The Coptic Church
2 min read
The word “Copt” is derived from the Greek word “Aigyptos”. It is now more known as Coptic and is the common word that the Egyptian Christians use to refer to themselves all over the world. The term Coptic describes not only the people, and their use of the latest stages of the ancient Egyptian language, but also the distinctive art and architecture that was and still is used as an expression of the faith.
The Coptic Church was established by St Mark, in Egypt, who followed the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. St Mark, who is one of the evangelists, started evangelising in the City of Alexandria starting from 43AD and he was known as the first Patriarch.
The Coptic Church is well known for its monasticism, which was born in Egypt and was instrumental to the formation of the church’s character of submission and humbleness. The church is known for its beautiful hymns, strong dogma, and its firm’s teachings. This is why, the church is known as the Coptic Orthodox Church, as it has always preserved it’s “original faith” although it encountered numerous attacks.
The Coptic Church is headed by the Pope of Alexandria, Pope Tawadros II. He is the 118th patriarch and oversees the matters of the faith and pastorship with the help of Bishops in the Holy Synod (Council.)