About SMCC

Who we are, what we offer, and how SMCC came to be.

Welcome to SMCC

A place where people connect, grow and belong

St. Mary Community Centre (SMCC) is a modern community centre at 1 Canfield Road in Nepean, serving Trend-Arlington and the surrounding neighbourhoods. Built beside St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church, it is open to everyone: families, youth, seniors, local groups and neighbours of every background.

St. Mary Community Centre, exterior

Our mission

At SMCC, we believe that at the heart of a strong community is a place where people can connect, grow and belong.

Our centre supports a wide range of community needs, from sports and recreation to gatherings and celebrations. With a versatile gymnasium and stage, multi-purpose rooms and welcoming spaces for programs and activities, SMCC is a place for everyone to stay active, spend time together and grow closer through shared experiences.

What we offer

Something for everyone

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Celebrations & events

Birthdays, engagements, wedding receptions, showers, receptions and community markets.

Plan a celebration

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Sports & recreation

A full gymnasium for basketball, indoor soccer, volleyball, pickleball and badminton.

See sports

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Community programs

Space for youth groups, seniors, workshops, classes and clubs.

Explore programs

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Meeting & study spaces

A boardroom, study room and private office with Wi-Fi and charging ports.

View spaces

Our story

Built by a community, for the community

Since 1989, St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church has been a gathering place in Nepean, home to Sunday School, youth and seniors’ services, volunteer activities and community events. As the community grew, so did the need for more space. That need became SMCC.

Holding the Holy Bible and an icon at the blessing of the building's foundation, November 2023

1989

St. Mary Church is built

A spiritual home for a growing community in Nepean.

Spring 2023

Construction begins

Work starts on a new building beside the church.

Nov 13, 2023

The foundation is blessed

His Grace Bishop Boulos places copies of the Holy Bible in the foundation.

Nov 2025

Grand opening

St. Mary Community Centre opens its doors to the neighbourhood.

Proud moments

Trusted for big occasions

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Honouring Ambassador Ahmed Hafez

A reception of appreciation for the Ambassador of Egypt to Canada.

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A Visit from Ms. Diana Fox Carney

SMCC welcomed the wife of Prime Minister Mark Carney.

🎄

Our First Christmas Market

Local vendors and families filled SMCC for a festive day.

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Our Grand Opening

The day SMCC opened its doors to the neighbourhood.

See all past events

Accessibility

Everyone is welcome

SMCC has accessible entrances, an elevator, accessible washrooms and accessible parking. Need something specific for your event? Let us know.

Getting here

1 Canfield Road, Nepean

Beside St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church, with free on-site parking.

Get directions

Our church

Part of the St. Mary family

SMCC is a ministry of St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church, Ottawa.

Visit stmary-ottawa.org

Planning a party, reception or event?

Tell us your date and we’ll get back to you with availability and pricing.