Before Chapel Rock

Chapel Rock stands on the unceded land of the Yavapai people. Acknowledging the Yavapai and other indigenous people as original stewards of this land, we give thanks for our ancestors, our elders, and for all indigenous peoples who are present with us today.

Early 1900s

The property served as a tuberculosis sanitarium owned by Dr. Albert Wilson.

August 18, 1931

The Arizona Church Conference Center was bought for $13,972.85 by Bishop Mitchell to serve as his summer residence and a place where retreats and camps could take place. He said, “We could have called it ‘Episcopal’ but Arizona Church seemed a bigger idea.”

1930s - 1940s

The Bishop Mitchell dining hall and Cox Hall were constructed and vintage cabins and tents from 1910 were the main sleeping quarters.

1960s

Four log cabin lodges were constructed providing winterized camping facilities.

1970s

A bathhouse and apartments were added providing housing for clergy and kitchen staff. Great stewardship and vision have marked each decade of ministry for the camp and conference center.

1980s

A critical decision was made to retain the property at 1131 Country Club Drive. As in previous decades a search was made to see if there might be a more suitable property that would offer more space and border on National Forest property. Father Norm Burke, the chairman of the site selection and development committee, investigated 49 potential sites. After completing the study, a decision was made to retain the current property. A large gift from James P. Newell provided the financial backing to develop a master facility site plan for Chapel Rock.

1990

Foundations are laid for the now complete new facility master plan.

1992

Completion and dedication of the Newell Activity Center that seats more than 200 people.

1993

The first full time Executive Director, Margaret Carroll, is hired.

1995

Chapel Rock was added to the name Arizona Church Conference Center

1996

The William J. Stark Memorial High and Low Ropes Challenge Course was funded and built.

1998

St. Barnabas Lodge is completed, housing 12 bedrooms with linen service, private baths and private patio areas.

St. Matthew’s Youth and Family Lodge is completed, accommodating 40 people over six bedrooms and is fully handicapped accessible.

1999

The Bishop Mitchell Dining Hall and Kitchen undergoes a complete renovation.

2001

Kleindienst Youth and Family Lodge is completed accommodating 44 people across 4 bedrooms.

James E. Gillanders climbing tower is funded, constructed and dedicated.