About St Mary’s Retreat

  • St Mary’s Retreat is a 501c3 Orthodox Christian charity and retreat center located in Natural Bridge, Virginia along the James River and Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • The center and lands were originally a private residence that was donated to become this charity, in the hope that the space could be used to help others.
  • Our main building has a chapel, several furnished rooms, a fellowship hall for meetings or groups, an extensive theological library, and colonial style porches.
  • We also have a pavilion perfect for picnics and barbecues; a pool house for recreation; a greenhouse and garden with raised beds, some of which are built higher for your accommodation; and plenty of outdoor space for all to enjoy.
  • Our building and grounds are offered to all people, groups, churches, and charities for prayer, peace of heart, meditation, relaxation, health, healing, reconciliation, conflict resolution, mediation, charitable programs and events.
  • St Mary’s Retreat also hosts a variety of events and activities for our community, including: Orthodox Christian prayer services, music lessons, religious education, helping those in need, and feeding the hungry.
  • Get involved by volunteering with us today and together we can make a difference in transforming the lives of others.