Press Release: The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom celebrated the Feast of Nayrouz, marking the new Coptic Year in St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey on 10 September 2013

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate use

11 September 2013

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

Media and Communications Office

Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

Media and Communications Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom celebrated the Feast of Nayrouz, marking the new Coptic Year in St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey on 10 September 2013, with messages from Her Majesty the Queen and His Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury, and addresses by members of both Houses of Parliament.

The service was attended by members of the House of Lords and the House of Commons as well as heads and representatives of numerous Christian churches and denominations, and inter-religious governmental and non-governmental organisations as well as members of the Coptic community.

The Revd Canon Andrew Tremlett, Canon of Westminster and Rector of St Margaret’s church welcomed all on behalf of the Dean and Chapter of Westminster Abbey, and a message from the Most Reverend Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury was read by The Rt Revd Dr Geoffrey Rowell, Bishop of Gibraltar in Europe.

A message from Her Majesty The Queen was read by The Countess of Verulam, Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, who said:

“I send my warmest wishes to you all for a most memorable service to mark the new Coptic Year.”

During the service, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, addressed the need for newness and reconciliation in Egypt and the Middle East, also touching on matters in Syria, saying:

“We are a reality in each other’s lives, and we are a beautiful reality. The diversity of who we are is a testimony to the creative sovereignty of God and so we, in gracious obedience to that sovereignty, must be reconciled and accept one another on grounds that we heard in today’s Gospel^[1], in freedom for all, a freedom of faith, religion, expression, and a freedom of life. So we must move forward leaving that which is defiled behind if we are going to make a fresh start.”

At the end of the service there were addresses from Baroness Cox of Queensbury, the Rt Hon Alistair Burt, Parliamentary Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs, and the Rt Hon John Bercow, speaker of the House of Commons.

*Ends*

Resources:

Photographs from the event are available via http://on.fb.me/16kCKQZ

Transcript of address by HG Bishop Angaelos available via http://bit.ly/1bbhroC 

Address by HG Bishop Angaelos (audio) available here

---

[1] Luke 4:14-30

Christian churches, homes, properties, businesses and individuals attacked in Egypt from 14 August 2013 to date (22 August 2013)

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate use

23 August 2013

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

Media and Communications Office

Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

Media and Communications Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom reports over 100 Christian churches, homes, properties, businesses and individuals attacked in Egypt from 14 August 2013 to date (22 August 2013).

Click here to view the full list, or visit www.CopticMediaUK.com

Recent interviews via Western media outlets with His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, including emerging video evidence provided by The Coptic Orthodox Church, stand alongside this recent report to inform the community in the United Kingdom about the nature of attacks currently facing Christians in Egypt. (See media resources below).

Due to the constantly changing situation in Egypt, the reports are from various Coptic sources across Egypt as of 22 August 2013.

*Ends*

Media Resources:

Latest comment on the situation in Egypt by HG Bishop Angaelos, 16 August 2013.  http://bit.ly/18AnPBE

Latest statement by HG Bishop Angaelos re Egypt, 8 August 2013. http://bit.ly/13mAWCH

Video evidence of attacks on churches now provided via Coptic Media Egypt Youtube Channel http://bit.ly/19BIUwG

Recent television and radio interviews concerning the situation in Egypt:

Al Jazeera English News – 19 August 2013 http://bit.ly/13MxDFc  

BBC News UK - 16 August 2013 http://bit.ly/1bESrDC  

BBC World News – 16 August 2013 http://bit.ly/13QJEcA

Sky News - 15 August 2013 http://bit.ly/14FAwH5  

CNN - 15 August 2013 http://bit.ly/16UK5qt

BBC Radio 4 – 16 August 2013 http://bit.ly/172mpyy

Premier Christian Radio – 14 August 2013 http://bit.ly/1bvv3sj

Comment on the on-going situation in Egypt by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom - 16 August 2013

As a clergyman for over twenty years, and a Christian for the whole of my life, one thing I recognise as un-debateable is the value and sanctity of human life. We believe that God has created us all in His image and likeness and has given us a rational and reasoning spirit to be able to experience and understand Him while at the same time appreciate and value His creation.

What we have witnessed on the streets of Egypt over the past weeks, and particularly earlier this week, is nothing short of devastating. To see so many lives lost whether of victims or perpetrators is not only a loss to families and communities, but a loss to the nation and to humanity as a whole. At this point and without reservation or exception we offer our prayers for all those who mourn; those who have lost loved ones, who have been injured, or who feel more powerless than they did.

That which distinguishes us as humans from any other creation is that we are not merely territorial or instinctual beings but are created with the ability to feel compassion and empathy and to share in both the joys and the sufferings of those around us.

It is without a doubt that we are witnessing a struggle in Egypt, looking very different depending on the perspective and direction from which it is viewed. This is understandable as it is the nature of human reasoning, conflict and interaction. What is incomprehensible however is that a difference of opinion can lead to the justification of, and sometimes the rejoicing in, the loss of even a single sacred human life.

While there may be numerous initiatives, political or otherwise, to resolve the current conflict in Egypt, it is obvious that the only real way ahead is for restoration of peace and an application, albeit slow and gradual, of true reconciliation within a now fractured community that has seen loss of life and a heightened sense of lawlessness and impunity. The one element that will always work against any of these initiatives or intentions however is the rhetoric and incitement that leads to the ‘justified’ attack on others.

Over the past weeks we have witnessed an increasing trend of anti-Christian rhetoric calling for, as I stressed in my latest statement, ‘the attack upon and eradication of Christians and churches’ in Egypt. The result of such incitement, at least in part, has been the unprecedented attack on fifty two churches and numerous Christian homes and businesses across eight governorates in Egypt within the space of twenty four hours. One must wonder what end this could possibly serve. To inflame against a significant part of a community, alienating and marginalising it, means that one also potentially loses the proactive and positive input of that same part.

Over the past year we have seen an increased marginalisation of Christians and minority groups in Egypt followed by what some see, in these attacks on churches, as intentional instigation of anger attempting to prompt a retaliation that would lead to a spiralling pattern of violence. If this indeed is a ploy, it will of course fail, as it has been proven over centuries that the nature of Christians in Egypt is not to retaliate but rather to continue striving as loyal and law-abiding citizens of their indigenous homeland. While Christians in Egypt have been accused of being Western sympathisers and seeking Western intervention for decades, in actual fact what we have witnessed in our contemporary history and in particular over the past few weeks, is quite the opposite.

While we recognise that the priority now is for the peace and restoration of order in Egypt as a whole, the unprecedented attack on fifty two churches carried out almost simultaneously over a brief twenty four hour period, indicating a premeditation and co-ordination that goes beyond sporadic acts of instantaneous anger, requires thorough investigation at the appropriate time. If we were to find, however unrealistic, that these acts were indeed sporadic, this would point to a much greater concern for the community and a much greater need for a proactive programme of reconciliation and cohesion leading to healing over the longer term.

We continue to pray for Egypt, comprised of her ninety million Egyptians of various religions, beliefs, and outlooks, praying that a much needed peace and wisdom descends upon all. We further pray that Egypt, a land once blessed by the Lord as a place of refuge for Him in His infancy, returns to being a nation for all, and not one governed by some, to the exclusion of others. 

Statement by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom highlighting the increasing incitement and violence threatening and claiming the lives of Christians in Egypt.

In the recent weeks and months there has been an escalation of attacks against Christians in Egypt, with unfounded, dangerous, and unlawful incitement emerging from various fringe Islamist leaders spurring on more violent acts and illegal behaviour that continues to injure and claim the lives of many Egyptian Christians.  

A number of Egypt-based human rights organisations, with Amnesty International UK, the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), have spoken out regarding attacks on Christians since the ousting of the former president, expecting similar acts in the coming period if these matters are not sufficiently addressed.

Most recently a violent attack on the Church of St George was followed by the raising of an Al Qaeda flag on its premises while congregation members were locked inside the church building. Churches across Upper Egypt including Minya, Asyut, and Luxor have suffered violent and destructive attacks and serious vandalism, with Christian homes and businesses also set alight. Callers to current affairs programmes on certain television channels, using hate speech, have rallied for the attack on, and eradication of, Christians and Churches.  These acts and threats all contribute to a very real risk upon the life of every Christian, especially in the increasingly polarised and inflamed climate in Egypt. As a result of these threats, His Holiness Pope Tawadros II has suspended weekly public events out of concern over potential attacks on congregations.  

At a time where attempts are being made to move Egypt into a more unified state, and where there is opportunity for collaboration and reconciliation, we are instead witnessing, once again, a polarised society in which unprecedented acts against Egyptian Christians are being carried out without fear of reprisal.

Imbalanced media coverage depicts scenes of violence in one part of the community as victimisation, while ignoring or labelling the savage attacks against Christians, on what is developing into a daily occurrence, as ‘sectarian’.

It is important to value and protect every sector of a shared society, especially that which has been accused for decades of being unfaithful and resorting to foreign support, while what has been revealed recently is of course quite the opposite.

Egypt cannot move forward while state apparatus does not hold people accountable for these unlawful hate crimes that stand to divide the country further, promoting increased polarisation at every level. Proactive efforts must be made towards promoting social cohesion and inclusion for all members of society so that this new phase of Egyptian history can be built upon true unity, collaboration, and reconciliation. We pray for all those who have lost loved ones over the past few days, weeks, and months and for all Egyptians as they seek to reclaim a sense of national identity in these formative days.  

*Ends*

For the Press Release click here

Press Release: His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom releases a statement highlighting the increasing incitement and violence threatening and claiming the lives of Christians in Egypt.

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate use

8 August 2013

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

Media and Communications Office

Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

Media and Communications Office

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom releases a statement highlighting the increasing incitement and violence threatening and claiming the lives of Christians in Egypt. 

The statement comes shortly after a number of Egyptian and International human rights organisations warn of a wave of violence to come, with Amnesty InternationalUK, the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), and the U.S. Commissionon International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) releasing reports detailing the violence facing Copts since the ousting of the former president of Egypt.

In his statement, Bishop Angaelos said:

“Egypt cannot move forward while state apparatus does not hold people accountable for these unlawful hate crimes that stand to divide the country further, promoting increased polarisation at every level. Proactive efforts must be made towards promoting social cohesion and inclusion for all members of society so that this new phase of Egyptian history can be built upon true unity, collaboration, and reconciliation.”

In a report released in July 2013, Amnesty International UK stated:

 “First and foremost, the authorities must immediately take necessary measures to ensure security for Christians and other minorities and uphold their right to life and physical integrity.”

In August 2013, the EIPR released a report that stated:

“The undersigned organizations note the destructive effects both of the sectarian rhetoric used by some Islamists to incite against Christians and of the negligence demonstrated by security forces in protecting these citizens.”

*Ends*

Resources:

Amnesty International Report, July 2013: http://bit.ly/164IkV0
EIPR Report, August 2013: http://bit.ly/1bC1I0q
USCIRF Annual Report 2013: http://1.usa.gov/135JPTy and http://1.usa.gov/14nF6h8

Press Release: The Second International Coptic Symposium draws to a close at the iconic St Mary-le-Bow Church in London

Press Release

For immediate use

26 July 2013

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

Media and Communications Office

Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

Media and Communications Office

The Second International Coptic Symposium drew to a close with the final lectures and reception at the iconic St Mary-le-Bow Church in London on 24 July 2013.

The closing ceremony was attended by His Excellency the Ambassador of Egypt and the Consul General, as well as numerous other official guests representing Her Majesty’s government, House of Lords, ecumenical and inter-religious leaders, members of the diplomatic core and academics.

'Adaptation, Assimilation and Representation', the theme of the Symposium held at the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre from 21 to 24 July 2013, attracted 25 academic speakers from 10 countries around the world, including: researchers, historians, cultural heritage specialists, art historians, linguists and political sociologists to present a diverse and broad perspective on various aspects of Coptic Culture.

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, who gave a final address at the closing ceremony, said:

In this and similar Symposia, we are reminded of the wealth and heritage that is the foundation of Coptic culture as lived today in Egypt and throughout the world. Having our closing ceremony at St Mary-le-Bow Church further illustrates the integration of centuries’ old Coptic culture embedded within a very real and lived contemporary British context.

The conference organiser Dr Mariam Ayad, Associate Professor of Egyptology at the American University in Cairo, said:

The vision behind this series of Symposia is to make academic scholarship more accessible to members of the community so that we can learn about and appreciate our past and our heritage. The breadth and depth of the topics presented this year, dealing with art, music, language, religious practice, and aspects of social history, illustrates the diversity and beauty of our heritage.  So this is an opportunity for us to look to our past, informing our present.

Lectures will be gathered and published in due course. The publication from the first Symposium can be found here

*Ends*

His Grace Bishop Angaelos announces that The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom will dedicate three days of prayer for Egypt

After witnessing millions of Egyptians across the whole nation and from all walks of life standing together to peacefully express their desire for a new Egypt, it is unfortunate that this unified effort is being undermined by needless violence and bloodshed.

At this formative time, the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom dedicates three days (Tuesday 9 July – Thursday 11 July) of prayer for peace, reconciliation and an end to needless violence and loss of life in Egypt.

These three days represent the end of the Fast of the Apostles for Coptic Orthodox Christians and the beginning of the month of Ramadan for Muslims, and so we invite every Egyptian and all our friends in the United Kingdom to join us in prayer for the sake of the many millions whose lives are now affected in Egypt.

For the good of Egypt, it is imperative that all parties work towards a common future, realising that any lives taken are those of fellow Egyptians. We continue to pray for unity and reconciliation, confident that the spirit that has been developing over the past two years and culminated in June 30 2013 will endure over these vital weeks and months ahead.

Statement on the current state in Egypt by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom on 4 July 2013

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate use

4 July 2013

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

Media and Communications Office

Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

Media and Communications Office

Statement on the current state in Egypt by His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom on 4 July 2013

What has been seen in the streets of Egypt over the past week would have been considered by many as impossible, especially when set against the backdrop of two years which commenced joyfully, but became increasingly challenging through a state of fragmentation, a failing economy and a weakened state of law and order. This situation deteriorated further when the state of social fragmentation developed into one of complete polarisation, and the hopes that were held for a strengthened economy, a unified people, and an empowered, reborn nation in 2011 were not realised.

With the age old scourge of illiteracy and poverty unaddressed and the development of a cohesive sense of national pride and unity unrealised, the people of Egypt took to the streets to follow their desire for dignity and social justice in the way that proved successful just over two years prior. 

The scenes of rejoicing and jubilation in Egypt’s squares must now be followed by an intentional and proactive programme of reconciliation among all parties.

We feel the pain of those who may consider themselves defeated, and who now fear marginalisation and alienation; sentiments which we as Christians have experienced at times over the centuries in Egypt. That being said however, what is needed now is a way of embracing these valued members of the wider community, as well as every other Egyptian, confirming that the path of reconciliation and unity is the only way ahead. Years of fragmentation, distrust, anger, and resentment, must be healed, and this will only happen when those who are now given the opportunity to lead Egypt, both in the short and long term, make the resolution of these negative experiences a priority and aim to achieve it. 

We pray that no more blood is shed, no more families or communities grieve, no more violence spreads, and that cooperation and collaboration become principle foundations throughout this continuing formative process. The next weeks and months will be crucial, needing the support of every Egyptian and guiding him or her to no longer think in terms of tribes or separation, but rather in terms of unity and collaboration for the good of all. 

We pray for peace and prosperity in Egypt and for every Egyptian, we pray for reconciliation and healing within and between communities, so that no one feels marginalised, victimised or rejected by any part of this greater family. I am confident that the people of Egypt seek, and will find, the peace that embraces all and that welcomes all once again into a joy that can be shared.  

*Ends*

HG Bishop Angaelos on BBCNewsnight 3 July 2013 speaking about the situation in Egypt - click here to watch.

The Most Revd Justin Welby, 105th Archbishop of Canterbury visited His Holiness Pope Tawadros II at the Papal Residence in Cairo on 24 June 2013

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate use

24 June 2013

Coptic Orthodox Church UK

Media and Communications Office

Coptic Orthodox Church (Europe)

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, receives the Most Revd Justin Welby, 105^th Archbishop of Canterbury, at the Papal Residence in Cairo on 24 June 2013.

The Most Revd Justin Welby visited His Holiness Pope Tawadros II at the Papal Residence in Cairo. His Holiness was accompanied by His Eminence Metropolitan Bishoy, Co-Chair of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission, His Grace Bishop Thomas of Quosia, His Grace Bishop Youannes and His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, who is a member of the International Commission and Co-Chair of the Regional Forum in the United Kingdom. Archbishop Justin was accompanied by His Grace Bishop Mounir Hanna, Primate of the Episcopal Church in Egypt and the Horn of Africa, Bishop Michael Lewis, Bishop of Cyprus and the Gulf, Bishop Grant LeMarquand, Area Bishop for the Horn of Africa, and members of the Lambeth Palace ecumenical and inter-religious offices.

The meeting was cordial and addressed the re-initiation of the International Commission later this year in England, and the nature of ongoing relations between the Coptic Orthodox Church, and the wider Oriental Orthodox family, and the Church of England and the Anglican Communion worldwide.

In welcoming the Archbishop, Pope Tawadros said:

‘We must build our dialogue and studies on love and crown them with prayers; we must also prepare our people to love, accept and work with each other in the spirit of unity found in John 17.’

Commenting on the meeting, Archbishop Justin said:

‘We had a very wide-ranging discussion, coming back several times to the question of how the Church can flourish and grow in prayer, in love for one another and in teaching of the scriptures to our contemporaries. It’s important that we find a way of enabling our affection for one another to be transformed into effective shared witness. I also had the opportunity to express the prayer and solidarity of the Anglican Communion with all the Christians of the Middle East as they seek the common good of their various nations.’

Speaking from Cairo, Bishop Angaelos said:

‘In what is proving to be a historic year for meetings between new heads of Churches across the world, this most recent visit of His Grace Archbishop Justin to His Holiness Pope Tawadros has highlighted the continued efforts towards continued good relations and greater unity between our Churches. Having commenced their ministries in leading their respective Churches only months apart, I am sure that this will be an opportunity for Pope Tawadros and Archbishop Justin to develop these existing relationships.  It is very significant that our International Commission is recommencing this year after ten years, and I am sure that it will recreate a valuable platform for common understanding, leading to a greater witness of solidarity, not only for members of our own Churches but for the wider Christian Church and the whole world.’

*Ends*

View the Press Release online via CopticMediaUK.com or click here

For more information please contact:

Angela Mikhail

Media and Communications Officer
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Tel: +44 (0)20 71937076

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

Tel.: +44 (0)20 71937076
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Office Email: Media@CopticCentre.com
Website: www.CopticCentre.com

Blog: www.CopticMediaUK.com
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CopticMediaUK
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/CopticMediaUK

References to links, articles and blogs, unless otherwise stated, do not necessarily represent the views of the Coptic Orthodox Church or the Media and Communications office.

Press Release: HH Pope Tawadros II receives the title 'Defender of Pro Oriente' in Austria on 27 May 2013

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate use 

28 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 received the title ‘Defender of Pro Oriente’ by the Pro Oriente Foundation on 27 May 2013 during his twelve day visit to Austria.

His Holiness Pope Tawadros II was awarded the title of ‘Defender of Pro Oriente’ by His Eminence Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, Cardinal Archbishop of Vienna during a ceremony held by the Pro Oriente foundation in Vienna’s Archbishop’s Palace. The ceremony marks the tenth anniversary of the official recognition of the Coptic Orthodox Church by the Austrian parliament.

The Pro Oriente Foundation was established in 1964 by Cardinal Franz König (1905-2004) in order to maintain the relationship between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches.

The award comes just weeks after Pope Tawadros visited His Holiness Pope Francis, 40 years after his predecessor, His Holiness the late Pope Shenouda III, who signed the official Christological agreement with the late Pope Paul VI.

In his address, Pope Tawadros said: 

‘Unity is the norm and essence of our Christian identity and character, and separation is the exception to that norm’

His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, accompanying His Holiness in Austria, said:

'We have seen yet another historic event as this award comes only weeks after His Holiness Pope Tawadros was received by His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican. This visit, among those previous, indicates the firm commitment on all parts toward a realised unity and continued ecumenical dialogue and relations.' 

During his 12-day visit to Austria, Pope Tawadros will consecrate five Coptic churches, deliver numerous sermons, and on 28 May 2013, meet with Federal President Heinz Fischer at Hofburg Palace. On Saturday 1 June, His Holiness will pray the Divine Liturgy in St Mary Cathedral in celebration of the great Coptic feast ‘The entry of the Holy Family in Egypt’. On Sunday 2nd June Pope Tawadros will visit the Syrian Orthodox Church of St. Efrem in the 13th District of Vienna before returning to Cairo.

*Ends*

Christian thoughts on liberty, equality and social justice - by HG Bishop Angaelos

Full article available via TahrirSquared.com click here

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 9^th and 10^th 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

http://www.news.va/en/news/to-his-holiness-pope-tawadros-ii-pope-of-alexandri

Coverage on Twitter http://www.Twitter.com/BishopAngaelos

http://www.Twitter.com/CopticMediaUK

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*

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.

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*

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK hosted the Annual Men's Basketball Tournament

On March 15- 17 2013, The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre hosted the annual men’s basketball tournament, the Coptic Orthodox British Elite Basketball Association (COBEBA). 

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:

‘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.’

One of the organisers, Mark Galta said:

‘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.

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*

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*

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.