We are not a 'Nation of the Cross'

Article by His Grace Bishop Angaelos

General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church

in the United Kingdom

This week we celebrate the Feast of the Cross, remembering the ultimate sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ for all humanity. The Cross is a symbol that best exemplifies the paradox of Christianity as it demonstrates strength in apparent weakness and victory in apparent defeat. As Christians, we are therefore called to imitate the selflessness and humility demonstrated on the Cross by our Lord Jesus Christ, not only for our own sake but for the benefit of all those we encounter. 

Following from this, what has caused me great concern is the recent use of the phrase ‘I am of the Nation of the Cross’ on social media, in response to the brutal murder of 21 Coptic Christians in Libya. While many are innocently using this terminology to identify with the bravery and sacrifice of these men, as Christians it is essential that we understand that there is no room for the concept of ‘a nation of the Cross’ within Christianity as our nation is not of this world “for here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come” (Hebrews 13:14).

In the video that shows the martyrdom of these faithful men, one that I personally could not watch in its entirety due to the sheer brutality and degradation of humanity presented, the perpetrators of this heinous crime claimed to carry it out as a way of sending a message to the ‘people and nation of the cross.' While it is understandable that many are responding to this in an act of defiance and solidarity by using the Cross as a profile on social media, association with the concept of the ‘nation of the Cross’ is in actual fact problematic, and even detrimental. We do of course associate ourselves with the Cross as it is central to who we are, as demonstrated in the words of Saint Paul “God forbid that [we] should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus” (Galatians 6:14), but the concept of ‘nation of the cross’ bears many negative implications and is contrary to Christian teaching and understanding.

As Christians, we have everlasting life and the kingdom of God as our concept of nation, as our desire and our goal. We must therefore not use terminology superimposed onto us as our identity because it implies that as a ‘nation of the Cross’ we separate ourselves from the rest of humanity. As Christians, we are gathered as the Body of Christ, but do not see ourselves as separate from the rest of humanity; on the contrary, are called to be in the world as ambassadors and stewards “You are the light of the world…Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16).

To "take up our Cross and follow Christ" (Luke 9:23) is different to declaring ourselves a nation with the Cross as its flag. The Cross was never meant to be a symbol of triumphalism but rather, one of sacrifice and humility, which we as the Body of Christ must emulate “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23).

The implication of this divisive terminology is that we as a ‘nation’ of Christians are at war and at enmity with the ‘nation (Uma) of Islam’, which is of course not the case, and we must not be coerced into a state of enmity; as Christians we have no enemies as we are called to love all equally “…love your neighbour as yourself" (Matthew 22:39). Even if others consider themselves our enemies and chose to ‘spitefully use and persecute [us]’ (Matthew 5:44), we are called to love and forgive even to the end, which has been demonstrated clearly in the response to the execution of these 21 martyrs in Libya as well as in many other similar instances in the past and contemporary history of Christianity.

For this reason, we must not naively adopt an identity or be guided by a philosophy forced upon us and not our own, because it is based on a skewed understanding of Christianity and what the Cross represents. We must always remember that in Christian teaching, the Cross is only a step along a journey which finds its fullness in the Resurrection and so our focus on the Cross can never be in isolation from our hope and joy in the Resurrection. 

As Christians, we are called to set ourselves apart in terms of conduct, and to live faithfully, selflessly and with humility, seeking the power of the Resurrection as demonstrated by these 21 courageous men in Libya, remembering that while we "glory in the cross," (Galatians 6:14) "we have been united together in the likeness of His death, [and] certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection” (Romans 6:5).

Related material:

•  How do we define ourselves – Sermon by HG Bishop Angaelos
• Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos following the brutal murder of 21 Coptic Christians in Libya

Coptic Orthodox Football Tournament Association (COFTA) 2014 - Article by Samuel Michail

We were all missing a bit of COFTA in our lives. With no tournament in 2013, it had been too long. So we all strapped on the shin-pads, tied up our boots, and got going on the 10^th annual Coptic Orthodox Football tournament. Golders Green and the hosts, Stevenage, joined the holders and pre-tournament favourites, Brighton, in Group A. The 2012 runners-up, Croydon found themselves in what appeared a challenging group B with our friends from the north, Nottingham and Rotherham.

And so we began. Despite the fact that we were awoken at 5:00am on Saturday morning to the sounds of a thunderstorm, we didn’t allow that to rain on our parade as we marched out onto the oh so familiar pitches in Shephalbury Park.

The opening game in group A was a tentative affair with neither Golders Green nor Brighton able to find the breakthrough, and it ended a goalless draw, a result which should’ve been repeated when Golders faced Stevenage, but for a Golders goal which the Croydon linesman deemed to have crossed the line. Despite numerous onlookers, the players AND the ref believing it hadn’t, he was adamant it did and the game ended 1-0. No, I’m not bitter at all. When Brighton faced Stevenage, the St George boys defended like warriors and for all Brighton’s attacking flair, they just couldn’t find a way through our resolute defence, until a penalty was awarded for a handball that wasn’t, and it was coolly slotted home. Stevenage found themselves in the familiar position of “If we win our next two games by large margins we can still go through”, as we walked into lunch.

Unfortunately, my knowledge of group B’s game isn’t as in depth as it should be as I was so indulged in the events of my team and my group. However, the highlights include an inspired fight back from Nottingham against Croydon, rescuing a point after being 2-0 down thanks to two headers from their striker Nduoma Chilaki, and an Amir Ameen hat-trick giving Rotherham the three points they needed. Going into lunch, it was clear that group B would have a much tighter finish then that of group A.

We hobbled back onto the pitches, our muscles aching and our stomach’s filled with spaghetti bolognaise, determined to find out who will compete in Sundays semi-finals. Group A resumed very similar to how it started, with a close match between the holders and Golders, ending 1-0 to Brighton. This flung the group wide open but as soon as Golders defeated Stevenage 2-0, we had lost all hope of qualifying and the final game between Brighton and Stevenage ended up being a chance to rest those in need of rest and give the whole squad a run out.

Group B was much tighter as expected. Croydon found their form thanks to some inspired team talks from John Halaka and Anthony Daniel, to beat the Nottingham boys, this time managing to hold onto their lead. Nottingham then beat Rotherham, so it was down to the final game. Croydon v Rotherham. The winner joins Nottingham in the semi final. A draw suited Croydon. It was beautifully poised for a thrilling finish. Rotherham take the lead. Half time. Anthony tells his boys, ‘get me the ball, I will make something happen’. Amir Ameen takes on responsibility of man-marking Anthony. Dying moments, Amir looses his man, Anthony is free, and he scores! The Croydon fans erupt, Rotherham heartbroken. Croydon see the game out at 1-1 and they’ve done it! (Sorry for picking on you there Amir)

And so, the day was almost over. We hobbled back into the cathedral to end the day in the unity of prayer as we prayed Vespers together. The topic of the Vespers sermon by HG Bishop Angaelos was about fellowship and our responsibility to encourage and support one another not just on the football pitch, but spiritually as well.

Sunday would offer us the chance to see a repeat of the 2012 final. Brighton v Croydon on first and they would play the winner of Golders Green v Nottingham in the final. The day started on a lovely note as we were joined by Bishop Moussa to pray the mass with us. Following that, rooms were tidied, brunch was taken and then everyone got into game mode. Brighton opened the scoring, with Mina ‘Deutch’ Muharib bagging his fourth of the campaign. Croydon went for it, they had to, they threw the kitchen sink at it. However, inevitably with them pushing on so hard, gaps were created and Brighton took full advantage as they grabbed the goal that sent them to the final on the break. Another deep and inspiring team talk delivered by John and they promised to be back even stronger next year.

Semi-final number 2 saw Golders Green start at a rapid pace as they took a quick 2-goal lead, which should’ve been extended even more. However, as the Nottingham team has already shown us this tournament, they are not ones to give up and feel sorry for themselves. Captain Mark Khalil rallied the troupes as they gave it everything against the tiring Golders boys and they pulled level before the final whistle went. The nerving affair of a penalty shootout to come. Nottingham scored all their penalties, they had ice running through their veins, but regrettably the Golders boys couldn’t do the same and they were knocked out. Hani Mohib, the Golders coach, lamented the fact they couldn’t hold on to a 2-0 lead, but also exclaimed just how proud he was of his boys and what a fantastic job they’ve done. I second that, Hani.

And now onto the COFTA 2014 Final. The atmosphere was filled with a mixture of tension, excitement and nerves. Nottingham found themselves in the lead when the tournaments top-scorer, Nduoma, ‘scored’ a simply stunning bending and curling free-kick. He ended the tournament with 5 goals, the free-kick deemed to have gone in of the keepers heel, so awarded as an own-goal. However, Brighton fought back and levelled the scoring, but when Nottingham scored again, Brighton had to summon every last ounce of energy to hold on to their trophy, which has found home with them for the last 4 years. Lead by the incredible, player of the tournament, Ashley Brown they produced wave after wave of attacks, but David Morgan was an absolute rock in defence. The few times they did manage to get behind him, the captain, and winner of the golden glove award, Mark Khalil pulled of some simply outstanding saves. The final whistle blew and the celebrations began! Everyone joined in the group bundle, including the Nottingham priest. Thrilling scenes. Nottingham lifted the famous cup as the Brighton boys looked on, vowing to come back stronger next year, with captain Mikael stating that training will go up to three times a week! Congratulations to Nottingham and well done Brighton for playing your part in what was a thrilling final. 

I personally can’t wait till COFTA 2015. I would like to thank everyone who made this tournament so successful, from the kitchen staff, to the fans, to the players to the priests and bishops and to all the captains, coaches and managers. See you all next September!

                                                                                                                                                      Samuel Michail

The preliminary list of names presented to the Nominations Committee of those put forward as Papal candidates was announced and published on Wednesday 30th May 2012

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
Date: 30th May 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Media and Public Relations Office

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

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

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

The preliminary Papal candidate list is as follows:

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

HG Bishop Angaelos Holy Week Parish Pastoral Visit Schedule

His Grace will be delivering all the sermons throughout this week in English

Saturday 7^th April

Palm Sunday Vespers St Mary and St Mercurius Church, Risca  (5-7pm)

Sunday 8^th April

Morning Palm Sunday Liturgy St George Cathedral, Stevenage (10am-1pm)

General Funeral Service St. George Cathedral (1-2pm)

Evening Pascha Service St Mary and St Shenouda Coulsdon (5-7pm)

Monday 9^th April

Morning Pascha St. George Cathedral (11-1:30pm)

Evening Pascha St. Mary and St. Abraam Church Brighton (6-9pm)

Tuesday 10^th April

Morning St. George Cathedral (11-1:30pm)

Evening St. Mary & Archangel Michael Golders Green (6-9pm)

Wednesday 11^th April

Morning Pascha St George Cathedral (11-1:30pm)

Evening Pascha St. Mark Kensington (6-9pm)

Thursday 12 April (Maundy Thursday)

St. George Cathedral

Pascha Service (10am)

Laquan Service (12pm)

The Holy Liturgy (1:30pm-3pm)

The Pascha Service (6pm-9pm)

Friday 13 April (Good Friday)

St. George Cathedral

Good Friday Prayers (10am-5pm)

Apocalypse Vigil (11pm-4am)

The Holy Liturgy (4am-5:30am)

Saturday 14 April (Bright Saturday)

St. George Cathedral

Raising of incense (8pm)

The Holy Resurrection Liturgy (8:30pm)

Sunday 15 April (Feast of the Resurrection)

Spending the day with the local parish community and visitors from other parishes at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Remembering His Holiness Pope Shenouda III

On hearing of the passing of our beloved father, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, on Saturday 17th March, there was much comfort in the fact that as the Coptic youth of the UK, we were gathered together at that moment in fellowship. The news came during the annual men’s basketball tournament at the Coptic Church Centre in Stevenage, and as one body, we halted the sports, moved to the Cathedral of St George and shared in prayer and remembrance of a wonderful man who touched each of our lives in a unique way.

One week later on Saturday 24th March 2012, another gathering was held in the Cathedral, again to pray and remember His Holiness, but this time the congregation that gathered consisted of clergy and believers from several of the Orthodox denominations, Catholic, Anglican, Evangelical and many other Churches across the UK and the rest of the world. There were also representation of Her Majesty, as well as organisations and groups that have had affiliations and dealings with the Coptic Church for many years, and everyone in attendance had come to pay their respects to a man whom they knew to be respected and loved the world over.

The procession was mournful but beautiful and rousing, as the sheer number of attendees became apparent. Approximately 400 people filled the Cathedral, and the atmosphere was one of respect and reverence, but at the same time emotive and celebratory of Pope Shenouda; our loss uniting us and bringing us closer. Once the memorial prayer service had been shared, a letter was read on behalf of the Archbishop of Canterbury, offering his condolences and prayers, followed by HG Bishop Angaelos’ thoughts. His Grace spoke of His Holiness’ life and teachings, as well as His Holiness’ love for the Church, who are his children.

Later, refreshments were offered in the hall, giving all an opportunity to share their own stories and personal experiences of His Holiness in their lives. There was also a chance to sign the book of condolences, which will prove a historic collection of messages in the future.

We pray that the Lord reposes His Holiness’ soul, and that he continues to remember us in his prayers, which will undoubtedly be heard more clearly from where he is now.

HG Bishop Angaelos Announces Departure of H.H. Pope Shenouda III

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE USE

Date: 17^th March 2012

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK

Media and Public Relations Office

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

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

In a statement released today Bishop Angaelos said the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information please contact:

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

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

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

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

The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom launches a new ministry in the City of London

“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers…and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common…” Acts 2:42-44

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

His Grace, who with a dynamic and dedicated steering group established the ministry, said:

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

Mission Statement

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

Aims and Objectives
In line with Acts 2:42, the St Paul Ministry aims to achieve this by: 

1.  Providing opportunities for greater knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures and teachings of the Fathers. 
2.  Creating a safe and familiar space for interaction with like-minded people along their spiritual journey. 
3. Making manifest the Faith and practice of the Church through its Sacraments.
4. Having a time of focused collective prayer and worship.

Read more here

First Service: Sunday 4^th March at 10am in St. Mary-le-Bow church.

Schedule:

10am-11am    Eucharistic Liturgy

11am-12pm    Fellowship Brunch

12pm-1pm      Bible Study and Discussion

Resources:

St. Paul Ministry Website:www.StPaulMinistry.com

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

E-mail: Contact@StPaulMinistry.com 

The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre UK: Prayer Day for Egypt

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