Truett McConnell University (TMU) has officially dedicated the Danny Watters Cottage (DWC), a peaceful, two-bedroom retreat created to serve pastors and those in vocational ministry. Nestled in the mountains near TMU’s Cleveland, Georgia, campus, the cottage offers ministers and their families a no-cost refuge for rest, reflection, and renewal.
The cottage honors the life and ministry of Rev. Danny E. Watters, who served the Church Ministry Relations Department of the Georgia Baptist Convention, supporting pastors and churches across the state.
“Danny was a dear friend of mine,” said Dr. John Yarbrough, Acting President at TMU. “Danny Watters was a long-time pastor in Georgia, and toward the end of his life, he served as Director of Church Minister Relations for the Georgia Baptist Convention. At the GBC, he ministered to hurting pastors and churches, which was a lifelong passion of his.”
A shelter in times of storms
Located next to TMU’s campus, the cottage gives guests access to dining services, the Student Wellness Center, and university athletic and cultural events—all free of charge.
“The purpose of the DWC is to provide a restful getaway for hurting pastors and their families,” Dr. Yarbrough added. “It’s a way to continue Danny’s ministry and legacy for years to come.”
Mrs. Becky Watters, Danny’s wife, was among the first to see the finished cottage.
“This is such a wonderful way to honor his legacy. Danny invested in so many ministers’ lives as he loved and prayed for them continuously. His heart was truly a pastor’s heart. We hope that this cottage is a shelter in times of storms, just as Danny’s ministry was for so many people. Our prayer is that this will provide a place of healing and hope so pastors can continue in their God-called ministries.”
Donor funded
The retreat was made possible by 123 donors who contributed to the fundraising campaign launched in 2018. TMU recognized Dr. David Drake for his leadership in bringing the project to completion.
About 35 guests attended the dedication on Monday, July 21, including members of the Watters family, donors, pastors, and several TMU trustees.
Pastors seeking rest or support can request a stay by emailing dwcottage@truett.edu.
