ARC January 2026 transition update 

Greetings from the ARC Board, 

The purpose of this communication is to provide an update on the efforts of the ARC Board and other friends of ARC as we consider transition to a new expression of the ARC Mission. 

As you will recall the ARC Board made the difficult but necessary decision to sell the property to meet its financial obligations. This came after a number of efforts to update the facility and improve financial status over the past number of years. The Board would like to thank all the friends of ARC, staff, and volunteers who supported these efforts. These efforts did help but ultimately could not overcome the financial pressures. 

The sale was completed last fall and the new owners, as part of their own Spirit lead journey, are dedicated to continue use of the buildings and grounds as the Ansley Sutton Retreat Lodge. They have a particular interest is supporting families affected by child loss. They continue to offer retreats and can be reached at 763-689-3540. 

The Board has set a number of priorities to engage in defining how the ARC mission may evolve now that the property has been transferred. These include an overall desire that these efforts be led by the Spirit. This desire is part of the ARC legacy so generously founded by Ruth Halvorson and embraced by countless other friends of ARC. 

A second priority is that over the next number of months that we pause, rest, reflect and listen. This could be achieved through a series of discernment gatherings. More information on this subject will be coming in February. 

Thirdly, we want to communicate to those interested in ARC and its future. This will include streamlining and updating the ARC website and monthly messages from the Board on progress. 

The Board invites you all to consider financially supporting ARC as you are able. Although we are not yet aware of where the Spirit is leading we are confident in our knowledge that financial support will increase our ability to move into the future. 

Finally, you may already be aware that Ruth Halvorson has convened a group, the Jubilee Task Force. They are currently considering how to best support a Jubilee celebration in observance of the founding of ARC. They are also considering how they can support the work of the Board and volunteers in the evolution the ARC mission. Again, look for more information from Ruth and her group in the next month. 

On behalf of the ARC Board

Mike Tessneer, Chair

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The following is a prayer shared at the January meeting of the Jubilee Task Force lovingly composed by a longtime friend of ARC. 

Prayer of discernment for ARC 

Eternal Loving God, 

We humbly come before you, waiting on the still small voice of your Spirit, the Holy Spirit that is one with you and one with us. 

We are grateful for your guidance in our decisions thus far. Only you could create such a plan that would cover every request of the ARC Board: full asking price, respect for the land, and a willingness to continue a ministry of retreat in Grandy Pines. Thank you for the Parnell family, who are dedicated to expanding sacred retreat ministry to include families working through the grief of losing children. 

As Elijah did in days of old, we also listen. We will not be distracted by the dramatic wind, the quacking ground, nor the consuming fire. We will pause. Be still. And know that your whispers of love will come forth with clarity and direction. 

We are honored to have served such an incredible ministry and humbled by the fact that you have given us another opportunity to draw near and trust your guidance. 

We rejoice knowing your grace is sufficient. 

We wait.
Amen.