Saint Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church
Seattle - Washington

Glorification of the Holy Theotokos

About the Coptic Church of Egypt

The Coptic Church of Egypt was established in the city of Alexandria, around the year 43 A.D., by Saint Mark the Evangelist. Saint Mark was one of the Seventy Apostles of Christ and the writer of the Gospel of Saint Mark. Alexandria was one of the greatest commercial and learning centers in the world at that time. It was the meeting place of philosophers, theologians, scholars and teachers of all fields. By the fourth century Alexandria became the seat of Christian learning for the entire world. The rapid spread of Christianity in Egypt aroused feelings of hatred in the hearts of the Romans towards Saint Mark. He was martyred on May 8, 68 A.D. Saint Mark was the first patriarch of the Coptic church and the first of many Egyptian Saints and Martyrs.

Ancient Egyptians believed in a unique supreme God, the eternity of the soul, resurrection, reward and punishment. They also believed in trinities as Osiris, Isis and their son Horus. Their symbol for eternal life was the "Ankh" sign which is very similar to the Cross. Because of all these elements Christinaity was quickly accepted in Egypt. By the end of the second century almost all Egyptians had become Christians. Among the greatest glories of the Coptic Church is the willingness of the Copts to accept persecution for Vhrixt. The Church has carried the cross throughout its history from the time of Saint Mark and through many generations. Yet, the Church has remained steadfast and unchanged in its faith up to this time.

There are Coptic Orthodox Churches all over the world now. Saint Mary's Coptic Orthodox Chruch in Seattle was established in 1986 to be the first Coptic Church in Northwest America. The Copts are always keen to be witnesses for the Lord wherever they are. They confess their need for God's help to maintain their strength and meet their goal.

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URL http://www.geocities.com/baja/5059/index.html
December 5, 1995        Hatour 25, 1712 A.D. 
Last update: May 9, 1997

Maintained by:Samuel Azmy

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