About - Saint Mary Protectress Center

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.