1. PERSONAL CONDUCT
a) We love God with our whole being, including our heart, soul, mind and strength, and love our neighbor as oneself (Exodus 20:3-6; Matt. 22:37-40; Rom. 13:8-10; Mark 12:28-31; 1 John 4:7-12 The use and/or promotion of astrology, palm reading, fortune telling, occult practices and gambling are strictly forbidden anywhere on the grounds. No person without permission from the ABCA leadership shall conduct a business or distribute literature on the Retreat Center grounds. (Lev.20:6,27; Gal.5: 19-20; Eph. 5: 1-18; I Tim. 6: 6-11; Heb. 13: 5-6).
b) We pursue holiness in every aspect of our thought and behavior2 Cor. 7:1; I Thess. 4:7, 5:23-24; Heb. 12:14; I Pet. 1:15-16). Modesty in dress is required of all men, women and children. Bikinis, bikini trunks and other abbreviated swimwear are not appropriate for our beach. A covering over bathing suits is required when away from the beach area. (I Pet. 3: 3-4; I John 2:15-17; James 4:6).
c) We treat our own bodies, and those of others, with respect. The view that persons of the same sex may marry or otherwise engage in sexual activity together is deemed by the Bible as sinful and therefore strictly forbidden anywhere on the Retreat grounds. The use of alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, vaping, or tobacco is strictly forbidden anywhere on the retreat grounds. (Prov. 20:1; Prov. 23; 29-35; I Cor. 6:9-12, 19-20; 2 Cor. 7:1; Gal. 5: 21; Hab. 2:5; Eph. 5:18).
d) We believe that the Biblical definition of marriage is a union between one man and one woman. We view all other forms of sexual intimacy that occur outside the biblical definition of marriage as sinful distortions of the holiness and beauty that God intended for it. We affirm the biblical position that such acts are sinful. We will not rent any area knowingly to biblically unmarried couples, and sexual activity between unmarried persons is not permitted on these grounds. (Rom. 1:21-27; I Cor. 6:9-10, 7: 1-3; Gen. 1:27, 2:24, 19: 1-25; Ex. 20:14; Lev.20:13; I Tim. 1: 8-10; Matt. 5: 27-32; Gal. 5:19).
e) We honor the Holy Spirit who lives within us, by exhibiting “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Gal. 5:22–23). “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” (Colossians 3:12–14). “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18). “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3). The Alton Bay Campmeeting Association believes that we need to act in a manner that honors Jesus, and reflects the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There are dedicated pastors and skilled laypeople on these grounds that understand the guidelines outlined by our bylaws that help restore relationships and promote unity. Members are expected to engage in this redemptive process when conflicts arise. The board reserves the right to revoke or deny membership to those who do not pursue such a resolution through the conflict resolution process within the community.
f) We give faithful witness to the Gospel (Acts 1:8; I Pet. 3:15), practicing good works toward all (Gal. 6:10; Eph. 2:10; Heb. 10:24; I Pet. 2:11), and living lives of prayer and thanksgiving (I Thess. 5:17-18; James 5:16; Titus 2: 7-8).