St. Mary & St. Demiana Convent
Dawsonville, Georgia
History
Story of the Convent
By the grace of God and the prayers of the convent's Abbot, His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef, St. Mary Convent established its first branch and officially opened its doors in Daytona, Florida in 2006, welcoming consecrated sisters from Egypt. Since then, the convent has journeyed through several stages before settling into its permanent home in Dawsonville, Georgia in 2014.
On June 16, 2016, the Holy Synod officially recognized the convent as an established institution of the Coptic Orthodox Church. On September 13, 2016, His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef consecrated the convent's first nun. The convent continues to flourish by the manifold graces of God.
Timeline
Milestones of the Convent
- 2006
First branch opened in Daytona, Florida, welcoming consecrated sisters from Egypt.
- 2011
Relocated to San Antonio, Texas, opening its second branch and welcoming novices into monastic life.
- 2013
On May 20, feast of the Consecration of St. Demiana's Church, officially became St. Mary & St. Demiana Convent.
- 2014
On October 21, moved to its permanent location in Dawsonville, Georgia.
- 2015
On October 7, received the historic visit of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II.
- 2016
Officially recognized by the Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church.
Gallery
Scenes from the Convent
Sacred Relics
Housed in the Convent's Church
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A fragment of the Holy Cross wood
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Relics of St. George the Martyr
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Relics of St. Demiana the Martyr
Patron Saints
St. Mary & St. Demiana
Mother of God
St. Mary the Virgin
The Theotokos, Mother of God and primary patroness of the convent. Venerated as the prototype of all Christians — pure and unconditionally obedient to God.
Martyr
St. Demiana the Martyr
A 3rd-century Coptic martyr who chose to consecrate her life to God alongside forty devout virgins. She was beheaded for her unwavering faith. Her feast is January 21 (13 Toba).
Contact & Retreats