As a general rule, the money we contribute to the 4 Our Churches Capital Campaign is divided among the four campaign purposes: 35% for new church starts and church revitalization, 35% for the new multi-purpose facility at Hartman Center, 20% for the conference endowment fund, and a 10% tithe to Beecher Memorial Church in New Orleans. This August, we make an exception.
Our special benevolence offering this month is designated for Hartman Center, Penn Central Conference’s church camp and conference center. The Center has been providing quality outdoor Christian Education for many decades. Hartman Center “alumni” are now leaders in churches, communities, business and government.
While the Center has many excellent facilities, the major missing piece for a fully flexible camp and conference center is a multi-purpose facility. $1.5 million of the funds raised by the 4 Our Churches Capital Campaign will be used for the multi-purpose facility which will include a full-size gym, new offices, a medical suite, expanded dining facilities and the camp store. This will also be a “green” facility to ensure reduced costs of maintenance over time.
Our August special benevolence offering for Hartman Center will be part of our 4 Our Churches pledge. Over the years, Mt. Zion has sent many campers to Hartman Center. This summer alone, we have 12 members and 5 littles from Big Brother Big Sister registered. Let’s ensure that they continue to have a Spirit-filled experience at a quality facility.