The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK Youth Blog

Coptic Youth Mission's CY Newsletter January edition

2012-01-20T10:58:00.000-08:00

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2012-01-09T10:23:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-04T15:11:00.000-08:00

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 and members of the public 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

2011-12-27T00:24:00.000-08:00

Click HERE to listen

HG Bishop Angaelos on BBC 'Thought for the Day'

Radio 4

Tuesday 27 December, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Christmas message from HG Bishop Angaelos on Premier TV

2011-12-25T07:39:00.000-08:00

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2011-12-14T16:05:00.001-08:00

House of Lords debate regarding Christians in the Middle East

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

HG Bishop Angaelos said:

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

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams stated,

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

Lord Wood of Anfield, Shadow Spokesperson commented,

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

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

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

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

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

2011-12-13T02:35:00.001-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2011-12-05T06:48:00.000-08:00

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Media and Public Relations Office
PRESS RELEASE
5th December 2011

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

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

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

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

Media and Public Relations Office

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre

Shephalbury ManorBroadhall Way,

StevenageHertfordshire 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: @CopticMediaUK

The First Day of Parliamentary Elections in Egypt

2011-11-28T15:09:00.000-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

URGENT: Egypt Elections 2011

2011-11-23T15:15:00.000-08:00

Updated Deadline Information Below:

My dear fathers and brethren,

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

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

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

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

PLEASE CIRCULATE

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

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

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

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

HG Bishop Angaelos' Call to Prayer for Egypt 22/11/11

2011-11-22T04:06:00.001-08:00

With the call for the million-person march in Egypt, please join me in dedicating our prayers throughout today and tonight for God’s protection upon all those who demonstrate as well as the army and the police on the streets. We pray that there will be no further injury or death that will bring pain and sorrow to another family or community in Egypt.

While there is a need for every person to exercise his or her democratic right in contributing to the shaping of this new era in the contemporary history of Egypt, this must be immediately accompanied by our fervent prayers and a calling upon God to protect the land that He once blessed Himself, and all her people.

Please encourage as many people as you can to join us in prayer today: within our own church communities, friends in other churches or denominations, Christians, Muslims, and those of any other faith, as well as anyone else who has a heart for humanity and a concern for a nation experiencing pain. This is by no means a time for separation or segregation, but a time to stand together and call upon God, each in our own way, that He may protect and keep His people in every place.

His Grace Bishop Angaelos attends The Service of Celebration to mark the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible

2011-11-16T07:17:00.000-08:00

On the 16th November 2011, His Grace Bishop Angaelos attended the service of celebration to mark the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible. The service was held at midday at Westminster Abbey, and Her Majesty The Queen accompanied by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh and His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales were in attendance. The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend and Right Honourable Dr. Rowan Williams gave the address. The service celebrated the value and significance of the King James Bible in British culture as part of a series of events at the Abbey marking the anniversary.

Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom on the Maspero Cairo demonstration of 9 Oct '11

2011-10-13T02:15:00.000-07:00

The whole world looked upon Egypt at the beginning of this year with excitement as Egyptians appeared to reclaim their nation, looking towards a more promising future of unity and collaborative efforts for their homeland. Only weeks later however, this idealistic dream started to fade and there was a return of attacks on an unprecedented scale against churches and Christians in Egypt.

For the first time we saw churches burned and demolished with the army looking on and doing nothing. Christians lost their lives, while those who had promised to protect ‘every Egyptian’ looked on. Since then, we have had an escalation of violence from Imbaba to Atfih to Aswan, along with the terrorist bombing of a church in Alexandria earlier this year. The common denominator in all of these, and every other attack for the past decades, is that there has been insufficient official investigation, and an absence of prosecutions and convictions.

This last week however saw a new even more dramatic turn. A peaceful rally, leaving from the Cairo suburb of Shobra and heading to the Maspero state television centre travelled for approximately ten kilometres very peacefully and without incident, bar some stones and rocks being hurled at them at one point. According to reports from the organisers, there were some 60,000 people there: men, women and children, young and old, complete families, marching in an orderly manner.

Once the march entered into the Maspero area however, there was a sudden escalation within moments and the army used excessive lethal force against these peaceful demonstrators. The same army that said in January that it would ‘not fire a single shot against an Egyptian citizen’ and stood by and watched churches burned and Christians killed ‘because it was not in a position to intervene’ now used live ammunition and excessive force in this situation, firing lethal shots to the chest and head while armoured troop carriers were driven directly into crowds, mowing people down and killing many.

Even the premature and unsubstantiated accusations by the military that shots were fired from amongst demonstrators would by no means warrant this level of reaction and retaliation used by armed soldiers.

While these facts speak for themselves, the following must be noted and investigated:

1. The escalation of unrest in Egypt has been caused by the numerous, and until now unresolved, attacks on churches and Christians and these must be investigated, and the perpetrators prosecuted and the situation rectified.

2. Use of this excessive level of force by the military must be investigated by the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), bearing in mind that there have been tens of protests and demonstrations by various groups over the past months that have not met this level of reaction to date.

3. The press conference conducted by SCAF has caused outrage with allegations that no shots were fired by the military and that armoured troop carriers were not intentionally driven into demonstrators, asking people to be sympathetic to ‘frightened soldiers.’ Even if there was no ‘intent,’ the drivers of those vehicles have indeed caused death, and thus must be prosecuted. Furthermore, none of the footage of that incident shows any demonstrators carrying firearms, swords or molotov cocktails as alleged.

4. The irresponsible reporting by state media on the day of the Maspero incident must be investigated. There were major infringements included: the making premature, inflammatory and unsubstantiated claims that Christians had been firing shots at the military, reporting derogatory and inflammatory claims made against demonstrators, expressing disgust at ‘disloyal protestors attacking the army’ and publicly televising insults and profanities against Christians and Christianity.

This is indeed a turning point in Egypt's contemporary history. A time in which there can be positive reform and the building of a new Egypt that is cohesive and that instills a sense of citizenship, ownership and responsibility into every Egyptian, ceasing to focus on the person's religion, but more on his or her contribution and accountability to a single nation state. Alternatively, this can be a point at which we merely continue denying the reality of the presence of conflict, leaving unlawful acts unresolved and unprosecuted, presenting one part of the community as a justifiable target, and continuing to drive a wedge between members of a single society, and this will lead to the demise of all.

Persecution is nothing new for Christianity, and especially for Egyptian Christians. Persecution and martyrdom have been an integral part of our identity since the establishment of our Coptic church in the first Century. We have confidence in God, Who is powerful, merciful and victorious; Who maintains His promises and Who seeks to protect His whole creation, if we indeed walk in His way. This is why we do not fear for Christians or Christianity in Egypt. Egypt has been, 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 Egyptians do not stand together, and if this unhealthy separation and discrimination continues.

Within these days of fast called for by the Coptic Orthodox Church for Egypt, we pray to our God, confident that the solution is in His hands and that His name will be glorified and exalted above all.

Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos RE the London Riots 11/08/2011

2011-08-16T04:56:00.000-07:00

Reflecting on the occurrences of the last week in London and throughout England shows us just how vulnerable our society can be. As with any society, or indeed any group or family, there are always expectations of times of strife, but what matters at these times is the underpinning which holds that group, family, society or nation together.

Many have been alarmed for years about the declining levels of respect for authority of any form in our contemporary culture, whether it be family, schools, the police or the state, which has been spreading through communities and creating a culture supported by either direct or indirect messages from those very same institutions.

It is without a doubt that we believe that God’s plan incorporates all the elements of our lives in the constant work of moulding and shaping our life here on earth. We have a responsibility as church leaders, religious leaders, educators, parents and civil authorities to create an environment of love and entitlement but also of discipline and responsibility. This responsibility must be that of the person towards him or herself, as well as his or her family, community and nation. For far too long, we have looked idly on as a society has continued to rise around us that glamourises crime and gang culture, and encouraged total disregard for any form of authority.

As alarming as the images of the last week have been, they have indeed shed a new and valuable light on where we are going and where we might end up in years to come. Any solution that is to be followed now must be the culmination of much thought and reflection, not only on the incidents of the last week, but also on the various components that have led us to this point. There is indeed no justification for the mindless and aggressive violence and destruction that we have seen over the past days, but at the same time, we must also acknowledge that the people who took part in these riots, although they are a very small minority of our overall British community, are a result of that same community.

We must look at a holistic solution that incorporates parenting, education, social awareness and public policy in finding a productive way forward in the current situation in which we find ourselves, and I am sure after hearing the Prime Minister’s speech and the following House of Commons debate, as well as the statements of various prominent social and religious leaders, that the solution is one that is attainable for the greater good of Britain.

While I was very disturbed at the violent and rampant images over the past days, I have also ironically been feeling a sense of great pride at the way in which the people of Britain have come together at all levels and from all walks of life and rallied to overcome these incidents that will continue to be a living memory and a constant alarm.

Seeing the work of our police force and emergency services as well as our politicians, and members of the general public who have rallied to restore their and our communities around England has reminded me, and must remind us all, that this is what England is really about. This is the England that we must continue to serve and protect; an England that once again regains faith and morality at its core, social responsibility and accountability as its fabric, and a sense of oneness in direction.

As a Church, we have been praying for the repose of those who have departed and comfort for their families, healing for those who have been injured or who have been affected by these attacks in any way, strength and protection upon those who serve and secure our communities, and wisdom and peace to fill every heart throughout the land.

HG Bishop Angaelos with Prime Minister David Cameron at a reception in Downing Street

2011-05-19T03:01:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday 27 April 2011, Prime Minister David Cameron hosted a reception at Downing Street for a select group of leaders of Christian Churches, denominations and organisations, among whom was His Grace Bishop Angaelos of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The celebration was in light of the Feast of the Resurrection, and there was no mistaking the sentiment shared amongst the guests, and held by the Prime Minister himself, that Britain is, and has always been, regarded to be first and foremost a Christian country.
The Prime Minister spoke personally with His Grace Bishop Angaelos about the current state of affairs in Egypt, expressing his concern about the state of the Church and Christians there.
With regards to the state of Britain today, Mr. Cameron spoke about the need for families, people of all faiths, communities, and individuals to help one another to build a “more prosperous, more generous society…”, one that churches in particular can and are already contributing to a great deal.
With uncanny boldness the Prime Minister also expressed the need for Britain to acknowledge its Christian identity, acknowledging that at the heart of politics lies a wealth of moral questions to which we should not be afraid to respond with our Christian values.
Prime Minister Cameron was also quoted by the Church Times saying “I’ve never really understood this argument about ‘Should the Church get involved in politics? Yes or no?’ To me, Christianity, Faith, religion, the Church, is involved in politics because so many political questions are moral questions…So I don’t think we should be frightened about having these debates and these discussions, and frankly, sometimes these arguments about politics in our country and what it means to be a Christian and what faith brings to our politics.”
It was evident from the words spoken at the reception that as a leader, the Prime Minister sees Christianity playing a vital role in maintaining integrity in the political sphere, and that the opinion that faith is in some way irrelevant or detrimental to Britain’s identity, or that it is something for our country to be afraid of and hide, is one that needs to be re-assessed.
As further quoted by the Church Times, the Prime Minister said “Easter reminds us all to follow our conscience and ask not what we are entitled to, but what we can do for others. It teaches us about charity, compassion, responsibility, and forgiveness.”

PUBLIC STATEMENT

2011-05-16T09:44:00.001-07:00

International experts and advocates warn of dangerous escalation of attacks on Christians in Egypt and failings of the international media in reporting the incidents accurately.

We, the undersigned group of experts, advocates and faith leaders with an interest in Egypt, religious freedom and human rights, are gravely concerned at the increasing frequency of attacks on Coptic Christians in Egypt, and the manner in which such attacks are being reported by the international media.

We rejoiced at the determined yet dignified manner in which the Egyptian people asserted their right to enjoy fundamental freedoms. We were particularly encouraged by the solidarity and compatriotism demonstrated by all of the country’s creeds and political groups throughout demonstrations against the Mubarak regime. It was profoundly moving to see Muslims and Christians take turns in protecting one another while holding prayers in Cairo’s Tahrir Square.

The collapse of the powerful state apparatus and the subsequent power vacuum this created, however, quickly opened a ‘Pandora’s Box’ of social problems that the Mubarak regime had either maintained or failed to address. As anticipated, we are now witnessing political struggles for power and influence in the new Egypt. While most of this is a necessary part of the emergence of true democracy in Egypt, the increase in and intensity of attacks on Christians are indicators of imminent civil unrest and the potential for widespread ethno-religious violence that demands an immediate response.

We are deeply concerned by the nature of these attacks on Christians, and the clear lack of action on the part of the Supreme Council of Armed Forces. These attacks have been following established patterns. They have either been terrorist attacks, or well organized mob attacks by radical Islamist groups, referred to as Salafists, who are demanding Egypt become an Islamic state, free of Christians. Yet far from upholding the revolutionary spirit of unity we witnessed in January and February, the Armed Forces not only fail to provide adequate protection, but also continue to follow the policy of Mubarak’s regime by failing to uphold justice or arrest the real culprits, and by forcing reconciliation meetings on the victims that favor their attackers.

Both local and international media reporting of the attacks have been deeply problematic. Mainstream Egyptian media describes such incidents as communal clashes, with at times, inaccurate reports that they are incited by Coptic Christians. Some Islamic media uses harsher and more dangerous tone, with frequent calls to “punish” and ostracize the 10 million strong Coptic community.

The international media is reporting the attacks as “sectarian clashes”. However, these events are not clashes between two sects, such as Sunni and Shiite clashes in Iraq; they constitute a disturbing pattern of escalating attacks and violence against a minority community. Erroneous wording in media reports enable radical groups to continue their aggression, and the Egyptian authorities to remain oblivious and insensitive towards a vulnerable minority.

As we have seen in all cases of mass violence in the 20th Century, radical groups demanding a homogenized society, poor and compliant state performance and widespread scapegoating in media reports are all early indicators of ethnic violence, massacres and genocides.

Unless the international community shows strong resolve and tenacity in keeping the emerging Egyptian leadership accountable, millions of Egyptian citizens will continue to face escalating violence and serious human rights abuses. We urge the Egyptian authorities to uphold rule of law and show resolve in addressing the worrying trends, which have the potential to pull Egypt into further chaos.

Signatories:*

Ziya Meral; Joseph Crapa Fellow, United States Commission on International Religious Freedom

Khataza Gondwe; Team Leader, Africa and the Middle East, Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Dr Jenny Taylor, Director, Lapido Media

Paul Marshall, Senior Fellow, Hudson Institute Center for Religious Freedom

Nina Shea, Director, Hudson Institute Center for Religious Freedom

Dr Elizabeth Iskander; Dinam Research Fellow, London School of Economics

Thomas F. Farr, Director, Religious Freedom Project- The Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs

Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali, Oxford Centre for Training, Research, Advocacy & Dialogue

Dr Mariz Tadros, Fellow, Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex

Adam Hug, Policy Director, the Foreign Policy Centre

Baroness Caroline Cox, CEO, Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust

*Disclaimer: This statement reflects the personal views of the signatories and not their affiliated organizations and institutions.

To contact the signatories and request more information on religious freedom in Egypt, please email: EgyptConcern@gmail.com

Statment By HG Bishop Angaelos on Alyoum7 Article regarding Imbaba

2011-05-10T02:18:00.000-07:00

Statement from Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church, United Kingdom

In response to what was published on the website of Alyoum7, as originating from Middle East News Agency (London), I have noticed a lack of precision in the report of my interview with BBC World regarding the matter of unrest in Imbaba. My comments are therefore as follows:

There was no mention of this incident being a ‘isolated incident’ but that it is part of a series of similar incidents, starting with the attack on the church of Atfih, which is alarming
There was no mention in the article of my comment that the revolution was a nationalistic one, void of religious separation, and that extremist directions will jeopardise the continuity of the nationalist direction of a ‘new’ Egypt
With respect to the Supreme Military Council, I clearly stated that although the church was built, what was needed was to bring to justice the perpetrators of this crime so that we would not find ourselves in this situation in Imbaba today
Maintaining the right to the correction of misrepresentation, an investigation into, and correction of, this article will be demanded due to the sensitivity of the matter at hand.

بيان من الأنبا انجيلوس الأسقف العام بالمملكة المتحدة

رداً على مانشر على موقع اليوم السابع نقلاً عن وكالة أنباء الشرق الأوسط - لندن لوحظ أنه لم يتم تحري الدقة في نقل الحديث الذي جرى مع هيئة ألاذاعة البريطانية تعقيباً على أحدث امبابة كما يلي

لم يتم ذكر أن ماحدث هو حالة خاصة ولكن ذكر أن تسلسل ألأحداث الأخيرة منذ ماحدث بكنيسة أطفيح يدعو إلى القلق

لم يرد في الخبر ماقيل أن الثورة حينما قامت كانت تمثل جموع المصريين بدون تمييز ديني أو مذهبي ولكن الفكر المتطرف يهدد إستمرار الفكر الوطني وبداية عصر جديد لمصر

في صدد ذكر المجلس الأعلى للقوات المسلحة تم التعليق أنه بالرغم من اعادة بناء الكنيسة المنهدمة بواسطة المجلس كان المطلوب تقديم المتسبب للمحاكمة لكي لا نجد أنفسنا في الوضع الحالي في امبابة

عملاً بحق الرد سوف يطلب تصحيح الخبر وتحري الدقة المطلوبة نظراً لحساسية الموقف

Prayers for Egypt

2011-05-09T03:32:00.000-07:00

His Grace Bishop Angaelos calls all to please join us in prayer at 7pm GMT for the safety of Egypt. Prayer meeting at the centre for all who can come, but if not, please pray from wherever you are.

HG Bishop Angaelos Interview

2011-05-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

HG Bishop Angaelos will be interviewed on BBC World today at 3pm regarding the current situation in Egypt. Please watch and pray for Egypt.

The Church of Egypt Prayed for Egypt

2011-03-08T03:56:00.001-08:00

It was a new idea and, to be honest, I was a bit sceptical about it. Would it work? I am talking about a prayer day for Egypt, but with a twist; this prayer day would be shared by several of Egypt's churches (those who have presence in the UK), with their congregations under one roof. The idea was initiated by HG Bishop Angaelos who, on behalf of the Coptic Orthodox Church, invited leaders from other Egyptian churches to gather and join in prayer for their beloved country. As I said I had my doubts! The reason was the different praying styles that each of these churches had. In addition, having spent the majority of my life (18 years), and being brought up, in Egypt, I never really heard of such a union and I guess, for it to happen, everyone had to step out of their comfort zones a little.

Well, I was wrong. It was amazing! In fact, without exaggerating, everyone I have spoken with about the experience also agreed with me. We started with the Divine Liturgy, followed by what all Egyptians did best - FOOD! It was lent, so the Coptic Orthodox Church, being the host of the day, prepared all sorts of fasting food, which I thoroughly enjoyed! Then we started the prayer programme for, in total, about 300 participants.

Each church had two 20 minute slots, filled with prayers, hymns, songs and talks, lasting for about 3 hours in total. They were a homogenous mix of languages, style, instruments, age groups and churches. Attendees were also a mix of Egyptians and Sudanese and, I believe, a mix of Syrians, Lebanese, Iraqis and Jordanians, amongst other countries.

Having said that however, there were many common things:
1. We all gathered around our Lord and His word, in prayer and solidarity, putting our lives in His hands and praising His name
2. We all prayed for Egypt’s security and stability, as well as other countries in Africa and the Middle East. We also prayed for all of our brothers and sisters, Christians, Muslims and others; our brother and sisters in humanity.
3. We all shared love, and as God is love, I am sure that He was present amongst us throughout the whole day.

The day was powerful. It reminded me that even when we are different (each church had its unique praying style, that would not normally be used in another church), yet we are very similar. It might have taken us a huge event like what happened in Egypt to realise that, but I am glad that we broke the ice and came together to pray under one roof in Christ's name. All it took was genuine love, respect and acceptance.

Everyone agreed that this should be a good start to a long-term journey of greater fellowship. I pray that this seed is watered and nourished so that it bears fruit and becomes an example of how this unity can be achieved. We may remain varied and unique, each keeping an independent identity, yet we are united in Him.

The Church of Egypt Prays for Egypt

2011-02-15T08:15:00.001-08:00

My dear sisters and brothers,

Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.

Over the past few weeks there has been a level of uncertainty and instability connected with Egypt and its future, but we have seen millions cling to God, confident in His love and promises, both for the land and its people. At the same time, we see this is a moment for the celebration of a new era in Egypt; we are thankful for God’s blessing, and excited about the changes and His work through them. We pray for our Lord to provide wisdom, direction and guidance now as we enter a new phase of change, that He may oversee the provision of unity, equality, prosperity, safety, joy and peace for all. Indeed it is time to remember and be thankful for His loving message in the Book of Isaiah “Blessed is Egypt, My people...”

I invite you to join me and hundreds of other Egyptians for a day on which "The Church of Egypt Pray for Egypt Day" at the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre on Saturday 5th March from 10.30am to 4.30pm. This will be the day that Egyptian Christians in the United Kingdom from various denominations come together with one heart to pray together for Egypt, joined by members of the wider Egyptian community.

We will share in both Liturgical and non-Liturgical prayer and worship. Lunch will be provided, and the day will be a wonderful opportunity to gather in fellowship.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at Events@CopticCentre.com

I look forward to seeing you on the day, and leave you in the love and care of our gracious Lord.

+Bishop Angaelos
General Bishop
Coptic Orthodox Church
United Kingdom

Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BishopAngaelos
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The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage
Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom
Tel.: +44 (0)1438 745232
Fax: +44 (0)1438 313879
Personal Email: Angaelos@CopticCentre.com
Office Email: Admin@CopticCentre.com

Prayer for Egypt

2011-02-04T02:55:00.000-08:00

My dear friends,

Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.

Today we remember the words of the Lord our God: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:11-13).

As we all ask questions that appear to have no answer, we must remember that, as quoted above, God already has the answer, and that is one based on His unchanging heart towards us; the answer is one of peace, a future and hope. Our hearts and thoughts are with our brothers and sisters in Egypt, so let us raise those hearts to God today, asking peace and direction for all in Egypt, knowing that we are all in God’s hands, and remembering the reassuring words of our Lord Jesus Christ, "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1).

Asking protection for the protestors, restraint for the army and police, wisdom for those in power, and peace and protection for the whole blessed land, let us pray today with peace in our hearts, and power and confidence in our God, knowing that He is always faithful in all His promises.

Raising my heart and hands with you today, I leave you in the love and care of our gracious Lord.

+Bishop Angaelos
General Bishop
Coptic Orthodox Church
United Kingdom

Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BishopAngaelos
--------------------------------
Website: www.CopticCentre.com
Also visit www.BishopAngaelos.org

Call to join together in prayer and fasting

2011-02-01T09:28:00.000-08:00

The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland
Calls all to join together in prayer and fasting
Wednesday 2-Friday 4 February, 2011

My dear friends,
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.

"When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place."

(Acts 2:1)

At this time our thoughts are with all those in Egypt: our families, friends, brothers and sisters, as well as the country with which many of us feel very deep connections. I would like for us all to join together in three days of fervent prayer and united fasting, with one accord, that God may grant stability to Egypt, asking: protection for the protestors, restraint for the army and police, wisdom for those in power, and peace and protection for the whole blessed land.

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

+Bishop Angaelos
General Bishop
Coptic Orthodox Church
United Kingdom

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BishopAngaelos

--------------------------------

Website: www.CopticCentre.com
Also visit www.BishopAngaelos.org

3/1/2011

2011-01-03T10:22:00.001-08:00

HG Bishop Angaelos will be giving television interviews tonight on BBC World at 7pm and Al Jazeera English at 9pm. Please watch, and support in prayer.

Coptic Orthodox Church attacked in Alexandria

2011-01-01T09:44:00.001-08:00

Please follow this link to see HG Bishop Angaelos's official statement. Please pass on the link.

http://www.copticcentre.com/ViewNews.aspx

1st January 2011

2011-01-01T02:43:00.000-08:00

In light of last night's tragic attack on the Coptic Orthodox Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Alexandria, HG Bishop Angaelos has called for a prayer meeting at 2pm today at the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in Stevenage. HG asks you to join us if you can, and if not, please join us in prayer wherever you might be.

2010-12-21T09:31:00.000-08:00

YAR 2010
By Christina Baghdady

Another year and a fantastic YAR 2010! Nicely put, it was a Young Adults’ Retreat, for us, by us!
When I sat down to write this, I had no idea where to start. The main reason being, I was genuinely overwhelmed by how well organised and accommodating YAR was. I have attended many a conference and retreat over the years. I was a first-timer at YAR, but I can whole-hertedly state that this is one of the best conferences I have ever attended. As always, this year’s retreat was wonderfully planned by the YAR team, working with HG Bishop Angaelos and its’ wider group of helpers.
The theme being ‘Simplicity’, one could sense that an Oxford Dictionary definition of the word would hardly be sufficient. What words come to your mind when you think of ‘simplicity’? Pause....think about it....and read on.
Often, a stereotype of the term may give more a negative than positive connotation; naive, ignorant and, as one friend put it, ‘not complex.’ The talks, debates and discussions however revealed otherwise. Indeed ‘simplicity’ should not be so simply coined into a negative definition. Take a listen to the talks; download them and keep them on your mp3/4’s, ipods, iphones, ipads, i-whatever. No, I am not promoting a particular brand.
The speakers: His Grace Bishop Angaelos, Abouna Shenouda, Michael Armanyous and Daniel Boctor all produced mature, thought-provoking talks.
Personally, I found simplicity to be an amalgamation of many noble characteristics: wisdom, child-like innocence and much more. Matthew 19: 13-15 sums it up for me, when our Lord said, “Let the little children come to Me and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
Move over Superman, Batman, Spiderman! Our Heavenly Father is all of them put together and so, So, SO much more!
Suffice to say, the way to a conference goer’s heart is indeed first and foremost, our Heavenly Father’s word. In a distant, not-so-close second place, is however, food. WOW! Special thanks to everyone who took part in the preparations and setting of the dishes. Move over 5* restaurants! YAR is the grub! Enough said!
The events were definitely entertaining! Come 4pm on Saturday, it was time...yes time for (drum roll) ‘bowling mode’! You may be thinking, ‘did they use the bumpers?’ As if! Us, YAR attendees were ‘simply’ the BEST!
Our own Winter Wonderland on Saturday night was a wonderful conclusion to a spiritually and physically rejuvenating day! Santa and his elves trekked from the distant lands of Lapland to join the YAR crew over some mulled (non-alcoholic!) wine, popcorn and marshmallows over a bonfire. Oh the life! If the torrential snow fall over the previous weeks didn’t put one into a Christmas mood, this certainly did!
Ironically, I could not think of a better time to delve deeper into the more profound spiritual meanings of simplicity than now. Nearing the end of 2010 and approaching the beginnings of 2011, we take a moment to contemplate the events of the past year. More importantly, we look to the future on how we can apply simplicity in our lives in 2011. New Year’s resolution...any guesses?
Bring on YAR 2011!!

YAR 2010; Simplicity

2010-11-25T04:26:00.001-08:00

http://yar2010.eventbrite.com/

The Young Adult Retreat is back with...

Simplicity

....and we want you there!!

A year ago we wrote to you on this very same page and asked: "Do you feel that 2009 has flown by?" It is highly likely that your response was "Yes". And surely enough it is highly probable that your answer remains "Yes" for 2010! How many of you feel that each year we promise ourselves that family, work, personal desires aside, this will be the year that we reach a stronger spiritual health? We plan our "five a day" fruits and veg to help us reach that aim; we plan our step by step guide to reading God's Word and prayer points, but then something comes along and grabs us away from our plans of full surrender and utter devotion.

If YAR 2009 gave you the opportunity to explore where your treasures should lie, then YAR 2010 is your chance to spend a weekend attending to your spiritual health with engaging, insightful and practical food for thought... No-one will leave without something to take away... it's that simple!

And if that does not whet your appetite (literally too - there is a BBQ alla fish planned for Saturday Lunch) – This year we are honoured to have H.G. Anba Angaelos and TWO Guest Speakers to lead us in wisdom and knowledge on the topic of Simplicity…

Registration is very simple. All you need to do is:

- decide on the type of accommodation,

- decide on whether you will be taking part in Laser Quest,

- fill in the registration page with details of travel arrangements, dietary requirements etc, and then

- follow the link to PayPal to make a direct payment to YAR.

http://yar2010.eventbrite.com/

Once you've placed your order you will receive a confirmation email with a copy of your ticket and reference number. PLEASE KEEP THIS SAFE. The YAR Team will then sort out everything you will require for the entire weekend!

SIMPLE!!

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Art+Film Awards 2010

2010-11-22T04:51:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to everybody who was involved with the Art+Film Awards 2010! It was a wonderful evening of talent and fellowship, and we pray for an even better one next year!

Please remember to join us on Dec 3rd+4th to Help Haiti!

Come Help Haiti!

2010-11-09T02:33:00.001-08:00

In light of the ongoing need for relief in Haiti, The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre and Coptic Youth Mission UK are working in conjunction with the Chain of Hope to do as much as we can to help. We are offering our assistance by packaging medical supplies to send to Haiti on the evening of Friday the 3rd as well as all day on Saturday the 4th of December at the Centre in Stevenage. Please join us if you can.

If you would like to help or have any questions, please e-mail admin@copticyouthmission.com.

God Bless.

Baghdad today

2010-11-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

In light of the sad occurrences in Baghdad, we ask you to pray for the repose of the departed souls and for the comfort of the families and community left behind.

HG Bishop Angaelos is asking for us all to dedicate our prayers for the next three days to the peace and safety of our brothers and sisters in Egypt

Ladies' COFTA 2010 by Michael 'Bunso' Mekhail

2010-10-18T02:27:00.001-07:00

Twas a beautiful morning in the luscious fields of Shephalbury Park on the 2nd of October 2010. The grass was sprinkled with dew and people were out for their peaceful morning walk. This day however was no normal day, it was a COFTA day! The dreaded gate had been opened and the noisy Copts were pouring back into the quiet park for another loud day of football. Only this time, it was the ladies turn to shine.

As the boys tried to get some last minute footballing knowledge into their girls before we kicked off (we decided to ‘postpone’ explaining the offside rule, for simplicity’s sake), the corner flags were erected and the goal nets were prepared for an intense day of sporting rivalry. The Anba Abraam (Brighton) girls had been training hard in order to try and secure the treble title after their boys won COFTA two weeks before and the basketball back in March. From the other end of the country, after the success of the Northern boys at COFTA, the Northern girls decided they were not to be outdone; donning the infamous ‘Messi 10’ shirt and some rather fetching blue facepaint, they took to the field in their first game against za big gibna, Anba Abraam. Meanwhile the team of host church, St. George, was being led through some last minute training drills by their me3alem and world-renowned coach Amir Michaeel. St. Shenouda (Croydon), Archangel Michael (Golders Green) and St Mark were battling it out in the other group.

They ran, they tackled, and they fouled; for 4 long hours the girls fought it out in the group stages for a place in the semi finals. In group 1 a cheeky goal from St George’s Angela Mikhail contributed to earning them a semi-final place alongside Anba Abram while the lovely Northern girls walked proudly off with the admiration of many, planning their strategy for next year. Unlucky ladies, thanks for coming.

In group 2 Archangel Michael and St Mark progressed to the next round, the infamous St. Shenouda Phairies, playing as passionately and proudly as always, with their faithful supporters,

After a lunch time of reapplying Deep-Heat and revisiting game plans, the girls headed back onto the battleground for round 2. With the weather turning on us, we worried that the girls might give up on the whole tournament and scamper inside, but like true soldiers, they fought on with every last bit of energy they had, and gave more than anyone ever expected to see.

In the semi-final between St. George and Archangel Michael, teh latter grabbed an early advantage, going one nil up in the first half. St. George were not to be outdone though with the girls fighting proudly till the last moment when Golders were awarded a penalty which was then expertly dispatched going in off the post. No chance for poor Angy in goal. The other semi final featuring Anba Abraam and St Mark was a hard-fought battle also with no winner being decided after the 90 minutes and the game going onto penalties. There was top corner, bottom corner, saves from the goalies. St Mark eventually scraped through to the final, knocking the well-represented favourites out of the competition.

It had been a long day for players and supporters alike. With the sun setting there was one more game that needed to be played. The Ladies’ COFTA 2010 final between St.Mark and Archangel Michael. A fierce rivalry that has been brewing for years now suddenly came into the spotlight as the girls threw caution to the wind one last time and fought to validate the day’s work. After 90 minutes, a winner was undecided. Weary legs at the back and even wearier legs up front, but neither team had managed to score a goal in normal time. Extra time also failed to separate the women from the girls, leaving us with one dreaded option, pitch black penalties.

After a long day of relatively controversy-free football, the final was bound to go sailing by smoothly right... Right? Wrong! A dispute sprung up over one of the penalties, but at the end of this great day the title went to St.Mark, although after all the hard work put in throughout the day and the excellent fellowship, every team deserved the trophy.

And so it was that we prayed liturgy together on Sunday morning to round off what had been a wonderful weekend of fellowship and friendly competition. Legs were bandaged, cuts were plastered, muscles were sore. As the girls were lining up for communion one parent asked me; ‘Do you know why all the girls are limping towards Sayedna? Was there some sort of fight?’.No sir, no fighting took place. The girls ran around playing football all day yesterday and were showing the injuries of committed warriors! At least they have a whole year of recovery time until next years COFTA…

Congratulations St Mark Lionesses!

2010-10-05T04:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who played and worked so hard this weekend at Ladies' COFTA; you all did a great job!

Congratulations again to the St Mark Lionesses who triumphed, as well as the St Mary and Archangel Michael team who were runners-up. Each team played wonderfully, and we look forward to seeing an even higher standard of play next year.

Look out for the upcoming events at www.CopticCentre.com including the 10-14s conference on October 22-24th.

2010-09-29T08:13:00.001-07:00

The Highlight of the Coptic Youth Calendar: COFTA.

By COFTA Secretary John Shenouda

The Coptic Orthodox Football Tournament Association hosted its annual men’s football tournament held at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in Shephalbury Park on the 11th and 12th of September 2010. The usual bar for standard of play is relatively low as most of the youth are on the verge of, if not already at, obesity.

In truth, months of preparation and organisation went out of the window on Friday night when a lot more people had to be accommodated than planned. Nonetheless, the sense of Koinonia was once again at its best as everyone helped overcome the issue. The morning provided a rainbow of colourful youth in various different kits awaiting the opening prayer. I thought I was in wonderland when I GENUINLY saw Lionel Messi…a whole 14 of him! Only later were my eyes opened to the fact that these were actually the debutant Rotherham boys who would provide many a shock this year.

Football kicked off with the St. Shenouda team complaining the St. Mary, Golders Green team should be disqualified for being late and the St. Mary team refusing to change their goalie kit despite it being the same as the outfield kit because “it was new!” But then again, some things never change. Eventually play got underway. And while on one pitch a dislocated finger was popped back in by non-other than Danny “Crutches” Daniel, the Rotherham underdogs were proving tough and resilient beating the holders 2-0 against all the odds.

With prayers under our belts and God on our side, surely we (St. George) would win this year! It simply wasn’t to be. With 4 points from 4 games, our glory came not from wining matches but from the number of burgers our players ate at lunch. The St. Abraam team topped their group with relative ease followed by St. Shenouda and in group B, Rotherham and St Mark went through.

A packed Vespers service concluded the day in beautiful fashion.

Day 2: and liturgy united us for what would be the last time before football matters got serious again. The semis saw St Abraam overcome St Mark on penalties after an invigorating game in which the infallible linesman (myself) was ambushed by St Marks “Super (referring to size) Sub” Mark Bishoy. The second semi turned out a CRACKER! Rotherham came back from a goal down thanks to an amazing goal worthy of the title Scholes-esque which shocked and delighted all.
The final crowned St. Abraam worthy winners, convincingly coming out on top 3-0. Their victory cemented each of the southern churches winning COFTA once in the past 5 years of its existence. So my predictions for next year: St. Shenouda as we go round the cycle for the second time.

Ladies’ COFTA is this weekend, Saturday 2nd October at the Centre in Stevenage

2010-09-21T01:40:00.001-07:00

Friends of St George Cathedral,

We would like to invite you to join us at the Friends of St George Cathedral Banquet on Saturday the 25th September 2010 at 6pm.

We promise a fun-filled evening with great food, fellowship, music and talent!

It is a great opportunity for us all to unite with one common goal - to celebrate our Church and the people within it.

Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis and ticket sales will stop once we have reached full capacity.

Children under 5 do not require a ticket.

Please invite your family and friends to join us on this special occassion.

If you have any questions or can help in any way please contact Tara Hanna on 07903 972 453 or events@copticcentre.com

Love in Christ,

HG Anba Angaelos, Father Shenouda and the St George Events Team

Book Online Now!
http://friendsofstgeorgecathedraldinner.eventbrite.com/

COFTA 2010-Congratulations!

2010-09-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to everyone who participated in COFTA 2010 this weekend. The football was fantastic, the fellowship was wonderful and the cheering was tremendous!

Extra congratulations to the team from St Mary and Anba Abraam Church in Brighton who are COFTA 2010 Champions! They played brilliantly, and rightly took home the COFTA cup.

Special mention also to the team from 'the North' aka Rotherham, who kept us all guessing, and surprised everyone by being runers up in their very first COFTA tournament. We hope that they will play again every year!

Watch this space for more details of what happened, as well as photos, and get ready for Ladies' COFTA 2010 on October 2nd!

EYC Thank-you! Message from HG...

2010-09-13T02:53:00.000-07:00

My dear friends, children in our Lord Jesus Christ

Grace and peace to you from our Lord.

Now that we have all had time to recover from EYC 2010 and reflect on and assess the successes and effects of the conference, I would like to take some time to thank you all for making it such a wonderful event and a blessed weekend of true Koinonia.

So many people served and worked so hard on the conference, both in the months leading up to it, and over the weekend itself, and what was very evident was that every person who was involved, served with and from the heart. Starting about 100 people at the initial meeting on the 1st of May, we were all aware that we had a short time to prepare something on a massive scale that had not been attempted before, but people came from across the United Kingdom to serve and join together. From this, the spirit of Koinonia became prominent and the theme for EYC 2010 was both found and realised. This was no longer ‘churches’ working, but the UK and RI Coptic Orthodox Church in unified action and establishing long-lasting fellowship.

The work immediately developed and grew into directed and focused fellowship, with themes and timetables drawn up, public relations, advertising and marketing, and the production of adverts and posters that got us all in the spirit and mood. All of this was underpinned with collective nightly prayer by everyone involved for the months that preceded.

So many people worked, and to mention you all personally would be near impossible, I would therefore like to thank all of you who served in the following teams:
• Accommodation team
• Administration team
• Catering and Hospitality team
• Cleaning team
• Contemporary Worship team
• IT and Tech team
• Logistics and Transportation team
• Media team
• Medical and First Aid team
• Merchandising and Marketing team
• Midnight Praises (Tasbeha) team
• Registration team
• Safety and Security team
• Topic team
• The Day-after-EYC-for-the-servants team
• The Rafat and Azmy Team

Beside all this, there was a lot of behind-the-scene work that was carried out be so many ‘unknown soldiers’ who were so self-sacrificing.

All-in-all, this was a wonderful occasion for fellowship and witness, and an opportunity for us all to experience oneness in God’s gracious love. You were all truly an example of selflessness and service, making me very, very proud. Once again, I thank you for your love and faithfulness, and pray that God blesses all we do for the glory of His holy name.

I look forward to seeing you all in the coming weeks, and leave you in the love and care of our gracious Lord.

+Anba Angaelos

COFTA 2010 - 10-12 September

2010-09-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

This year's COFTA Tournament is upon us at last! Prepare for a weekend of fellowship, prayer, goals and whistles!

Join us at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre, Stevenage from the 10th to the 12th of September and support your team.

COFTA (The Coptic Orthodox Football Tournament Association) aims to provide an opportunity for Copts from all over the UK to come together and take part in mutual enjoyment of sport. Not only does this give us an opportunity to meet and interact with other members of the body of Christ, but also provides us with the chance to utilise, enjoy, and hopefully improve on talents that God has given us.

COFTA’s current duties include the arrangement of the Annual National Coptic Orthodox Football Tournament, and hopefully this will soon be expanded to organising the National Coptic Orthodox Premier League, arranging women’s football tournaments, and supervising sports events during sports days and the annual conferences.

2010-06-02T07:50:00.000-07:00

We are glad to announce that this year’s European Youth Conference, the 10th EYC, will take place at the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in the United Kingdom between the 26th August and 29th August.

This event also happens to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the Coptic Youth Mission in the UK, and will therefore be a double celebration.

Registration:Due to limited spaces, registration will also be limited and there will be a strict deadline of midnight on June 30th. After which registration and booking will no longer be possible. All registration and payment will only be via the EYC link on the left. Please note the age restrictions on this event too: all attendees must be over the age of 16 and below the age of 35.

NB the extra booking fee on the registration website is NOT from the EYC team, but is a charge from the website itself and cannot be avoided.

If you have any more questions, please email us at eyc2010@copticcentre.com.We look forward to seeing you all in August!

God Bless.The EYC 2010 Team

Book Now!

2010-05-10T03:22:00.000-07:00

Day-Passes for EYC 2010 now available online for 2 weeks ONLY. After this date, they will no longer be available online. If purchased at the door, Passes will cost up to double, so book now! www.copticcentre.com/eyc2010. God bless.

Thank you to everyone who came to EYC 2010!

2010-05-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all those who attended EYC 2010 at the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in Stevenage. The conference was spiritually beneficial, a lot of fun, and a perfect example of 'Koinonia', being together in Him.

Watch out for photographs, videos, recordings and publications at www.copticcntre.com/eyc2010, as well as reports from various people who were there.

If you would like to send in any photos or videos that you took yourself, or comments that you would like to leave, please e-mail us at eyc2010@copticcentre.com, and we will put as much as possible online.

If you have any more questions, please e-mail us!

God Bless,

The EYC 2010 Team

A new message from HG Anba Angaelos!

2010-04-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

We would like to invite all over 18s to join us in preparation for this year's European Youth Conference. We want everyone to be involved from all across the UK , so please bring your ideas and join us at the Coptic Orthodox Church Centre in Stevenage on the 1st of May 2010. Liturgy will be from 10am, then we will have breakfast together and the meeting will start at 1pm.

If you have any questions, please e-mail us on eyc2010@copticcentre.com.

God Bless!

A message from HG Bishop Angaelos

2010-04-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

We announce with great pleasure that the United Kingdom has been selected to host the annual European Youth Conference for 2010. This is a particular honour being the 10th anniversary for the EYC. Incidentally this coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Coptic Youth Mission in the UK as well, therefore the conference will offer the chance of a double celebration.

This will be a wonderful opportunity for our churches in the UK to work together, and our churches around Europe to come together for the occasion.

We look forward to the input and involvement of as many people as possible for the fellowship that this will build and strengthen, and for the Glory of God.

Please be prepared for more announcements in the coming weeks!