Since its founding, this sacred home of faith has witnessed countless stories of renewal. People burdened by illnesses, hopelessness, and deep struggles have encountered healing here. Some facing seemingly impossible situations, including battles with cancer and long-held desires for motherhood have been touched by the mercies of God through the intercession of the saints honored in our monastery.
The witness of St. Kristos Semra, an Ethiopian female saint known for reconciliation, transformation and deep prayer life and St. Arsema grounds our identity and expresses our hope: that through faith and prayer, lives can be changed.
Many have testified to receiving blessings beyond expectation, including mothers once told they could never bear children who were later blessed with new life.
“Every soul that enters this holy ground is touched by God’s grace.”
Genete Denagil St. Arsema & St. Kristos Semra Ethiopian Orthodox Monastery stands as a sanctuary of peace and prayer in Baldwinsville, New York.
Rooted in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo faith, the monastery offers a place for renewal, confession, and reflection — a sacred home for all seeking to reconnect with God.
Our Mission
To serve the faithful through:
Prayer and repentance — guiding souls toward spiritual renewal through confession and holy counsel.
Blessings and holy water (Tsebel) — offering healing and protection through the sanctified water of faith.
Spiritual counseling — providing guidance, comfort, and support through the wisdom of the Church.
Divine liturgy and fasting prayers — uniting hearts in worship, thanksgiving, and intercession.
Retreats and spiritual fellowship — offering a peaceful environment to pray, reflect, and grow in faith.
“Serving the faithful is serving Christ Himself — in every prayer, every tear, every act of love.”
“Because every believer deserves a place to pray, rest, and be renewed.”
Because so many faithful travel from across the country to visit, the limited space has made it difficult to provide proper lodging and hospitality for all who wish to stay, pray, and receive blessings.
To answer this growing need, our monastery has received initial approval to build a new Subae (Spiritual Retreat) Expansion Facility on the grounds. This new sacred space will include expanded guest accommodations and areas for prayer and reflection.
With your help, we can make this vision a reality — building a home that will serve generations to come.
“Come unto Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
We warmly welcome all who wish to visit, pray, and experience the peace of this holy place. Because we currently have one dedicated priest serving all visitors and community needs, we kindly ask that you book your visit in advance to ensure availability.
Submit the Visit Form : Indicate your preferred days (weekend or mid-week).
Confirm with Our Head Priest (Melake Genet Qesis Kassahun) : We’ll check available dates and reply.
Receive Confirmation : You’ll get instructions for your arrival, stay, and retreat guidelines.