Rev. M. J. DIVINE, Ms.D., D.D., Bishop, Founder and Pastor
of Churches of the Peace Mission Movement,
and Mrs. S. A. DIVINE, better known as FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE
The Annual Business Meeting of Palace Mission, Inc. of New York was officially opened by the President, Mr. John DeVoute, after which he asked for the first order of business—the reading of the Church Discipline, Constitution and By-Laws in their entirety. This was carried out, various Officers and Trustees taking turns reading until completed.
The President then said: Peace FATHER, peace MOTHER, peace Everyone: I thank YOU FATHER for the blessing of hearing once again the Church Discipline, Constitution and By-Laws, it's really a wonderful Document! (applause) As I had the privilege of just sitting there and listening to some of the articles, it came to mind so vividly about the time and season spoken about in there where many of the children coming into the Truth, had pistols and guns and weapons like that and they threw them in the Harlem River and the East River, in the deepest parts, so that nobody could get them, to use them again. What a wonderful thing that was! ("So true!" came the sanction.)
And FATHER, just brought to mind what a hassle they have had in recent years on the hand guns called, "Saturday-night specials", as they say. Well, this is a"Special" here tonight, but an entirely different type of "Special"! (applause) I think of how FATHER's Mind and Spirit would cause a criminal mind that had those facilities to use —HE would change that mind and turn it around, and cause that person to actually be disgusted in carrying a gun and would put in that mind the desire to throw it away so nobody else could get it. And now when we read so much about the affairs of the world today, how they are buying guns and supplying guns—America as well as all the other countries are supplying other nations with artillery to fight against each other, it is such a privilege to see this side of the picture here— to see what FATHER DIVINE'S Words put into action, have done in cleaning up vice and crime.
It is remarkable to realize that the ANSWER to such a problem has already been given! It is not just words, but FATHER has actually done it. It is seen in deeds and actions—all one has to do is to look around here and they can see it isn't something that you say can't be done; and keep raising the question, "Why don't they do something about ridding the nation of this gun problem?" —it has been done, and that's the beautiful part about it— FATHER DIVINE has shown them how to do it! ((thunderous applause)
I think of how the Church Constitution and By-Laws have given the solution to every phase of business, such as the stipulation to not buy anything on credit; to pay cash for everything. Isn't that a simple but effective solution to the economic problems of the world today? (applause) If the Annual Meeting was held just to read the Discipline, Constitution and By-Laws alone it would be well worth it! To see how nowadays it seems as though everybody is coming face to face with the "pestilence that walketh in darkness," those that are carrying and using guns and knives and so forth, and yet the Spirit and Mind of FATHER DIVINE is just as strong today if they would harmonize with HIM, to change that mind and turn it about and make of this world a glorious place in which to live!
I thank FATHER, I know that it has been done for I have seen it, and it is possible to be done—and we just don't have to worry about it but we can rest assured that the job is done here and now wherever the Name of FATHER DIVINE is recognized and respected. It is a wonderful thing to have that faith and security, because there's nobody in this world is going to give it to you, there is ONLY ONE in this world that has it to give! (applause)
I just appreciate FATHER and MOTHER putting these laws and principles into words and having us to go over them until they sink in, for our appreciation becomes more firm, more solid, when we look at the condition the world is in today.
So I thank FATHER for the opportunity, as I said, because it was good to sit here and listen to them being read.
Thank FATHEK and MOTHER, could the Rosebuds lead us in a song?
(The Choir sang the following inspiration, the entire Assembly joining in.)
FATHER is the Keyflower to the garden of our soul,
Just love HIM and serve HIM and watch the blessings flow,
Take all you want but don't forget the Best
FATHER is the Principle that unlocks the Treasure Chest!
The President then asked for any other Trustees or Officers who might be in the building, to please come to the meeting hall and take seats on the rostrum.
President: We thank FATHER and MOTHER for a Scripture reading from Mr. Radical Love, the Vice President.
Mr. Radical Love: Peace FATHER Dear, peace MOTHER Dear, peace Everyone: I thank FATHER. for the Scripture reading, the Epistle of James, the third chapter: (As it is a very important and significant chapter we are hereby entering it into our official record of this Annual Meeting:)
"My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us, and we turn about their whole body.
Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.
Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of h- l.
For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:
But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?
Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.
Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, d-v-lish.
For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
The President then asked Miss Anne Shanewise, Secretary, to read the Minutes of the last Annual Meeting. Miss Shanewise read a very complete and interesting report of this Meeting. A motion was called for by the President as to the acceptance of same and accordingly a motion was made, duly seconded and passed unanimously that the Minutes of the last Annual Meeting be accepted as read, with any necessary corrections.
The next order of business was the reading of the President's Report, and Mr. DeVoute, President, read his report as follows:
Peace, FATHER DIVINE ; peace MOTHER DIVINE ; peace to all the members of this Church gathered here at this annual business meeting tonight and peace to everyone.
It is good and very good to come in peace, to gather in peace, to do business in peace and to depart in peace. This truly is the lot of those who recognize GOD in the Name of FATHER DIVINE and walk according to HIS Truths and Precepts of abiding Peace, for HE is the Embodiment of Eternal Peace for all mankind wherever they may be.
HIS infinite Love has provided a heavenly haven here in this comfortable Starlight auditorium of the Divine Fairmount Hotel in Jersey City to once again carry on this appointed pleasure and to do it in unison with Mother Nature's first day of spring.
I am sure I voice the unanimous consent of all the hearts that are raised here, that the first order of business be—to acknowledge HIM in all our ways and HE will, as HE has always done, direct our paths, for we know this is not the work of man, but the Works of GOD HIMSELF on earth among men.
In making a business report the ordinary person might ask, "well what kind of business are you in?" Could we not answer, "we are about our FATHER's Business." And again might come the query, "I see, well what business is your FATHER in?" Could we not reply, "living in the Conscious recognition of GOD's Actual Ever and Omnipresence, the business of answering that long sought-for prayer to let Thy Kingdom come, 0 Lord, on earth as it is in heaven," . . . and so it is.
In reflection, any member of this Church could truthfully say, "the goods and services of this Business are legion ; there is no end to the blessings, you cannot count them all!" All of this comes about because, as the song says, "We have the BODY of GOD." We can also rejoice in the Holy Marriage of Christ to HIS Church and the perpetual Marriage Feast of The Lamb and The Bride; added to this are our Church Constitution, Discipline and By-Laws; the open fount and precious gift of FATHER's priceless Messages, Words and recordings of Spirit, Truth and Life; the creeds of the Rosebuds, Lily-Buds and Crusaders; the Righteous Government Platform ; the International Modest Code; the countless new and beautiful inspirations, testimonies and songs from HIS Mind and Spirit to harmonize with; the many wonderful structures in the form of Divine Church buildings, hotels, homes and humble mansions throughout the world as shelters and abodes without equal; and bodies of HIS Handiwork to cooperate in their maintenance ever extending that Divine unselfish service to humanity. These are but a limited few highlights of the unlimited "goods and services" of our FATHER's Business without end.
The Palace Mission, Inc., at Woodmont is located at 1622 Spring Mill Road, Gladwyne, Pennsylvania 19035.
Activities of the Church during the past year were carried on primarily in the Philadelphia area and more particularly at Woodmont. During the first part of November, FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE traveled to Sayville for a season and services at Woodmont were discontinued in preparation for a new and greater Spiritual and material fulfilment of its prophetic role as the Mount of the House of the Lord, to be exalted above the hills as declared by Isaiah and Micah.
Things to do and places to do them in have never been in short supply as far as the Peace Mission Movement is concerned, when it appears to move slowly in one area, it picks up in another, so that members of this Church were blessed, as always, to participate in the many activities held in other Peace Mission Churches and Hotels in Philadelphia and elsewhere.
An open published invitation continues to be extended to the general public to visit the Shrine to Life at Woodmont from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Guides are present to show the way. Many of the followers make their quiet pilgrimages to the Holy Shrine at this time. All through the spring, fall and summer months, bus loads of visitors from Philadelphia and neighboring States availed themselves of the opportunity to visit the Woodmont estate almost every Sunday with few exceptions.
Woodmont has been a magnet in attracting the serious attention of many concerned persons and officials of worth in their professions and callings who are seeking to learn more of the Teachings and Ways of FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE, and the Peace Mission Movement. An environmental education center and project being developed by one of our neighbors at Riverbend, diligently inquired and graciously received much literature so that they could be better informed themselves, and likewise, pass along to those inquiring of them, concerning FATHER'S Great Work and Mission. A Bicentennial project touching on the historical aspect of this area was also another one of the countless and varied paths that have led the seeker up to the gates of Woodmont during the past year.
General maintenance, painting and repairs were carried on throughout the year, along with improved working facilities and conveniences wherever needed. Landscaping, gardening, pruning and planting go on as the seasons change. Timber cut from fallen trees on the property have done much to supply fuel for the greenhouses during the winter months and now as spring approaches the fertile ground is once more being prepared for the seed. As in former years a superabundant supply of fruit, vegetables, produce and flowers were garnered from the land to, be used at Woodmont and at times passed on to the many Churches in Philadelphia and elsewhere.
This last year was comparatively mild with periods of heavy rainfall so the deep fresh water wells, springs and running streams through the property are well supplied to be of use in the house, gardens and lawn.
During the weekdays, the coworkers have the privilege of hearing the inspiring messages from the latest issue of The New Day at 6 a.m. reading class before going to 7 o'clock breakfast.
I can report that Woodmont—the Mount of the House of the Lord continues to shine forth in its real and true spiritual significance fulfilling its manifest destiny and thereby stands as a universal jewel to be discovered by those who are not yet aware of its existence. We thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER, DIVINE.
The Divine International House of Palace Mission, Inc., of New York is located at 1430 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19121. It continues to stand as a Divine example of welcome hospitality and Democracy in clean and wholesome surroundings to those who visit from foreign lands. As one looks back they can see FATHER's Work of universal consideration in terms of establishing a representative shelter suitable and acceptable to incoming guests as strangers in this land. This building of course, was conceived and dedicated by HIM long before the bicentennial celebration was inaugurated and therefore it functions as a forerunner of HIS concern and example to others in this City of Brotherly Love, pointing the way to the city's progress as heritage and host of the "Country Seat of the World."
It is not difficult to note the remarkable structural and spiritual changes wrought in this once run-down metropolitan community since FATHER DIVINE, at the invitation of the city Fathers, was personally invited to come and expand HIS activities here. It is a real object lesson to all individuals and forms of government everywhere to take cognizance of.
The building's location on Broad Street with public transportation makes it convenient to reach other Peace Mission Churches and Hotels in and around center city. Also it is in walking distance to the Bible Institute and Nazareth Mission on Oxford and 16th Street. For the record's sake we state that the upkeep and improvements to improve and upgrade the property have been carried on as usual during the year. This loving care and concern evidenced for all the properties is a built-in by-product of the Father Divine Peace Mission Movement and is typical of FATHER DIVINE'S first care and concern for us.
The Palace Mission, Inc., of New York at 72 Macon Ave., Sayville, Long Island, 11782 ever remains as "The Home of the Soul", a most sacred and hallowed place on earth, chosen by FATHER DIVINE to bring forth the first light of HIS second coming and to inaugurate in humble fashion a new Dispensation and Order of things in the life and affairs of all mankind.
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To do justice in reporting on Sayville would require the entrance to each individual's heart and mind that ever visited here and enjoyed the Divine atmosphere and peace which it holds. To partially share the early activities which happened at the "Home of the Soul" and to once again quicken and recharge the mind on the historic beginnings of this era, an introduction and series of 70 articles from the notebook of John Lamb called the "Word of God Revealed" along with some of the early pictures, have been published in The New Day starting with June 15, 1974 and finalized in the issue of November 22, 1975 A.D.F.D.. Its contents are absolutely beyond compare and priceless.
This Church once again expresses the deep gratitude of the role as caretaker of this Shrine and to say that each room in the Home is as beautifully and colorfully decorated as a doll house could be, with the grounds and adjoining facilities in like condition. It is a blessing that FATHER and MOTHER have seen fit to enjoy and carry on Their never-ending work and mission from this residence for more than the last six months.
The Divine Fremont Hotel at 2595 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 is moving forward on its fourteenth year of Divine service through the cooperative effort of Peace Center Church and Home, Inc. and the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York.
It could truly be said where two or more are gathered together in HIS Name, there HE is in the midst of them to bless the needy one. This has been a proven fact in the hotel business for the Jersey City community. This Hotel stands as a monument of the highest standard in paying as it goes and owing no one. Father Divine's International Modest Code creates a moral atmosphere second to none. His Teachings and enactment of the principles of Americanism, Brotherhood, Christianity, Democracy and Judaism as synonymous in a world of division and prejudice is outstanding, and HIS Holy Communion Banquet Table in the very heart of this undertaking shows the unique plan and purpose of the Divine Mind in sustaining such a project.
The past year, has brought added improvements, service and beauty throughout the building in the form of plumbing, renovating of rooms and extensive painting in brightening up the hallways, etc., making things more comfortable for the guests and residents. Holy Communion Banquet Services are held daily with deliciously prepared food for the needs of the body and tape recorded messages by FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE, and songs of the Peace Mission Choir, as needed food for the mental and spiritual appetite. During the week there is a New Day reading class at 6:00 o'clock in the morning for those who wish to participate.
The very attractive public dining room with its harmonious decor, looks out on the busy main thoroughfare of J.F.K. Blvd. as it winds past the front of the Hotel. Customers again and again partake of the inviting menu, evangelical prices and service in a peaceful atmosphere without tobacco fumes or tip giving, all of which is pleasing to the digestion and disposition.
Throughout the year, as in former times, the various Peace Mission Anniversary Celebrations, reviews and holidays were held in the private and public dining rooms to accommodate all the participants. As always at these gatherings, the happiness and spirit of unity and family fellowship along with the beautiful and abundant repast is enjoyed by everyone present. The 29th Wedding Anniversary of the Lamb and the Bride was celebrated in review on Saturday, June 7th with afternoon and evening banquets so that all the many guests and followers could be served.
The Divine Fairmont Hotel was host to many outstanding Bicentennial meetings held here at various times throughout the year and were well attended by community leaders and groups concerned with our National Celebration, reports of which continue to be carried in the Bicen columns of The New Day.
It was only a few weeks ago that our copartner, the Peace Center Church had their annual business meeting here in the Starlight auditorium with FATHER and MOTHER, and concluded with a happy gathering around the Holy Communion Banquet Table.
On occasions at the end of the week, a number of the followers go to the Palace Mission Church of New Jersey in Newark to join with them in praise services. Their annual business meeting will also convene in a couple of weeks with its open invitation for all to come along.
The Peace Mission is indeed a movement ever flowing in its unfoldment toward a more perfect day, so it seems there is always something to do or something to be done or observed just ahead. Easter of last year on Sunday, March 30th, was observed with devotional services at the Shrine to Life, Woodmont in the early afternoon followed by Holy Communion Banquet services at Unity Mission Church in Philadelphia.
As in former years, the public was invited to attend the 29th Wedding Anniversary Celebration of FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE's Holy Marriage and to once again refresh and stir up their pure minds of this never-to-be-forgotten event, unique in the annals of mankind's history. They came from far and near to observe the Celebration on Tuesday, April 29th as an International, Interracial, Universal Holiday at the Unity Mission Church and to enjoy the program held in the auditorium and the Wedding Banquets held in the dining rooms. The theme of Virtue, Peace and Brotherhood highlighted the spirit of the occasion. Similar review observances were held right on up through the month of August so that these occasions blended into the observance of Mother's Day as the calendar would have it on Sunday, May 11th.
Father's Day designated as June 15th proved to be a 2-day observance at Woodmont of continuous praise to FATHER DIVINE. The service An the Chapel Dining room was set and re-set to accommodate those who had come to share and honor the occasion We are blessed to do what we do, not as a bound-people, not by nature but by grace; we praise and honor FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE every day of the year in our daily activities as much as we do on a special calendar day, because FATHER DIVINE is that kind of Universal, Everpresent FATHER to us all.
Our National Independence Holiday on Friday, July 4th was a memorable and fitting occasion. FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE, some of the secretarial staff and members of this and other Churches of the Peace Mission Movement, journeyed to Washington, D.C. to spend a perfect day touring our Nation's Capital; viewing the many historic buildings, monuments and documents among which were the "Declaration of Independence" and the "Constitution and its Amendments"; and then returning with a deeper sense of appreciation for the phenomenal progress this Christian nation, whose mottoes are "In God We Trust" and "E Pluribus Unum", has made since its founding only 200 years ago. Worth mentioning here is an interesting and comprehensive report of the testimonies, impressions and pictures of this angelic tour to the political hub of our government, as carried in the New Days of July 19 and 26, 1975 A.D.F.D.
The high, holy Days of September 10, 11 and 12 commemorating the Anniversary of the Consecration and Dedication of Woodmont, the Mount of the House of the Lord, FATHER DIVINE's Supreme Sacrifice, the Dedication of the Shrine to Life and the Dedication of the Portal of Life Eternal, all of which are represented in the Divine History of Woodmont, yet are meaningful in a broader sense to the members, followers and friends throughout the world where the Name of FATHER DIVINE and HIS mighty Works are revered.
Expressions of love and devotion in the form of messages, flowers, telegrams, etc., poured into Woodmont from far and near as in former years. Beginning with Holy Communion, Tuesday evening, September 9th through Friday September 12th, the Mount of the House of the Lord was literally filled with continuous praise night and day. Banquet service was set and re-set to take care of the ingathering of the people. Praise and thanksgiving with inspirational songs and presentations highlighted the many other Holy Communion observances and reviews held at the different Churches and meeting places of this universal Peace Mission Movement. Blessed indeed are these remembrances and milestones in the act of our unification and harmonization in FATHER DIVINE'S Mind and Spirit, lifting us and leaving us in a more perfect kinship, one with the other, in this Holy Divine Family of GOD.
Sunday, October 26th saw members and friends of the Lower Merion Historical Society royally welcomed by FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE at the Woodmont estate. Members of the Rosebud Choir guided and explained points of interest to the appreciative group as they toured the grounds. Bound volumes of "The New Day" were presented to the Society and the Gladwyne Library by MOTHER DIVINE. The Rosebuds entertained with patriotic songs and a repast was served in the Great Hall.
Prior to this presentation at the Woodmont Banquet service on Sunday, October 19th, MOTHER DIVINE had also presented some bound volumes of "The New Day" on the Ideas and Ideals of FATHER DIVINE on Americanism, to a representative of the Samuel Paley Library of Temple University in Philadelphia. Earlier in the year similar bound issues were also graciously received at the Charles Patterson Van Pelt Library of the University of Pennsylvania which is near the Divine Tracy Hotel.
As the season moves on our national Thanksgiving holiday comes in late November, Christmas on the 25th of December and then another calendar year, but a more meaningful one apparently because it is 1976 and represents the Bicentennial Year that has been so widely publicized and prepared for. Being raised up in Celebrations, since we are continually celebrating the advent of the Fatherhood Dispensation, we find it not difficult to take all these other minor celebrations in stride, and I believe this present year will be no exception.
1975 proved to be another year of major unrest with ever rising prices of all types of goods and services. Unemployment in all trades was high and general respect for our governmental processes and representatives was very low. Robbery and crime in the streets was much in evidence and on the increase. Twice assassins were foiled in attempts on the President's life. Kidnapping for ransom or reprisal still remains world-wide. The Hearst dilemma is running its course as was inevitable, and lately the unearthing of huge sums as illegal campaign contributions, also payoffs to foreign officials in the form of bribes by large multinational corporations seeking competitive advantage in foreign countries, are scandals shaking many governments.
What seems to come to mind in view of mankind's present experiences is something FATHER spoke of from Malachi 3:2-3 concerning the coming of the Lord:
But who may abide the day of his coming'? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap.
And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.
FATHER's purging process today is certainly an open cauldron busily at work and refining on every hand.
We thank YOU, FATHER for this great day and to know that this is GOD's Administration for it takes nothing less than GOD to bring to pass an offering in Rightousness fit for HIS consideration.
On behalf of the Church, we thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE for the Church Triumphant and the ever loving care and blessings imparted to YOUR Creation. Most of all we praise and honor the Creator, the Author and Finisher, the Blesser HIMSELF, the BODY of GOD, FATHER DIVINE for what HE means to us all, and therefore respectfully submit this Annual Church report.
John DeVoute, President
President: You have heard the reading of the President's Annual Report, is there a motion before the house as to the acceptance or the rejection of said Report?
Trustee: I move that the Report of the President be accepted as read, with any necessary corrections.
Officer: I second the motion.
President : It has been moved and seconded that the President's Report as read, with any necessary corrections, be accepted. All in favor signify by saying ay, (Assembly : Ay !) and by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous show of hands is seen.) And if there be any objections, raise your hands. (No hands are raised.) The motion is passed. Thank FATHER and MOTHER for the Blessing
Thank YOU FATHER and MOTHER for the Annual Report of the Treasurer at this time.
Miss Ruth Hoerni, Treasurer, read her report as Follows:
We most sincerely thank YOU, GOD ALMIGHTY, FATHER DIVINE, Our Beloved Bishop, Pastor and Founder of this Glorious Peace Mission Movement, and Your Perfect Helpmate, Your Spotless Virgin Bride, MOTHER DIVINE, for having carried us safely and successfully through another fiscal year. It is Wonderful! And we want to proclaim it before all men, that it was the LOVE of GOD that did it, All Honor, Glory, Thanks and Praise go to HIM alone!
When the people would ask YOU, FATHER Dear, many years ago, "how can all these marvelous works be accomplished and where do all the material blessings come from?" Your answer came like a thunderbolt:
"The Spirit of the Consciousness of the Presence of GOD is the source of all supply and it can and it will satisfy every good desire."
That is what did the Works 30 and 40 years ago, in fact even before that, through all the ages; it works today and it will work throughout all eternity. And the most wonderful part about it is that it is not only operative for us who claim to be YOUR followers but since YOU are a FREE GIFT to the world, GRATIS to mankind, the Principles that YOU have laid down for the Peace Mission Movement, for YOUR Churches, can also be for the benefit of all mankind if they but will accept of it. FATHER said so on August 30th, 1938 A.D.F.D.:
"Peace everyone! Here we all are again. The Unity of Spirit, of Mind, of Aim and of Purpose we are exemplifying in the presence of the children of men as a sample and as an example for them, under this great Constitution, the great Document of our great country, U.S.A., the United States of America, E Pluribus Unum ; and I said, the Unity of Spirit, of Mind, of Aim and of Purpose to you I bring as a living reality among us. For this cause I have arisen at this particular instance, as I do not have members in connection with this Peace Mission Movement, as it is not an organization, but all can be partakers of it as you can be partakers of the Spirit and the Life of Christianity."
FATHER Dear, we love YOUR Divine Precepts, because they are the light on our path and we know that in this present world with its chaotic conditions and filled with dishonesty they are the only securities for prosperity and success, for peace, joy and real happiness. Here are some of YOUR Precepts:
"My kind of religion — that which is called religion — is to owe no man; buy nothing on the installment plan, live an absolutely independent life; and be absolutely honest, reliable and trustworthy!"
"We never take up a collection! We do not do any soliciting and we do not take any love-offerings . . . or remunerations!"
"A true follower of Mine does not want or desire to receive a gift or present or anything of that type ... and considers it to be unevangelical, unconstitutional and not according to the Scripture otherwise ... individuals should express their independence individually even as our country declared it as a nation."
"Give to the world the best you have and the best will come back to you."
"It is more blessed to give than to receive."
The Treasurer's report of any Church under the Peace Mission Movement is proving beyond the shadow of a doubt that "this kind of religion" is not just a theory, but it is Real and Practical; it is the ACTUAL PRESENCE of GOD expressed. And we do rejoice when we hear that someone out in the world is picking the Key up as was brought out in a report during the last Righteous Government Meeting concerning a little town in California that is free of debts and where business is transacted on a cash and carry basis. It is truly wonderful! And if the whole Nation would accept just a few of these Divine Precepts that would represent the most valuable contribution for her 200th Birthday Celebration.
We thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER Dear, for the blessing to declare that this Church is free of debts and stands as independent today as in all the previous years. All bills are taken care of on a cash and carry basis, all utilities and taxes were paid in full whenever due.
The Palace Mission Inc. of New York is a charitable institution with authority to do business in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. FATHER and MOTHER Dear, we thank YOU very sincerely for YOUR Great Love that made it possible for us through the years to purchase beautiful properties such as the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York at 72 Macon Street in Sayville, L.I., better known as the Home of the Soul; Woodmont, the Mount of the House of the Lord, in Gladwyne, Pa.; the Divine International House at 1430 N. Broad Street in Philadelphia, Pa. and the Divine Fairmount Hotel at 2595 Kennedy Boulevard in Jersey City, N.J.
We proudly can say that all these properties are cared for with love and they are precious to us for they are the Works of GOD Almighty HIMSELF. Therefore, the respective coworkers are giving with all diligence their untiring services for the upkeep and maintenance of these entrusted buildings. In this Bicentennial Year, in harmony with everyone else, we endeavor to even step up our efforts to improve and beautify our places as much as possible. As a matter of course, all the necessary repairs were promptly taken care of whenever and wherever they occurred.
In particu1ar, we thank FATHER and MOTHER, to report that at Woodmont during the past year the castle-like Manor House with its intricate roof which requires constant care as well as the other buildings, have received all the care and maintenance that is necessary for a proper upkeep and that in itself — with all the taxes paid for — is a considerable accomplishment worthwhile to be taken notice of. In addition, all hands are busy with various preparations in view of the forthcoming Bicentennial Celebrations. One of the projects in process is the improving and extending of bathroom facilities for the general public. A!so the landscaping of the lovely Holy Grounds has been intensified, giving loving care to the many beautiful trees, some rare and exotic specimens, to the soft sloping lawns, to the magnificent rose garden and all the other floral displays, not to forget the large Woodmont vegetable gardens, the peach orchards and berry patches producing in abundance.
We are happy to report from the Divine Fairmount Hotel that beside the regular upkeep, FATHER and MOTHER have blessed us to repaint the long hallways on all the floors in the Duncan and Fairmount Building and many of the guest rooms were painted and redecorated. An extensive painting job has just been finished in the Hotel Dining Room, greatly beautified by a complete change of the color scheme. Many of our guests have expressed themselves how very much they like the change from the old grey to the new warm light brown of the woodwork blending in perfectly with the lovely gold colored drapes which were custom-made by one of our own coworkers earlier in the year. We also would like to mention that all the painting has been done by two brothers and we are very grateful to FATHER and MOTHEB for the good work they performed.
On the daily news, they tell us again and again that the economy is recovering. However, in our daily transactions, when buying food and all the other necessary supplies, when paying for utilities or any kind of outside labor, we find ourselves paying the same high prices from last year or higher. FATHER and MOTHER Dear, we truly thank YOU very sincerely for letting us extend YOUR. gracious hospitality to the public of Jersey City and surroundings for another year and for blessing us to uphold the Divine Standard, to keep on serving wholesome and delicious meals at the same moderate prices in such a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere which can only be created by the Spirit of the Consciousness of GOD's Presence.
Year in and out, day by day, FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE are giving Their Services unreservedly to everyone, absolutely gratis, without a salary at any time. Words do fail us to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for Their Tender Love and Care, for Their Goodness to all of us. Copying after the Divine Pattern, the Secretarial Staff and all the coworkers are giving their services voluntarily. In return for their full dedication to the Cause all their needs are well taken care of by the Church.
FATHER and MOTHER Dear, we deem it a priceless privilege to be a part of YOUR Glorious Church and we know that with implicit faith and trusting YOU wholeheartedly, YOU will lead us on victoriously into the future, for YOU are able YOUR Works to perform according to YOUR Divine Plan and Purpose.
Respectfully and sincerely submitted, Ruth Hoerni.
President: Thank YOU FATHER and MOTHER for that beautiful report. (applause You have heard the Treasurer's Report for the last fiscal year. Is there a motion before the house on the acceptance of the Report?
Officer: I thank FATHER and MOTHER for the Treasurer's Report to be accepted as read, with any necessary corrections.
Another Officer: Second the motion.
President : It has been moved and seconded that the Treasurer's Report be accepted as read, with any necessary corrections. All in favor signify by saying ay, (Assembly: Ay~) and by the raising of your hands. (A sea of hands fill the air.) All opposed? (silence) No oppositions. I thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER.
That concludes our old business, unless there is some more business to be brought up in that category. In the meantime we thank FATHFR to have the Rosebuds favor us with a song and we can all join in heartily.
The Choir sang the following inspirational composition, the Assembly joining them:
Our FATHER has came bringing victory,
O LORD of Hosts, in THEE we trust,
HE has banished our chaos and misery
Our troubles are ended. On HIM we're depending,
Our hymns shall resound over land and sea
Proclaiming the Reign of our Lord and King,
No more doubts, no more fears.
No more sighs, no more tears,
In GOD -we trust, in GOD we trust forever!
FATHER DIVINE saved our failing democracy,
In HIM we trust, in HIM we trust,
HE has blessed our land with prosperity,
HE's lifting the nation from all degradation,
When mankind realizes HIS Majesty, eternally there will be,
International Unity and Peace,
International Love to never cease,
In GOD we trust, in GOD we trust forever!
President: Thank FATHER and MOTHER for the Secretary to now read the names of the Officers whose one year term expires at this Annual Meeting.
Secretary: The Officers of the Palace Mission, Inc., of New York are as follows, and will you please stand as your name is called:
President — Mr. John DeVoute
Vice President — Mr. Radical Love ~
Asst. Vice President — Mr. Paul Delap
Secretary — Miss Anne Shanewise
Asst Secretary — Miss Great Love
2nd Asst. Secretary — Miss Mary Magdalene Faith
Treasurer — Miss Ruth Hoerni
Asst. Treasurer — Miss Sunshine Bright
and there is a vacancy for the office of 2nd Assistant Treasurer. Thank YOU FATHER and MOTHER.
President: You may sit down. The Secretary has read the names of the Officers whose one-year term expires at this time, and we'll open the voting with your preference, or whatsoever you might desire as to the Officers that have served you. So are there any nominations?— or whatsoever you desire — let it be made known. We do have one vacancy and we can vote on that after the first order of business is dispensed with.
Trustee: Peace FATHER, peace MOTHER, peace Everyone: I make a motion that the Officers whose names we have heard read and who have served us so graciously and devotedly this past year, succeed themselves for the coming year. I thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER Dear.
Another Trustee: I second the motion.
President : It has been moved and seconded that the Officers as named, succeed themselves for another term of one year. All in favor signify by saying ay, (Assembly : Ay !) and by the raising of your hands. (Again the air is filled with hands.) It looks unanimous. Are there any objections? (silence) No objections. The motion has carried. Thank YOU, FATHER and MOTHER.
We have one vacancy, the office of second Assistant Treasurer. We will leave the floor open for nominations to that particular ofl5ce. Are there any suggestion?
Officer: Peace FATHER and MOTHER, I thank FATHER and MOTHER to suggest one name that I think we all know pretty well and I think could fill the office adequately, and that is, Mr. Joseph Harrington. He has been a member of the Board of Trustees for many years.
Another Officer: I second that motion.
President: Maybe Mr. Harrington would s and up, that all might see him. (As Mr. Harrington arose from his seat there was loud applause.) Are there any other nominations? (silence) It looks like there are no other nominations so . . .
Trustee: I move that the nominations be closed.
Another Trustee: I second the motion.
President: Well, we will vote on it, even though there is only one nominated for the Office. It has been moved and seconded that Mr. Joseph Harrington be elected to the office of second Assistant Treasurer. All in favor signify by saying ay, (Assembly: Ay!) and by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous show of hands is seen.) Any in opposition? (silence) The motion has been carried.
Miss Shanewiae: We thank FATHER and MOTHER that you read the names of the Trustees now, whose three-year term of office expires at this time:
Secretary: Following are the names of the Trustees whose three-year term of office ends at this Annual Meeting. Will you please stand as your name is called?
Mr. B. T. Wayside
Miss~ Rebirth Love
Miss Zacchaeus Hope
Miss Great Love
Miss Janet Kay
Mr. Joseph Harrington
Mr. Roger Klaus
President: You have heard the reading of the Trustees whose three-year term expires at this time. Is there a motion before the house as to your desire relative to these trustees, or any new trustees?
Officer: Peace FATHER, peace MOTHFR, peace Everyone: I make a motion that the Trustees whose names have been called, succeed themselves for another three-year term.
Trustee: I second that motion,
President: It has been moved and seconded that the Trustees as read by the Secretary succeed themselves for another three years. All in favor signify by saying ay, (Assembly: Ay) and by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous show of hands is seen.) Any opposed? (silence) The motion is carried. (applause) Now for the records we will read the names of the Trustees whose term of office expires in 1977:
Trustees (whose term expires in 1977)
Mr. Radical Love
(vacancy)
Mr. David H. Peace
Miss Ruth Hoerni
Miss Anne Shanewise
Miss True Happiness
Miss Sunshine Bright
and the Trustees (whose term expires in 1978)
Mr. John DeVoute
Mr. Paul Delap
Mr. Hezekiah Clyde Hopkinson
Miss Claudia Pearson
Miss Rebecca Etheridge
Miss Mary Magdalene Faith
Mr. Patrick Henry
For the record: The Officers as they now stand:
President — Mr. John DeVoute
Vice President — Mr. Radical Love
Asst. Vice President — Mr. Paul Delap
Secretary — Miss Anne Shanewise
Asst. Secretary — Miss Great Love
2nd Asst. Secretary — Miss Mary Magdalene Faith
Treasurer — Miss Ruth Hoerni
Asst. Treasurer — Miss Sunshine Bright
2nd Asst. Treasurer — Mr. Joseph Harrington (newly elected)
Trustee (newly re-elected — term expires, 1979)
Mr. B. T. Wayside
Miss Rebirth Love
Miss Zacchaeus Hope
Miss Great Love
Miss Janet Kay
Mr. Joseph Harrington
Mr. Roger Klaus
President : We will leave the meeting open now for those spirited spirits that would desire to express themselves at this time. We believe in the hall of Democracy and in having the freedom to express yourselves at all times.
Miss Zacchaeus, Hope, Trustee:
Peace FATHER, peace MOTHER, and peace Everyone: Now you know every one of you is a spirited spirit, because at a time like this, you know none of us would feel good in closing a meeting, without giving full Thanks and Praise and Devotion and Adoration to FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE for where we stand in line. L00k up the road and look down the road; look back where HE brought us from and look where HE has us now — above the nations! When they are all in confusion, know not where to walk, and here we are standing on solid ground is what?
Assembly: FATHER DIVINE!
Miss Hope: Say it again!
Assembly: FATHER DIVINE!
Miss Hope: And that is such a blessing and it is the only blessing on the face of the earth today, you know, to be substantiated in faith in the Name of FATHER DIVINE. Isn't that true? (thunderous applause) If at times we are tested and tried and we have FATHER, we know, always on our side, what must it be in the world without a substantiation of faith! Isn't that something that we have to praise GOD for? I feel like saying like the brother from the Unity Mission Church, 41st Street, "Haven't we got something to praise GOD for?" (Assembly: Yes!) Then let us praise FATHER and MOTHER and adore THEM and give THEM thanks for what THEY have done for us. Stand on our feet and PRAISE THEM! (Thunderous applause and cheers as all stood up, shouting enthusiastically.)
Miss Hope continues: Wonderful! You know we are well fed, we are well clothed, we are well housed, and when we lay down at night, Who takes care of us? (Assembly: FATHER DIVINE!) All right now! When we get up in the morning, Who are the first Ones we think of? (Assembly: FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE!) Hallelujah!—and don't you forget it! We thank YOU FATHER and we thank YOU MOTHER,We used to say, "I am on the LORD'S Side," but GOD is in our side, and we thank YOU, once more! A rousing cheer! (Again the Assembly, still standing, commenced cheering and shouting, stomping their feet and then chanting:
2,4,6,8, Who do we appreciate?
FATHER DIVINE, MOTHER DIVINE, Yea!
Thank YOU FATHER and thank YOU MOTHER Dear.
Mr. Radical Love, Vise President :
Peace FATHER Dear, peace MOTHER Dear, peace Everyone: You know it's so wonderful! I was sitting down there thinking of that beautiful, beautiful Scripture. You know it's wonderful! — when you go about your daily affairs and listen to the language of the streets, and to think how FATHER DIVINE has cleansed our consciousness that our tongues have been brought into subjection to praises and thanksgiving to GOD ALMIGHTY, FATHER DIVINE! (applause) As the Apostle said that the tongue is an unruly member, but GOD has controlled the tongue of HIS Followers and it's something to praise GOD for, because it takes nothing but GOD to control that tongue!("It's true !" came the sanction.) As James said, with the tongue we bless GOD and curse men which are made after the similitude of GOD, but FATHER DIVINE has cleansed us, you know, and it is something to consider. Because, you know, sometimes we may not stop and consider deeply the controlling of that member, but you know, if we would just stop and consider where the Scripture said that what comes out of the mouth defileth the body, we could save ourselves a whole lot of embarrassment, if we let nothing come out of our mouth but PRAISES and THANKSGIVING! (applause)
You know we have been given a charge to keep. GOD has given us a charge to keep and that is, to magnify HIM in every word that comes out of our mouth, because before HE cleansed us we were doing everything else with our mouth but giving praises to GOD, and we really have a job to do, to magnify the Name of GOD FATHER DIVINE. You know it is wonderful! I mean, we don't even have time to even crack a little simple joke because GOD didn't crack any joke with us when it came to living this Life, because HE strove and strove with us to get us out of those undesirable debauched conditions that were in us night and day, night and day, pleading and pleading. If such a thing could be said, well, GOD shed tears for us, to see the condition we were in —and HE lifted us and placed us on this Highway of Holiness.
Truly GOD, we don't have anything to do but to PRAISE YOU and magnify YOUR NAME for what YOU have done for us, because none of us had a clean, decent thought before FATHER DIVINE took us. HE impregnated us with HIS Own Mind and Spirit and cleansed us and gave us pure, clean thoughts, because the thoughts of men, only GOD knows. One individual doesn't know the thoughts that go through another individual's mind — it is only GOD HIMSELF that really knows what HE had to do to take those thoughts out of us and cause us to be living upright and to be decent and independent citizens in this day and time.
FATHER Dear, I thank YOU for YOUR striving, for YOUR patience with each and every one of us, and I thank YOU to forgive me for every error that I've made that caused the slightest ache to be; in other words, if we could say, that pierced the Side of GOD. You know it is something to consider, because every time we disobey GOD's Command we just pierce that dart through HIM that much more!
FATHER Dear, I really thank YOU, because we have a wonderful privilege; we have a charge to keep. You know, it is something! Someone said to me the other night — he was asking me concerning "Where is FATHER?" — I said, FATHER is right here with us. I said also, mortality cannot see Spirit. I said, when GOD spiritualized HIMSELF and lifted us out of the mortal consciousness completely and took HIMSELF out of the view of mortality, they could not see HIM. I said, mortality cannot see Spirit — and in the Scripture it is written, "You shall not see Me until you say Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the LORD." Now therefore, how does mortality expect to see GOD when he (mortality) hasn't blessed GOD, he hasn't praised GOD, he hasn't denied himself, he hasn't lifted himself out of that debauched state to see PURITY. The only way we will see GOD, those in mortality will see GOD, you have to lift yourself out of that state of mortal consciousness to be spiritualized completely, that you can be One with your FATHER. You know it is wonderful! ("Yes, so true!" sanctioned the Assembly.)
Enoch did not go any place, Elijah did not go any place but they were lifted out of the mortal version and mankind could not see them any more. You know it is something to consider! GOD did not even show them what happened to Moses. They say he died — but nobody knew where he was because GOD took him. But we have got to get to that place where GOD will take us completely out of the mortal concept of things, that we will be so spiritualized that wheresoever we go, our spirit, our body and our mind will be ONE INDEED.
We have got to come to that place where we are ONE with our SAVIOR; I mean, ONE with GOD FATHER DIVINE; and the only way to be ONE with HIM is to keep HIS Commandments every moment of the day. I mean, keep it — not only think it but KEEP it! Don't say a word, don't think a thought that you wouldn't say to FATHER DIVINE Personally. You know, it is something to consider — not to think a thought that you wouldn't tell FATHER, DIVINE, "I had this thought come to me." FATHER DIVINE, YOU know it is Wonderful! We are blessed Children, but we have a charge to keep! I thank YOU FATHER and MOTHER.
A song, "Sing and Praise HIM," was sung by the entire Assembly, then Mr. Paul Delap, Assistant Vice President, arose to speak:
Mr. Paul Delap:
Peace, FATHER and MOTHER: I want to praise FATHER and MOTHER DIVINE tonight but I am going to mention something about myself, and I can justify the fact that I'm going to, because I do not have to accept the responsibility for it or the credit for it. When Miss Anne Shanewise read the words that I spoke at this Annual Meeting a year ago, and a year ago is a long time as far as time is concerned, to me I received a great deal of pleasure from listening to my words, and the reason I did, is, because I fulfilled the Scriptural edict of, if you will open your mouth and let the Spirit have Its way, GOD will speak through you, and if it is the Spirit it has got to be pleasing, right? It has got to be pleasing. (applause)
And the thing that I want to call particular attention to is the fact, where can you go to any church meeting in this world other than to a representative of the Peace Mission Movement, where — any one of the Followers or those who are in these meetings and in this atmosphere can verify the same thing for themselves, because if you open your mouth and let the Spirit speak through you, you know it's going to be pleasing, and there isn't a person in this building tonight who hasn't had the same experience.
Nowhere else can you go to see that as a living reality, because you can go to the biggest church in this world, the richest church, and well, you know, if you called on the average member, he couldn't even open his mouth he'd be so scared. They have not created a Presence which causes them to be willing to trust the Spirit to open their mouth and to speak. Isn't it true? (Assembly: Yes.). We have something that's very unusual here, because GOD has gone no place. HE has conveyed HIMSELF in a multitude and HE can speak, if you allow HIM to, in you; therefore HE hasn't gone any place, HE has multiplied HIMSELF!
I want to say one more thing: If the beautiful weather today and the lovely evening we're having now is a good omen for our Bicentennial Year, we are going to have a very beautiful continuation of a Bicentennial Celebration for 1976: (applause) So, I'm going to let the nice weather be an omen for me, that I individually am going to enjoy the balance of 1976, with FATHER and MOTHER'S permission! I thank you.
President: Peace FATHER and MOTHER Dear, peace everyone: To make everything complete, we thank FATHER and MOTHER that there be a motion that the mechanical end of the Annual Meeting be adjourned; but that is just the starter, why we are here. It is because, the Spirit is the thing! We get through with the normal run of business, but that only causes us to come together so that we can sing and praise and that's when the 'motor' is running. The `starter' doesn't run the car,— the car runs on the 'engine' —so let's dispose with the 'starter'! (Merriment and applause) All in favor of concluding the business part of the meeting signify by saying ay, (Assembly: Ay!) and by the raising of your hands. (A unanimous show of hands is seen.) All opposed? (silence) Then, just carry on — it's just the beginning!
(And truly it was just the beginning, as we all left the Starlight Auditorium singing and again coming together in song as we joined FATHER and MOTHER at the Holy Communion Table where an abundant and deliciously prepared Banquet was awaiting us. Here we heard the Precious Voice of our LORD and SAVIOR, wherein HE declared "I will respond to your mental and spiritual contact," and indeed HE did, for the air was filled with hallelujahs of praise and thanksgiving, and testimonies poured forth in glory and honor to HIS Holy Name for HIS matchless Work here on earth among men.)
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