Machen Retreat and Conference Center
Rules and Regulations
“The mission of the Machen Retreat and Conference Center (MRCC) is to extend the ministry of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church by providing facilities and programs consistent with the reformed faith intended to enable covenant families and individuals in the body of Christ to rest and retreat from the normal distractions of their lives in order to nurture their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ through conferences retreats and family vacations.” We are seeking to create a unique environment to encourage and strengthen our covenantal relationships.
MRCC is owned by the Presbytery of the Mid-Atlantic (PMA) and governed by a standing committee commonly known as the Retreat Operating Committee (ROC). These Rules and Regulations are to be applied to anyone (parties) using MRCC, whether they are organized under the direct oversight of the ROC, the PMA, or the OPC.
Immoral conduct is not permitted.
Coarse language, conduct, or attire is not permitted.
Modest dress, appropriate for the activities, is required.
Alcoholic beverages are not are permitted except for sacramental purposes.
Obey ALL Private Property and No Trespassing signs. Stay on MRCC or state owned property. Trespassers will not be tolerated and may be prosecuted by landowners.
Do not remove, molest, injure or damage anything natural or physical within the grounds of MRCC.
All facilities must be cleaned in accordance with the cleanup guidelines.
Trash, garbage and litter must be removed from the premise upon the conclusion of the parties' usage. *
Fires are only permitted in the “Fire-Pit” located in the large field. Open fires outside of this area are not permitted. Ensure the fire in the fire-pit is fully extinguished upon the conclusion of the parties' usage.
Pets are permitted on the grounds but not in any of the facilities. For the safety of your pet, we require all pets to be kept under control. Also, please clean up after your pet.
Firearms and archery may only be discharged under the oversight of a competent operator and with the prior permission of the director. For groups desiring to do this, liability wavier must be provided and signed and are to be filed with the director.
Wildlife shall not be hunted, trapped, molested or intentionally disturbed.
* Trash generated while at Machen may and ought to be dropped off at the McDowell dumping station, or taken with you. The dumping station is located about a mile East on Rt. 250 after Rt. 678 T’s into it. It is on the Left side of the road and is a large dumpster with a chain-link fence around it. It may be necessary to make a few trips to the dumping station during your time at MRCC.
Work parties must be coordinated with the director at least one month in advance.
Accommodations are provided at no cost to work teams; therefore work is expected.
Parents or designated guardians shall be are responsible for the supervision and safety of all children under the age of 18.
Power equipment (e.g. Sawmill, lawn mower, chain saw, weed eater, etc.) may only be operated with the permission of the director or a ROC member.
There is always a need for work groups at MRCC. If your church would like to organize such an effort, please consider the following practical suggestions.
A) Work groups should consist of at least 4 adults. Families are welcome but the need is for adult laborers.
B) Plan on spending at least 4 days, preferably a week. Typically, it takes a day or two to understand the work detail.
C) Plan for free time to enjoy the wonders of God's creation.
It is the responsibility of the leader of the parties to enforce these rules. Serious violations of these rules may result in the limitation or denial of further usage of MRCC.
Adopted December 2005