By: Vicki Marsh, past President of Women’s Ministries
(Originally printed in The ARP Magazine, January issue)
As a person who was “born and raised” in the ARP church, I have enjoyed visiting Bonclarken for over 50 years! My first visit was in 1965 as a Junior High student for a conference. I continued to go to Bonclarken over the years as a Camp Bonclarken counselor, where I learned that a cold, wet washcloth could cure anything from a skinned knee to homesickness on a camper! I was a volunteer youth advisor at church, church retreats, recreation leader at youth and Presbyterial retreats, Family Bible Conferences, Music Conferences, ARPWM Board and Annual meetings, and family gatherings.
With so many fond memories of time at Bonclarken, I have been saddened by the effects of the pandemic which has caused many events to be canceled at Bonclarken in recent months. Therefore, may I propose an experiment? In Matthew 17:20, we learn that faith the size of a mustard seed (the smallest seed that grows in soil), can move mountains. Can a very small donation add up to a sizable contribution to Bonclarken? What if a circle saved $10 or more from their January and February offerings and contributed that $20 or more to Bonclarken at the end of February? What if ten circles in the denomination did that—that would be $200 or more to Bonclarken at the end of February. What if 100 ARP circles (or groups like a Sunday school class or a choir or a Bible study) gave $20 after their February meeting—that would be a contribution of $2000!
I realize that many of you contribute to Bonclarken as part of your Women’s Ministries budget at your church and some of you give individually to Bonclarken. My experiment is asking for funds in addition to what you are currently giving. Will you take up the challenge to try this experiment? If you have ever visited Bonclarken, you know what a great place it is. If you have not been there—you should go!
Use this simple fundraising idea for any ARP agency, board, or committee.