PRESS RELEASE: Preliminary list of names presented to the Nominations Committee in Egypt of those put forward as Papal candidates for The Coptic Orthodox Church

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
Date: 30th May 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK
Media and Public Relations Office

The preliminary list of names presented to the Nominations Committee of those put forward as Papal candidates was announced and published on Wednesday 30th May 2012, in Cairo as part of the Papal Selection Process for the Coptic Orthodox Church.

The Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church has announced the preliminary list of names presented to the Nominations Committee of those put forward as Papal candidates as part of the process of selecting a new pope to succeed His Holiness the late Pope Shenouda III, the 117th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark. H.H. Pope Shenouda III departed on 17th March 2012 after forty-one years of papacy.

A final list of eligible voters is yet to be announced, and the period for challenges to be presented to the Nominations Challenges Committee with regards to Papal candidates will only commence once this is done.

The preliminary Papal candidate list is as follows:

Metropolitan Bishoy of Damietta
Bishop Youannes
Bishop Roufail
Bishop Pavnotious of Samalout
Bishop Boutros
Bishop Tawadros
Bishop Kirollos of Milan
Father Rafael Avva-Mina
Father Maximos El-Antony
Father Shenouda Anba-Bishoy
Father Pakhomous El-Souriani
Father Daniel El-Souriani
Father Anastasi El-Samuel
Father Bishoy Anba-Paula
Father Sawaries Anba-Paula
Father Seraphim El-Souriani
Father Pigol Anba-Bishoy

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom has issued a detailed explanation of the papal selection process, along with a timeline which identifies key stages of the process, saying the following:

“This is an experience with which many will not have been involved in their lifetime, so it was important to provide a simplified explanation, allowing engagement at every level. Within these steps we find a robust process that includes: nominations from peers within the Holy Synod, nominations from laity through the General Lay Council, systematic scrutiny with a process of challenges and appeals, representative democratic election, and above all, the Altar Ballot that encompasses this whole process with a spirit of prayer and trustful submission to the will of God.”

For the explanation and timeline please visit the Blog or click here.

For more information or to arrange an interview with His Grace Bishop Angaelos please contact:


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
Blog: www.CopticCentre.Blogspot.com
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Press Release: Explanation of the Papal Election Process by HG Bishop Angaelos

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
Date: 4^th May 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK
Media and Public Relations Office

Explanation of the Papal Selection Process for the Coptic Orthodox Church by HG Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom

The Coptic Orthodox Church has begun the process of selecting a new pope after the forty-day memorial period ended for of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, the 117^th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark. H.H. Pope Shenouda III departed on 17^th March 2012 after forty-one years of papacy.

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom has issued a detailed explanation of the papal selection process, along with a timeline which identifies key stages of the process, saying the following:

“This is an experience with which many will not have been involved in their lifetime, so it was important to provide a simplified explanation, allowing engagement at every level. Within these steps we find a robust process that includes: nominations from peers within the Holy Synod, nominations from laity through the General Lay Council, systematic scrutiny with a process of challenges and appeals, representative democratic election, and above all, the Altar Ballot that encompasses this whole process with a spirit of prayer and trustful submission to the will of God.”

For the explanation and timeline please visit the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre Blog, www.CopticCentre.Blogspot.com, or click here.

For more information please contact:

Media and Public Relations Officer
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Tel: +44 (0)207 193 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

 

Blog: www.CopticCentre.Blogspot.com
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK
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UK Memorial Service for H.H. Pope Shenouda III at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK on 24th March 2012

Memorial Service for H.H. Pope Shenouda III at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in the UK

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, 117th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark the Evangelist, departed on March 17th 2012. A memorial service for the United Kingdom, celebrating his life and ministry was held on Saturday 24th March in the Cathedral of Saint George at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre.

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, and former secretary to the Pope, officiated the service which was attended by representatives of Her Majesty the Queen and His Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury, as well as numerous Ecumenical, Inter-Religious and Civil representatives. Bishop Angaelos was joined by HE Metropolitan Seraphim, also of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Prior to the service, the Church in the United Kingdom was inundated with messages of condolence and saw an incredible response worldwide. As many were unable to attend the funeral service in Cairo on Tuesday 20th March 2012, this memorial service was seen to provide an opportunity for people to gather together and pray for the repose of the soul of His Holiness, and for the Church at large.

Bishop Angaelos said the following leading up to the memorial service:

“We have been inundated with messages of condolence from many friends across the United Kingdom. It is only fitting to hold this memorial service in order to allow people to join in giving thanks for the life and ministry of His Holiness. It is undoubtedly very sad to farewell a father, yet as a Church, we are confident in the knowledge that our Lord, through the power of His Resurrection that we will celebrate in only a few weeks’ time, promises us life after death, and we join together to pray for His Holiness as he is welcomed into that heavenly promise.”

In his address, he commented on the Pope’s love for people, his heart for Egypt, national unity, for youth, ecumenical unity, and his faithfulness to his spiritual life which supported his service, and stated the following:

“Today is an especially important day for us; the last visit of His Holiness, and indeed his last pastoral ministry engagement in the United Kingdom, was to consecrate this Cathedral. Today we gather to give thanks not only for that, but for his ministry in the United Kingdom and throughout the world over the past 41 years.”

A message from the Archbishop of Canterbury, His Grace the Rt Hon and Rt Rev Dr. Rowan Williams was read during the service by the Rt Rev Bishop Christopher Chessun of Southwark. In it, the Archbishop said:

“We were all very deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Holiness and pray that his memory will be eternal, giving thanks for his life of heroic service and passionate concern for the well-being of the faithful, especially for the young people of the Church, a ministry so clearly prioritised in the work of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom.”

The memorial service was attended by hundreds of people, after which many took the opportunity to sign a book of condolence, expressing their thoughts and memories of H.H. Pope Shenouda III.

Memorial Service for H.H. Pope Shenouda III at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre, UK

A memorial service celebrating the life and ministry of our late father, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, will be this Saturday 24th March at 3pm in the Cathedral of St. George at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre. 

As many are unable to attend the funeral service of H.H. the late Pope Shenouda III in Cairo, this memorial service will provide a good opportunity for people to gather together and pray for the repose of the soul of His Holiness and for the Church, and all are welcome and invited to attend. 

HG Bishop Angaelos, who will be officiating the service, travelled to Egypt upon hearing news of the departure of His Holiness on Saturday March 17th; he said the following about the upcoming service: 

“We have been inundated with messages of condolence from many friends across the United Kingdom. It is only fitting to hold this memorial service in order to allow people to join in giving thanks for the life and ministry of His Holiness. It is undoubtedly very sad to farewell a father, yet as a Church, we are confident in the knowledge that our Lord, through the power of His Resurrection that we will celebrate in only a few weeks’ time, promises us life after death, and we join together to pray for His Holiness as he is welcomed into that heavenly promise.” 

There will be a book of condolence available at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre Monday 19th till Wednesday 21st March 2012 for those who would like to pay their respects (Please contact Admin@CopticCentre.com or phone 01438-745232). The book will also be available for contributions after the memorial service on Saturday 24th March. 

Centre address: 
Saturday 24th March, 2012 from 3pm
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage Hertfordshire SG2 8NP 


For more information please contact: 

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

Press Release: HG Bishop Angaelos announces the departure of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE USE

Date: 17^th March 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Media and Public Relations Office

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the UK announced the departure of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III.

On 17^th March 2012 His Grace Bishop Angaelos announced the departure of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, the 117^th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark the Evangelist of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria.

In a statement released today Bishop Angaelos said the following:

“His Holiness Pope Shenouda III will be remembered by his Church as a dedicated servant of God and of the people, a man who faithfully endured through conflict, opposition, and persecution. His Holiness built upon the foundation laid by our Lord Jesus Christ, enhancing the Church in a variety of ways, encouraging a spirit of unity for all of humanity. May his prayers be with us all, and may he find joy and rest in the Kingdom of our gracious Lord.”

The announcement came during a sports ministry event at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre involving hundreds of youth from across the United Kingdom; His Grace commented that “this was especially pertinent as youth ministry has always been one of the passions of His Holiness and it would have given him joy to see this gathering.”

His Holiness Pope Shenouda was consecrated Pope of Alexandria on November 14, 1971, and under his leadership the Church experienced rapid growth within Egypt and in the lands of immigration, including the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, with over 200 churches in North America being established, there being only 4 at the time of his succession.

His Holiness gave weekly meetings to over seven thousand people in the Cathedral of St. Mark in Cairo, authored over 100 spiritual books, later translated into many languages for consumption worldwide; he also ordained over 80 Metropolitans and Bishops and over 600 priests.  

His Holiness was also dedicated to ecumenism and helped to pave the way towards greater unity between the Oriental, Catholic, and Protestant among other Churches worldwide being the first pope in over 1500 years to visit the Vatican in 1973, agreeing to establish joint commissions for dialogue on unity.

There will be a book of condolence available at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre from Monday 19^th March 2012 for those who would like to show their respects. Please contact Admin@CopticCentre.com or phone 01438-745232.

For more information please contact:

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

Blog: www.CopticCentre.Blogspot.com
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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
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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
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Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK
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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

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Hertfordshire SG2 8NP

England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076

Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879

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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.

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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.