The Little Convent | An Orthodox Christian Documentary

In December 2022, a film crew from Saint Photios Orthodox Theological Seminary was sent to the cold and snowy land of Western Canada to film a documentary about the Protection of the Holy Virgin Mary Convent. After much anticipation, the full-length documentary has finally been released!

This documentary follows the everyday life of the nuns living at the Protection of the Holy Virgin Mary Convent, discusses the history and founding of the community by the ever-memorable Archbishop Ioasaph of Buenos Aires (1888–1955), and explores how the nuns have impacted the people around them.

In 1993, the current Superior, the Very Reverend Abbess Mother Amvrosia Hagiaskepitissa, came to what was left of a small monastic property in the hamlet of Bluffton, Alberta. Alone with her mother, who was also a nun, Mother Amvrosia struggled to rebuild the property, which was in incredibly poor condition. However, over time, new novices came to the Convent and made it what it is today—a gem in the North.

Words cannot express how grateful we are for all those who came together to help make this documentary a reality. All the challenges that came about during the making of the film could not have been overcome without their help!

We also want to thank all the supporters of the Seminary who make it possible for us to bring you Orthodox Christian content just like this! Your support is so greatly appreciated.

Without further ado, please enjoy watching the story of The Little Convent.

Directed by Timothy Schenone.

CHURCH OF THE GENUINE ORTHODOX CHRISTIANS OF AMERICA (GOC) WEBSITE:

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[lindachampigny]

I work !!, Love love the Mother’s and Sisters !!, , !, such a calming place to be !, !, !, !,

[deborahdetering]

Watching this is the best Christmas present I could have received. The Convent, with Abbess Amvrosia and the Sisters (one of whom is our biological daughter) has been such a blessing for us. Our daughter is like the swallow who has found her nest by the Altar of the Lord. We thank God for the welcome we received at the Convent, and for the times of rest and worship we have shared there.

[mariaphillips]

Many thanks to these beautiful nuns so faithful to God with peace and joy. They bring endless graces down from heaven to the whole world. I pray them all infinite blessings.

[speaklifenow]

Two of my sons are monks. My third son wants to be a monastic, as well. My three daughters are faithful orthodox. They are married.
I wish to become a nun. I am still married so I practice complete obedience and simplicity. I wish to join your monastery. Please pray for me. Elizabeth

[TheGreekOrthodox]

A truly awesome movie about Genuine Orthodox monastic life in Canada. ❤

[warrenermish]

I am rolling Catholic, but very much drawn to the orthodox tradition and loyalty. God bless this community.

[noelleangelus]

What a wonderful gift this film is to those who long for the peace of a monastery .

[jasonbryan]

Lord, have mercy on us and bless these sisters; all Holy Trinity be merciful to Canada and kindle faith and love for our neighbors. Canada is on a dark path and needs the light of men, which is Christ.

[shaunmulligan]

What a wonderful documentary on the lives of the sisters. May their names be written in heaven. With every blessing, Shaun.

[davehansen]

I absolutely dreaded this Christmas as we are alone. After seeing this glorious film, I feel it is the very best gift we could have received. Thank you and bless you.

[danalaw]

This documentary warmed my heart. It was well done. The sisters are truly inspiring. They live in harsh conditions but they have joy in the midst of everything. Thank you so much for bringing this to us. Lord have mercy on this sweet Convent.

[aliciagonzalez]

Wow I m Roman Catholic and I perceive the holiness of the sisters and their kindness ❤ God bless you!!

[conniejensen]

This little convent is part of my family history. The white bearded man in the very early photo is my great grandfather Feodor Polushin who arrived with his family as refugees in 1924. He purchased the land and gave half for the building of the church. I grew up coming here for special services and with m mother as she gave English lessons to the first nuns who served here. I still enjoy visits here.

[Chelsierosner]

Have had the absolute honour of visiting here with the children of our parish! Such lovely and Godly women ❤️ An amazing place of peace and beauty.

[Alice_Vail]

This was so beautiful, thank you to the filmmakers and the sisters of the convent. Praying for this place of peace and religious fortitude to endure any storm or tribulation, and that more monastic communities may take root and blossom here in North America.

[spots]

I have been blessed to spend time with Mother Amvrosia and the Sisters. Words cannot describe the love one feels in their presence. May God grant them many many years as caretakers of this Holy place. “If you have obedience without love it’s slavery” Mother Amvrosia. 🙏☦️❤️

[lynkokemor]

What a wonderful documentary! This little convent was an important parr of my family's life as we were part of the nearby Russian community and congregation. My father, one of many, helped build the original church and I remember my brothers serving as alter boys and ringing the bells. Many fond memories of being there as a little kid!

[elijahmountainfire]

Blessed be The Lord who takes care of us
all over the world.
The Good Shepherd is around us wherever we are.
Tending to His sheep.
Thank You Lord for we lack nothing
because You provide for us..
AMEN.

[philosopheroftheeast]

My favorite place of pilgrimage. Thanks to Mother Amvrosia and Father Dionise as well as nuns: mother Raphaela, mother Paisia, mother Nektaria and Gabriela, mother Vasilisa and Mary . With love in Christ, Dubravka (and Dushanka and Mihailo)

[mrsmarple]

Господи помилуй и Сохрани! Спаси Господи за прекрасный фильм 🙏🌹🕊️