Press Release: Archbishop of Canterbury stepping down in December 2012

Press Release from the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

For immediate use

Date:  16^th March 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Media and Public Relations Office

After receiving news that the Most Reverend Dr. Rowan Williams will be stepping down as Archbishop of Canterbury at the end of December 2012, HG Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom issued the following statement:

While I received the news of the stepping down of the Most Reverend Dr. Rowan Williams as Archbishop of Canterbury with great sadness, I am confident of the spirituality, wisdom, integrity and careful consideration that must drive such a decision. 

Through his ten years at Lambeth Palace, Archbishop Rowan has sought to deepen and strengthen relations within the Christian family around the world and has always been mindful of the deep and historic relationship between the Anglican Communion and the Coptic Orthodox Church, and at a wider level, with the family of Oriental Orthodox Churches internationally. We have also seen his great interest in and representation of Christians in the Middle East, as exemplified in the House of Lords Debate on the 9th December 2011. In the Archbishop we have also seen constant and faithful efforts aimed at holding together the Anglican Communion through what has been a very challenging time.

I will always hold very fond memories of the Archbishop’s visits to our Coptic Orthodox Church Centre, and the many ways in which we have worked together during the past ten years. I am also grateful for the numerous visits that His Grace has made to His Holiness Pope Shenouda III in Egypt.

In praying for Archbishop Rowan, whom I also consider a friend, I look forward to our continued co-operation in these coming months and beyond. As president of The Council of Oriental Orthodox Churches, I express our appreciation for the relationship we have had over these past years and assure him of our continued prayers.  

For more information please contact:

Media and Public Relations Officer
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Tel: +44 (0)207 1937076

Resources:

Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos regarding the debate led by His Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury on the 9th December 2011: Consensus in the British House of Lords on the state of Christians in the Middle East

Press Release: House of Lords debate on Christians in the Middle East, 9th December 2011

Press Releases and Statements: The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK Blog

Media and Public Relations Office
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage
Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com
Website: www.CopticCentre.com

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The Coptic Orthodox Church launches a new ministry in the City of London to commence on the 4th March 2012

Press Release from the Coptic Orthodox Church UK

For immediate use

Date:  17th February 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church UK

Media and Public Relations Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church launches a new ministry in the City of London to commence on the 4^th March 2012.

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church announced the launch of The St. Paul Ministry, a new initiative of the Church in the United Kingdom. Held in the beautiful and historic St. Mary-le-Bow church in the City of London, monthly services will be offered in the English language while maintaining the traditional Coptic spirituality and hymnology. Services will be followed by a fellowship meal and a contemporary Bible study and discussion. The first service will be held on Sunday 4^th March at 10am.

Bishop Angaelos who, with a dynamic and dedicated steering group, established the ministry, said the following:

“While this is a new and exciting ministry for the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, it follows the ethos that has been at its core for centuries, introducing people to our Lord Jesus Christ through the lived perspective of the Church in a real and relevant way. The words of Acts 2:42 have always been especially pertinent to me, and it is exciting to see them presented in a fresh 21^st Century expression.”

Mission Statement

The St Paul Ministry is founded on a novel and fresh approach to fellowship, with the aim of encountering Christ through the life and practice of the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Christian Church of Egypt. This Ministry aims to make the ancient apostolic Faith practical, reachable and tangible within a Western context. Our goal is to enable the enrichment of lives through the fellowship of the Church, the manifest Body of Christ.

In line with Acts 2:42, the St Paul Ministry aims to achieve this by: 
1. Providing opportunities for greater knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures and teachings of the Fathers. 
2. Creating a safe and familiar space for interaction with like-minded people along their spiritual journey. 
3. Making manifest the Faith and practice of the Church through its Sacraments.
4. Having a time of focused collective prayer and worship.

First Service:

The first service will be held on Sunday 4th March at 10am in St. Mary-le-Bow church.

Resources:

St. Paul Ministry Website: www.StPaulMinistry.com

On Twitter: @StPaulMinistry , www.twitter.com/StPaulMinistry

E-mail: Contact@StPaulMinistry.com

[ENDS]

For more information contact:

Media and Public Relations Officer Coptic Orthodox Church UK Media and Public Relations Office The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre Shephalbury Manor Broadhall Way, Stevenage Hertfordshire SG2 8NP England, United Kingdom Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076 Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879 Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com Website: www.CopticCentre.com Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/CopticMediaUK

Prayer Day for Egypt at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Following the success of last year's day of prayer for Egypt with Egyptian Christians from all denominations, a similar day will be held this year on Saturday the 3rd of March at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK. This will be an all day event starting with Liturgy, brunch, and then meet in the hall to pray together. Everyone is invited to attend. Visit www.CopticCentre.com or e-mail VisitUs@CopticCentre.com

PRESS RELEASE: Anglican and Oriental Orthodox co-operation in England

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Media and Public Relations Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE ANGLICAN-ORIENTAL ORTHODOX REGIONAL FORUM (AOORF)

Ecumenical Forum Formally Established

Members of AOORF wish to publicise a new development in the ecumenical relationship between the Church of England and the Oriental Orthodox Churches.

The Forum has existed informally for a number of years, but has now formalised and clarified its role by the drawing up of a document setting out its Aims and Objectives.  

The purpose of the Forum is to bring together representatives from the Church of England and those Oriental Orthodox Churches who are increasingly present in the United Kingdom.

In summary the aims of the Forum are:

·         To receive and consider documents from international dialogues and their local relevance and implications amongst both clergy and laity.

·         To encourage the unity of the Church through common prayer, worship, witness and education.

·         To discuss current pastoral, social and political issues and where appropriate make representations and responses to these issues.

The Forum is Co Chaired by The Right Reverend Dr Geoffrey Rowell (Bishop in Europe) and His Grace Bishop Angaelos (Coptic Orthodox Church).

Bishop Geoffrey comments: “As Anglican Co-Chair of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International joint doctrinal Commission, I am delighted that the regional forum which has provided an informal channel of communication between Anglicans and Oriental Orthodox in England is now put on a firmer footing. With the increased numbers of Christians from the Oriental Orthodox Churches living in this country it is important that Anglicans build closer relationships with these churches. The appointment of Bishop Angaelos as an official ecumenical representative at the General Synod is a sign of this and is greatly to be welcomed.”

Bishop Angaelos comments: "At a time of increased challenge to the basic principles of morality and hope, concrete and visible unity in the life and witness of the Church is needed as a real support for our faithful and the wider community, and an affirmation of the viability and applicability of the Christian message. I feel that working together through AOORF provides a very real opportunity for our role to be even more prophetic in the United Kingdom as individual Churches, and the wider Church."

***

For further information please contact:

The Anglican Co-Secretary - The Revd Stephen Stavrou - stephenfrancisstavrou@yahoo.co.uk

The Orthodox Co-Secretary – Father Peter Farrington – fatherpeter@britishorthodox.org


Media and Public Relations Officer
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Tel: +44 (0)207 1937076

Media and Public Relations Office
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage
Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com
Website: www.CopticCentre.com
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/CopticMediaUK

Statement by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom on the first anniversary of the uprising in Egypt’s Tahrir Square which took place on the 25th January 2011.

In January of 2011 the whole world looked on with amazement at the energy, faithfulness and strength of the Egyptian people that was poured out in Tahrir Square, and Egyptians themselves looked upon the Square with pride as a visible manifestation of what could be accomplished as they stood together for a common cause. These historic occurrences did not only have a direct impact in Egypt, but were an inspiration for many across the Middle East who followed this lead. It was moving to see Egyptians, Christians and Muslims alike, standing side-by-side and shoulder-to-shoulder, reclaiming their national identity and resurrecting a spirit of hope for the present and the future.

This should not have been of any surprise however, as Egypt has a cultural history that dates back seven thousand years to the Pharaonic era, and has been blessed by God Himself in the Scriptures. As a result, we have confidence in God, Who is powerful, merciful and victorious, and will maintain His promise to fulfil that blessing, seeking to protect all His people, if we indeed walk in His way.

The revolution was hopeful and desired a transformation from a despotic regime to a more free and fair democratic nation for all, but in reality, at least in the short term, the transition has brought greater social divisions and subsequently given rise to increased attacks on minorities, mainly Christians. We therefore offer our prayers for all those who have suffered at this time as a result of these challenges, as well as those affected by an ailing economy, increasing unemployment and general breakdown in law and order.

Through this expected transitional instability, we are not segregating ourselves and looking purely at our own interests as Christians. We do not fear for Christians or Christianity in Egypt where it has been for two thousand years; Egypt is and will continue to be a place in which Christians witness their Faith on a day-to-day basis. We do however fear for Egypt, because it is Egypt that will weaken if all Egyptians do not stand and work together at this time.

The uprising has not yet reached its ultimate goal, and it is understood that the transition to a fully democratic state, if it is indeed to be reached, will take much time and effort. All necessary steps must be taken to ensure that accountability, justice and complete transparency prevail in the workings of all the apparatus of this state. As an essential part of this process the needless loss of life in Tahrir and Maspero must be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to fulfil the application of this transparent justice.

This is indeed a turning point in Egypt's contemporary history. It is a time at which there can still be positive reform and the building of a new nation that is cohesive, and instills a sense of citizenship, ownership and responsibility into every Egyptian; ceasing to focus on the person's religious or political stance, but more on his or her contribution and accountability to a single nation state and equality before the law.

This is indeed a time to stand together and call upon God that He may protect and keep His people in Egypt and every place. We have not in the past, and do not intend now, to live in a spirit of defeat or self-pity. The Christian message is one of power and hope; overcoming evil with good, and uncertainty with the knowledge of, and trust in, a true and faithful God.

As we reflect upon this last year, we pray for those who have lost their lives, especially in Tahrir and Maspero. We pray comfort for their families, healing for those who have been injured; and wisdom and strength for all those who still seek to make Egypt a credible and productive and embracing state for every Egyptian. We also pray that God grants wisdom to the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, the newly-formed parliament, the cabinet and the religious leadership, that they may all work together for the well-being of the nation and its people. We pray especially that the coming days, weeks and months pass without further needless bloodshed.

Press Release from The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK: The Catholic-Oriental Orthodox Forum launches 'Joint Statements'

Press Release from the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Date:  24^th January 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

 Media and Public Relations Office

The Catholic-Oriental Orthodox Regional Forum (COORF) launches a book entitled Joint Statements on Monday 23 January, outlining theological agreements between the Roman Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox family of Churches.  A press conference followed, led by Co-Chairs of COORF: His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, and President of the Council of Oriental Orthodox Churches of the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, and His Grace Archbishop Kevin McDonald, Archbishop Emeritus of Southwark.

His Grace Bishop Angaelos emphasised the relevance of this unprecedented move towards unity between the Oriental Orthodox Churches and the Roman Catholic Church, highlighting the clear areas of common Faith and witness that the Church bodies share, stating that the commonalities that exist far outweigh that which had previously been a cause of division.

Speaking of the sixteen hundred years of separation that the Churches have experienced and the role of ecumenism, which is now even more relevant on a global scale when taking into consideration recent events such as the Arab Spring, Archbishop McDonald stated:

“Even though in the past there were differences, they no longer justify the continued separation, and it is a call to the Churches to come together and move towards a closer communion…It is a good time for us to recognise that there is an international dimension to ecumenism and we all have a stake in it, we are all part of it.”

HG Bishop Angaelos clarified that the work of COORF does not intend to duplicate the work of the International Commission and does not assume that there are no differences, but tries to work within the areas which can be agreed upon, bearing in mind certain Dogmatic differences that are still being discussed at the international level. Drawing attention to the essence of Christian witness, he spoke of the work of the Forum as being laid on a solid foundation of friendship and real relationships that are fully realised and being further built upon. Speaking of the relevance and need for the publication, he said:

 “It is very well for us to stand at our pulpits and preach love, but if our faithful do not see our Churches working together they see this as being quite hypocritical. If we, as Church leaders, as priests and pastors and shepherds in the Church cannot actually portray this, if we cannot have this relationship and the wider relationship in this room and indeed between our Churches in this land that we live in, then we will find it very difficult to stand and preach love and forgiveness and acceptance, that is why I am very happy to be part of this launch.”

For more information and resources please contact:

Media and Public Relations Officer

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076

Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com

Photographs:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/catholicism/sets/72157628996904767/

Download Joint Statements Between the Catholic and Oriental Orthodox Churches from this page:

http://www.catholicnews.org.uk/Home/News-Releases/Catholic-Oriental-Orthodox-Regional-Forum-book-launch

Video Footage:

www.youtube.com/CopticMediaUK

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre

Shephalbury Manor

Broadhall Way, Stevenage

Hertfordshire SG2 8NP

England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076

Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879

Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com

Website:   www.CopticCentre.com

Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/CopticMediaUK

Press Release from the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

For immediate use

Date:  21^st January 2012

  

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Media and Public Relations Office

The Catholic - Oriental Orthodox Regional Forum (C-OORF) launches a new book hosted at The Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales on Monday 23 January with Co-Chairs of C-OORF: His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in The United Kingdom and His Grace Archbishop Kevin McDonald, Archbishop Emeritus of Southwark.

A book will be launched containing the Joint Statements issued by the Catholic and Oriental Orthodox Churches, and members of the Forum will talk about its aims and purpose.

In the foreword to Joint Statements, His Grace Bishop Angaelos said the following:

“The establishment of this Forum is unprecedented worldwide and provides a platform for shared life and witness between our ancient Churches, and in that same spirit, this book and the agreements published within it, show the commonalities that we have shared and continue to share, which enable us to work together for the glory of God and the service of His people.”

For more information please contact:

Media and Public Relations Office The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre Shephalbury Manor Broadhall Way, Stevenage Hertfordshire SG2 8NP England, United Kingdom Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076 Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879 Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com Website: www.CopticCentre.com Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/CopticMediaUK This message (and any attachments) is confidential to the intended recipient and may be privileged. If you are not the intended recipient you should contact us and must not make any use of it.

Coptic Youth Mission's CY Newsletter January Issue

Click to launch the full edition in a new window
Self Publishing with YUDU

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK hosts an Orthodox-Evangelical Consultation on collaborative mission

After having been invited to and attending The Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization in October 2010, His Grace Bishop Angaelos has been involved in conversations with members of the Lausanne movement. As a result of this meeting, The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in the UK hosted an Orthodox Evangelical Consultation on Thursday 12^th January 2012. Representatives of Orthodox and Evangelical traditions from The United States of America, Bulgaria, India, Albania, Russia and the UK as well as representatives of the Lausanne movement were in attendance.

The Lausanne movement is an Evangelical initiative with a focus on mission, and the aim of the consultation was to establish Orthodox participation in the movement. His Grace expressed the following:

“This step is unprecedented; this is a time to focus on Christian unity and to collaborate and witness collectively where we can, realising that what we have in common in many respects is far more than that which divides us. There will be no compromise on Theology or Dogma, but respecting that, there are still many ways in which we may be able to work together. ”

The meeting was held in a friendly, collaborative environment and participants were hopeful of further positive steps in the near future. 

Press Release from the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

For immediate use

Date:  9^th January 2012  

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre

Media and Public Relations Office

Representatives of Her Majesty The Queen, the Prime Minister, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, as well as numerous Ecumenical, Inter-Religious and Civil representatives attended the Alexandria Memorial Service at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in the UK, Sunday 8^th January.

A memorial service to mark the first anniversary of the bombing in Alexandria of the Church of Saints Mark & Peter in Egypt, as well as the victims of Atfih, Imbaba and more notably Maspero, was held on Sunday 8th January at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre, UK. In attendance was The Countess of Verulam, Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire representing Her Majesty The Queen, Ms Anne Aichroth, Egypt Desk Office representing the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and Downing Street, The Revd Canon Jonathan Goodall representing The Most Revd Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury,  as well as many Ecumenical, inter-religious and Civil representatives.

The service was led by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom who spoke about the Feast of the Nativity, being celebrated by the Coptic Orthodox Church on January 8 this year, and that the birth of Christ was for transformation and change, calling for an Egypt that is also transformed to be for every Egyptian citizen, stating the following in his address:

“We must move on from bitterness, but we must also move on from old ways that have fragmented a community and brought a death sentence, albeit unofficial, upon many...we stand and we pray today, we raise our hearts in confidence, and we place ourselves before the Incarnate Word, that as He sacrificed and as those we commemorate today sacrificed, as He reconciled the world, reconciliation may also come to every part of the world, to Egypt, to Nigeria, and to every part that is suffering now.”

The personal message from The Most Revd Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury said the following:

“I write to assure you once again of the love and prayer that the Church of England extends for you. We are all deeply conscious of the spiritual gifts poured out upon the Coptic Church and our prayer at the moment is that those gifts will be used in a peaceful new Egypt, where the very best of your history of tolerance and co-operation between communities of faith may be honoured. We pray very earnestly for the good of the whole nation...”

For more information and resources please contact:

Media and Public Relations Officer

Media@CopticCentre.com  

or by telephone 0207-193 7076

Resources

Memorial Service: Address by His Grace Bishop Angaelos

http://www.youtube.com/user/CopticMediaUK

www.BishopAngaelos.org

Transcript: available upon request

UK Press Conference RE: Maspero Incident, Westminster Central Hall, 20/10/2011

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drRjFb85pTw

House of Lords Debate: Situation of Christians in the Middle East, 9^th December 2011

http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Main/Player.aspx?meetingId=9536

Hansard from the House of Lords Debate

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld201011/ldhansrd/index/111209.html

Media and Public Relations Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage
Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com
Website:   www.CopticCentre.com
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/CopticMediaUK

A message from President Obama to Coptic Christians worldwide

Michelle and I wish Coptic Orthodox Christians in the United States and around the world a blessed and joyous Christmas. On this special day, we give thanks for the extraordinary contributions that Coptic Christians have made to the United States. I want to reaffirm the commitment of the United States to work for the protection of Christian and other religious minorities around the world. As events in Egypt and elsewhere have illustrated, and as history repeatedly reminds us, freedom of religion, the protection of people of all faiths, and the ability to worship as you choose are critical to a peaceful, inclusive and thriving society. In this Christmas season, we join our Coptic brothers and sisters around the globe in prayers for peace.

Source: whitehouse.gov

Press Release from the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

For immediate use

Date:  4^th January 2012  

                                                                                                           

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre

Media and Public Relations Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in the UK holds a Memorial Service for victims of the Alexandria bombings in Egypt, Sunday 8^th January 2pm.

A representative of Her Majesty the Queen, heads of churches, as well as Ecumenical, inter-religious and Civil representatives are due to attend a memorial service on Sunday 8^th January, to mark the first anniversary of the bombing in Alexandria of the Church of Saints Mark & Peter in Egypt. The service will be held in the Coptic Cathedral of Saint George, at the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre under the care of His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the UK. Many will gather to remember and pray for those who have lost their lives in Egypt, who were injured, who have lost loved ones, and the whole community that has been touched by these events.

The service will also commemorate victims of Atfih, Imbaba and more notably, Maspero.

Press are invited to attend.


Sunday 8 January, 2012 from 2pm
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage  Hertfordshire SG2 8NP

RSVP Friday 6 January 2012

 to  Media@CopticCentre.com 
or by telephone to 0207-193 7076.


Media and Public Relations Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage
Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com
Website:   www.CopticCentre.com
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK

This message (and any attachments) is confidential to the intended recipient and may be privileged. If you are not the intended recipient you should contact us and must not make any use of it.

HG Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church, UK on BBC Thought for the Day

HG Bishop Angaelos on 'Thought for the Day' BBC Radio 4

Click HERE to listen to 'Thought for the Day'

BBC 'Thought for the Day'

Radio 4

Tuesday 27 December, 2011

The landscape of the Middle East has been changing significantly, and in the midst of revolutions, uprisings, terrorist attacks and general social unrest, there is a small but significant group of individuals trying to live an increasingly difficult situation.

It is often forgotten that Christianity actually started in those lands that are now overtaken by conflict. Whether following the Western calendar celebrating Christmas on 25 December or, as we do in the Coptic Orthodox Church, following the Julian calendar celebrating it on 7 January, Christians in the Middle East are experiencing this year’s Nativity Feast in an uncertain and volatile climate. The place that was to be the springboard to “peace on earth and goodwill towards men”, as proclaimed by the angels at the birth of Christ, has unfortunately become a fertile ground for conflict and fragmentation.

On 9 December of this year, a House of Lords debate on Christians in the Middle East gave an inspiring and encouraging message of overwhelming consensus that Christianity was an essential and integral part of the Middle East, and that the decreasing presence of Christians and Christian communities is a sad loss for that region, and indeed for the whole world.

Focusing on Egypt, home to the Coptic Orthodox Church, the largest Christian denomination in the Middle East, and an indigenous Church since the first Century, we see an increasingly uncertain time ahead, not only for Christians, but for the whole nation. Egypt is now living a state of unprecedented political freedom, which has ironically lead to greater instability and the appearance of radical and conflicting political and religious ideologies. 

While this may indeed be a healthy sign in more democratically-developed nations, in a country like Egypt, currently economically devastated, with a vulnerable electorate hampered by extreme poverty and illiteracy, this creates an uneasy climate and gives rise to the potential manipulation of that electorate.

Having said that, we have not in the past, and do not intend now, to live with the spirit of defeat or self-pity. The Christian message is one of power and hope; overcoming evil with good, and uncertainty with the knowledge of, and trust in, a true and faithful God.

As we all celebrate these festive days, let us remember our brethren in the Middle East, hoping that all has not been in vain, but actually leads to a greater understanding and practice of true democracy and respect for the rights of every individual. 

We must also remember that for many millions of Christians in the Middle East, along with their brethren in Nigeria who on Christmas Day experienced such tragedy at what should have been a time of sacred celebration, these days commemorate the birth of the Incarnate Word, Who is still the source of the hope, courage and resilience with which they live till today.Click HERE to listen to 'Thought for the Day' with HG Bishop Angaelos

House of Lords Debate: Christians in the Middle East, Friday 9th December 2011

House of Lords debate regarding Christians in the Middle East

On Friday 9^th December 2011, HG Bishop Angaelos attended the House of Lords debate on Christians in the Middle East as guest of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams. Led by the Archbishop, the debate lasted four and half hours and consisted of ten minute comments by 29 members of the House, raising issues relating to the current situation of Christians in light of the Arab Spring in Egypt and other countries in the Middle Eastern. Egypt was top of the agenda for many of the speakers, with the mention of the decline of indigenous Christian communities, and the negative impact that would have on countries where this occurs, as well as pointing out the vast numbers of Christians now emigrating as a result of persecutions and a lack of protection from their own governments.  

HG Bishop Angaelos said:

“...we have confidence in God’s promises and know that His children throughout the Middle East and throughout the world are in His hand, remembering His words: 'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.' We are also appreciative of those who feel the need to speak regarding basic human rights that should not be denied to anyone of any faith anywhere in the world. With all of this we commit all of those in the Middle East, Christian and Muslim alike, to God in our prayers, asking for a peaceful existence and transition for the region during these uncertain times.” 

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams stated,

“Issues in Egypt are inevitably among the most immediate in the minds of many of us just now. Of late, the Coptic community has seen levels of emigration rise to unprecedented heights, and in a way that would have been unthinkable even a very few years ago…”

Lord Wood of Anfield, Shadow Spokesperson commented,

“Some debates in this Chamber are about issues that divide us, but this is not one of them…The situation and welfare of Christians in the Middle East is a cause for concern for all of us, whether or not we share the Christian faith, partly because we should proudly defend the rights of minorities in the region as elsewhere…the way religious minorities in the Middle East are treated is a litmus test in that most fragile of regions for the presence of the basic levels of tolerance and respect that are needed for genuine stability to emerge.”

Lord Howell, the minister of state, foreign and commonwealth office presented the Government’s view stating, 

“This potential will be realised only if Governments respond to demands for respect of universal human rights by implementing reforms that apply universally to all citizens, regardless of faith, ethnicity or gender, and the central consideration must be the one that has come through again and again in this debate…that religious freedom is a basic human right.” 

It was evident that there was consensus among all who spoke, representing all sides of the House, in terms of recognising the seriousness of the problems currently faced by Christians in Egypt and the Middle East, emphasising the need to monitor the situation closely in order to ensure the rights of indigenous Christians in the region.

Overall, the debate presented inspiring and informed statements by all members of the House of Lords, and can be viewed here: http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Main/Player.aspx?meetingId=9536

Consensus in the British House of Lords on the state of Christians in the Middle East

Consensus in the British House of Lords

on the state of Christians in the Middle East

Bishop Angaelos

On Friday 9 December 2011, I was privileged to personally attend the House of Lords debate on Christian minorities in the Middle East as the guest of His Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury. Led by the Archbishop the debate lasted four and half hours and consisted of ten-minute comments by 29 peers. They all spoke of issues related to the current situation of Christians in light of the so called ‘Arab Spring’ in Egypt and other countries in the Middle East. Egypt was top of the agenda for many of the speakers, mentioning the decline in the numbers of indigenous Christian communities, and the negative impact that would have on countries where this occurs, as well as pointing out the vast numbers of Christians now emigrating as a result of persecutions due to the perceived lack of protection from their own governments. 

It was noticeable that there was consensus among all who spoke, representing all sides of the House, in terms of recognising the seriousness of the problems currently faced by Christians in Egypt and the Middle East. The speakers emphasised the need to monitor the situation closely in order to ensure the rights of indigenous Christians in the region.

In response to the statements Lord Howell, minister of state in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, presented the government’s view stating, “...governments must respond to demands for the respect of universal human rights by implementing reforms that apply universally to all citizens, regardless of faith, ethnicity or gender, and the central consideration must be the one that has come through again and again in this debate…that religious freedom is a basic human right.” Lord Wood of Anfield, the Shadow Spokesperson stated “Some debates in this Chamber are about issues that divide us, but this is not one of them. The great virtue of this debate is that it is not to argue about policy but to bring to the attention of this House and those who follow its debates the disturbing and deteriorating situation faced by Christians in the Middle East…”

Overall, I was inspired by the sincere and informed statements made by the peers, and I encourage you watch the proceeding: http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Main/Player.aspx?meetingId=9536

Above all, we have confidence in God’s promises and know that His children throughout the Middle East and throughout the world are in His hand, remembering His words: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11. At the same time however, we are also appreciative of those who are in a position to speak regarding basic human rights, and ensuring that they should not be denied to anyone of any faith anywhere in the world.

With all of this we commit all of those in the Middle East, Christian and Muslim alike, to God in our prayers, asking for a peaceful existence and transition for the region during these uncertain times.

Press Release: The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in the UK denies any involvement with former Egyptian finance minister

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre

Media and Public Relations Office

PRESS RELEASE

5^th December 2011

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in the UK denies any involvement with former Egyptian finance minister

In response to untrue allegations made by Al Ahram group, The Coptic Orthodox Centre UK categorically denies the presence of the former Egyptian finance minister Youssef Botrous Ghaly at the Centre now or at any time in the past. The Coptic Centre further denies any involvement in any official or unofficial dealings with the former minister. The Centre and HG Bishop Angaelos have no official or unofficial relationship with Dr Ghaly and are unaware of his whereabouts.

Bishop Angaelos has expressed the following with regards to this matter, “We are not in a position to judge as to the relationship between Egypt and former minister Youssef Botrous Ghaly as I understand that this is a matter for the authorities in Egypt. We have however not had any dealings with him here in the United Kingdom. I find this utterly irresponsible and a further incitement against Christians and the Church that is totally unfounded.”

The Centre is seeking the Al Ahram group to retract and correct this information or legal proceedings will be initiated as this is an irresponsible action that presents a real risk for which the newspaper will be held accountable.

Media and Public Relations Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage
Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com
Website:   www.CopticCentre.com
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK

The First Day of Parliamentary Elections in Egypt

Monday 28th November 2011 saw the first stage of parliamentary elections in Egypt, a historic day to mark the beginning of an election process that will continue on until March 2012. Across the 27 governorates within Egypt, people flocked to the polling stations to cast their vote to appoint lower house members to 5 year terms, choosing from approximately 6700 candidates. Despite the recent unrest and violent uprisings, reports from Egypt suggest that the day has gone well with an unexpected number of people participating in the vote.

In response to the day’s events, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom said “We are pleased that the day has gone relatively smoothly without significant disruption. We have been praying for a peaceful start to this democratic process, and are hopeful that all the remaining stages of the electoral process will continue unhindered, in an equally peaceful manner. The people of Egypt deserve a new start in a nation that observes the equality and rights of all.”

The First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Foreign & Commonwealth Affairs William Hague, said the following in an official statement regarding the elections,

"I congratulate the people of Egypt as they go to the polls. I urge the Egyptian authorities to ensure that these elections are free from violence, fair and credible. What happens in Egypt will be crucial for the whole region and the world will be watching closely in the days and months ahead.”

Whilst most of the day has indeed passed free of violence and disruption, complaints and allegations have been made by several eye witnesses suggesting that various party members were distributing flyers and food in an attempt to sway votes, and many were unhappy with the late opening of certain polling stations. As the world looks to Egypt and awaits the results of the elections, the Church continues to offer up prayers for peace in Egypt during this time and the months to come.

URGENT: Egypt Elections 2011

Updated Deadline Information Below:

My dear fathers and brethren,

Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.Please find below an email and attachments received from the Egyptian embassy regarding tomorrow's elections. Please note that a voting form must be downloaded from elections2011.eg website and then posted to the embassy or delivered by hand. Ballots must be RECEIVED at the embassy by MIDNIGHT SUNDAY 27th NOVEMBER.Please ensure that this email is circulated to as many people as possible. Please remember that this is only for the first stage of the elections.

There is more still to come.May I also suggest churches can have these ballots collected and delivered by hand up till Sunday morning.

The embassy will be open from 9am to 12 midnight every day until Sunday to receive ballot papers by hand.

Egyptian Embassy Address and Contact Information:
Egyptian Embassy
26 South Street
London W1K 1DW
E-mail: eg.emb_london@mfa.gov.eg
Tel: 0207-499 3304

PLEASE CIRCULATE

Above all, keep praying that God's will be done for the glory of His name, and the peace and protection of His children.

I leave you in the love and care of our gracious Lord.

+Bishop Angaelos
General Bishop
Coptic Orthodox Church
United Kingdom
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BishopAngaelos

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way,
StevenageHertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom
Tel.: +44 (0)1438 745232
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Personal Email: Angaelos@CopticCentre.com
Office Email: Admin@CopticCentre.com
Website: www.CopticCentre.com<http://www.CopticCentre.com
Also visit www.BishopAngaelos.org<http://www.BishopAngaelos.org