The Coptic Orthodox Church, also known as the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria, is an Oriental Orthodox Christian church. It is one of the oldest branches of Christianity, tracing its roots back to the evangelist Mark (John Mark) in the middle of the 1st century (AD 42). At one point, it was the dominant religion in Egypt. The church is steeped in ritual and tradition, placing heavy emphasis on asceticism or self-denial.

History

The Coptic Orthodox Church was established in Egypt and shares many beliefs and practices with the Roman Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Church. Due to disputes concerning the nature of Christ, the Oriental Orthodox Churches and the Eastern Orthodox Church were in schism after the Council of Chalcedon in AD 451. This resulted in a rivalry with the Greek Orthodox Church of Alexandria. In the 12th century, the church relocated its seat from Alexandria to Cairo. The same century also saw the Copts become a religious minority.

Beliefs

Members of the Coptic Christian Church believe both God and man play roles in salvation: God through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ and humans through works of merit, such as fasting, almsgiving, and receiving the sacraments. The Coptic Orthodox Church claims apostolic succession through John Mark, author of the Gospel of Mark. They hold a monotheistic belief in the Trinity, three persons in one God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Practices

The church follows the Coptic Rite for its liturgy, prayer, and devotional patrimony. Worship services are performed in the ancient Coptic language in combination with local languages. The hymns and liturgy remain similar to those of the early church.

Copts believe in seven sacraments: baptism, confirmation, confession (penance), Eucharist (communion), matrimony, ordination, and unction of the sick. Baptism is performed by immersing the baby three times in sanctified water. The sacrament also involves a liturgy of prayer and anointing with oil. In confession, Copts believe verbal confession to a priest is necessary for forgiveness of sins.

Membership

Christians in Egypt total about ten to fifteen million people, making up Egypt’s largest and most significant minority population. They also form the largest population of Christians in the Middle East. Worldwide membership estimates range between 20 and 60 million people.

Leadership

The head of the church is Pope Tawadros II, who presides from Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral.

We welcome you to learn more about our faith and traditions. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you’re interested in joining our community.