are in the hands of GOD no one else! So I thank FATHER, as afore said, that is not a campaign talk! I thank FATHER to say it is not an excuse but as an explanation!
(Merriment resounds, then the President, Miss St. Mary Bloom rises to say seriously:)
Peace FATHER Dear; Peace MOTHER Dear; Peace Everyone: I am quite sure that everyone is in favor of the substantiation of our assistant Pastor, Rev. Selfless. Thank YOU, FATHER! (Thunderous applause and cheers sanction this — then Miss True Love says:)
Also we have, sort of operating under this Church, but also by appointment, Mr. John Germain, who is operating under this Church, and who is Executive Secretary of the Peace Mission Movement. If it is in order to have a substantiation of that Office, or whatever is to be done.
(Father at this point, rises to say:)
Peace, Everyone: I would just like to say, if any of you have a nominee — appointee nominee to replace the appointee of the International Secretary of the Peace Mission Movement, you may present your nominee!
(As there is no motion offered or no nominee presented, MOTHER rises to say:)
Peace FATHER; Peace Everyone: I thank FATHER to say that, seeing that We as a Church are with FATHER one hundred percent in whatever He does or says, and the office of Secretary of the Peace Mission Movement is not an elective office but one appointed by the PASTOR, I thank FATHER that we substantiate the vote of the Executive Secretary until, and if, and when FATHER would see fit to appoint another one!
(Thunderous applause sanctions this. Then Miss Bloom says:)
Peace FATHER, Dear; Peace MOTHER, Dear; Peace Everyone: I thank YOU, FATHER. I believe that the business part of the meeting has now come to a close. (the Secretary says:) We have no further business.
(Miss Bloom then says:) We thank you for a nomination that the nominations be closed.
Member: Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: I move that the nominations be closed.
(Rev. Selfless then rises to say:) Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: May I amend the motion? I thank FATHER for the motion and the amendment that we all rise and thank FATHER and MOTHER for their long suffering, patience and guidance to all of us in this business meeting and in all business meetings around the world!
Member: I second the motion and the amendment.
(The entire congregation rises on its feet midst thunderous applause and cheering! At last when all are again seated and the tumult has subsided, Rev. Selfless say:)
I thank FATHER for the recording Secretary to enter the the motion with the amendment
(The President, Miss St. Mary Bloom then says:)
Peace FATHER; Peace MOTHER; Peace Everyone: All who are in favor of the motion and the amendment being recorded, let it be known by the usual sign ay.
Congregation: Ay.
Miss Bloom: And by the raising of your hands. (All hands are raised; then thunderous applause and cheers further sanctions it. Shortly thereafter, an inspirational song was sung, entitled: "We Are Proud Of Our FATHER For The Work HE Has Done!" Then, as the Annual Business Meeting had terminated, FATHER and MOTHER and the Cabinet Personally left the auditorium, and the praise meeting continued while our Beloved PASTOR returned to HIS never-ending Work of interviewing the many hundreds who are always awaiting HIS Blessed Words Counsel!)
The following is a complete list of the Officers and Trustees as they now stand after election:
Officers (Re-elected)
President - Miss St, Mary Bloom, Vice-President - Miss True Sincerity, Asst. Vice-President - Miss Eunice E, Secretary - Miss True Love, Asst. Secretary - Miss Pleasant May, 2nd Asst. Secretary - Miss Ann Born, Treasurer - Peaceful Rachel, Asst. Treasurer - Miss Margaret Faith, 2nd Asst. Treasurer - Miss Bethel Light.
Trustees (Re-elected)
Miss Faithful Hannah, Miss Love Joy, Miss Peaceful Love, Miss Sunshine Love, Miss Ann Born, Miss Enoch Joseph.
Trustees (Who come up for election in 1955)
Miss True Love (Bronx), Miss Marguerite Bell, Mr. Ernest Dewey, Mr. James Meek, Mr. Robert Jones, Mr. John Germain.
Trustees (Who come up for election in 1956)
Miss True Sincerity, Mr. Chris Hansen, Miss Faithful Heart, Miss Eva Mae, Mr Lifelight, Miss John Truth.
Other Offices
Asst. Pastor - Mr. Paul Selfless (By appointment), Mr. John Germain - Executive Secretary of the Peace Mission Movement (By appointment).
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