The Lodge, an 82-acre French country estate, is located in southwest Michigan alongside the St. Joseph River. Surrounded by forest, the property is secluded between a country club and Life Action’s National Ministry Center.

Guests can cruise the river in a pontoon boat, hike the wooded trails, play a game of croquet or just relax as our staff prepares meals and offers friendly service.

As a part of Life Action Ministries, The Lodge gives pastors and church groups a chance to enjoy God’s creation through events and retreats. Browse below to meet our staff, tour the facility, and learn some history. You’ll also find a photo gallery and some local points of interest.

The Lodge Staff

Director of Pastoral Care—Ed Villalba
As Director of Pastoral Care, Ed serves as “the pastors’ pastor” during our retreats. When Ed was 17, God confirmned his call to full time ministry, and he spent almost 47 years in various ministries before coming to The Lodge in 2007 with his wife, Gayle. While having an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from the Calvary Christian College and Seminary of Kalamazoo Michigan, Ed’s background of pastoral and counseling service helps him to relate to pastors’ needs.

Guest Services—Ken & Jane Oswald
Ken and Jane joined Life Action Ministries in October 2004, having moved from Merrill, Wisconsin. While in Merrill they operated a Bed and Breakfast and then opened a store and tea room in the same town. They are excited to be a part of the Lodge ministry.

Features

The Lodge features a full size kitchen, an elegant dining room, and a bright, tranquil sun room. The centerpiece, however, is the Great Room, which is a large, rustic meeting room complete with a fireplace, piano, sofas, and a gorgeous view of the river. The Lodge is equipped with wireless Internet and video projection.  Additional meeting rooms, business center, and a bookstore are available at Life Action's National Ministry Center located nearby.

Accommodations

There are 8 guestrooms, which includes 5 in the main building, 2 in the adjacent “Briar Patch” building, and one in the adjacent “Beehive” building. The main building has one deluxe suite with a sitting area and a view of the river.  All rooms have a queen size bed, a full private bath, a desk, and a large closet.

Surroundings

Outside, guests can stroll through a romantic grapevine-covered walkway, explore wooded trails, or play tennis and croquet. A pontoon boat is also available.

Take a Virtual Tour

See The Lodge right now via our 360-degree virtual tour.  Familiarize yourself with the layout before booking a retreat.

Directions

The Lodge is located at 2801 Niles-Buchanan Road in Buchanan, Michigan. We are less than a mile west of U.S. 31 (exit 5).

Local Interest
It doesn’t take long to get from The Lodge to a number of tourist areas. From sand dunes to cites, you’ll find a variety of places that are within reasonable driving distance.