Retreat Into The Canadian Desert

Retreat from the busyness of our daily lives and immerse yourself in His Presence, Stillness, and the serene natural beauty of our Coptic Orthodox Monastery. Enjoy free accommodations, made possible by the generosity of our donors.

Book Your Retreat

A Spiritual Haven For The Faithful,
Deep in The Heart of The Forest.

A place for anyone to find peace and healing - no matter your age, denomination, beliefs, or level of spirituality. Our retreats are available to anyone who’s looking to disconnect from the world, and find peace.

  • Peaceful Environment

    Nestled in the serene countryside of Perth, Ontario, our monastery offers a sacred and serene environment, perfect for deep prayer and reflection. The peaceful surroundings allow you to disconnect from the distractions of the world and focus on your spiritual life.

  • Free Accommodation*

    We provide comfortable, shared accommodations and two meals a day at no cost, thanks to the love and generosity of the Coptic community and the donations of generous people like you who help sustain our monastery and its mission.

  • Spiritual Guidance

    The monastery is home to monks who can offer spiritual guidance upon request. Whether you're seeking advice or simply a listening ear, we're here to help you on your journey.

  • Book Your Stay
* Due to the nature of the monastery, women and families who wish to stay overnight can reserve a private room at a nearby cottage for a nominal fee.
The property is 2km away from the retreat center and is not owned by the monastery. We will connect you with the host upon registration.

What To Expect

Discover a balanced retreat experience designed to rejuvenate your mind and spirit.

Daily Schedule

As the spiritual life is nourished through prayer, meditation, and communal worship, each day at our retreat center is structured to provide a balance of prayer, activities, and personal time. During work hours, you are invited to engage in nature-centred activities like gardening, offering you a natural human experience. You may also be asked to serve in other ways based on the monastery's needs. If you are working remotely during your stay, you are welcome to pursue your own work amidst the peaceful surroundings.
View The Daily Retreat Schedule

Activities

Our retreat center offers a variety of activities designed to promote well-being and self-discovery. Enjoy nature walks, gardening, spiritual talks, and stargazing. Spend time exploring the natural surroundings, reading, and engaging in simple, technology-free activities. Without Wi-Fi, you can disconnect from digital distractions and truly reset and rejuvenate your spirit. While we provide these activities to enhance your experience, you are free to spend your personal time as you wish.
To see upcoming feasts or special events:
View The Event Schedule

Accommodation

Our accommodations feature shared sleeping, eating, and washroom spaces; a simple and humble living experience designed to promote spiritual focus and comfort. You will find a modest place where you can retreat from the world and immerse yourself in prayer and reflection. This shared living environment also encourages guests to be open to conversations with other retreatants, although socializing is not mandatory. Embrace the opportunity to connect with others while enjoying a peaceful and respectful atmosphere.

What Our Guests Say

Hear from some of our past guests about their experience while retreating at our monastery.

Youth and Young Adults

Adults and Families

Other Visitors

" Wonderful and welcoming, full of people who are wonderful and welcoming themselves. I'm not all the way home while writing this and I already miss it. Go here when you can. Its beautiful, peaceful, holy and radiates grace

Steven

"Very welcoming and loving here. Astonishing preservation of the monastic and Orthodox traditions (Biblical, Canonical and Oral). Christ is truly present in His church"

Paul

"Amazing quite place for retreat. Very welcoming and the elder monk is very friendly. I would go there anytime if I could; it's awesome"

Kirollos

"What a peaceful experience! We spent the night in praises and ended it with an early morning mass. Felt like we were tasting part of true paradise. The true hospitality and highly spiritual atmosphere made it difficult to leave that beautiful place!"

Nelly

"Peaceful place, very welcoming and friendly serving members. True spirit for those seeking relief and support."

Anne-Marie

"The Monastery is full of spirituality and blessings for everybody. There you see heavens on earth."

Maged

"Very cool retreat in a secluded location. Very nice people."

Alset

"If you need some retreat time between yourself and your creator, then the monastery is your best choice and the perfect place to do it."

Rick

"Best place to review your life"

Peter

" Wonderful and welcoming, full of people who are wonderful and welcoming themselves. I'm not all the way home while writing this and I already miss it. Go here when you can. Its beautiful, peaceful, holy and radiates grace

Steven

"Very welcoming and loving here. Astonishing preservation of the monastic and Orthodox traditions (Biblical, Canonical and Oral). Christ is truly present in His church"

Paul

"Amazing quite place for retreat. Very welcoming and the elder monk is very friendly. I would go there anytime if I could; it's awesome"

Kirollos

"What a peaceful experience! We spent the night in praises and ended it with an early morning mass. Felt like we were tasting part of true paradise. The true hospitality and highly spiritual atmosphere made it difficult to leave that beautiful place!"

Nelly

"Peaceful place, very welcoming and friendly serving members. True spirit for those seeking relief and support."

Anne-Marie

"The Monastery is full of spirituality and blessings for everybody. There you see heavens on earth."

Maged

"Very cool retreat in a secluded location. Very nice people."

Alset

"If you need some retreat time between yourself and your creator, then the monastery is your best choice and the perfect place to do it."

Rick

"Best place to review your life"

Peter

Book Your Retreat

Fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you with a confirmation of your stay with us

Overnight Retreat
Day Visit

Overnight Retreat Form

Note: If any mandatory fields do not apply to you, please enter "N/A".

Day Retreat Form

Please fill out the below form to register for a day visit.
Day Visit bookings must be made at least 1 days before the desired date.
Arrival Date:
Arrival Time:
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Contact and Visitor Information

Important Information About Your Visit

Retreat bookings must be made at least three days in advance.
A maximum of seven days can be booked for a retreat.
‍
The monastery is a sacred space, respectful attire is required.
Shorts, skirts, and tank-tops are NOT permitted to be worn on the monastery grounds.
Please refer to theFAQsto review the dress code.
‍
The property is smoke-free, drug-free, and alcohol-free. No exceptions. Pets are not allowed.
‍
For hygienic purposes, guests are asked to bring their own bedsets. (1 flat sheet, 1 fitted sheet, and 2 pillow cases).
‍
Due to the nature of the monastery, only men are permitted to stay overnight at the retreat center.
Women and families are welcome to spend the entire day at the monastery and lodge overnight at the nearby cottage, which is rented out by one of our patrons, or at a hotel in Perth.

We ask for your support as we work to change this restriction, which is in place because the monks currently reside in the retreat center with all the guests. We're trying to build separate cells for the monks, which is how monastery's are traditionally built. Once completed, women and families will be able to stay overnight at the retreat center.
‍
To learn more about this project, click here.

Our Location

608 Miners Point Rd Perth, ON K7H 3C5 Canada

Contact us

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Have any Questions? Check out our FAQs or fill out our contact form above.

About St. Anthony’s
Coptic Orthodox Monastery

Learn more about Canada’s first Coptic Orthodox Monastery

The Coptic Orthodox Church

The Coptic Orthodox Church is one of the oldest Christian denominations and its roots trace back to St. Mark the Apostle, who founded the church in Alexandria, Egypt, in the first century. A cornerstone of the Coptic Orthodox faith is their steadfast commitment to ancient teachings, preserving the purity and integrity of the original Christian doctrine.  Known for its rich traditions, liturgical heritage, and historical connection to the early Christian community, the Coptic Church continues to uphold its spiritual practices unchanged since its inception, including unique rites and rituals that have been preserved over centuries.

"Coptic" is the final stage of the ancient Egyptian language. It emerged around the 2nd century AD and became the liturgical language of the Coptic Orthodox Church. While it is no longer spoken as a daily language, Coptic is still used in religious services and is a vital part of the church's heritage. Its preservation helps maintain the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Coptic Christian community.

Learn More About Our Faith  

Our Monastery History

St. Anthony’s Coptic Orthodox Monastery was established in 2014 under the guidance of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II as Canada’s first Coptic Orthodox monastery.
‍
Nestled in the serene landscape of Perth, Ontario, it offers a spiritual retreat for those seeking peace and reflection.

The monastery follows the ancient traditions of monastic life, emphasizing prayer, work, and communal living. It serves as a sacred space for worship and spiritual growth.
‍
Over the years, it has become a beacon of tranquility and renewal, welcoming individuals from all walks of life to experience its peaceful atmosphere. Today, it continues to invite people from diverse backgrounds to partake in its serene environment, fostering a sense of community and spiritual enrichment.
‍

Learn About Our Monastery

Support Our Mission

Donations from generous individuals like you help sustain our monastery and its mission. Please consider making a contribution to support our retreat center and its programs.

Send us a Check
Mail a check payable to
“St. Anthony Monastery”
Our Address is
608 Miners Point Rd.
Perth, ON  K7H 3C5
Reoccurring Donation Form
icon
Donate Online
Donate via E-Transfer
Please Send E-TRANSFER to info@abbaanthony.ca
Password: Monastery
‍




(613) 264 8071
icon

FAQs

What is the dress code ?
Can I book a Church/Group trip to the monastery?
How much does it cost to stay at the retreat center?
Does the retreat center offer overnight accommodation for families or women?
What do I need to bring when I come for a retreat?
What is the retreat center schedule?
Are any private rooms available for an overnight retreat?
Is it mandatory to attend all the services on the retreat schedule?
How can I help the monastery in its mission?
Will I get a chance to talk to some of the monks at the monastery?
What types of work would be usually assigned to retreatants?
Is there wifi access at the monastery?
Should I bring food for my stay?
Can I reach the monastery by bus, train or airplane?
Logo
Join our newsletter to receive updates on events and print media.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
By subscribing you consent to receive updates from St.Anthony Monastery in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
facebookicon
Facebook
icon
YouTube
Instagram
2022 @webelocity. All right reserved.
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service
Cookies Settings
By clicking “Accept All”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Accept AllCookies Settings
Esential Cookies (Required)
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Accept AllSave settings
Cookies Settings
By clicking “Accept All”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Accept AllCookies Settings

Daily Schedule

Summer Schedule
Winter Schedule
Got it
Retreat Rules
Booking Guidelines
  • Retreat bookings must be made at least three days in advance of the desired date.
  • A maximum of seven days can be booked for a retreat reservation.
  • The maximum capacity of our retreat facility is 25 boys and 20 girls.
Saftey
  • Retreatants are responsible for their health insurance and, by accepting the reservation agreement, waive all rights of action against St. Anthony Monastery. A certificate of insurance must be presented to the Monastery once the church group arrives. All retreatants must exercise caution. No exceptions.
  • Individuals and church groups spending an overnight retreat at the monastery must make safety their first and highest priority.
Chaperones
  • All church groups must be accompanied by at least two adult chaperones (or servants). One is the Retreat Coordinator, who communicates with the Monastery for the registration process, and one (1) adult for every five (5) youth under the age of 18.
  • Chaperones are expected to maintain the discipline of their group to ensure a safe retreat experience for everyone using the Retreat Center.
Respect & Cleanliness
  • The monastery buildings and grounds are sacred. We hope you will sense this blessing throughout the monastery complex and treat it with care as if God were walking through your door.
  • Retreatants are expected to leave the Retreat Center facilities in the same condition (or better!) where they were found. This includes the grounds, and the rooms, including thoroughly cleaning the bathroom area and removing all trash.
  • All materials that can be recycled, including cans, glass, plastic bottles, and newsprint, must be cleaned and disposed of.
  • The Monastery and its Retreat Center are smoke-free, drug-free and alcohol-free facilities. The use of cigarettes, drugs and alcohol is strictly prohibited.
  • Pets are not allowed on the Monastery's premises.
Retreat Termination will occur, and a fine will incur if your group:
  1. Damages, defaces, or removes any Monastery Center property.
  2. Fails to comply with the rules and guidelines of the Retreat Center.
  3. Disturbs other people during their stay.
  4. Brings cigarettes, alcohol, or drugs on the property.
Permission Letter
A Permission Letter required for individual and church retreats. Please refer to the appropriate registration page to view the requirements.
Got it
Directions
Monastery Address:
608 Miners Point Rd, Perth, ON K7H 3C5 (or Tay Valley on GPS)
From Toronto
From Ottawa
From Montreal
For trips arriving by bus:
The preferred GPS/Google Maps route cannot be taken due to a bridge that is not load rated for buses. Buses MUST come from the north side of Narrows Lock Rd to avoid the bridge. Please follow the "Bus directions below"
Bus Directions
  1. Get onto ON-401E to ON-15N in Kingston (exit 623)
  2. Take exit 623 for ON-15/County Road 15 toward Smiths Falls/Ottawa
  3. Turn left onto ON-15N and continue for 75 km. (Do not take 42 W if coming by bus)
  4. Turn left onto Rideau Ferry Rd/County Rd 1 and continue for 16 km
  5. Turn left onto South St/Route 10 and continue for 9.6 km
  6. Turn left onto Narrows Lock Rd/Lanark 14 and continue for 9.5 km
  7. Turn left onto Miners Point Rd and continue for 4 km. The monastery will be on the left
By Car
  1. Get onto ON-401E to ON-15N in Kingston (exit 623)
  2. Take exit 623 for ON-15/County Road 15 toward Smiths Falls/Ottawa
  3. Turn left onto ON-15N and continue for 51 km
  4. Turn left onto County Rd 42 W and take the first right in 150 m onto Narrows Lock Rd 14 for 13.7 km
  5. Turn right onto Miners Point Rd and continue for 4 km. The monastery will be on the left
Bus Directions
  1. Get onto ON-417W
  2. Continue on ON-7 to Tay Valley for 59 km
  3. Turn left onto Glen Tay Rd (At the train tracks) and continue for 400 m
  4. Turn left onto Christie Lake Rd, and then take first right onto Glen Tay Rd after 90 m
  5. Turn right onto Scotch Line and drive for 4.8 km
  6. Turn left onto Narrows Lock Rd 14 and drive for 9.5 km
  7. Turn left onto Miners Point Rd and continue for 4 km. The monastery will be on the left
For trips arriving by bus:
The preferred GPS/Google Maps route cannot be taken due to a bridge that is not load rated for buses. Buses MUST come from the north side of Narrows Lock Rd to avoid the bridge. Please follow the "Bus directions below"
Bus Directions
Take the Top Route which cuts through Ottawa and then follow directions below.
  1. Get onto 401 W and continue until exit 696
  2. Take exit 696 for County Road 29 toward Brockville/Smiths Falls
  3. Turn right onto Stewart Blvd/County Rd 29 for 13 km
  4. Turn left onto County Road 42 W for 38.5 km
  5. Turn right onto Narrows Lock Rd/County Rd 14 for 13.7 km
  6. Turn right onto Miners Point Rd and continue for 4 km. The monastery will be on the left
By Car
  1. Get onto 401 W and continue until exit 696
  2. Take exit 696 for County Road 29 toward Brockville/Smiths Falls
  3. Turn right onto Stewart Blvd/County Rd 29 and continue for 28.6 km
  4. Turn left onto County Rd 1 and continue for 12.4 km
  5. Turn right onto Anglican Church Rd/County Rd 1
  6. Turn left onto ON-15 S for 240 m
  7. Turn right onto Rideau Ferry Rd/County Rd 1 and continue for 15.8 km
  8. Turn left onto South St/Route 10 and continue for 9.6 km
  9. Turn left onto Narrows Lock Rd/Lanark 14 and continue for 9.5 km
  10. Turn left onto Miners Point Rd and continue for 4 km. The monastery will be on the left
Book a Retreat
Group
If you will be coming with a group:
Book a Retreat
Individual
If you will be coming individually:
Book a Retreat