Who we are

About

us

Be Part of Our Spiritual Journey

Welcome to St. Stephen Christian Retreat & Conference Center, a beacon of spiritual solace and fellowship. Here, the rich tapestry of the Coptic Orthodox Church intertwines with serene surroundings, offering a haven for reflection, growth, and community.

Rooted in Ancient Faith

Rooted in Ancient Faith

Preserving Early Christian Traditions

Preserving Early Christian Traditions

Be Part of Our Spiritual Journey

Be Part of Our Spiritual Journey

Established by St. Mark the Evangelist in Alexandria around 43 A.D., the Coptic Church holds the honor of being one of the earliest Christian communities. Our faith is anchored in the belief of the Holy Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, unified in essence and purpose.

The Coptic Orthodox Church, rooted in the teachings of Lord Jesus Christ, has been a beacon of early Christian traditions. Adhering to the Nicene Creed, we've preserved the spiritual, ritual, and doctrinal facets of early Christianity. St. Mark the Apostle, ensuring the sanctity and authenticity of our practices.

Whether you seek a retreat to reconnect with your faith or a conference to delve deeper into Christian teachings, St. Stephen’s Christian Retreat & Conference Center welcomes you. Experience the warmth of our community, the depth of our traditions, and the serenity of our waterfront location.

The term 'Coptic' originates from the Greek 'Aigyptos', translating to 'Egyptian'. With the Arab arrival in Egypt in the 7th century, 'qibt' became synonymous with 'Christian Egyptian'. The 'Orthodox' in our name signifies our commitment to preserving the original faith, a testament to our defense against heresies and our role in evangelizing Christianity globally.

Spiritual Growth Meets Comfort

Seeking a Heavenly Getaway? Find Rest and Renewal in God's Presence at Our Spiritual Waterfront Oasis.

Spiritual Growth & Comfort

Seeking a Heavenly Getaway? Find Rest and Renewal in God's Presence at Our Spiritual Waterfront Oasis.

Guiding Our Spiritual Journey

The Guiding Lights of St. Stephen’s Retreat Center

Meet the dedicated leaders of St. Stephen Christian Retreat & Conference Center. Their unwavering commitment, deep-rooted faith, and visionary guidance have been instrumental in shaping our retreat center as a sanctuary of spiritual growth and community bonding.

His Holiness

Pope Tawadros II

Patriarch of Coptic Church

Spiritual leader of the Coptic Orthodox Christians Worldwide, Pope Tawadros II champions deep faith, interfaith unity, and Christian community cohesion.

His Holiness

Pope Tawadros II

Bishop of Southern US Diocese

Spiritual leader of the Coptic Orthodox Christians Worldwide, Pope Tawadros II champions deep faith, interfaith unity, and Christian community cohesion.

Sister Sarah

GENERAL MANAGER

Our board shapes the retreat's blend of spirituality and guest experience.

His Grace

Bishop Basil

In 2018, His Grace was elevated to Hegumen and later that same year he was ordained as a General Bishop serving under the auspices of His Grace Bishop Youssef in the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States.

Sister Sarah

GENERAL MANAGER

Our board shapes the retreat's blend of spirituality and guest experience.

His Holiness

Pope Tawadros II

Patriarch of Coptic Church

Spiritual leader of the Coptic Orthodox Christians Worldwide, Pope Tawadros II champions deep faith, interfaith unity, and Christian community cohesion.

His Eminence

Metropolitan Youssef

His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef, appointed as the pioneering Bishop of the Southern Coptic Diocese in the U.S., was elevated to Metropolitan in 2022 by Pope Tawadros II, exemplifying steadfast faith and leadership.

His Grace

Bishop Basil

In 2018, His Grace was elevated to Hegumen and later that same year he was ordained as a General Bishop serving under the auspices of His Grace Bishop Youssef in the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States.

Sister Sarah

GENERAL MANAGER

Our board shapes the retreat's blend of spirituality and guest experience.

His Eminence

Metropolitan Youssef

His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef, appointed as the pioneering Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern U.S, exemplifies steadfast faith and leadership.

His Grace

Bishop Basil

In 2018, His Grace was elevated to Hegumen and later that same year he was ordained as a General Bishop serving under the auspices of His Grace Bishop Youssef in the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States.

Embark on Your Spiritual Journey with St. Stephen's Retreat

Experience tranquility, growth, and community at our retreat center. Secure your spot and immerse yourself in a haven of spirituality and serenity.