For nearly 30 years the Association Retreat Center (ARC) has been an agent of change in the lives of thousands of people. The grounds that once were used as a first line of defense against national attack have become a training base for warriors of Jesus Christ. 

In the years since the ARC was purchased by the AFLC as a Bible Camp and Retreat Center, the ARC has grown in its ministry to become a resting place for over 200 groups every year. The ministry of the ARC has reached across cultural, denominational and economic lines to bring the Love of Jesus to those needing to hear the gospel. We are truly a mission field in reverse.

In 2007 the ARC ministered to over 140 different church groups. These groups represented over 40 denominations and Para-church organizations. An estimated 700 persons accepted Christ during an ARC retreat, and countless more rededicated their lives to Christ or made other life changing commitments. The ARC provides a safe, neutral environment for people to consider their spiritual direction, free from distractions.

 The ARC’s ministry reaches beyond church groups. Groups use our facility for craft retreats, music and drama retreats, self help/support retreats and training sessions. Although the intent of these groups is secular, many of the group leaders make use ARC retreats to discuss spiritual issues with group participants. Regardless of the reason for the retreat, all ARC guests are welcomed to a clean, safe environment and treated with love and respect by a staff intent on sharing the love of Christ to everyone.

 While the ARC is a ministry of the AFLC, funding for this ministry comes solely from retreat income and the financial support of ministry partners.  Retreat income covers the operational cost of putting on the retreat. However, funding to improve our campus and to keep our rates competitive must come from donations. Currently, the ARC needs about $100,000.00 per year in donation income to sustain a healthy, safe camp experience for those using our ministry.

During April, we would ask that you make the ministry of the ARC a special prayer emphasis in your church and in your home. We have a DVD about the ARC that we would like to have you share with your church. Please preview this DVD and use it at your discretion. After you have supported your local church ministry, we would appreciate your prayerful consideration of becoming a financial partner with us and/or taking a special offering for the ministry of the ARC.

We would also request that you share this information with those in your church, Bible Studies and your community. During uncertain times, people often seek a place where they can find answers. Your partnership with us will ensure that the ARC will remain a place where the weary can ‘Come Away and Rest Awhile.”