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# Antiochian Archdiocese Opens New Retreat Center in Mexico
- URL: https://uoj.news/news/87181-antiochian-archdiocese-opens-new-retreat-center-in-mexico/
- Published: 2026-05-20T18:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-25T16:13:04.000Z
- Description: The Antiochian Archdiocese in Mexico has opened a new retreat center aimed at spiritual renewal and Orthodox fellowship.
- Author: Tobias Straney
- Tags: #Category: News, Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of Mexico, Venezuela, Central America, and the Caribbean, Spiritual Retreat, Church Growth, Metropolitan Saba (Isper)

**MEXICO CITY —** The Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of Mexico, Venezuela, Central America and the Caribbean officially opened CERCA, a [new retreat center](https://www.antiochian.org/regulararticle/2814), on May 9, marking a major development for Orthodox Christian life and ministry in the region. The project was inaugurated under the leadership of His Eminence Metr. Ignacio.

Located about two hours northwest of Mexico City on the grounds of the Monastery of St. Anthony the Great, the 44-acre retreat property was designed as a place of spiritual rest, fellowship, and renewal. CERCA — Spanish for “near” — includes a chapel, lodging for up to forty guests, conference facilities, a lake, greenhouse, and farm in a rural setting intended to encourage reflection and community life.

[![](https://uoj.news/content/images/2026/01/87181-antiochian-archdiocese-opens-new-retreat-center-in-mexico-image-97db8a9e9cac.jpg)On this topicOrthodox Christianity Takes Root in Northern Mexico](https://uoj.news/news/85954-orthodox-christianity-takes-root-in-northern-mexico/)

Archdiocesan leaders described the center as a place offering “a calm setting, healthy interactions, and authentic, creative experiences inspired by shared well-being.” The retreat house is expected to host spiritual gatherings, conferences, and educational events for Orthodox faithful throughout Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and beyond.  
  
On behalf of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, Metr. Saba congratulated Metr. Ignacio, clergy, and faithful of the archdiocese, expressing hope that CERCA would help visitors step away from the pressures of modern life and encounter peace in God.

Previously, the [UOJ reported](https://uoj.news/news/87101-romanian-orthodox-mission-grows-in-mexico/) that a Romanian Orthodox mission is growing in Mexico.