Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos on International Human Rights Day 2015

International Human Rights Day 2015

Statement by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of
 the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom

10 December 2015

As the world marks yet another Human Rights Day, it has become evident that the past 12 months have proven the need for such a focus and cause to continue to be championed. It would have been welcomed to see those whose rights were violated to have experienced greater freedom, empowerment, prosperity, dignity and safety, yet what has unfolded for many around the world is quite the opposite. We have seen innocent people displaced, tortured, sold into slavery, beheaded and even burned alive, for trying to live the freedom for which they were created.

It may seem simple to perpetrators to violate the rights of those whom they see as less deserving, less entitled, or indeed less human. Until the right of every person to share equally in the gracious gift of life and the appreciation of the sanctity of that life is recognised, these violations will continue, and even be justified, by those who see themselves entitled to determine who does and does not have a right to live, where, and under what conditions.

It is worth stressing that freedom is a right given to all to be experienced individually within a given context, and that context is dependent upon an understanding of self within a cultural identity. What we sometimes see however is some who see themselves as human rights champions and campaigners, imposing their own understanding of freedom upon others, and when their attempts are unsuccessful it is deemed to be the fault of those who could not embrace them. 

In  advocating for, and protecting, the great conventions that safeguard human rights, we must therefore not be prescriptive, or distracted from the fact that protecting those rights should actually be a baseline of our conviction, and realise that people are not only entitled to those rights, but to live with dignity and in a state of safety and security. 

Having said that, we must pay tribute to the immensely valuable and courageous work being done by so many around the world at a great cost to themselves. Advocates, lawyers, politicians, healthcare professionals, aid workers, volunteers and so many more go to great lengths and are subjected to great risks purely for the sake of others. Within a Christian context, they show that there is “no greater love than to lay down one’s life” for another (John 15:3); sometimes quite literally.  These individuals strive tirelessly to uphold principles that are core to our communities, but for many remain a distant dream.

In that same spirit, we all now have an opportunity to exhibit this same humaneness and charity by assisting and even welcoming the many thousands who are displaced and seeking refuge, who are not mere statistics or a phenomenon, but are human beings fleeing conflict and seeking basic human rights and dignity.

Today, we pray particularly for those whose rights to life and dignity continue to be violated, for those who advocate for and serve them, and for those whose hearts are moved to be a vehicle for the provision of support for these many who are deprived of the God-given rights granted to all but enjoyed by so few. 

Article by HG Bishop Angaelos on 'A Christian response to the plight of refugees and displaced peoples'

4 December 2015

A safe passage: a Christian response to the plight of refugees and displaced peoples

By His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom

As countries across Europe unite in their efforts to address the crisis in the Middle East and its root causes and effects, it is important that as Christians, we recognise our role and what we represent in the midst of this crisis.

The Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ is pivotal to our Faith and is the most powerful demonstration of what it means to provide for the needs of others who find themselves in exile, away from their rightful homelands. As humans, we were all victims of the separation from God caused by the weakness of our humanity, and through the Incarnation and Salvation, were restored to our rightful place in Him. When God took flesh, He experienced our pain by sharing in it and not merely observing our situation from a distance. Having said that, the Incarnation of our Lord was not only intended to make humanity feel comfortable in the world (John 17:14-15), but to provide a safe and viable route back to its rightful original place in His Kingdom.

Likewise, we must also feel the pain of those suffering, share their burden, and provide for the immediate humanitarian needs of the vulnerable who are both internally and externally displaced. Our longer-term vision must then be to restore them, if that is their desire, to the lands they have occupied for generations, and in which their heritage and identity lies; a restoration that is founded upon dignity, equality, safety and prosperity.

The idea of providing this means of return is by no means prescriptive, but is based upon the same concept of our Lord having provided us with a viable way to reach His Kingdom through Salvation, but leaving that desire and its related choices to every individual.

We must then continue to work towards safeguarding the dignity of every person we encounter, and to call for the basic God-given rights owed to the countless millions living in unenviable positions of displacement or exile. We must also do all we can to provide for those in greatest need of our support, for in doing so we live the message of the Incarnate Lord, extending our hand and offering ourselves as ministers of His message of hope, light and love (Matthew 5:14).

Bishop Angaelos delivers address and answers questions regarding the refugee crisis during a Churches Together in England (CTE) President’s dinner with Church leaders at Lambeth Palace on 3 December 2015.

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Bishop Angaelos delivers address and answers questions regarding the refugee crisis during a Churches Together in England (CTE) President’s dinner with Church leaders at Lambeth Palace on 3 December 2015.

The meeting commenced with a short welcome from The Most Revd and Rt Hon Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, followed by a brief introduction by The Rt Revd Nigel Stock, Bishop at Lambeth, and David Cornick, General Secretary of CTE. Speeches were made by Presidents of CTE, the Most Rev Vincent Nichols, Cardinal of Westminster, and Dr Hugh Osgood.

In beginning his address. His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, commended the work being done by various Faith leaders and communities in response to the refugee crisis, and went on to outline the role Christians and Church leaders in their response, saying:

“The responsibility we have as Christians to be charitable and generous is undeniable, and it is important for us to always be good and faithful conduits of the Christian message of love and hospitality which is indiscriminate and undeniable.”

Speaking of the enormity of the challenge of refugee resettlement and stabilisation, His Grace went on to say:

“There is no way that all those currently displaced within or outside of Syria can be absorbed into other nations, and we must understand that the majority of them do not wish to leave their homelands. If their own places of heritage and history were available to them they would remain in their countries.”

“While we need to focus on the immediate vulnerability of refugees we must also think long-term about providing the possibility of return through safe and legitimate means, to ensure they have safety and refuge in their homelands.”

Urging Faith leaders to rethink rhetoric used in responding to the issue, he said:

“In tackling this issue our threshold has dropped; we are now calling for people not to be executed for their Faith or lack thereof, whereas we must realise and communicate that being alive is not a privilege but a right. We must call for all to live within a context of dignity, equality, safety and prosperity.”

Speaking of the efforts of Muslim faith leaders in their response to extremist ideology, he said:

“We must pay tribute to the Muslim voices that have spoken against these atrocities and also recognise that more must speak out, as this counter-narrative must come from within Islam and its institutions. Not only should we pay tribute to these courageous voices but we must stand by them when they speak because they become targets in challenging the more radical voices around them.”

In conclusion, Bishop Angaelos called for more unified and collaborative efforts, saying:

“We must realise that this is a great opportunity for the Church in England to be a source of light. We must stand collectively to pray, speak and provide hope into these dire situations.”

Quoting Scripture, Bishop Angaelos called for Christians to remember that “The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were once strangers…” (Leviticus 19:34)

HG Bishop Angaelos took part in 'High-Level meeting' at the European Parliament regarding the worldwide persecution of Christians, and later spoke at the Maranatha Community Annual Lecture in Manchester on the role of Faith in Politics.

2 December 2015

Held within the framework of Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), a meeting hosted by Mr. Martin Schulz, President of the European Parliament and Mr. Antonio Tajani, Vice-President of the European Parliament, was held at the European Parliament on 1 December 2015 themed ‘The persecution of Christians in the world- A call for action.'

Contributors spoke on the condition of Christians facing persecution across the world, and provided case studies for the Balkans, Pakistan, Sinai, Iraq, and Eritrea. At the meeting, HG Bishop Angaelos stressed the essential need for collaborative advocacy in efforts to help those persecuted worldwide.

After the meeting Bishop Angaelos spoke with both the President and Vice-President of the European Parliament of the need to find ways of future collaboration and co-operation. Speaking from Brussels Bishop Angaelos went on to say:

“It was an effective gathering of people who are very active and committed to working for the persecuted and vulnerable around the world. What is clear however, is that we need to continue finding ways to collaborate without losing the individuality of organisations, but in such a way as to maximise the impact of our combined efforts.”

Later in the day, Bishop Angaelos returned to the United Kingdom to deliver the annual address at the annual Maranatha Community Lecture on ‘Faith in Politics.’

Speaking on the role of Faith in politics he said:     

“Our Christian Faith is an intrinsic part of who we are, as created in the Image and Likeness of God, and so it is meant to be indivisible from who we are and what we do at all times. Our Faith must always determine our ethics, morals, principles and actions.”    

Addressing those involved in politics, Bishop Angaelos said:    

“It is within the context of our Faith, forming our identity, that we must speak boldly, but doing so in a way that makes sense to those listening. In presenting our principles, aspirations and demands, what we say must always be relevant and gracious, and spoken in such a way that ensures it is heard and understood.”

Speaking about advocacy and politics, he went on to say:          

“Christians have a responsibility to advocate and speak for the rights and freedoms of all those for whom those rights are threatened or violated, regardless of their religion. We should be able to speak for justice, equality and God-given human rights, as this is core to our Faith. Religious leaders must act as a moral compass, not a driving force affected by party politics...”          

Bishop Angaelos concluded with a passage from Scripture, highlighting the power and beauty of unity and the boldness of true witness:     

“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place…And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance... And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers…and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles.” (Acts 2:1,4,43)

Press Release: Bishop Angaelos contributes to migration crisis debate during Church of England General Synod 2015

Press Release: Bishop Angaelos contributes to migration crisis debate during Church of England General Synod 2015

25 November 2015

Addressing the situation facing Christians in the Middle East, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, called for continued ecumenical and inter-religious collaboration in response to the complex crisis facing refugees.

Speaking of the crisis as an opportunity for Christians and the Church to act, Bishop Angaelos said:

“We are a united Body of Christ, there is no Church of the East and Church of the West; it is one Body and it suffers equally, and so we need to approach this matter collaboratively. These are, after all, vulnerable people, not merely statistics. We also extend this voice of advocacy to non-Christians, as we cannot just look after 'our own'.”

He went on to say:

“This situation does however present a wonderful opportunity, because there is no greater place for light than in the most abject darkness; so we are here as that light and that hope…We are not here to worry or fear, but to think how we can collaborate. Taking inspiration from Saint Francis, we must work to be the living scripture before all.”

Photo by Geoff Crawford

Reassuring members of the Synod that the crisis is not theirs alone to respond to, Bishop Angaelos concluded by saying:

“We need to collaborate ecumenically as this is not a problem for just the Church of England, but the Church IN England. We are here to work together as Churches with our networks in the United Kingdom and in the Middle East.”

Bishop Angaelos went on to say:

“We must also remember to support our inter-religious friends when they speak out powerfully, as they too become targets.”

He concluded by saying:

“I am thankful for my presence here ecumenically and I see myself as a voice in and a voice out. As a voice in I bring you the voices of the Middle East Church leaders both here in the United Kingdom and across the Middle East who value your support. As a voice out I will present the sentiments that I have felt personally in this chamber that their brothers and sisters here want to support them in every way, and in the words of Revelation 1:9 we do indeed “share with you in Jesus the persecution and the kingdom and the patient endurance”.

Following his contribution, The Most Revd and Rt Hon Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, urged Synod to:

“Listen carefully to the powerful words of Bishop Angaelos and his colleagues from that part of the world that the ideal situation is not simply, as one of them put it, to create a drain for the people of those countries to escape, but create the means by which they can stay in prosperity, in flourishing and in safety”.

During his contribution, Bishop Angaelos commended the work of many within the Church of England including the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, and the Bishops of Durham and Croydon for their continued efforts in responding to the crisis and raising awareness to it. Among others, His Grace also acknowledged the contribution of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, the Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Baroness Anelay, Minister for the MENA region Tobias Elwood, and the newly-appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Richard Harrington MP.

This debate came on the second day of Synod, following its inauguration by Her Majesty The Queen on 24 November 2015.

*Ends*

Resources:

• Submission by HG Bishop Angaelos to the International Development Committee’s inquiry into the Government’s response to the Syrian Refugee crisis HERE
• Statements and comments by HG Bishop Angaelos regarding the refugee crisis via www.CopticMediaUK.com

Press Release: Statement by His Grace Bishop Angaelos regarding the recent attacks in Paris

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

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Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

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15 November 2015

As the full extent of the tragic aftermath of the indiscriminate brutality witnessed in Paris becomes more apparent, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families and loved ones of all who have lost their lives so tragically, and those who will continue to live with the injury and trauma suffered as a result of these horrific events.

These scenes of intentionally brutal and unmerciful violence around the world, most recently in Lebanon, Iraq, Turkey, Egypt and Syria, are becoming an all too familiar component of our daily lives, yet the effect of such inhumane acts against innocent individuals and families remains deeply traumatic and painful for all touched by them, both directly and indirectly. 

Our world today has become full of such disregard for the sanctity and value of every human life, but as we have seen over the past days, the response of so many paying tribute to, and showing their support for and solidarity with, France shows that there is an inextinguishable mercy, hope and light at the heart of humanity as a whole that is capable of collectively overcoming any darkness faced.

We must never lose sight of the effectiveness of prayer, nor of the powerful impact that our collective acts of solidarity offer in confronting such evil and the fear it inevitably instils; for it is that goodness in the world that causes evil to be cast out. We must therefore remember that although the constantly-streaming news we see, hear and read points to a very bleak world filled with darkness, a powerful light continues to shine through the acts of brave and hopeful individuals and communities, propagating this hope further. 

As Christians, we are given a very specific instruction in chapter 5 of the Gospel of Saint Matthew: "But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you..." because in so doing, we become true children of our Father in heaven. With this spirit, we pray for hearts bent on harm and destruction to be changed, a transition we ourselves are familiar with in the life of the great Saint Paul who started his life as Saul, persecutor of the early Church. We can never truly know when and how such acts of rampant violence will cease, but we pray for those who commit them to realise the full, wasteful and devastating impact of their actions on the lives of so many who bleed and mourn just as they do. We also pray that the pain, anger and resentment caused by these events do not corrupt good hearts or tear communities apart.  

As families mourn the loss of loved ones in Paris, we pray that God gives comfort and peace to all who feel they have lost much. As so many around the world continue to suffer the effects of intolerance and an ever-narrowing perspective of some regarding who does and does not deserve to live, and as many seek refuge from persecution and war-torn regions, our prayers are also offered for them as they encounter such adversity and difficulty in striving for freedom and refuge. 

May we never lose sight of the powerful and hope-filled message of Saint Paul himself to the Corinthians, that we are "...hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed..."

*Ends*

Sermon by His Grace Bishop Angaelos following the Paris attacks: http://bit.ly/1MPKd06

Press Release: Bishop Angaelos gives address on refugee crisis at WCC Consultation in Munich

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Bishop Angaelos gives address on refugee crisis at World Council of Churches Church Leaders Consultation in Munich

29 October 2015

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, spoke of the challenges and opportunities of the current refugee crisis at a World Council of Churches Consultation in Munich, Germany, jointly hosted by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria (ELKB), the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) and the World Council of Churches (WCC).

During his address, Bishop Angaelos said:

“We are not only witnessing the immense displacement of vulnerable people fleeing war-torn countries, but a dehumanisation and a loss of dignity of those people…they do not leave their countries unless they feel that they no longer have a viable presence there. We need to look with a new heart, to encourage our states and governments, and all who make decisions, to look at these people as more than mere statistics.”

Speaking of ways to address the crisis, he went on to say:

“This epidemic that we are seeing needs to be addressed collaboratively, across the Church and across religions, nation states, organisations, and international bodies. This crisis is larger than any one person, state, religion, or organisation, and so we need to encourage one another to move on in active collaboration. Without a streamlining of our efforts, we will see a wastage of both human and material resources.”

In conclusion, Bishop Angaelos gave a message of hope:

“As Christians we believe that there is always hope; this is a great opportunity for us all to be light in an abject darkness, and a light that can and will make a difference.”

In speaking about the consultation shortly after his address, Bishop Angaelos said:

“This is a welcomed initiative of WCC and its member Churches to bring Church leaders together from across Europe and discuss the implications both, in the Middle East and in Europe, of what we see unfolding at the moment.

It is widely agreed here that there is a major and complex situation in the Middle East, and that Christians and others are facing immense pressures, living in great risk because of the conflict that is occurring around them.

As I have been saying all along, the complexity of the unfolding situation in the Middle East necessitates a coordinated and collaborative response encompassing nation states, as well as religious and non-governmental organisations and bodies. While this is a great challenge, it is not one that cannot be met if we work together to safeguard those most vulnerable.”

Taking part in the consultation were 35 bishops and Church leaders from 20 countries, and representatives from a variety of Churches across Europe.

The programme included presentations and discussions surrounding values and perspectives in the public sphere, along with discussions of possible future strategies and steps for action to assist those affected by the crisis.

*Ends*

Press release: Victims of religious persecution remembered in annual Coptic New Year Service, Westminster Abbey

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

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Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

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23 October 2015

Victims of religious persecution remembered during the annual Coptic New Year service at St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey on 22 October 2015 with messages from HRH The Prince of Wales, Prime Minister David Cameron, and The Archbishop of Canterbury.

In his sermon to members of the House of Lords, House of Commons, members of the diplomatic corps and various ecumenical, inter-religious and official guests, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, marked 2015 as a year of commemoration, marking the Centenary of the Armenian Genocide and the end of WW1, as well as the year in which the United Kingdom celebrates HM The Queen as its longest reigning monarch. He continued that it is also a year that will be commemorated in history with regards to matters of international religious freedom. 

Speaking about the brutal murder of Coptic and Ethiopian Christians in Libya earlier this year he said:

“This has been a year during which a line of unparalleled evil has been crossed, and this has touched us all personally.

It is also a year during which there has been an expression of solidarity from prominent figures, including His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales and Prime Minister David Cameron, along with the vast breadth of the Christian family in Britain and around the world, and brothers and sisters from a multitude of faiths.  

We must however see this as a year of opportunity, to break the darkness that increasingly surrounds us day after day with light and hope. This is a time for us all to stand in solidarity.”

Touching on the Government’s Syrian refugee scheme, Bishop Angaelos said:

“We welcome the fact that our nation has decided to accept 20,000 refugees, and undoubtedly we need to do more, but let us be thankful for the start of this initiative and continue to work together to help those most vulnerable.”

In a message from the Right Honourable David Cameron, Prime Minister, read by The Baroness Berridge of The Vale of Catmose, the following was said:

“I recognise that this is one of the most auspicious days within the Coptic Calendar and an important occasion not only to give thanks, but also to remember those who suffer for their faith around the world.”

Going on to say:

“I believe that our communities here in Britain and abroad have been strengthened by the strong voice and leadership provided by the Coptic Orthodox Church.”

In a message from The Most Rev. and the Rt Hon. the Archbishop of Canterbury, read by The Right Reverend Christopher Chessun, the Coptic New Year was spoken of as an occasion for thankfulness, yet also:

“…one of somber commemoration of the martyrs of the past two millennia, particularly the Armenian martyrs and our Coptic and Ethiopian brothers in Christ who recently gave their lives in Libya …For us it is a reminder to be persistent in our commitment to prayer and solidarity.”

Bishop Christopher, in his address, thanked the leadership of the Coptic Church for:

“…drawing attention to the struggles and challenges faced by people in the Middle East, both Christians and others, and in particular the plight of refugees from the nations of the Middle East.”

Baroness Berridge, Co-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief spoke of the many unable to worship freely in the Middle East, saying:

“How wonderful it is that an Orthodox service can be celebrated here in the United Kingdom…but there are places in the Middle East where that service is no longer celebrated…”

Referring to the OBE conferred upon Bishop Angaelos by Her Majesty The Queen, Baroness Berridge also mentioned that this is the first time that such an award has been given for International Religious Freedom, expressing that it is indicative of the times and in recognition of the work that has been done by Bishop Angaelos and the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Referring to the work of the APPG and the role of the Coptic Church, she went on to say:

“In our country we have been given the resources to do the work that we need to do, but it is only through the generosity of others that we can do that work, and I do want to pay tribute for the continued and faithful support of the Coptic Orthodox Church for the parliamentary work here in the UK.”

The service commenced with a welcome and short address from The Reverend Canon Andrew Tremlett, Canon of Westminster & Rector of St Margaret’s Church, who said:

“…the continuing events of the Middle East bring into sharp focus the need for prayer, solidarity, and common cause which tonight’s service represents.”

*Ends*

Press Release: Historic prayers at St Paul's Cathedral on the same day Bishop Angaelos receives OBE

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Historic prayers at St Paul’s Cathedral for victims of religious persecution on the same day that Bishop Angaelos receives an OBE for ‘Services to International Religious Freedom’

19 October 2015

The Coptic Orthodox Church held an unprecedented prayer service in the Order of the British Empire Chapel in St Paul’s Cathedral, following an evensong service on Friday 16 October 2015 dedicated to victims of religious persecution and refugees suffering as a result of conflict in the Middle East.

Evensong was led by The Very Reverend Dr David Ison, Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, and attended by The Rt Revd & Rt Hon Dr Richard Chartres, Bishop of London, and His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom. Also attending the service were a number of ecumenical, diplomatic and official guests, alongside members of the Coptic community in London.

Following evensong, a Coptic Orthodox service of prayer was led by Bishop Angaelos in the Order of the British Empire Chapel for victims of religious persecution around the world. Prayers were again offered for refugees fleeing conflict in the Middle East.

At the start of the prayer service the Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral gave a welcome address, in which he said:

“You are very welcome to be here on this day as Bishop Angaelos has received the award of the Order of the British Empire and is now with us in this joyful yet solemn occasion, doing what his award is for; promoting religious freedom. Although it is a day of joy for us, it is also a day of sadness in that there are many in the world who do not have religious freedom, and the work continues.”  

In his message, Bishop Angaelos said:

“I am thankful for the wonderful and gracious hospitality we have received, in being able to use this great Cathedral, this place of prayer, and the cornerstone of life in London and in Britain, to celebrate both evensong with the Church of England and to pray the Coptic Rite together in this Chapel for the first time. There is no greater representation of love, fellowship, companionship and a single journey that we all travel together in this great Nation, as the Body of Christ.”

“Being here and praying for those who are still victims of religious persecution is bitter sweet, because it is a shame that we still need to. We must continue to pray for all who suffer, as this tragic situation is still a reality, not only for Christians, but for many around the world in numerous countries.”

“We pray for those living hardship and persecution, and those seeking refuge, as well as those who are accepting them so graciously…We must be appreciative of the hospitality currently offered, even if we continue to strive in extending this hospitality further.”

The prayers at St Paul’s Cathedral were offered on the same day that Bishop Angaelos was formally invested as an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for ‘Services to International Religious Freedom’ by Her Majesty The Queen at Windsor Castle.

After the prayer service, The Bishop of London said: 

“The Order has been one that recognises outstanding contributions, excellence and achievement in all sorts of fields…it is a particular honour that now we have as a most distinguished member of the Order, Bishop Angaelos.”

He went on to thank Bishop Angaelos for:

“…his immense work…to bring together not only Christians, but people of all faiths in this Country.”     

Baroness Berridge, Co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief, said:

“His Grace has been a very keen supporter of the work that we are doing in parliament, and an amazing support to those of us who are standing up for religious freedom, and he has also introduced us to the wider community.”

*Ends*

Any publication wishing to use the photograph of HM The Queen and HG Bishop Angaelos must contact:

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Resources regarding HG Bishop Angaelos on international religious freedom:

• Video coverage of events/interviews with HG Bishop Angaelos: www.YouTube.com/CopticMediaUK

• Statements by HG Bishop Angaelos www.CopticMediaUK.com

• Twitter feed: @BishopAngaelos @CopticMediaUK

Press Release: Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission publishes historic 'Agreed Statement on Christology'

9 October 2015

Historic agreements on the incarnation of Christ
and procession of the Holy Spirit

© Nathaniel Ramanaden

Historic agreements have been signed between Anglican and Oriental Orthodox Churches helping to heal the oldest continuing division within Christianity.

An Agreed Statement on Christology, published in North Wales this week by the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission, heals the centuries-old split between the Anglican Churches within the family of Chalcedonian Churches and the non-Chalcedonian Churches over the incarnation of Christ.

In addition, the Commission has made substantial progress on issues concerning the Holy Spirit, which have continued to keep the Churches apart over the centuries.

Leading clergy and theologians from both Christian traditions from around the world have been meeting at Gladstone’s Library in Hawarden to engage in theological dialogue, while at the same time forging deeper bonds of faith and mutual support.

His Eminence Metropolitan Bishoy from the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria in Egypt and Co-Chair of the Commission said: “With this agreement we are able to heal the cause of the division between the two families of the churches worldwide which started at Chalcedon.

“There are other things which emerged during the long history since Chalcedon in the fifth century, so we have on our agenda many other topics including the position of the Holy Spirit, which we were able to sign a preliminary agreement on this subject also.

“The publication of our Agreed Statement on Christology is a great outcome of sharing dialogue together. It is a very beautiful piece of theology which is very encouraging and easily understandable to the people and pleasing to the theologians.”

The Commission has spent a week in North Wales talking and visiting church communities across the Diocese of St Asaph. Speaking during Evensong at St Asaph Cathedral, the Anglican Co-Chair of the Commission, The Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt Revd Gregory Cameron, who hosted the visit, said: “It’s a privilege to welcome you to this building which has seen worship every day for at least 800 years, although this is a tradition which can be easily matched and bettered by the Churches of the East.

© Neil Vigers

“Ecumenical dialogue can be long, but beneath the process is the love shared between Christians, and it is that love and affection which draws us together and back to dialogue and mutual understanding.”

The Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission was established in 2001 to strengthen the relationships between the different Churches and to discuss important theological issues, such as Christology, which divided the Church at the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD.

The dialogue was halted in 2003 following the consecration of Bishop Gene Robinson in the Episcopal Church (in the United States) but resumed in 2013 with good progress being made since.

As well as dialogue, the Commission worshipped and prayed, sharing the urgent concerns of members from the Middle East, especially in the critical situations in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and other regions. 

Metropolitan Polycarp Augin Aydın from the Syrian Orthodox Archdiocese in the Netherlands explained why this agreement is important now: “Because of immigration we now find ourselves side by side as neighbours. In the past we used to talk about Eastern and Western Christianity but this is no longer the case. There are Eastern Christians who live in the Western Countries and vice versa. Therefore we have to dialogue with each other and to really learn from one another and to really share our treasures with one another.”

Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the UK said:

"The world we are living in today is a world that needs us as Christians to stand together.

© Neil Vigers

"Around our commission table, we have the Armenians commemorating the Armenian Genocide, the Syrians and Iraqis whose countries are war-torn and peoples displaced, the Copts who have lost 21 of their men to that horrific martyrdom in Libya, the Ethiopians likewise in Libya, and here in Europe we also have our own struggles. It is very much time for us to stand together as Church leaders and to recognise what we have in common while at the same time respecting the differences we have."

"Over the past 15 years since 9/11 there has been a huge appetite for us to work with other religions but unfortunately I have not seen the same appetite for many people to work with other Churches. It becomes fashionable to be able to dialogue with inter-faith communities but we do not celebrate with each other or accept each other as we are; we want others to fit into a certain mould. So I think this dialogue acknowledges that we might have different teachings on things and some matters we may never resolve, and that is the reality of it, but we are not trying to be the same, we are trying to work on what we have in common."

For the two Church families this agreement is ground-breaking and could be a model for future ecumenical dialogue. The Very Revd Archimandrite Shahe Ananyan from the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church said: “Every signed ecumenical official document has its difficulties and has its advantages also. This document I think is a model for other Christological dialogues between Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches which need to re-start. I think this document could be served as a model for subsequently developed dialogues.”

© Neil Vigers

The Commission will meet again in Lebanon from 24-29 October 2016, where it is expected that dialogue on the Holy Spirit will continue.

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Click here to read the complete text of the AOOIC agreed statement on Christology, which can also be purchased from the Anglican Communion's online shop.

For further information or to arrange an interview with one of the Commission members, please contact Karen Maurice, Communications Officer for the Diocese of St Asaph 01745 532588 / 01745 582245 or mobile 07918133420 or email Karenmaurice@churchinwales.org.uk

Comment by His Grace Bishop Angaelos on the refugee crisis

Welcoming those less fortunate

By His Grace Bishop Angaelos,

General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom

Until now, the Middle East crisis has been contained in that part of the world, and has, for some, become somewhat of a distant reality. If we have occasionally been moved by what we have seen or heard in reports, we have also had the relative comfort of being several steps removed from the situation. Now however, we are witnessing the movement of tens of thousands of desperate people fleeing that crisis and approaching the shores of Europe to seek refuge, and so the issue has become much more immediate and closer to home.

I have recently visited both refugee camps in Erbil and transit camps on the Greek-Macedonian (FYROM) border at Idomeni, and have therefore seen this humanitarian tragedy from both sides. This has provided an invaluable opportunity to personally meet and speak with many humanitarian aid workers and volunteers, as well as those in camps, and those making the dangerous journey. It has also further reinforced my view that this is a humanitarian crisis of a scale unseen since the Second World War, and that it can only be satisfactorily addressed, let alone resolved, through collaboration among and between states, NGOs and religious institutions. 

During my visit to Idomeni it was painful to hear a young Syrian man say “…in Syria we are now used to quick deaths that come with bombs or shootings, but what we are experiencing in these journeys is a slow death.” The fact that these refugees willingly travel, sometimes with their children, in what they themselves call ‘death boats’ is proof of the desperate situations they are fleeing, and their struggle should not be belittled.

Along these journeys, vulnerable refugees, many of whom are children and minors, become easy prey for trafficking and organised crime gangs that exploit this vulnerability in a way that shames our humanity. We must therefore not close our ears to the cries of those who flee the horrors of their day-to-day existence in war-torn homelands to face even more horrific journeys. As more borders close, refugees who have already sacrificed almost everything will still find alternate routes because they have nothing to lose. In anticipation, we must collaborate to formulate a coherent and humane response and continue to protect those in greatest need while recognising and preserving their dignity.

As the United Kingdom prepares to welcome refugees from camps bordering Syria under the Government’s Vulnerable People Relocation Scheme (VPRS), it is imperative that we look at the whole issue of asylum with renewed insight. Until now, refugees have been considered by many as a potential burden and/or threat on and to our communities, and an additional drain on our economy. Looking with humane eyes however, we must realise that the majority of these vulnerable individuals have experienced immense suffering and loss and have not wanted to, but have been compelled to, leave their countries, communities, and all they have behind. Many have even more tragically also lost loved ones in this ongoing conflict.

The Prime Minister’s initiative to accept 20,000 refugees from camps bordering Syria over the next five years is welcomed, as it will indeed make a significant difference to those people and their families. While this is a start to solving a problem that is now of immense magnitude, we are also hopeful that these numbers will be revisited over time, and increased when possible to accommodate the ever-increasing flow of people fleeing conflict, war and persecution. As we see people come into the United Kingdom under this scheme or others, it is worth considering our outlook on the overall situation.

I was moved by the call of a senior figure within UNHCR Greece during my recent visit, who challenged us as Church leaders to make the teaching of Matthew 25 manifest: “Come, you blessed of My Father… for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.” This commandment is timeless and without exception, it applies today just as much as it did 2000 years ago when our Lord Jesus Christ Himself sought refuge in Egypt, fleeing adversity (Matthew 2:13).

As we do our utmost to serve those in great need, we pray for the millions currently displaced, those currently in refugee camps, and others who have embarked on treacherous journeys fleeing war and conflict; we also pray for policy makers, aid workers and volunteers who are dealing with this complex situation first-hand.

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Find out more about His Grace’s visit to Greece via CTBI.org.uk