Paisley, Ontario
Coptic Orthodox Convent of St. Mary, St. George & St. Philopateer
The first Coptic Orthodox convent in Canada. A quiet home of prayer, work and welcome.
Welcome
A place of prayer on the Teeswater River
Established in 2017, this is the first Coptic Orthodox convent in Canada. Set on 92 acres in Bruce County, Ontario, it is home to nuns, consecrated sisters, novices and sisters in training.
Families are welcome for worship and day visits, and women are welcome for spiritual retreats. The quiet grounds, riverside trails and daily prayer offer a place for reflection, rest and renewal.
Holy Synod, June 2, 2023
Officially recognized by the Holy Synod
The Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church officially recognized our convent on June 2, 2023, the first recognized Coptic Orthodox convent in Canada. On February 18, 2026 the nuns travelled to the Papal Headquarters in Cairo, where His Holiness Pope Tawadros II signed the documents of recognition in their presence. The documents bear the signatures of His Holiness and of His Grace Bishop Mina, head of the convent.
Read more and see photos
Plan your time with us
How you can visit
Day visits
Families and individuals are welcome to attend the Liturgy, walk the grounds and spend a quiet day with us.
Learn more
Overnight retreats
Women may stay overnight, individually or in groups, sharing in the convent's rhythm of prayer and work.
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Group retreats
Church groups of women are welcome. Review the policy, then register your group at least 15 days ahead.
Learn more“Be still, and know that I am God!”
Psalm 46:10 (NRSV)
The grounds
Ninety-two acres of quiet
Scroll through the convent grounds through the seasons.
Our hierarchy
Under the care of the Church
Hymn
We Walk in Your Light
A hymn on faith and service, "Our calling is to bear fruit," from the 2026 conference "Your Fruit unto Holiness."
Handmade by the nuns
Embroidery, sewing and icons from the convent workshop
The nuns labour by hand between the hours of prayer. The convent accepts orders for handmade pieces; see examples of their work and tell us what you have in mind.
See the workshopSupport the convent
Monetary gifts are tax-deductible. Give online, by e-transfer or by cheque.