Alright, I've found a work around to my problem. I wish that it all could be done from the configuration file but at least the following works. I created a new ship that is just a configuration file without a mesh or module. In the configuration file, I include the UCGOST attachment point so the ship works as fuel station. Then in the scenario editor I can create a new "ship" using the ghost ship configuration file and dock it to one of the exterior docking ports on Ceres. Now I can refuel the Arrow by bringing it around 100 meters or so from that docking port. There's no mesh so the docking port looks empty.
I'm still interested if someone knows a way to do this without resorting to a phantom ship.