Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Coptic martyrs to be commemorated

Coptic martyrs to be commemorated in January


(BOC) - On Sunday, 9 January, Coptic Orthodox Churches throughout Europe will commemorate the martyrs killed at Al-Qidiseen Church in Alexandria on New Year's Eve. As an act of sympathy and solidarity Abba Seraphim has directed that all British Orthodox churches will hold a similar service of commemoration immediately following the morning Liturgy.

H.H. Pope Shenouda has announced that the celebration of the Feast of the Nativity will continue as usual in Coptic Churches throughout the world on Friday, 7 January, but in many places the festivities usually associated with the feast will be muted and bishops and clergy are encouaging a time of reflection and retreat.

On Saturday, 29 January there will be an Egypt Day of Prayer held at St. Mary's Bryanston Square, Wyndham Place, London, W1H 1PF beginning at 10.45 am. This has been organised by Christian Solidarity Wordwide (CSW) and United Action for Egyptian Christians (UAFEC). Abba Seraphim and clergy from the British Orthodox Church will attend and he is encouraging laity to attend where possible.