Mar Eliya Retreat Center
A sacred space in Oxford
By Mirna Ayar
The story of Mar Eliya Retreat Center begins in 1928, when Detroit industrialist Arthur H. Buhl purchased a picturesque estate in Oxford, Michigan. Originally developed as Buhl’s private residence, the property eventually evolved into a place of peace and spirituality, serving various faith-based purposes for over half a century.
Today, the estate enters a new chapter—as the first official retreat center of the Chaldean Catholic Diocese of St. Thomas the Apostle—continuing a long and rich legacy of spiritual renewal.
In 2022, through the generosity of the Boji family, the property was acquired and donated to the Diocese in memory of Deacon Yousif and Najma Boji. Their gift honors a legacy of faith and service, and their contribution has paved the way for what is now the Mar Eliya Retreat Center.
Named in honor of the prophet Elijah—Mar Eliya means “Blessed Elijah”—the center reflects the profound spiritual tradition Elijah represents. Revered for foretelling the coming of Christ and appearing alongside Moses and Jesus at the Transfiguration, Elijah’s legacy makes him a fitting namesake for a place of deep reflection and sacred encounter.
A Modern Spiritual Oasis
Renovations, led by Kalabat Construction Company, were completed in June 2025. As the property manager and interior designer, I had the joy and privilege of designing each detail with care, creating a modern sanctuary that blends the tranquility of a retreat with the comfort of a boutique hotel.
Each of the 40 guest rooms includes two queen beds, a private bathroom, and thoughtful, elegant décor—meant to encourage rest, reflection and renewal. The goal is simple: allow guests to focus fully on their spiritual journey, while we take care of the rest.
The retreat center spans approximately 98,000 square feet of usable interior space, which includes:
• 40 fully furnished bedrooms
• Two large gathering halls
• Eight breakout rooms for group discussions or small sessions
• Two chapels for private prayer and liturgical celebrations
• Multiple lounge and reading areas
• A library filled with spiritual literature
• A basketball court
• Quiet rooms and scenic viewpoints for meditation
Outside, the beautifully landscaped grounds feature a peaceful pond, walking trails, outdoor seating areas and panoramic views of nature—ideal for solitude, prayer or simply soaking in the serenity.
A Mission of Holiness and Hospitality
Mar Eliya is more than just a retreat center—it’s a sacred space where every visitor is invited to open their heart and encounter the Lord in a personal and profound way.
Spiritual artwork, historical statues and a 24-hour tabernacle in the small chapel create an atmosphere of reverence and quiet beauty. The mission is clear: to refresh the soul, renew the heart, and rekindle a deeper awareness of God’s presence.
Just as the prophet Elijah encountered God not in the earthquake, wind or fire—but in the “still small voice” (1 Kings 19)—this center invites guests to step away from the noise of daily life and listen for that same voice in the silence.
Mar Eliya offers a sacred pause. A place to retreat. To rest. To be reminded of who we are and whose we are.
As Scripture says in Mark 6:31: “Come away with me by yourselves to a deserted place and rest for a while.”
Mar Eliya is that place—an oasis of silence, beauty and sacred encounter.
Grand Opening Celebration
Mar Eliya Retreat Center will celebrate its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, September 5, beginning at 5:00 PM. All are welcome to attend and experience the center firsthand.
The Mar Eliya Retreat Center is now open and accepting reservations. For more information or to book your retreat, please call (248) 266-5596 or email retreat@chaldeanchurch.org and visit MarEliya.com.