Tuesday, 14 May 2013
Friday, 10 May 2013
His Holiness Pope Tawadros II visits His Holiness Pope Francis in Rome on the 9th and 10th May 2013
PRESS
RELEASE
For
immediate use
10
May 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK Media and Communications Office
Official Media Office for The Coptic Orthodox Church in Europe
His
Holiness Pope Tawadros II, 118th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa
on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark visited His Holiness Pope Francis, Bishop
of Rome and Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church on the 9th and
10th of May 2013.
This historic visit
marks 40 years since His Holiness the late Pope Shenouda III, and His Holiness
the late Pope Paul VI signed the Christological agreement between their respective
Churches in the Vatican in 1973.
Accompanying Pope
Tawadros, are His Eminence Metropolitan Pakhomious of Boheira and Pentapolis, His
Eminence Metropolitan Hedra of Aswan, His Grace Bishop Serapion of Los Angeles,
HG Bishop Kyrellos of Milan, HG Bishop Raphaeil, General secretary of the Holy
Synod, HG Bishop Barnaba of Turin, HG Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the
Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, HG Bishop Epiphanious, Abbot of
the monastery of St Macarious, and Papal secretaries Father Angelos Ishak and
Father Seraphim el Souriani.
In his official address Pope
Tawadros said:
‘We appreciate all we have in common
and need to work together to improve the relationships between our ancient
Churches and prepare our people for our greater unity.’
In response to Pope
Tawadros, Pope Francis said:
‘I am convinced
that – under the guidance of the Holy Spirit – our persevering prayer, our
dialogue and the will to build communion day by day in mutual love will allow
us to take important further steps towards full unity.’
Speaking from Rome as
part of the official delegation accompanying His Holiness Pope Tawadros, HG
Bishop Angaelos, also Co-chair of the Catholic-Oriental Orthodox Regional Forum
in the United Kingdom said:
‘This has been a historic meeting, as
it is the first international visit by Pope Tawadros II, who is also the first
head of Church to be received by Pope Francis after his installation. During
this visit we have seen, in the two fathers of these ancient Apostolic
Churches, a real commitment to working together for realised unity.
While centuries have kept us apart for
a variety of reasons, it is clear that continued ecumenical dialogue and relations
over the past decades have continued to bring us closer.’
The formal meeting was
followed by a private prayer service in Pope Francis’ private chapel, led by
Pope Tawadros and Pope Francis.
*Ends*
Resources
Address
of the Holy Father Pope Francis to His Holiness Pope Tawadros II
Coverage
on Twitter http://www.Twitter.com/BishopAngaelos
Wednesday, 8 May 2013
His Holiness Pope Tawadros II to meet His Holiness Pope Francis in Rome
PRESS
RELEASE
For
immediate use
8
May 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
His
Holiness Pope Tawadros II, 118th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa
on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark will visit His Holiness Pope Francis, the 266 Pope
of the Roman Catholic Church.
This visit comes 40
years after His Holiness the late Pope Shenouda III, and His Holiness the late Pope
Paul VI signed the Christological agreement between their respective Churches
in 1973.
Pope Shenouda III’s
visit to Rome came approximately one thousand five hundred years after the
Christological schism of the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD, and encouraged the
move towards greater unity between the Churches.
*Ends*
Thursday, 25 April 2013
Joint Communiqué about the Two Abducted Bishops 25-Apr-2013
Source: Syriac
Orthodox Church - UK
News
25-April-2013
|
Please
Pray for Their Safe Return
Joint Communiqué of
the
Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and all the East
and
the
Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and all the East
25-April-2013
On
Thursday morning 25/04/2013, His Beatitude Mor Yohanna X Yazijy the Patiararch
of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East has paid a brotherly
visit to His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas Patriarch of the Syriac
Orthodox of Antioch and All the East at his residence in Atchane, Lebanon. They
have discussed the latest issues related to the two abducted brothers H.E. Mor
Paulos Yazijy Greek Orthodox Bishop of Aleppo and Alexandretta and H.E. Mor Gregorios Yohanna Ibrahim Syriac Orthodox Bishop
of Aleppo.
They
have criticized again the fact that they have not been set free until now
despite all the efforts being made. They have reiterated their call for the
release of the two captive bishops. They call upon the international community
to do all efforts to ensure their release and the stopping of all sort of
violence in Syria and for the peace to prevail through dialogue and political
means. Also, they agreed about the symbols for the common coexistence, tolerance
and national unity. Also, they have agreed about the steps to be taken if the
two bishops are not released within the next few hours. They are both hoping
that the two abducted bishops will be in their Archdioceses to celebrate Palm
Sunday, which will fill us and our people with joy.
بيان
صادر عن بطريركية السريان الأرثوذكس و بطريركية الروم الأرثوذكس
25 نيسان 2013
في
صباح يوم الخميس 25/4/2013، قام صاحب الغبطة البطريرك يوحنا العاشر بطريرك الروم
الأرثوذكس بزيارة أخوية إلى قداسة البطريرك مار إغناطيوس زكا الأول عيواص بطريرك
السريان الأرثوذكس في مقرّه البطريركي في العطشانة ـ لبنان، و تداولا في المعطيات
الأخيرة المتعلّقة بالمطرانين المخطوفين بولس يازجي و يوحنا إبراهيم، و إستنكرا
مجدداً عدم الافراج عنهما حتى اليوم رغم الجهود التي تُبذل. و هما يجددان بهذه
المناسبة دعوتهما للافراج عنهما و يدعوان المجتمع الدولي لبذل كافة الجهود في سبيل
ذلك، و إيقاف العنف بكل أشكاله في سورية و إحلال السلام عبر الحوار و الحل السياسي.
كما و يؤكدان على رموز العيش المشترك و التسامح و الوحدة الوطنية. و توافقا على
اتخاذ الخطوات المناسبة، في حال لم يتم الإفراج عن المطرانين المخطوفين خلال
الساعات المقبلة، آملين أن يكون المطرانان المخطوفان في أبرشيتيهما يوم الشعانين
المقبل فنفرح و شعبنا بهما.
|
Sunday, 7 April 2013
Press Release: Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos following the attack on the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate in Cairo on 7 April 2013
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
7 April 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
Statement by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom following the attack on the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate in Cairo on 7 April 2013
While the Arab Spring and uprising in Tahrir Square were expected to bring about a fresh start for Egypt, the only true difference is that the situation seems to have become progressively worse for many millions of Egyptian citizens.
Today, Egypt saw an unprecedented attack on the See of the Pope of Alexandria, the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate in Cairo, by mobs, with the police arriving far too late and doing very little, if anything at all, to prevent them.
Reports have indicated that Egypt’s president, Mr Mohammed Morsi had made telephone contact with the head of the Coptic Orthodox Church, His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St Mark, saying that ‘the protection of the lives of all Egyptians, Muslims and Christian, is the responsibility of the state.’ It is now clear that the state needs to take that responsibility far more seriously.
We have seen escalating and increasing attacks on Christians, Christian communities, churches and now the Patriarchate during this past period of expected improvement, and so questions must be asked. What are the authorities waiting for? More bloodshed, violence, hostility, alienation, marginalisation, division, or just more anarchy? It is clear that without intentional, pragmatic and proactive leadership by the state, and the effective law enforcement by its security forces, that this pattern of increasing violence and lawlessness is the only possible outcome. With these incidents being dealt with in this way, we see a growth of expectation of impunity and thus encouragement by some to continue breaking the law while assured that they will not be held accountable.
Last year, the streets of Abasseya around the Grand Cathedral of St Mark saw many thousands of Egyptians, Christians and Muslims alike, standing to pay their respects at the departure of our late Pope Shenouda III. Now those streets see an attack on that same Cathedral. So what has changed, and how can we return to the collective pride, passion and faithfulness of Egypt that we saw in Tahrir Square in 2011 with the thousands flying Egyptian flags, and calling for a unified state for all Egyptians?
We pray for Egypt because we believe that Egypt, as blessed by God, still has a chance. This chance however, hinges on faithful, pragmatic and visionary leadership, otherwise these coming months and years will only introduce more heartache, bloodshed and division that will inevitably lead to the decline of the nation, that was once the birthplace of civilisation, and its individual members.
*Ends*
Monday, 25 March 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK hosted the Annual Men's Basketball Tournament
Under the care of His Grace Bishop Angaelos, the tournament saw youth from across the United Kingdom gather to support their respective teams, and to enjoy a weekend of healthy fellowship. The teams and supporters from parishes in Brighton, Newcastle, Golders Green, Kensington, and Stevenage, also joined the congregation in the Cathedral of St George in praying a Liturgical service on Sunday 17 March. The service marked the first anniversary since of the departure of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, the 117th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of Saint Mark, who departed on 17 March 2012.
Bishop Angaelos said:
One of the organisers, Mark Galta said:‘His Holiness is known for his words ‘the Church without youth is a Church without a future,’ and it would bring great joy to his heart to see hundreds of youth gathered here together in the house of God, in healthy fellowship during this weekend of sports ministry, as was the case at the time of his departure. We all, in remembering His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, do not mourn, but rather give thanks for his life and faithful ministry.’
‘What truly touched me about the tournament this year was the spirit of fellowship and unity, clearly shown by the attitude of all the players and supporters. After the competition I received feedback from other teams, and they expressed their desire to set up a league and have games throughout the year, encouraging people to get together more often in that same spirit of fellowship and love. It was clear to see that all the teams and their supporters had a great time.’
The defending champions, the Newcastle ‘Phoenix’ (above) reclaimed their title in a dynamic game, beating the Brighton ‘Cobras’ with a score of 104-94.
Thursday, 21 March 2013
Press Release: HG Bishop Angaelos attends the enthronement of the new Archbishop of Canterbury
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
21 March 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK
Media and Communications Office
His Grace Bishop Angaelos attends the enthronement of, and meets with the new Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd and Rt Hon Justin Welby.
On 21 March 2013, approximately 2000 guests were in attendance at Canterbury Cathedral during the enthronement service of the Most Revd Justin Welby, the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury. Amongst those attending were the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, Prime Minister David Cameron, and other members of parliament, with representation from the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches, and the whole breadth of Christian Churches, denominations, and expressions.
His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom was also in attendance representing His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, the Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of Saint Mark, and said the following shortly after the service:
‘After having attended the enthronement service for the His Grace, the Archbishop of Canterbury, we pray for the continued good relations between our Churches and our common witness here in the United Kingdom on so many fronts and at so many levels.
At this pivotal time during which we have witnessed the appointment of new leaders in the Church of England, the Roman Catholic Church and our own Coptic Orthodox Church, we pray that there is a common heart and intention for fellowship and unity, and for collaboration on valuable witness and testimony, not only for members of our own Churches but for the whole world. I echo the words of His Grace, the Archbishop, in saying that ‘there is every possible reason for optimism about the future of Christian Faith in the world, and this country.’’*Ends*
Wednesday, 13 March 2013
Pope Francis, 266 Pope of the Roman Catholic Church announced
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
13 March 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
On the announcement of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis, the 266 Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom said:
‘I express my heartfelt joy shared with our Catholic brethren around the world on the appointment of Pope Francis. We pray God’s joy and blessing upon our sister Catholic Church as it embraces its new father and shepherd, and we also pray for His Holiness as he commences this sacred ministry, strengthened and overshadowed by the grace of God.
As Co-chair of the Catholic-Oriental Orthodox Regional Forum in the United Kingdom, I celebrate this day with my brother and Co-chair, His Grace Archbishop Kevin McDonald, members of our Forum, and our Catholic brethren across the United Kingdom.’
*Ends*
Sunday, 10 March 2013
Press Release: HH Pope Tawadros II and 60 members of The Holy Synod enthroned 4 Bishops, consecrated 7
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
10 March 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
The 118th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark, His Holiness Pope Tawadros II and over 60 members of the Holy Synod consecrated 7 bishops and enthroned 4 existing bishops on 10 March 2013 in the Grand Cathedral of St Mark, Cairo, Egypt.
Having taken part in the consecration service in Cairo, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom commented from Cairo:
‘In the ever expanding ministry of The Coptic Orthodox Church, and with a greater focus on concentrated pastoral care, we have found a need to consecrate more bishops to fill vacant Diocese, to facilitate greater and more focused care for larger and older Diocese that have been divided upon the passing of their bishops, and to establish new diocese abroad.
As the Church is the Body of Christ that lives and breathes, caring for her children, we see yet another sign of this dynamic existence continuing to bring light into the world at every level.
We pray for our new bishops, their diocese, and the whole Body of Christ, as we continue to live and share His message and mission in the world.’The four bishops enthroned are:
Bishop Daniel for Maadi and Albasateen
Bishop Theodosious for Giza
Bishop Botros for Shebin El Qanater
Bishop Mina for Mississauga and West Canada
The seven priests consecrated are:
Fr Epiphanious El-Maqari as abbot of the monastery of St Macarious in Wadi el Natroun
Fr Maqar El-Baramousi for Al-Sharkaya
Fr Salib El-Samueli for Latmoum and its affiliated regions
Fr Zakaria El-Souriani for October City and Ouseem
Fr Youannes El-Souriani for Giza North
Fr Zosima El-Antouni for Atfih and El-Saf and their affiliated regions
Fr Youlyous Ava-Mina as general bishop for old Cairo
**Ends**
Any links or references to external articles do not represent the view of The Coptic Orthodox Church or The Coptic Orthodox Church Media and Communications Office.
Saturday, 2 March 2013
Democracy in Egypt – Theory and Reality
On Tuesday 26 February 2013, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom gave a lecture on ‘Democracy in Egypt – Theory and Reality’ at the Centre for Muslim-Christian Studies, Oxford. Tariq Ramadan, HH Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani Professor of Contemporary Islamic Studies, Oriental Institute, Oxford, also gave a lecture, ‘Building Democracy: The Challenge Ahead for Muslim-Christian Relations’.
His Grace Bishop Angaelos highlighted the various challenges faced by Egyptians in light of the 2011 uprising, and the role of Coptic Orthodox Christians as the indigenous people of Egypt. Noting that Christians were present alongside their Muslim brethren during the Tahrir uprising, His Grace indicated that Egyptian Christians still seek a unified nation state.
Elaborating on the significant contribution of Coptic Christians as active citizens in the ever changing climate of Egypt, Bishop Angaelos spoke about the need for continued efforts towards the development of a national identity for all Egyptians, in order to safeguard the rights of every citizen, Muslim and Christian alike.
The audio from the lecture is available here: http://bit.ly/ZVj9DV
Monday, 11 February 2013
Press Release: Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos on the announced resignation of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
11 February 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
It is with great sorrow that we received the news that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI is to 'renounce the ministry of Bishop of Rome'. While only having served as head and father of the Roman Catholic Church worldwide for a relatively short period, we have seen his great contributions and powerful advocacy not only for his own flock, but also for fellow Christians and other communities throughout the Middle East and the world.
Serving as Co-Chair of the Catholic-Oriental Orthodox Regional Forum, I share a very cherished and personal relationship with the Roman Catholic Church here in the United Kingdom, and have had the blessing and honour of meeting with His Holiness during his significant and historic visit to the United Kingdom in 2010. The impact of that visit, and his other visits around the world, is still being felt today.
We pray good health for His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, and blessing and guidance for our sister Roman Catholic Church, both here in the United Kingdom and globally, during this interim period and in the selection of a new head and father.
*ENDS*
We pray good health for His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, and blessing and guidance for our sister Roman Catholic Church, both here in the United Kingdom and globally, during this interim period and in the selection of a new head and father.
*ENDS*
For more information please contact our media and public relations office:
Angela Mikhail
Media and Communications Officer
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Tel: +44 (0)207 1937076
Media and Public Relations Office
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
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Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom
Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076
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Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com
Website: www.CopticCentre.com
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
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Thursday, 24 January 2013
Statement by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom on the eve of the January 2011 uprising and in response to the recent escalation of violence against Christians in Egypt.
The
uprising in Tahrir Square on 25 January 2011 inspired the world as it saw Egyptians
standing side-by-side in an effort to reclaim their national identity. There
was hope for a new Egypt, one that could offer its people the freedom and responsibility
of equal citizenship while no longer focusing on their religious or political
stance. In my statement this time last year, I remember commenting that it was ‘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.’ It is unfortunate however, that two years down the
line we have not seen sufficient signs of this transformation, and we still witness
the marginalisation and alienation of many, Christians and Muslims alike,
within Egyptian society, while repeatedly witnessing others committing crimes
and not being brought to justice.
Indicative
of this, is that over the last two weeks, violent incidents and targeted
attacks on Christians in Egypt have escalated once again. Last week, in Fayoum,
a hall and Sunday school building under construction, was destroyed by
thousands emerging from a nearby Mosque after Friday prayers, reportedly justifying
their actions by claims that the building would be used as a church. Security
forces arrived after the building was completely destroyed, and to date no arrests
have been made.
In
a separate incident, on 18 January 2013, thousands of Muslim protestors in Qena
attacked eight Coptic homes and businesses, torching Coptic-owned pharmacies and
vehicles. A Cross was destroyed and property within the church of Abu Fam was
damaged. These attacks came as a result of unqualified and now falsified rumours
that a Christian man committed a sexual assault against a 6 year old Muslim
girl. To safeguard its parishioners, the church was forced to cancel its
Epiphany service so as not to subject them to unnecessary risk. As of yet,
again, no charges have been made.
In
a third incident, in Beba, Upper Egypt, a church building was forcibly taken
over by a criminal gang, and converted into a drugs den after they had sold its
contents. In this case once again, there was no intervention by local security
forces.
Based
on these three occurrences in the space of two weeks, we call for proper
investigation into any acts of violence against individuals, groups, or
communities, and the protection of places of worship, to ensure that there are
no further attacks of this kind.
In
light of these events, it is equally disturbing to see the unbalanced response
in the recent reported court ruling, convicting a mother and her seven children
to 15 years incarceration. The family that had converted back to Christianity
from Islam, was reportedly found in possession of allegedly falsified documents.
Unlike the aforementioned incidents in which no convictions have been made, the
verdict handed down in the case Nadia Mohamed Ali and her children is, to say
the least, severe. While we do not condone the falsification of official
documents, it is worth clarifying, by way of explanation and not justification,
that if the right process were in place to allow Egyptian citizens to freely
choose their faith as regularly claimed, there would be no need for this
practice.
It
is stated on numerous occasions that there is ‘no compulsion in Islam’ and that
Egyptians are free to choose their religion. On that basis, we ask for Nadia
Mohamed Ali, her family, and all those involved in the case to be released from
prison. Following on from this, and in considering the intensity of severe challenges facing Christians, and in line with the movement towards greater democracy,
cohesion, and citizenship, we call for the serious consideration of the removal
of one’s religion from official personal identification cards, so as to
facilitate the treatment of all Egyptian citizens equally.
As
we approach the second anniversary of the uprising in Tahrir Square, it is
unfortunate that these incidents are by no means isolated. They are merely the
latest in a continuous stream of discriminatory decisions facing Egyptians,
Christians and Muslims alike, who wish to be treated equally, regardless of
their religious or political beliefs. That said, we call upon Egypt’s
government, judiciary, and officials to respect ‘freedom of belief and
practicing religions’, as set out in President Mohammed Morsi’s news conference
in Cairo last week.
Considering
the significant sacrifice that has been presented over the past two years, even
leading to the loss of life, it is time for Egypt to emerge out of the pattern
of discriminatory practice, and take on its new identity of a promised
democracy that the January 2011 uprising sought to establish.
We
pray for the communities in Fayoum, Qena, and Beba while also praying for Nadia,
her children, those involved in this case, and all those in a similar
predicament who are in prison, facing imprisonment, or being victimised for
merely desiring to exercise their God-given right to practice their chosen
faith. We also pray for peace and safety on the streets of Egypt over these
coming days, that there be no more injury, bloodshed, or mourning, and that the
spirit of hope and resilience lives on in the hearts of those who desire positive
reform and freedom.
Press Release: Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos on the eve of the second anniversary of the uprising in Tahrir Square
PRESS
RELEASE
For
immediate use
24
January 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
On
the eve of the second anniversary of the January 2011 uprising in Tahrir
Square, Cairo, Egypt, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic
Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom issued a statement (via CopticMediaUK.com)
commenting on the recent escalation of violence against Christians, and calling
for direct intervention by the Government of Egypt, leading to social cohesion,
saying:
‘Considering the significant sacrifice
that has been presented over the past two years, even leading to the loss of
life, it is time for Egypt to emerge out of the pattern of discriminatory
practice, and take on its new identity of a promised democracy that the January
2011 uprising sought to establish.’
Making reference to attacks on three
churches in Egypt within the past two weeks, Bishop Angaelos said:
‘We call for proper investigation into
any acts of violence against individuals, groups, or communities, and the
protection of places of worship, to ensure that there are no further attacks of
this kind.’
*ENDS*
Resources:
Wednesday, 16 January 2013
Press Release: HG Bishop Angaelos' Statement RE Nadia Eweida Case
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
16 January 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office
Having spoken to Nadia Eweida on 16 January 2013 to congratulate her
on winning her case at the European Court of Human Rights, His Grace Bishop
Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom
issued the following statement saying:
‘Having
provided personal and pastoral support for Nadia throughout her courageous
effort to seek justice over the past 6 years I, along with The Coptic Orthodox
Church in the United Kingdom, have considered her case one of extreme
importance, offering support in laying a precedent for people who may be placed
in a similar predicament. Witnessing the many parts of the world in which the
significant human rights of faith and belief are limited or even revoked,
whether passively or aggressively, we hold fast to calling for these God-given
rights to be upheld and protected in the United Kingdom.’
The full
statement can be viewed online via www.CopticMediaUK.com
or by clicking here.
Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos in response to the European Court of Human Rights ruling in the case of Nadia Eweida v. The United Kingdom
Statement
by HG Bishop Angaelos in response to the European Court of Human Rights ruling
in the case of Nadia Eweida v. The United Kingdom
The recent ruling by the
European Court of Human Rights on 15 January 2013 in favour of Nadia Eweida, a
British Airways employee and Egyptian Christian who was disallowed from wearing
a cross to work, signifies the importance of the religious rights and freedoms
of individuals within the United Kingdom and European Union.
Having found her employer in
contravention of article 9 of the European Convention of Human Rights, the
Court honoured the rights and freedoms of Nadia Eweida to manifest her
religious beliefs, indicating that a person’s faith should be a matter of
private choice.
While thankful to the
European Court for its positive involvement on this occasion, we also ask that Her
Majesty’s Government and the judicial system within the United Kingdom continue
upholding the same principles based on this ruling. It is of course unfortunate
that this case needed to be referred to the European Court; had the judicial
system within the United Kingdom dealt it in the same manner, it would have
given a clear message that there is a clear regard for faith and religious
practice. It would also have spared much wasted time, effort and expense over
years that could have been put to much greater use in numerous directions.
Following from this ruling,
it is also encouraged that the private and public sectors within the United
Kingdom likewise honour these principles, as human rights and civil liberties should
not purely be considered for certain matters and public opinion and policy, and
not others.
Having provided personal and
pastoral support for Nadia throughout her courageous effort to seek justice
over the past 6 years I, along with The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United
Kingdom, have considered her case one of extreme importance, offering support
in laying a precedent for people who may be placed in a similar predicament. Witnessing
the many parts of the world in which the significant human rights of faith and
belief are limited or even revoked, whether passively or aggressively, we hold
fast to calling for these God-given rights to be upheld and protected in the
United Kingdom.
Wednesday, 2 January 2013
Press Release: Funerals held for 2 killed in bombing at Coptic Orthodox Church Libya
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
2 Jan 2013
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Public Relations Office
Funerals for two men killed in an explosion at a Coptic Orthodox Church building in Libya have been held on 2 January 2013.
40 year old Wagdi Malak Hanna from the province of Al Minya and 26 year old Ashraf Samy Adly from the province of Alexandria were killed after an explosion at a Coptic Orthodox Church building in Libya on Saturday 29 December 2012. No one has claimed responsibility for the attack to date.
The following was said in a statement released by His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, 118th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark:
‘We condemn in the strongest possible terms these terrorist acts that target houses of worship and we appeal to the peoples of the world and their governments to fight such terrorism…religions are founded on love and peace and forbid aggression against innocent people.’
His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom said:
‘The Coptic Orthodox Church has been in Libya for over twenty years, and it is sad that this has happened now, especially at this time of celebration. We hope that it is not a sign of things to come, and pray for peace in Libya, Egypt and throughout the Middle East, the birthplace of Christ.’
According to Associated Press, the Egyptian Foreign Minister Mohammed Kamel Amr said:
‘Egypt is requesting an investigation into the circumstances of the operation and for those responsible to be put on trial’
*ENDS*
Sunday, 30 December 2012
Press Release: Explosion kills 4, injures 2 at Coptic Orthodox Church building, Libya
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
30 Dec 2012
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK
Media and Public Relations Office
Initial reports reveal that two people have been killed and four injured after an explosion at a Coptic Orthodox Church building in Libya. His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom said:
‘After speaking to His Eminence Metropolitan Pakhomious, Metropolitan of Beheira and Pentapolis, it was determined that authorities in Libya are co-operating and updates will be given as soon as more information is available.’
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For more information please contact our media and public relations office:
Angela Mikhail
Media and Communications 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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Monday, 10 December 2012
HG Bishop Angaelos attends a carol service at St John's Mar Thoma Church, London
The evening began with a procession and welcome speech by Reverend Eapen Abraham, followed by a selection of Christmas carols and readings from Scripture. In his address Bishop Angaelos spoke about the importance and relevance of Christmas for humanity:
‘The Nativity brings with it a promise of renewal, transformation, glory and abundant life, calling us all to shine in the world as a living manifestation of Emmanuel, ‘God with us’’
Friday, 7 December 2012
Press Release: COORF Solemn Vespers to mark 40 years of Common Statements
Press Release
For immediate use
7 December 2012
The Coptic Orthodox
Church Centre UK
HE Metropolitan Seraphim read from the letter of St Paul to the Galatians, after which the Hymn of The Annunciation of The Mother of God was sung by the Choir of St Gregorios’ Indian Orthodox Church.
This was a historic night of fellowship and witness that will continue the valuable work of this Forum throughout the United Kingdom.
For immediate use
7 December 2012
Media and Public
Relations Office
The Catholic-Oriental Orthodox Regional Forum
(COORF) held a Solemn Vespers of the Blessed Virgin Mary on 6 December 2012 to
celebrate forty years of Common Statements between The Catholic Church and The
Oriental Orthodox Churches and to pray for unity.
HE Metropolitan Seraphim read from the letter of St Paul to the Galatians, after which the Hymn of The Annunciation of The Mother of God was sung by the Choir of St Gregorios’ Indian Orthodox Church.
This was a historic night of fellowship and witness that will continue the valuable work of this Forum throughout the United Kingdom.
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| All photographs © Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk |
Sunday, 18 November 2012
Press Release: 118th Pope enthroned on 18 November 2012
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
18 November 2012
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK
Media and Public Relations Office
The 118th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa on the holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark, His Holiness Pope Tawadros II was enthroned at The Grand Cathedral of St Mark in Cairo on 18 November 2012.
His Holiness Pope Tawadros II was enthroned as the 118th Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church on 18 November 2012 in a service at The Grand Cathedral of St Mark, Cairo. HH Pope Tawadros II was chosen in an altar ballot during a Liturgical service at the Cathedral on 4 November 2012, succeeding the late Pope Shenouda III, who departed on 17 March 2012.
From St Mark Cathedral, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom said,
'It is wonderful to be part of this historic moment, seeing the jubilation on the faces of those in the Cathedral as our new father and shepherd was enthroned. Our prayers are with His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, asking for God’s guidance and grace upon him as he enters into this new stage of service, aiding the Coptic Orthodox Church in its continued mission to be light and salt in Egypt and throughout the world.'
For full details of the Papal Selection Process please visit www.CopticCentre.Blogspot.com
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