From Refund to Revival: Sisters Fund Tent Spaces for Soquel 2025

FRESNO, Calif. — When God blesses, the Montez sisters bless others. Mary and Becky Montez have covered the entire cost of two tent sites so families facing financial hardship can still attend Soquel Camp Meeting 2025. Beyond the registration fees, they’re also providing each household with a table, chairs, air mattresses, an ice chest—and an open invitation to share breakfast during the week-long gathering.

From left: Cynthia, Becky, Mary and Sharon at All Nations Adventist Church

Born Into Camp Meeting

“In this conference we are blessed with camp meeting,” Mary said. “We were born into it. We love and enjoy it.” Last year, she noticed friends who stayed home because the cost felt out of reach. But with this year’s rates down nearly 30 percent, Mary and Becky received an unexpected refund on their own registration. “God blessed us with that money,” Mary explained. “Instead of taking a vacation, we decided to give it back to Him—so everyone can go.”

Tony Montez, father of the Montez sisters

Becky added that the gift also honors their parents, who faithfully brought the sisters to soquel camp meeting every summer. One recipient of the Montez donation is a longtime friend; the other, a newer acquaintance—both overwhelmed with gratitude. “We can’t wait to worship side by side,” Mary said. “If they want breakfast with us every morning, our table is open.”

The sisters are already dreaming bigger. “We hope to donate four tents next year,” Mary said, praying that their gift creates a ripple effect: “Whoever goes will be blessed—and maybe they’ll bless someone else.”

A Miracle After Worship

“After Sabbath worship, Becky asked whether any families were struggling to afford camp meeting,” recalled Pastor Bryan Bong. “She told me she and Mary wanted to donate two tent sites. I’m humbled by their generosity. They remind us that Soquel isn’t just an event; it’s a place where faith families grow deeper together.” Their kindness is already spreading throughout All Nations Adventist Church. Members are exploring ways to sponsor sites, lend gear, or cover meal tickets so even more families can encounter Jesus at Soquel.

Scripture puts it this way: “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you” (Luke 6:38, NKJV). As the Montez sisters pour out their blessing, God is already pouring it back—overflowing into families who will worship, learn, and grow together at camp meeting.

At Soquel Camp Meeting: Mary (left), David (right) — aunt and nephew enjoying the day together.

Join the Mission

Would you like to make camp meeting possible for another family? Contact Camp Meeting Registration at 559-347-3128 or email registration@cccsda.org. Your gift could stake a tent peg for someone’s life-changing week at Soquel.

Written by Bryan Bong