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

Revive 2013

 Well, it has come and gone again, but not without a lasting impact on everyone who attended or served at Revive 2013!

The theme this year was ‘Shine’ inspired by Matthew 5:16 where our Lord instructs us all to “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

With an unprecedented number of people in attendance this year, well over 200, the Coptic Centre UK was filled with lively and dynamic youth in search of spiritual nourishment, fruitful fellowship and exciting activities. His Grace Bishop Angaelos, our beloved host, said of this year’s Revive:

“It was lovely to see our youth actively engaging in the spiritual talks and benefitting from the words of His Grace Bishop Youssef, who journeyed across the world to give us all the benefit of His insight and knowledge. I am so pleased to see the high turnout this year, because it is in coming together that we can truly experience the power of the Holy Spirit that works in us all to shine to those closest to us, and then to all who we encounter. Thank you to all the faithful servants who contributed to this year’s Revive, and to all those who attended; may we continue to let the light of God within us shine.”

Let’s hear what some of the youth had to say about Revive 2013:

‘I learnt how to build a better relationship with God in order to shine! My favourite activity was the bouncy castle. A very hectic, yet unusually calm experience.’ - Alexander Malhar, Strand 14-15

 ‘I think the spiritual content of the talks were really good because I got more about how we can shine in other people’s lives. Also, it was presented really well, not only by talks but by a video clip which made it more interesting. Activities were good; I went on the bouncy castle and also took part in the indoor activities. I met loads of new people by participating in these activities. The atmosphere was amazing! Everybody was positive, especially at the bonfire when everyone was singing – it was brilliant! The praise and worship was also amazing, because there was a positive vibe in the atmosphere which makes you feel so close to God in the moment! And not to mention, the food was brilliant!’ - Yustina Zan, Strand 16-17

‘The talks were really good. Anba Youseff’s lectures were really interesting, length and subject was very appropriate. The analogy used with the earth, moon and sun was very helpful as it helped explain the concept of ‘shine’ really well. Mary’s talk was also very good, she was really interactive and I felt I learnt a lot during this conference. There needed to be more interactive group activities, not just football and treasure hunt, also, two years ago we had a talent show/ church presentations which were a lot of fun and helped bring people together. I also think there were too many young people this year. Maybe split it up into two conferences? I liked the talks the most as I really benefitted from them. ’-  Eustina Hanna, Strand 18-19

 ‘Anba Youseff’s talks I found beneficial as the advice applied to my daily life. E.g. prayer distractions and when attending weddings how to come together for the bride and groom while evangelising. I enjoyed the bouncy castle/football/smaller games in the main hall/bonfire. It was chaotic, but timing was spot on. Organisation for the workshop I was in was difficult due to large numbers, the food was great. Personally, I appreciated getting to know girls and boys from my church on a better level and other kids from different churches. Also, tasbeha was amazing, and the overall atmosphere with both the Sayedna’s presence was great with their laid back and friendly attitudes.’ - Julie Kheir, Servant

 ‘Anba Youssef’s talk was really good, I benefitted a lot, I wish he gave us more talks. There were good activities but there needs to be more for the kids. Overall it was a great atmosphere, I loved seeing friends from different churches.’ Mina Hanna, Servant

 

COFTA: Coptic Orthodox Football Tries Again

“Most football teams are temperamental. That's 90% temper and 10% mental.”
 

We patiently waited for summer to end and autumn to dawn upon us. June... July...  August...  September... That’s right. It was time to separate the fine from the foul, the slackers from the slick and the fat from the fit. Before September closed its curtains on us for yet another year, it went out with a bang: COFTA 2012.

This year saw the absence of the Rotherham boys as they were preoccupied celebrating a wedding in the only way they know how – “three days in the monastery post-ceremony”. . . Sure. As finalists for the previous two years, the draw was thrown wide open. The North was not to be forgotten though as Nottingham made their return to the elite scene after several years out.

The day started off late, as usual, with the traditional prayers and photo after the gate was disassembled by the custodian of the spanner himself: Uncle Rafat. With the first two group games getting underway, comfortable victories came to the holders, Brighton, and to Croydon. As St George FC took to the pitch against Nottingham, one thing became clear. Up north, “Football is like nuclear warfare. There are no winners, only survivors.” This proved true as both teams were held to a draw on both occasions and all we had to show for it was battle scars likened to those on the frontline (pictures available upon request). Lucky Elia missed it all as he prioritised his MOT above his football. BUT GOOD NEWS PEOPLE! He passed! Needless to say avoid the roads.

Right before we called half-time on the day, a St George FC player, who shall remain Amonyous...I mean anonymous, decided that 3-0 down in the second half it would be wise to play Maradona in his own net. The referee kindly gave the goal to spare him further blushes (which Brighton would inflict later that day).

Lunch time was upon us. Forget half-time oranges; burgers and chips were the highly nutritional snack of the day with the only veg in sight that of ketchup. Enough said. Clearly Jamie Oliver’s healthy eating campaign had yet to hit the Coptic Community within England. Chief Galtta’s touch was truly missed.

You may be wondering where St Mark’s feature in the picture. They packed their bags and made their way home after the first day of action following retirement from the game of big names such as ex-captain “The Ramon Risk” himself. But St George FC were determined not to go out without leaving their mark on the tournament (as Nottingham had on my leg). And they did just that. 11-1 losers to Brighton in what was the greatest ever defeat in COFTA history. With players putting in transfer requests in left right and centre, rumour had it that COFTA team’s players would hereby be decided by geographical location... Couldn’t agree more. I’m on my way to Brighton as we speak and the whole Brighton team is being deported back to Germany and France.

And so it was, St George FC bowed out at the group stage: “We can't run. We can't pass. We can't stop the run. We can't stop the pass. We can't kick. Other than that, we’re just not a very good football team right now.” Nottingham too made history being the first team to reach the semis without recording a single victory.

Day Two saw Croydon meet Brighton in the final which saw, ex-St George player, and now almost amateur referee, G. Farah do a much better job than some of the other refs across the weekend *COUGH-Fady Malik-COUGH*. Clearly underdogs, Croydon took the lead with an emphatic strike by Meerky-cat which sent their fans and crippled Egyptian punter Michael Tadros into euphoria. Vin Diesel soon after silenced the masses and sent Fr Yohanna in the clouds, a familiar place for the Man of Cloth, with a great penalty (Michael Shenouda, take notes). Soon after, COFTA’s first broken bone when Brighton’s Shady snapped his collar bone in two and had to be lured off the pitch as he insisted he was fit to play... There was some truly remarkable football played by both teams.

The final continued into the darkness and when extra-time couldn’t separate the teams it went down to penalties. At this stage, the Sports Correspondent had to make his way home and missed the shootout. He did hear however that it was an enthralling encounter that ended with the Brighton keeper almost losing his life in the post-match celebration.

Either way, there was one team that really shone out from the rest in their spirit of love, peace and graciousness. Furthermore, they played some of the highest quality football COFTA has ever seen. Their two training sessions a week had paid dividends and Brighton became the first team to win COFTA three years on the trot.

Brighton, next year save yourself the journey and the hassle. Keep the trophy and we’ll call it quits ;)

COFTA Secretary & Sports correspondent
J. Shenouda
Coptic Media Group and Coptic Youth Mission take no responsibility for the opinions of their correspondents. Complaints should be made directly to the Leveson Inquiry or the correspondent (without violence of course).

Revive 2012

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Timothy 4:7

Revive 2012, the new and improved summer conference was the first of its kind! With a dedicated team of servants working tirelessly with HG Bishop Angaelos and the parish priests to see a new structure and attitude infused, it lived up to expectations. Revive managed to cater for four different age groups with sessions split into ages 14-15, 16-17, 18-19, and 20-21. Under the umbrella theme ‘Running the Race’, the usual talk-and-workshop format was nowhere to be seen, and interactive sessions were re-structured to ensure that Revive was a weekend to remember. The sessions focussed on how to start our spiritual race fully equipped, how to stay on track, and to avoid losing sight of the finish line. Other aspects of Revive that made it a huge success was the excellent catering, awesome activities and general friendly vibe promoted by all those who served.

In the lead up to Revive an Olympic-style torch was passed between all 5 South East Churches during youth events to promote and celebrate unity, and in keeping with the Olympic theme. Along with the torch, a prayer baton was used to record the names of all of the youth within the parishes. When the baton reached Revive it was placed on the altar at St. George’s Cathedral, and prayers were offered during the Liturgy for all the youth in the various churches. An incredible number of people attended Revive, approximately 200, and we all came together to ‘fight the good fight’ and end the Olympic summer with a bang, and that we did!

But don’t take our word for it, why not see what youth who attended had to say about it:

Strand A: Age 14-15
"The fellowship was really good and I loved how the teambuilding tasks got everyone to work together."

Strand B: Age 16-17
"God’s forgiveness means that no matter how many times we fall, God is always willing to forgive us if we run to Him"

Strand C: Age 18-19
"All the little details of each session were taken care of which allowed us to feel the joy of listening and participating in them. I was inspired by the work of the strand leaders"

Strand D: Age 20-21
"We focused on what our 'identity' is and the importance of stripping away the views and perceptions of others about us as well as our own. Instead we should strive to view ourselves through Gods eyes so we can discern HIS purpose for us"

Thank you to everyone who made Revive 2012 a weekend to remember, especially the servants and priests, and God willing we will see you at Revive 2013!

EuroCOFTA 2012

A wise man once said “football is more than a sport or a mere activity, it is a means of unifying individuals; provoking emotion in all people, irrespective of age, race or gender, and that is why it is considered a universal language.”

That wise man, is me. The above is an accurate description of what I witnessed over the weekend of 13-15 July 2012 where The Coptic Centre hosted the 2nd Euro COFTA.

England, France, Holland, Germany, Italy, Sweden and Switzerland; 7 teams coming together to compete for the most desired title in Church football, whilst representing their churches and countries.

A couple of teams arrived before the weekend and international friendships were already being formed. By Friday all teams had arrived with their fans, coaches and high spirits as they prepared to showcase their talents. The Coptic Centre felt like an EU summit!

As the games kicked off under the infamous English rain, fans persisted in cheering for their countries and the teams did not fail to deliver highly entertaining matches, whether with high scores or tight games. The day was full of thrilling football and provided excitement, laughter and frustration as both groups played for the top 2 spots in their respective groups.

A delicious BBQ and candy-floss as well as outdoor activities ensured that everyone had much to enjoy alongside the football. In the evening, His Grace Bishop Angaelos gave a bible study after a highly energetic vespers where the teams came together for prayer and to share the word of God.

The liturgy was an amazing experience, multilingual but united in spirit, heart and prayer. It was a real testament to the ministry of the Coptic Church and how, with its expansion into all parts of the earth, she still maintains common foundations upon which her children can come together and worship in unity.

During the knockouts, England failed to defend its title, and lost to last year’s runners up, France, with the heart-ache of an own goal. In the other semi-final, tournament debutants Sweden beat the Swiss in an exciting game. In the thrilling final, France and Sweden were battling each other as well as exhaustion, yet the Swedes managed to edge past the French to claim their first Euro COFTA cup.

What was evident more than anything was that despite having 7 teams playing football, there were more teams elsewhere: in the kitchen, at the BBQ, arranging accommodation, activities and transport. The spirit of unity and fellowship displayed over the weekend really made me proud of our youth. May God continue to bless this wonderful ministry.


By Amir Michaeel

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

CY March 2012 - For Youth By Youth

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


For more information please contact:

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

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 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