Still Waters — Buchanan, United States
A Christian silent-retreat house on 72 acres of lakes and woods in Buchanan, Michigan
The premise at Still Waters is plain: everyone needs time alone, away from the daily noise, to listen and be renewed. The retreat house sits on 72 acres of lakes, woods and trails on West Clear Lake Road in Buchanan, Michigan, with room to journal, read and rest. Its stated purpose is silence, solitude and spiritual companionship, so that guests become more aware of God's presence and better able to hear his voice.
For more than thirty years the property has operated as a place of retreat. It began through the vision of Tom and Delcy Kuhlamn, whose hard work and ministry of hospitality touched many who came to the grounds. In March 2022 Steve and Miriam Edlin purchased it. They live on the property, welcome guests and keep the grounds in order. Mike, the director, oversees the ministry; he and his family served overseas as missionaries for 17 years, and he now serves with TEAM as a Spiritual Care facilitator. Still Waters is a ministry of The Pilgrim's Way Ministries, Inc., a 501c3 organization.
The team describes itself as Christ-centered and holds to the Apostles' Creed as the common expression of the faith. The guiding verse is John 15:9: "Abide in my love."
Guests can stay in three places. The five-bedroom Farmhouse has its own chapel, a full kitchen and a step-down reading room. The Apartment, about 500 square feet with a lake view and balcony, suits single guests and couples. Tiqvah, the Cabin, stands a quarter mile into the woods with a wood stove, a screened porch and a small writing desk, but no electricity or running water. Day retreats typically run from 10 am to 4 pm, and overnight stays begin after 3 pm.
Traditions: Christian contemplative retreat, Silence and solitude, Spiritual companionship, Prayer, Journaling and reflection, Apostles' Creed
Programs: Day Retreat, Overnight Retreat, Group Retreat (4-8 people), Group Retreat (9+ people), Full-facility day use, Solitary stay at Tiqvah, the Cabin