COPTIC HISTORY A Historical Outline

Who are the Copts ?
The word Copt is an English word taken from the Arabic word Gibt or Gypt. The Arabs after their conquest of Egypt in 641 A.D. called the indigenous population of Egypt as Gypt from the Greek word Egyptos or Egypt. The Greek word Egyptos came from the ancient Egyptian words Ha-Ka-Ptah or the house or temple of the spirit of God Ptah, one of the major ancient Egyptian Gods. The word Copt or Coptic simply means Egyptian, however the Muslim population of Egypt calls themselves Arabs. In contemporary usage, the word Copt or Coptic refers to the Christian population of Egypt.

Synopsis:
The Coptic people are the descendants of the ancient Egyptians. The known history of the Copts or Egypt starts with King Mina or Menas the first King, who united the northern and southern kingdoms of Egypt circa 3050 B.C. The ancient Egyptian civilization under the rule of the Pharaohs lasted for approximately 3000 years. Many Copts accepted the teachings of Christianity, possibly because the ancient Egyptian religions believed in life after death. This is evidenced by their elaborate efforts to preserve the bodies of the dead by embalming or mummification. Like other early Christians throughout the Roman Empire, the Copts suffered from the persecution perpetrated against the new religion. Many Copts shed their blood in testimony for Jesus Christ. Saint Mina or Menas is one of the major Coptic saints. He was martyred 309 A.D. The Copts history continues through the present as Father Mina the Anchorite led the Coptic Orthodox Church, who was named as Pope Cyril the 6th 1971 A.D. He is considered to be a contemporary saint and among the great leaders of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The Coptic or Egyptian history continues from circa 3050 B.C. through the present. Many cotemporary Copts continue to carry ancient Egyptian names such as Mina, Ahmos, and Ramesses for men, Isis, Nofert, Nefertiti, and Nitocris for women. Two examples are noteworthy about the influence of the ancient Egyptian civilization on the western civilization. The first example is that the present western or Gregorian calendar has its roots in the solar ancient Egyptian calendar. The second is that the modern name of the science of Chemistry gets its name from the ancient name of Egypt, or "Chimie" in the Coptic language.
Historical Outline:

Pharaohs Era:
The ancient Egyptian civilization evolved over approximately three thousand years. Thirty Pharaohnic dynasties are known to have ruled Egypt. Egyptologists around the world continue to study and rediscover many of the facets of history and life in ancient Egypt. Dates prior to the Persian invasion are approximate and Egyptologists differ in their estimates of these dates.

Archaic Period, Dynasties I-II:
King Mina is the first historical king of Egypt. He unified southern and northern Egypt under his rule circa 3050 B.C. He founded a new city Memphis, and built a temple for the Ptah, the God of creation for ancient Egypt. The succession of females to the throne of Egypt was declared valid during the second dynasty. Early ancient Egyptian medical texts and the book of the dead were written as early as the time of the second dynasty.
Old Kingdom, Dynasties III-VI: Pharaohs of the Old Kingdom were known to be great warriors and builders 2663-2195 B.C. The kings of the 4th Pharonic dynasty Kheops or Khufu, Khpheren or Khafre, and Mykerinus or Menkaure built the pyramids. Khafre is also believed to be the builder of the Sphinx. The Sphinx is hewn out of the living rock, but pieces of stone have been added where necessary. Originally there probably were ornaments on the head, the whole of which was covered with limestone and the face was colored red. E.A. Wallis Budge, the famous Egyptologist, indicated " the conditions of the sphinx deteriorated due to the savage destruction of its features by the Muslim rulers of Egypt". The last ruler of the sixth dynasty was Queen Nitocris, most probably the first female ruler allover the world. She enlarged the pyramid of Mykerinus and covered it with slabs of granite. The Old Kingdom was followed by the first intermediate period, dynasties VII-X.

Middle Kingdom, Dynasties XI-XII:
Egypt's prosperity and civilization continued under the Pharaohs of the middle kingdom 2066-1650 B.C. Thebes emerged as the capital of Egypt. King Amenemhat I built a temple for Amen Ra, the King of the Gods, at Thebes. During his reign examples of ancient Egyptian literature were written, the story of Senehet or Senuhi. Subsequent to the Middle Kingdom time, Egypt was weakened during the second intermediate period. This allowed invaders from Asia, the Hyksos, also known as shepherd kings to rule northern Egypt, dynasties XIII-XVII, 1650-1535 B.C.

New Kingdom, Dynasties XVIII-XX:
The Egyptian kings of southern Egypt ultimately liberated Egypt from the Hyksos rule. King Ahmose or Amosis defeated the last of the Hyksos, and initiated the 18th dynasty and the new kingdom 1550-1064 B.C. This is considered to be the golden era of ancient Egypt. During this era, Egypt ruled an empire that extended from Syria to the north to Nubia in the south. Several Pharaohs distinguished themselves both in military conquests and civilian achievements e.g. Thuthmosis III 1479-1424 B.C. and Ramesses II 1279-1212 B.C. King Akhenaten 1360-1343 B.C. established a monotheistic religion to worship one God Aten. Many people all over the world have seen the famous king Tut's treasures and golden funerary mask. King Tut or Tutenkhamun 1343-1333 B.C. was Akhenaten's son in law. He reversed his father in law's one God worship back to the worship of the ancient Egyptian gods.

Equality, Arts and Knowledge:
The equality of men and women and respect for the role of women in the family and society at large were evident in the ancient Egyptian culture, and continue at present in the contemporary Coptic culture. As indicated above women as well as men ruled Egypt. Queen Nitocris, the last ruler of the sixth dynasty was probably the first female ruler allover the world. King Ahmose's mother Queen Ahhotep II and his wife Queen Nefertari were major supporters of the liberation wars against the Hyksos. Achievements of Queen Ahhotep were recorded on a stele at Karnack. The stela praised Queen Ahhotep as the " one who cares for Egypt. She looked after her soldiers; she guarded her; she brought back her fugitives, and collected together her deserters; she pacified Upper Egypt and expelled her rebels". Queen Nefertari, Ahmose's wife was a key figure at the beginning of the 18th dynasty. Another famous Queen is Hatshepust who ruled Egypt 1472-1457 B.C.

Knowledge, arts, and literature flourished in ancient Egypt. The Egyptian temples were centers for both religious and secular learning and libraries, e.g. Ramesses II scared library. Some scholars compared ancient Egyptian poetry to some of the verses of the book of psalms. This should come as no surprise, as history indicates a lot cultural and trade exchanges between Egypt and the Israelites. The Old Testament shows the relationship in many of its books, e.g. the migration of Jacob and his sons to Egypt, the exodus of the Israelites out of Egypt led by Moses, King Solomon's marriage to an Egyptian princess, and the migration of the Israelites to Egypt after Jeremiah the prophet time.
Subsequent to the new kingdom several dynasties ruled Egypt including Libyan and Kushite dynasties, the period is known as the third intermediate period, dynasties XXI-XXV. King Taharqa, a famous kushite King ruled both Egypt and what is now northern Sudan 690-664 B.C. He built beautiful monuments both in Egypt and Kush. Taharqa conducted an active foreign policy against the then growing military power of Assyria. Also, the bible cites Taharqa's name in 2 Kings 19.9 and Is 37.9, as cotemporary to King Hezekiah of Judah and referred to the conflict between Judah and Assyria.

Late Period, Dynasties XXVI-XXX:
In the Saite period 664-525 B.C. many Greeks immigrated to Egypt to trade, learn or settle. King Psammetichus I hired Ionian and Carian Greek mercenaries for the Egyptian army. Pythagoras, the Greek mathematician and Herodotus the Greek historian visited Egypt to learn about the Egyptian knowledge and arts at the time of the Persian occupation of Egypt. Several alliances against the Persian incursions were concluded between Egypt and Greek cities such as Sparta and Athens. The Persians occupied Egypt 525-404 B.C. and later on 343-332 B.C. Some historians record atrocities committed by the Persian rulers against the Egyptians, however the Persians also appreciated the high caliber of the Egyptian art. They used many Egyptian artists to work on Persian palaces and temples. A statue for Darius I, the Persian King, was excavated from the ruins of his capital Susa, Iran. This statue shows the influence of Egyptian art and includes inscriptions in hieroglyphics.

Hellenic Era:
Alexander the Great 332-323 B.C. defeated the Persian Empire. He established a new great city in Egypt, Alexandria, to immortalize his name. The Greek Ptolemaic dynasty ruled Egypt from 305-30 B.C. The Romans under Ocatvian Augustus Caesar defeated the last Ptolemaic Queen Cleopatra VII and her Roman husband Anthony. Egypt was annexed as a province of the Roman Empire 30 B.C.- 641 A.D. The Greeks followed by the Romans, though they ruled Egypt, were admirers of the Egyptian civilization, knowledge and culture. Greek and Roman rulers in fact rebuilt many of the pharaonic temples of southern Egypt in the Hellenic era. The Egyptian civilization influence was so great during the Hellenic era to the extent that the worship of Isis the Egyptian goddess had adherents allover the Roman Empire. Alexandria, Egypt became a major center for trade, learning and culture in the Hellenic Era.

The Library of Alexandria:
King Ptolemy I, on the advice of Demetrios of Phaleron created the ancient library of Alexandria and Museum circa 285 B.C. Among the famous scholars of the time were Eratosthenes, Euclid, the father of geometry, Aristomachos of Samos, the first astronomer who tried to measure the size and relative distance to the moon and sun, Strato of Lapsakos in the study of physics. Ktesibios of Alexandria designed remarkable pneumatic and hydraulic devices. Herophilos of Chalecedon, Ptolemy II physician made major discoveries in human anatomy, Dioskorides wrote medical treatise following the Hippocratic tradition, and Zopoyros a pharmacologist developed famous prescriptions. The medicine and sciences of the era as might be expected built on the pharaonic medicine and its great expertise in the human body thanks to centuries of embalming experience. Among the great achievements of the old library of Alexandria is the Old Testament's first translation from Hebrew to Greek. This translation is known as the Septuagint, and was popular and used extensively by the early Christians.

Christianity in Egypt:
The bible tells us the story of the flight of the holy family to Egypt from Herod. The holy family sojourn in Egypt included several places in both northern and southern Egypt. Saint Mark the Evangelist introduced Christianity into Egypt. He was martyred at Alexandria, Egypt. Saint Mark is the first leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and was followed by his first convert in Alexandria, Annianus circa 62 A.D. An unbroken succession of leaders for the Coptic Orthodox Church starts with Saint Mark and continues to the present Pope Shenouda III. He is the 117th successor of Saint Mark.

Early Coptic Philosophers:
The early Christian Egyptians or Copts followed the ancient traditions of learning and established a theological school or the Catechetical School. Athenagoras of Athens was one of one of the professors at the library of Alexandria's museum, which was a major stronghold of intellectual paganism at Alexandria. He like many other pagan Platonic philosophers of his time was interested in Christianity and desired to expose its fallacies. He studied Christian writings to refute the new religion. However, his study led him to be convinced with the truth of Christianity. After Athenagoras 's conversion to Christianity, he continued his philosophical teaching at the museum. He became a champion to defend Christianity and addressed his defense of Christianity or " Apology" to the Roman emperors Marcus Aurelius and Commodus circa 176-177 A.D. Pataenus and Clement of Alexandria were indicated to have studied with Athenagoras; and both like most Copts of their time had been well educated in all the learning of the ancients, as well as in the truths of Christianity. Under the rule of the Emperor Commodus, the newly established Coptic Catechetical School was led Pantaenus circa 190 A.D. Clement of Alexandria followed Pantaenus as head of the Catechetical school. Oregon or Oreganos was one of the most celebrated and prolific Coptic philosophers who led the Catechetical school. These philosophers and others defended early Christianity against the pagan and later heretic teachings. For example, the Alexandrian Catechetical School also used the method of interpretation or "exegesis" developed by the pagan scholars of the Alexandrian library museum. Further more, Origen, whose name means, born of Horus the ancient Egyptian God, not only translated the bible and developed the Hexapla, he also ventured in philosophical speculations that influenced Christian scholars and philosophers for ages. One of his philosophical speculations is that GOD has unlimited mercy to the extent that ultimately all creation, including non- believers in Christ and even Satan, will be saved. The Coptic and other Orthodox Churches did not follow the speculative interpretation of Oregon on salvation, however the Roman Catholic Church belief in purgatory may have been to some extent influenced by Origen's interpretation. Another Coptic philosopher was Hepatia. She was a respected pagan philosopher known for her erudition and knowledge.
Hepatia met an unfortunate death at the hands of an unruly mob. Her murder occurred during clashes between Christians and pagans during the region of the Roman Emperor Theodosius around 390 A.D.

Monasticism:
The ancient Egyptian religious traditions included temple devotees who led celibate lives of poverty, pursuit of knowledge and prayers. The story of Ptolemios and Harmais or Haremhab tells us about two devotees or monks who led celibate lives at the Serapeum temple. They were cotemporaries of Queen Cleopatra. Following in the footsteps of the ancient Egyptians, Copts started Christian monasticism. Saint Paul of Thebes led a solitary life of prayer and asceticism in the Egyptian desert. Saints Amon followed by Saint Macaruis led monastic lives in the desert valleys of Scets and Niteria. Monasticism was introduced to Europe by Saint Athanasius's book about the Life of Saint Anthony.

Schism between the Churches and Efforts towards Reconciliation:
The Coptic Church of Alexandria worked with the Church of Rome defended the Christian faith against several early Christian heresies, e.g. the Arian heresy. The Nicene Creed, still used by most of the Christian Churches allover the world, was originally written by a Coptic young deacon, Athanasius of Alexandria. The Council of Nicea 325 A.D adopted the creed. However, the council, Calchedon, debated the nature of Christ in 451 A.D., and ended up in the schism of the Coptic Orthodox Church from the Churches of Rome and Constantinople. Different explanations are given for this schism, ranging from political motives, to inaccurate translation from Latin and Greek and visa versa, to clash of some of the personalities involved. Attempts to reconcile the views of the churches continued for centuries and almost succeeded at times but not quite. A 19th century Protestant scholar studied the issues of this schism. He concluded that both the Coptic and western churches believe in the same dogma, but the choice of words was problematic. It is heartening to witness that the cotemporary movement for reconciliation and unity among the Churches in the late 20th century. The Coptic Orthodox Church joined the International Council of Churches, and friendly exchanges and dialogue were pursued. As the dialogue among Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Churches continues, there seems to be a common movement towards the unity of faith as contrasted with the unity of the Churches.

The Arabic and Turkic Eras:

The wars between the East-Roman Empire and The Persian Empire in the 6th and 7th centuries weakened both empires. The Muslim Arabs attacked both empires in the 7th century. After their conquest of the East-Roman provinces of Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel, they invaded Egypt in December 641 A.D. Egypt was one of the precious crown jewels of the East-Roman Empire. It was the breadbasket of Rome first then Constantinople. It was a fertile land that produced and exported wheat, corn, wine, oil, textiles, glass, cosmetics, and medicinal and chemical products of the time. The population Copts is estimated to be about 9 millions at the time the Arabs conquest.

The destruction of the Library of Alexandria:
Scholars differed in views on how the ancient library of Alexandria was destroyed. However, recent research by Luciano Canfora concluded that the Arab general Amer ibin Alass at the orders of the Arab Caliph Omar ibin Alkhatab did the destruction of the library. The story of the Arabs destruction of the library indicates that it took them six months to burn the books in about one thousand public bathes in Alexandria.

Arab and Turkic Dynasties, 640-1798 A.D.:
Several Muslim Arab and Turkic dynasties ruled Egypt from 640 A.D. to 1798 A.D. The French under Napoleon Bonaparte defeated the Ottomans and the Mumelukes rulers of Egypt in 1798 A.D. The Arab dynasties included the Umayyad (660-751 A.D.) and the Abbasids ( 751-880 A.D.) The Turkic dynasties include the Tolonides ( 880-904 A.D.) and the Akhsids ( 904-913 A.D.). They were followed by the Fatimites (913-1171 A.D.), a Shiite Arab dynasty. They were followed by Turkic, Ayubides (1171-1250 A.D.), the Mamelukes (1250-1517 A.D.) and the Ottomans (1517-1798 A.D.).
After the Arabs conquest 641 A.D., the start of their rule was relatively mild. The Arab rulers primary interest was in exacting the maximum financial gain out of the rich land of Egypt. John of Nikiu in his chronicles indicates that Amer ibin Alass, after the conquest of Egypt, " increased the taxes to the extent of 22 batr of gold till all the people hid themselves owing to the greatness of the tribulation, and could not find the wherewithal to pay." The Ommyiads followed by the other dynasties instituted heavy taxes including poll tax or Algyzya, tribute and different exactions. At times the Arab rulers found it convenient to throw prominent Copts, e.g. a Bishop or Pope, in jail and request ransom to release them. The Umayyad Caliph Suliman ibin abed Almalek reflected this policy, in writing his appointed ruler of Egypt " to milk the camel until it gives no more milk, and until it milks blood". Though some of the Arab rulers were moderate, most were oppressive, cruel and committed a lot of atrocities against the Coptic population. The ultimate policy of the Muslim Arab rulers changed gradually from maximum financial gain to Isalmization either through incentives of reduced taxation, or by outright violence and force. Arab and Turkic rulers from different dynasties continued to levy heavy taxation to impoverish the Copts, instituted policies to eradicate the Coptic culture, language, leadership, and initiated violence and pogroms against the Coptic population.

Assault on Coptic Language, Culture, and Monuments:
The assault on culture that was initiated by the destruction of the Alexandria library continued by the Umayyads who decreed the use the Arabic language instead of Coptic in the governance of Egypt. It took centuries for Arabic to replace Coptic as the spoken language of the land. The Coptic language continued in general use until the 13th century.
Unlike the Greek or Roman rulers who maintained and rebuilt some of the ancient Egyptian temples, several Islamic rulers destroyed and pillaged the ancient Egyptian temples and Churches. The marble and porphyry pillars obtained by the destruction of many ancient temples and churches were used to build palaces, mosques, and at times just left a trail of destruction. Sultan El Aziz attempted to destroy the great pyramids of Giza circa 1193 A.D. He gathered a large labor force that attempted to destroy the pyramids for eight months. At the end of which, they succeeded in only destroying a part of the casing of the pyramid and made a small breach in one side. Fortunately the great effort needed convinced El Aziz to abandon the destruction of the pyramids.

Resistance for Oppression:
The Arab's oppression led the Copts to several rebellions, but these rebellions failed to break the yoke of oppression or achieve independence. The Copts in the eastern Delta fought against the Ommayyds oppression in 725 A.D. A large-scale Coptic revolt against the Abbasids took place circa 815 A.D. El Maamoun, the Abbasid Caliph, had to bring in a large army with elephants to conquer the Copts revolution of 815 A.D. Even as late as 1176 A.D. the Copts of the city of Koptos revolted against the oppression of the Turkic rulers. The policy of heavy taxation, pillage, and violence was also accompanied by forced migration of Copts to other parts of the Islamic Empire, and settlement of Muslim Arabs into Egypt. As a result, many of the Copts were forced into Islam to escape the continued oppression and heavy taxation. The forced Isalmization policy was followed by most of the Arab rulers, and later on also by most of the Mamluks and Turkic rulers. Gradually, the population of Muslims increased and the Copts decreased. The population of the Copts decreased from 9 million at the time of the Arabs conquest 641 A. D. approximately 700,000 at the early 1900's.

Flourishing and Tribulations:
Though persecution of the Copts by the Arabs, Mamluks and Turks was the norm rather than the exception, most of these rulers needed the knowledge of the Copts to govern the country and collect taxes. The history of the Islamic era shows a vicious cycle in which the Muslim rulers hire Copts because of their knowledge, skill and honesty to administer the affairs of the government of Egypt. Accordingly, the Copts do well and prosper, and ultimately the Muslim rulers change their minds for different reasons and expel the Copts from government jobs, confiscate their property, put them in jail, and a times put them to death. As the affairs of the government become erratic without the Copts knowledge, the rulers return back to hire the Copts again and so on. Under the rule of the Fatimite dynasty, one of the rulers was in fact insane. El Hakem hired several Copts in his employment. El Hakem however, decided to either to force his Coptic employees into Islam or kill them. Two prominent Copts Fahed iben Ibrahim, and Yuhana iben Nagah, were among El Hakem's employees, who accepted death rather than converting to Islam 1004 A.D. During the reign of moderate rulers and peaceful times, many Copts managed to excel in literature and the arts. Among the famous writers during the Ayubide dynasty, were the Iben Al Asaal brothers. Though the rule of the Mameluks produced many beautiful monuments, they were bloodthirsty and extremely oppressive for the Egyptians both Muslims and Copts. It is not unusual to read about pogroms launched against the Copts during the Mamluks time. A supposedly devout unknown Fakir, who would instigate a Muslim mob after the Friday Muslim prayers to attack the Copts, their homes and businesses, usually started the pogroms. However, the Mameluks also needed the services of the Copts to run the affairs of the government. Ibrahim Algawhery was the Chief Clerk of the Mameluks Abuel dahab and Ibrahim Bey 1795 A.D. Effectively he was the prime minister of Egypt and he was so influential to the extent that the Muslim historian Algaberti wrote about him and his achievements. Later on in the early 20th century another prominent Copt Botrous Galli became the prime Minister of Egypt under the rule of the British rule.

Modern Era, After the Ottomans:
After the French left Egypt, the country returned back under the rule of the Ottomans and Mamlukes. An Albanian officer of the Ottoman army, Mohamed Ali, managed to become the ruler of Egypt under the Ottoman Empire 1805 A.D. Mohamed Ali was a smart though ruthless ruler. He managed to massacre the Mamlukes and get rid of the Ottoman occupation army. He introduced western style education, industry, and new crops. His rule did not care much about religion as much as about competence. He hired a lot of Armenians and Copts to help his government. He challenged the rule of the Ottoman Empire, but lost as the European powers intervened on the behalf of the Ottomans 1845 A.D. Egypt became semi-independent under the Ottomans Empire, then under the British Empire 1882 A.D. and was ruled by the family of Mohamed Ali through 1952. A group of army officers led a coup d' etat that ended the rule of King Farouk, the last ruler of the Mohamed Ali family. The coup brought Nasser and his fellow officers to power. He pursued a socialist domestic policy, alliance with Soviet Union, and aggressive conflicts against the West and Israel. Nasser's socialist policies and conflicts with the West resulted in severe economic hardships for Egypt. After Nasser's death 1970, Sadat assumed the presidency of Egypt. Sadat reversed his predecessor's policy, expelled the soviet advisors, followed a more pro-western approach, and pursued peace with Israel. After a militant Islamic group assassinated Sadat in 1981, Mobarek assumed the presidency in Egypt until the present time. President Mobarek continues to follow a pro-western policy, and brokered several peace initiatives in collaboration with the U.S. between the Israel and the Palestinians.

Copts in the 19th and 20th Centuries:
The poll tax, Algyzia was finally abolished in 1815 A.D. This gave some relief to the Copts in the 19th century-mid 20th century. This period saw a modest revival and renewal. A Coptic leader, Pope Cyril 4th a reformist followed the ancient Egyptian or Coptic tradition of respect for knowledge and learning in the 19th century. He looked to the western knowledge for inspiration. He established two schools with a western schooling system, and imported a new printing press to disseminate information. He started an effort o collect and catalog Coptic music and hymns. The Coptic music has been handed down orally from the days of the ancient Egyptian temples. It is believed that the Egyptian Government agents poisoned him and he died in 1861 A.D., as they were concerned about his reformist movement. The Copts in the 19th and early 20th century worked together with their Muslim compatriots to achieve independence and democracy in Egypt. They participated in the revolt of 1919 against the British rule after WWI. Several political Coptic leaders participated in the short-lived democratic parliaments in the early to mid 20th century.
World War I resulted in the defeat of the last Islamic Empire, the Ottoman Empire. The last Caliph of the Muslims; the Ottoman Sultan was replaced by a secular president in modern Turkey. Though Turkey has and continues to progress as a secular nation, the impact of a superior western culture and influence was felt in many Muslim countries. A militant fundamentalist Islamic called the Muslim Brothers was initiated in 1920's. Other groups also followed, e.g. the society for Muslim Youth. These movements aimed at resisting the influence of the superior western culture. These movements espoused a more conservative interpretation of Islam, and many of them also espoused violence against the Copts that raged on and off for years. Nasser became President of Egypt shortly after an army coup in 1952. Though Nasser cared mostly about power more than religion, many of his protégé's espoused the more fundamentalist Islamic teaching of the Muslim Brothers. The Nasser government followed a socialist regime and nationalized most of the private enterprises, which hit the Copts a lot harder as they depended on private businesses for their livelihood. The economic pressures and resurgent discrimination led many Copts to start immigration to countries such as the U.S.A., Canada, and Australia in the 1960's. Active and successful Coptic-Americans live at present at most of the large metropolitan areas of the U.S.A. The same applies for many of the large metropolitan areas in many of the western countries.
President Sadat was successful in establishing a peace treaty with Israel. However, in his struggle for power against the Nasserite factions, he encouraged the militant Islamic groups in Egypt. In the 1980s, the militant fundamentalist Islamic movement resurgence was accompanied by renewed and escalated assaults on the Copts in Egypt. The Militants instigated several violent episodes against the Copts and western tourists, attacked, sacked and burned churches and Coptic businesses. G. Kepel in his study of Muslim extremism in Egypt indicated that the Militants financed the assassination of President Sadat using gold robbed from Coptic-owned goldsmith stores. On the political side, the Islamic Militant groups called for changing the laws from the civil laws to the Islamic code or Sharia. Their claim is that the return to Sharia provides a solution instead of the western approach of democracy and free enterprise. It would return the Islamic countries to the glory of the medieval age Islamic Empires. However, the return to the Islamic code essentially deprives the non-Muslims including the Copts from equal rights as compared with the Muslims and subjects them to formal discrimination. In the 1990's attacks on Churches, property and businesses of the Copts have been on the increase. Abduction of young Coptic girls and forced Islamization increased. Pogroms have been frequent lately. In the early days of the year 2000 a pogrom was initiated by the militants Islamic groups resulted in the murder of about 21 Copts, and the destruction of many Coptic homes, businesses and a Church in the village of Al Kosheh in Southern Egypt. Similar incidents and persecution continues. Even obtaining permits to build or maintain churches is getting a lot more difficult. The sad irony is that the laws used to mire requests for permits for churches are rooted in the laws of the Ottoman Empire. Though the Ottoman Empire has expired after its defeat in World War I, the Egyptian government bureaucracy spurred by the militants teachings uses the defunct Ottoman law called the Hamayouni decree against the Copts free expression and practice of their religion.

Epilogue:
The heritage and legacy of the Copts and their ansctors the ancient Egyptians continue to be manifested all over the world in every day life in the use of the Gregorian calendar, a descendant of the ancient Egyptian solar calendar. The Coptic name of ancient Egypt " Chimie" has lent itself to the modern Chemistry. Ancient Egypt continues to provide inspiration for cotemporary mystics and followers of new age beliefs. Modern artists continue to be inspired by ancient Egypt. In recent years, architects have taken renewed interest in Egypt and the forms of its stylishly pyramid, continue to be applied to many public and commercial buildings.

Suggested Reading:

1- The Mummy, Funeral Rites & Customs in Ancient Egypt, by Ernest A. Wallis
Budge, reprint of 1893 edition by Senate Studio Editions 1995
2- The Twilight of Ancient Egypt, First Millennium B.C.E., by Karol Mysliwiec, translated by David Lorton, Cornell University Press2000
3- Egypt in The Age of Cleopatra, by Michel Chauveau, translated by David Lorton, Cornell University Press, 2000
4- Women in Ancient Egypt, by Gay Robins, Harvard University Press, 1996
5- Women and Society in Greek and Roman Egypt: A Source Book by Jane Rowlandson, Cambridge University Press, 1998
6- The Chronicle of John Coptic Bishop of Nikiu (circa 690 A.D.), translated by Robert Henry Charles, reprint from 1916 edition, APA-Philo Press Amsterdam, Holland
7- The Vanished Library, A Wonder of The Ancient World, by Luciano Canfora, University of California Press
8- The Story of The Church of Egypt, Volumes I and II, by Edith L. Butcher, reprint of 1897 edition by AMS Press Inc, New York, N.Y 1975
9- Coptic Egypt, by Murad Kamil, Le Scribe Egyptien, 1968
10- Traditional Egyptian Christianity, A History of the Coptic Church, by Theodore. Hall Patrick, Fisher Park Press, 1999
11- Muslim Extremism in Egypt, The Prophet and the Pharaoh, by Gilles Kepel, University of California Press 1993
12- Ancient Egyptian Culture, published by Chartwell Books, Edison, N.J. 1998.

COPTIC HISTORY PART1

The cultures which most influenced the Coptic period of Egypt include the ancient Egyptians, the classical Greeks, and the Romans. The influence of these cultures is visible in Coptic art. For example, many Coptic textiles incorporate some ancient Egyptian symbols and motifs, including the ankh, the cross-like symbol for life. The ankh was used as an alternate form of the Christian cross, and some textiles incorporate both symbols. However, Coptic art in general shows the stronger influence of the Greeks and Romans.

Description: The decorated band features a strange quadruped in the center. To the right of it is a jeweled cross with four birds in the angles between. To the left of the quadruped is an empty jeweled throne. Small animals act as fillers in the background spaces. The colors of the design include dull yellow, brick red, dull green and indigo blue. The motifs of jeweled crosses with birds in the angles and jeweled empty thrones are found in other collections. These motifs are Christian, the cross symbolizes the Transfiguration of Christ and the throne symbolizes the second coming of Christ. Materials/Construction: The fragment is made entirely of wool and woven in tapestry weave. Measurement: 12.4 x 17.5 cm. Date: Sixth century. Accession number: CAS 0389-2380.
The Ptolemies: 330-30 BCE

After the Pharaohs ruled in Egypt in the several thousand years before the common era, there were various rulers of Egypt, including the Assyrians and Persians, but they did not leave much of an influence on Egyptian culture. Alexander the Great conquered Egypt in 332 BCE and founded the city of Alexandria, a planned model Greek city.

The Macedonian Ptolemies took control after Alexander the Great. During the 300 years of their rule, many Greeks settled in Alexandria, which flourished as an intellectual center of Hellenistic culture, philosophy, art, and trade. Egyptian society was stratified, with the Greeks being the ruling class, but the Egyptians had many important roles. Much of Coptic art features classical Greek subjects, due to the strong artistic influence left from the 300 years of Greek rule and encouraged by the preferences of the Roman rulers.
The Roman Empire: 30 BCE-395 CE

Egypt had a stable economy under the Ptolemies, but when Egypt was conquered by the Romans in 30 BCE, the Egyptians' autonomy was restricted. The Romans designated Egypt a province, and made harsh demands for agricultural produce and taxes. There was no real movement out of social classes. The distress the Egyptians faced created a spiritual void and led to a revival in the ancient belief in life after death.

Coptic tradition claims that St. Mark brought Christianity to Egypt around 50 CE. A small community of Christians developed in Alexandria in the late first century, and became more numerous by the end of the second century. Some similarities in beliefs helped Christianity to be accepted by Egyptians, including the beliefs that the Egyptian god Osiris was both human and god, the resurrection of Osiris, and the godly triad of Osiris, Isis, and Horus.
Map of the Roman Empire as Organized by Diocletian and Constantine

Map of the Roman Empire ca. 300 CE

During the third and fourth centuries, the Romans persecuted various religious dissidents, especially Christians. The emperor Diocletian attempted to restructure and unify the Empire, and instigated some harsh reforms which led to rebellion among the Egyptians. Diocletian then began extensive persecutions of Christians, which was referred to by Copts as the Era of Martyrs. The year of Diocletian's accession (284 CE) was designated Year One in the Coptic Christian calendar in order to observe the tragedies. Christianity was threatening to the Roman Empire because its strong monotheistic belief "made it impossible for its serious adherents to acknowledge the Roman emperor as a deity" (Carroll 1988). Also, many important leadership positions in Egyptian society and the military were held by Christians.
The Byzantine Era: 395-641 CE

The emperor Constantine ended the persecutions of Christians in 313 CE with the Edict of Milan, which proclaimed general religious toleration. Later, Constantine established Christianity as the state religion of the eastern empire, and was intolerant to certain pagan practices, including mummification. Prior to this, mummification had lessened in custom in Egypt for various social and economic reasons. The end of the fourth century is regarded as the beginning of the Byzantine period.

By the middle of the fourth century, the Christian church was well organized in Egypt, and much of the scripture and other literature was written in Coptic. The Coptic language was the vernacular Egyptian, written in the Greek alphabet with a few additional letters. Some important contributions the Copts made to Christianity were the practice of Christian monasticism and the theory and practice of asceticism.

The Coptic Church split from the rest of Christendom over a political disagreement of doctrine at the Fourth Ecumenical Council at Chalcedon in 451 CE. The argument concerned whether Jesus had one or two natures (monophysitism vs. diophysitism). The Byzantine patriarchs in Egypt persecuted the Copts who did not convert to their version of Christianity. The Copts became more isolated and nationalistic, wrote more in the Coptic language, and their art became more unified.
The Arab Conquest: 641-1200 CE
Belt (?) Fragment
CAS 0389-2579

CAS 0389-2579

The Copts were so oppressed under the Byzantine administration that they did not assist the Patriarch Cyrus when Egypt was invaded by the Arabs in 641 CE. The Copts were treated well at first under the Arabs and continued to have important roles in society, including the arts and crafts. Later the Arabs began to tax Christians more heavily and deny them privileges, so many Copts chose to convert to Islam. Arabic increasingly became the official language in Egypt.

Then during the eleventh and twelfth century Crusades, the Copts were harassed by the Arabs for being Christian, and by the Crusaders for being heretics. The Copts continued to convert to Islam or emigrated to other countries, and their population in Egypt dwindled to a minority. The Copts' decrease in number and voice contributed to the oversight of their importance in history. Today, the Copts compose about six percent of the population in Egypt.

Description: The design on the textile is a continuous band with spiral wave borders. The center consists of squares and rectangles with an abstract floral design inside. The colors are yellow, red, medium green and dark gray. Materials/Construction: The textile is made of wool and line weft on linen warp. It is made by tapestry weave with edge selvages, one strongly reinforced with extra warp threads. Measurement: 20 x 6 cm. Date: Tenth century. Accession number: CAS 0389-2579.

References

1) Samir F. Girgis, PhD, "The Theban Legion in Switzerland".
2) Samir F. Girgis, PhD, "The significant contribution of the Copts to the early evangelization of Switzerland ".
3) Samir F. Girgis, PhD, "A short introduction to the Coptic orthodox Church of Alexandria.
4) J.R.Fox: "The treasure at Saint Maurice of Aguanum".
5) L'Abbaye Saint Muarice en Valais: A place called Saint Maurice.
6) Thurston & Attwater: Butler's lives of the Saints.

Saint Abanoub The Child Saint Martyr

Abanoub was only twelve years old when he was martyred by the Roman ruler. On July 31 our Church celebrates his death, as the day of his birth into eternal life.

Abanoub's relics, as well as the relics of many Christians who died with him, are still preserved in St. Virgin Mary and St. Abanoub church in Samanoud. It is also said that the Holy Family visited that place during their Flight into Egypt. The church still contains the well from which The Lord Jesus, St. Mary, and St. Joseph drank. Numerous apparitions and miracles do occur in that church until this very day. Abanoub was born in a town called Nehisa in the Nile Delta. He was the only son of good Christian parents who died when he was a young child. At age twelve Abanoub entered the church to hear the priest asking the congregation to remain faithful during the persecutions provoked by Diocletian, the Roman emperor.

Abanoub received the Holy Sacraments, then he prayed to God to guide him to where he can confess his faith in Jesus our Lord. After that Abanoub went out, and gave all his possessions to the needy. Then he set off to a city called Samanoud, on foot. While he was walking, he saw the Archangel Michael in celestial glory. The sight was so extraordinary that Abanoub fell to the ground, but the Archangel raised him up, and told him that he must suffer for three days in Samanoud and he would witness to Jesus Christ in other places also.

Once in Samanoud, Abanoub went to the Roman ruler and declared his faith openly. He also insulted the ruler's idols. The ruler was mad and gave orders to whip him on his belly. The soldiers beat Abanoub severely until his intestines poured out of his tummy. But the Archangel Michael miraculously healed him. Then the ruler put him in jail with other Christians who were encouraged by his presence among them, and later were martyred for the name of Jesus.

The following day, the ruler took Abanoub on a boat to a city called Atrib, and as punishment, he hung Abanoub upside down from the sail of the boat. The soldiers, along with their ruler, started drinking and dancing and hitting Abanoub on the mouth. Abanoub's nose bled, but then unexpectedly, the soldiers became blind and the ruler became paralyzed. In their agony they cried to him and said, "Please Abanoub, pray to your God to heal us. For if we are cured, we will become Christians."

St. Abanoub replied, "This will only happen in Atrib, so that everyone there should know that there is no other God but Christ." When they arrived in Atrib, they were all healed, and they cried with joy, "We are Christiansl We believe in the God of Abanoub" Then they took off their uniforms and threw them on the ground in front of the ruler of Atrib. The governor got very mad, and ordered them to be killed.

In Atrib, Abanoub was tortured severely, sometimes by whipping and sometimes by tying him to a steel bed and igniting fire under him. But in all these tribulations, the Lord showed his power and Abanoub was saved. As a result of these miracles, many onlookers became Christians, and received the crown of martyrdom. The ruler then gave orders to cut Abanoub's hands and feet. Suddenly the Angel of the Lord came down from heaven, put the hands and feet in place, and healed him. Then Abanoub got up and walked in front of everybody. Hundreds of people became Christians as a result of that miracle.

Frustrated, the ruler called some of the best magicians in the country, and asked them to help him defeat Abanoub. They suggested that he should be thrown to the poisonous snakes. "Those snakes have enough poison to kill two or three hundred men." they said. So they put Abanoub in a cell with the snakes, but God, who shut the mouths of the lions at the time of Daniel, tamed the snakes and they did not harm Abanoub. In the morning, and to everybody's astonishment, St. Abanoub came out from the cell alive. Then suddenly one of the snakes crawled out of the cell and coiled itself around the ruler's neck. The man started shaking and he cried, "In the name of Jesus your God, be merciful on me and don't let the snake harm me." The saint who loved everyone - friend or enemy - just as the Gospel commands, prayed from the heart, and then ordered the snake to come down and not to hurt the ruler. On that day, many people who were present including the three magicians believed in Jesus.

Finally one of the ruler's advisers told him to behead the saint and put an end to that episode. So the ruler ordered the soldiers to kill St. Abanoub by the sword. A faithful man called St. Julius wrapped Abanoub's body in fine linen and sent him to his hometown Nehisa where he was buried.

In 960 A.D., his body was transferred to St. Virgin Mary's church in Samanoud where it still lies until today. Throughout the years, Abanoub made lots of apparitions in that church. He used to appear as a twelve-year old child and play with children of his age. Once he interfered in a fight between some Christian and Moslem children. This incident aggravated one of the prominent Moslems who lived beside the church. The priest of the church, who was an old man, got mad when he learned about what happened. In his fury he forbade the Child Saint from appearing. Amazingly, the Saint obeyed the priest's decision and the apparitions stopped for many years.

It was only in 1974, when Father Abanoub Louis was ordained priest at that church, that he summoned two bishops who came to the church and after praying fervently, they gave permission to the saint to appear if he wished. In about two weeks time the first apparition was witnessed followed by numerous miracles and appearances.

A well-known bishop visited Montreal recently and spoke about the miracles that he witnessed himself. He said, "One day, I was visiting Samanoud, and I participated in celebrating mass in St. Virgin Mary and St. Abanoub Church. The mass was in the middle of the week, and was attended by few people. After we finished, I remarked about how beautiful a Church it is, and that I really enjoyed praying mass in it, except for one little thing." I added that throughout the prayers a young boy kept coming in and out of the front door. The priest told me that he did not see any young children, and that the mass was attended by few grown-ups. Then he concluded that that young boy was St. Abanoub.

Another man said that after he attended mass, he went on his way carrying a brief-case.'It was raining, and I slipped, and fell into a puddle. Then a young boy came running at me, and helped me get on my feet. He handed me my brief case, and told me to cross to the other side of the street. I was surprised to find out that my clothes and my brief-case were completely dry. Then I looked for the little boy, but he had disappeared."

May the prayers and supplications of this great Martyr, the Child Saint Abanoub be with us. Amen.

Pope Abraam The Syrian and Simon the Tanner The Moving of the Mountain

"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2: 8-10)

During the reign of Al-Muizz - who was the firat Fatimid ruler of Egypt - the Islamic government was ambivalent in its treatment of the Copts, alternating sympathy and tolerance with atrocity and brutallty. At that time, St. Mark's Seat had been vacant for about two years. Finally the bishops and Coptic community leaders assembled in the Church of St. Serguis in order to choose possible candidates. While they were convening, Abraam the Syrian, a man devoted to religion and piety, entered the church and they unanimously decided to elect him. They took him to Alexandria where he was consecrated as the 62nd Patriarch.

Abraam was Syrian by birth. He was a wealthy merchant who visited Egypt several times, and finally stayed there. He was known for his goodness, devoutness and love of the poor. After his ordinatlon, he distributed half of his wealth to the needy and used the other half for building churches throughout Egypt.

As for Al-Muizz, he was known for tolerance and interest in debates on religious matters. He had a Jewiah minister called Ibn-Killis who informed him that it is written in the book of the Nazarines (the New Testament of course) that "If you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to the mountain move from here to there, and it will move." (Matt. 17:20 & Mark 11:23) He showed this verse to the Caliph and persuaded him to challenge the Pope to order the Muqattam Mountain, east of Cairo, to move if he had as little faith as the small mustard seed.

The Caliph sent for the Pope and asked him if such a verse really existed. When Abba Abraam affirmed that it was true, Al-Muizz challenged him to prove it or else the Copts would be subjected to the sword. The Pope asked for a three-day respite.

He went directly to St Mary's Church (A1 Muallaqa), sent for bishops and priests and exhorted them to fast and pray for the duration of those three days. Before the dawn of the third day, the Pope, exhausted by grief and the long vigil he had kept, dozed off. The Virgin Mary came to him in his sleep and inquired: "What is with you?." "My lady, you surely know what is happening," he replied. Thereupon, she comforted him and told him that if he went through the iron gate leading to the market, he would meet a one-eyed man carrying a sack of water. This is the man who would move the mountain, she said.

The Pope hurried out in the early morning to do as she said and he met Simon the Tanner. He asked Simon what he was doing at this early hour. To which Simon replied that he was carrying water to the sick and the old who could not fetch water for themselves. He said this was his practice every morning -- to carry on his back a sack of water for the needy -- before going to work at a hide tannery. When the Pope explained his purpose, Simon was reluctant at first but when he was told of the Pope's vision, he placed himself at his disposal.

The two led a large gathering of the faithful and marched to the Muqattam Mountain. Beside them were the Caliph and his minister who had already incited many people against the Copts. Abraam celebrated mass and the multitude chanted after him Kyrie Layson, pleading for God's mercy. They knelt down three times as the Pope made the sign of the cross with a sweeping gesture extending from one end of the mountain to the other.

The mountain shook violently as if a strong earthquake had hit the land. Then it began moving upwards. Every time the worshippers rose from their prayers, the mountain lifted itself upwards. When they knelt down, it also came down with a big bang. This happened three times and every time the mountain moved upwards, the rays of the sun, which was behind it, swept through the space separating the earth from the mountain and became clearly visible to the assembled crowd.

At this awesome sight, Al Muizz proclalmed, "God is Great!" Turning to Abba Abraam, he said, "This is enough to prove that your falth is true." Naturally, this miraculous event caused a tumult among the crowd. When order was re-established, Abba Abraam looked for Simon, who had kept himself hidden behind the Pope throughout the prayers, but he was nowhere to be found.

Simon was never seen again and there are two versions of what befell him. According to bequeathed tradition, he was snatched away by an angelic host so that the Lord may reward him for his humility. Another story claims that Simon, fearing the praise of men, disappeared voluntarily in order to protect himself from falling into the sin of vainglory.

The Caliph, who was still shaking with fear, embraced the Pope warmly and this marked the beginning of a long friendship between the two. The Caliph asked the Pope to name his reward. After some hesitation, the Pope asked for permission to rebuild or renovate some churches, particularly that of St. Mercurius in Babylon in what is now old Cairo. That Church, which was partly destroyed, was being used as a sugar warehouse. The Caliph offered funds from the state treasury for the reconstruction of the Church but Abraam turned him down. "He whose Church we are building does not need the money of this world and is capable of helping us until we finish the job," Abraam said.

The Pope also decreed that the three-day grace period which he had requested from the Callph, and which he and the bishops and priests spent in prayer and fasting, be a regular period of fasting to be observed by all Copts every year. Those three days were added to the forty days of fasting before Christmas. Thus, the Advent fasting became forty-three days starting on November 25.

Shortly after the miracle took place, Al Muizz decided to convert to Christianity. A baptismal font, big enough for the immersion of a grown-up man, was built for him in St. Mercurius Church. This font continues to exist until the present day and is known as "Maamoudiat Al-Sultan" which means the baptistry of the Sultan.

May the spirit of humility which guided Simon in those troubled days and made it possible for him to move a mountain be an inspiration for us in our own difficult times and may his prayers and the prayers of Anba Abraam Abu Zaraa be with us. Amen.

Anba Abraam METROPOLITAN OF FAYOUM PROVINCE, EGYPT (1829-1914)

Life Story

In the year 1829 a.c. (1545 Coptic), in a village called "Calad" in Egypt, was born the child Paul Gabriel. His parents were righteous and loved God.

He was sent to the Church School. His teacher Rafael took care of him, taught him reading, writing, arithmetic, the Holy Scriptures and psalms, eccliastic hymns and psalmody. He was very intelligent and anxious to learn everything.

When he was eight years old, his mother became very ill, and a few weeks later died, leaving behind a lonely child... As he loved prayers and psalms, he found in it that God can bless his motions and fill all his heart.

When he was fifteen years old, he got famous among his mates; the priests recommended him to "Anba Youssab", the Bishop of the Diocese, who ordained him as a deacon during his visit to the village's Church.

As he loved the life of contemplation with God, so he joined St. Virgin Mary Monastery "El-ME-MEHARRAK" at Assuit in Egypt, when Rev. Father Abd-el-Malek was in charge of the monastery. He was very decent, active, and he loved all the monks. They recommended him and he was ordained as a monk when he was nineteen years old, in 1848. His new name was Rev. Paul E1-Meharraki.

He was distinguished by:

* 1. His patience and self-control.
* 2. His interest in almsgiving

Anba Yakoubos, the Bishop heard about him, he asked him to come to the "Bishop's house" and to remain with him. Rev. Paul worked day and night, and he changed the "Bishop's house" to a shelter for the poor.

His deep eagerness for contemplating with God turned him to ask the bishop to leave for the monastery again after he spent four years helping the bishop. Then the Bishop ordained him as a priest and allowed him to return to the monastery at 1863.

At that time there was a problem regarding Father Abdel-Malek, who was in charge of the monastery, but Father Paul did not interfere with these problems .

So the monks chose him to be in charge of the monastery. He opened the doors of the monastery for poor people, also young men heard about him and came, asking him to teach them, and after a short time they became forty monks.

The late "Anba Marcos", the bishop of Luxor, was ordained as a monk in 1870 at El-Maharrak Monastery and he grew up under the the leadership of Fr. Paul. Pope Kyrillos chose him in 1876 (Coptic) to teach the new monks at El-Baramous Monastery. He met his spiritual father again after five years and he remained with him until 1879 (Coptic) when he was ordained as a Bishop for Luxor. Up till now the people still remember much about his pure life, his holiness, deep love for praying, his modesty, and his special care about everyone, and about renewing the old churches and constructing new ones.

As usual the devil was furious when he saw the monastery opened for the poor, and young people were changed with their love for Jesus and their continuous prayers, and made some of the monks think that Fr. Paul was wasting the money of the monastery and they rebelled against him.

In 1870, Fr. Paul was asked to leave the monastery after being in charge for five years.

He went with four of his students to Cairo to meet "Anba Marcous" the Bishop, and at that time he was acting Pope, and they asked him to go to the Monastery of Anba Bishoy at the "Natroun-Valley" in the western desert of Egypt, where they remained for a short period. Afterwards they went to the next door El-Baramous Monastery in 1871 c. At that time the president of this monastery was Fr. John, who later became "Pope Kyrillos". he was so glad to receive them and he offered them a place to stay.

Fr. Paul devoted all his time to praying and study...but his deep love for the poor people did not end. He loved the hostile Arabs who were living in the area of the monastery and he shared with them everything he had, even his clothes.

In 1881 the Ethiopian Emperor, John Kassa asked Pope "Kyrillos", to ordain a metropolitan and three Bishops for the Ethiopian Empire, so he chose the four fathers who were accompanying Fr. Paul,

At the same time Anba Isaac the metropolitan of the province of Fayoum and Gieza departed, then the four fathers asked the Pope to ordain their father as a bishop for that diocese. The Pope and the people of the Fayoum became happy and joyful on that day, for the ordination of their new bishop "ANBA ABRAAM", in 1881.

During his time, the Diocese of the Fayoum became a great vine, in whose shadow the poor and rich sat with great delight.

When the Khadive Tawfik, Ruler of Egypt, visited El-Fayoum they made a great lunch-party. Anba Abraam was sitting very near to the Khadive. He did not eat except salad, and when the Khadive asked him he answered that the day was Fridays and the Christians are to fast on all Fridays. Then he ordered to bring him fruits and asked Anba Abraam to meet him again. He went to meet him at the railway station before he left, and the Khadive welcomed him deeply saying to him "You are a Blessed man..."

The rulers and governers..., even the tyrannical ones found rest in him. So the simple Bishop's home became their rest place.

In the year 1893 he was seriously ill with his leg, that the doctors decided to perform surgery to cut off his leg. When one of his spiritual children told him, he smiled, as usual, and said "God will not let it happen. I am sure He will let them down!"

After 2 months he recovered completely, and went out to the Church, praising God. The Bishop's house was very crowded. The people held the palm leaves and they were waving the olive branches with joy, when they heard of his recovery.

And it happened on Thursday (2 Baouna 1630 c.) 9 June 1914 after the sunset, our blessed father departed to Paradise.

Those who attended his funeral were more than ten thousand persons. Some have estimated it to be twenty five thousand, both Christians and Moslems. But the history of Anba Abraam has not ended, yet still in every Egyptian home there is a lot to be told about him, for he was really God’s loving man.

The Holy Council of Bishops decided that his name could be added with the Saints in the Holy Mass.

The blessing of our blessed Father Anba Abraam be with us. Amen.
Doxology for Anba Abraam

The lamp that lights
Fayoum and all Egypt
For His wonders and miracles
and his love for Christ

The one with crown of jewels
The friend of the anchorites
The friend of the righteous and prophets
Who followed our Lord Christ

He is Anba Abraam
The Bishop of Fayoum
The true shepherd
The teacher of virtues

David taught us in truth
That blessed are those
Who love the meek and poor
The Lord will save their souls

Like our Father Abrahaam
The Father of Issac and Jacob
You loved to show mercy
And completed all commandments

You were used to witness to the truth
You were used to eat with the poor
With great humility
You loved your sheep

The lovers of material things
Sought new buildings
But you built in heaven
Heavenly new places

How many are your wonders
You healed the sick
You prophecied about great things
You cast out the Devils

You became an example
With your pure example
With love and mercy
And witness to the truth

Ask the Lord on our behalf
Our father anba Abraam
The Bishop of Fayoum
So He may forgive us our sins.


The following are some of the miracles of Anba Abraam as reported by those who witnessed and/or experienced them. We are indebted to Fr. Mikhail Saad, Fr. Tadros Yacoub Malaty, Daar Al-Mahaba, and Deacon Malak Luka who wrote about Anba Abraam. We used some information from each publication, and other miracles we learned growing up in our beloved mother land, the blessed Egypt:

1. Cholera Epidemic, 1896 AD."

In 1896, Egypt suffered an epidemic of the Cholera, people were dying. They went to Anba Abraam one evening and told him about the horror that filled the city because of the large number of people dying everyday. Anba Abraam Replied: "Why are you afraid of death. If we do not die today, we will die tomorrow (meaning sooner or later wa all will die, no one can escape death). He asked them to bring Father Mikhail (his half brother)" When abouna Mikhail came, he told him to bring 200 sheets of paper and write on everyone: "We are the Servants of Jesus of Nazareth, who was Crucified." and he took the papers and blessed them with the sign of the Cross and prayed over it. He then gave it to abouna Mikhail instructing him to give a piece of paper to every family that asks for it and to instruct them to hang it outside the door of their house (following the example of Moses instructing the Israelites to sprinkle the blood on the sides and overhang of the door so the angel of death will pass over in the final plague" Every family that hanged this paper, on their door, was saved from the Cholera plague.

2. Healing From Rheumatic Arthritis:

The Departed Monk/Arch-priest Benjamin El-Syriani (From The Monastery of St. Mary Known as El-Syrian) told this story: In 1912, my Aunt Mrs. Feniara Abd-El-Malak El-KHangry from Meer, Assiut suffered from severe Rheumatic Arthritis in her legs. She could not walk. She and my father who suffered from severe bouts of headache traveled from Assiut to Fayoum by train. They went to see Anba Abraam. He prayed for both of them and they wee both instantly healed. My aunt went back home walking on her feet.

3. The Son of the Director of the Region of Fayoum:

The director of the Region (Hekmdar El-Fayoum) at that time in 1912 had a son who was crazed (had an unclean spirit). The director went to see Anba Abraam, told him about his son's condition concluding that the young man is crazed and could not keep his cloth on. He asked Anba Abraam to visit the family. Anba Abraam promised that he will. Anba Abraam prayed for the situation, and few days later he took his disciple and holy oil and went on foot to see this Moslem family. The boy saw him approaching, and ran to the house and told his mother that Abu Al-Nassara (the father of the Nazarene) is coming to see us. How could I meet him like that. The boy ran to the bathroom, and took a bath and put on some new cloth. He then came out and greeted Anba Abraam and kissed his hand and sat down. Anba Abraam blessed the boy and anointed him with the holy oil. The woman called her husband at work and told him all what happened. As soon as the husband heard his wife's story, he hurried home and greeted Anba Abraam kissing his hands and asking for more of his blessings. For a longtime, people in Fayoum talked about this incident always offering the praise to God who works through his saints, the likes of Anba Abraam.

4. The Servant of a Family Is Healed:

M.Y. from Fayoum told this story from his father the son of the late priest Youhana (John) Demitry who was a contemporary of Anba Abraam. Fr. Demitry from the family of Sharkawy, well to do, had a servant named Abd-El-Hady Goudah. The family used to spend the entire lent season in the monastery of the Arch-angel Gabriel near Fayoum. Anba Abraam used to visit the monastery and out of extreme delight with his coming, they would serve him tea in a silver cup. The servant saw Anba Abraam coming and started to mock and joke saying here comes sayeedhom (their master), .. etc. Moments later his stomach stretched and he began to cry from the severe pain. They took him to Anba Abraam. Anba Abraam shook him and asked him why he mocked him, afterwards he prayed for him and advised him not to mock again. The man threw up and was relieved of his pain. Years later, this same man was getting old and was unable to walk. He asked his son to take him to Abu Al-Nassarah (Father of the Nazarene). Anba Abraam prayed for him and he was able to walk again.

5. Power Over The Evil Spirits (Performing Exorcism):

This was recorded by the prominent English writer Leeder in his book: (The Copts) Modern Sons of the Pharos." Leeder wrote: "The bishop's power in exorcism of Evil Spirits has perhaps brought him more visitors from distant parts than any other gift he was famous for." Leeder wrote based on a story by the son of a blind teacher of hymnals (Muallem) of the great cathedral in Cairo at the time who was very intelligent and fluent in English and French, and had a responsible job in the government of Egypt. The man told Leeder that Anba Abraam Exorcised evil spirits from many people Moslems and Christians alike. One time a man named Guirguis was brought in with an evil spirit and Anba Abraam could not get the evil spirit to depart him. Anba Abraam was irritated, he told the parents to bring him to the Church during liturgy, they did. The man started to scream loudly which disturbed the people in the Church and made the officiating priest to pause. This brought Anba Abraam out to the sanctuary. Anba Abraam commanded the evil spirit to stop and not move saying: "In the Name of Jesus Christ the Crucified Nazarene stop and not move." The evil spirit stopped and after the service they took the man into the residence. Anba Abraam asked the man why he made so much noise during the service. "The evil spirit in him replied" "Did You put me in fire and ask me not to cry? A fire from the heaven was sent down to the table (altar) and approached to burn me!" Then as the bishop rebuked him, the evil spirit went out, and the man was healed.

6. The Devil Screamed:

This was told by Monk/Arch-priest Philopos El-Makkary (Philip from the Monastery of Anba Makkar). In 1906, while Anba Abraam was performing the prayers to exorcise the evil spirit from a devil possessed person, the devil wept and spoke to Anba Abraam trying to deceive him saying leave me alone, I am Christian and my name is George, baptized and only 7 days old. When Anba Abraam ignored him completely and continued to pray the devil said: "If it was not for the Cross in your hand, we would have destroyed you as you destroyed us." Immediately, the man screamed loudly and was rid of the evil spirit.

7. A Difficult Exorcism:

Mr. Mansour Girgis said that when they were praying Kereya-Laison (Lord Have Mercy) and Anba Abraam was putting his hand on the head of an ill-man named Masoud from Ekhmeem, the ill-man trembled in the beginning of the prayer and said; "Not you or ten like you can move me out!"
What follows is the conversation between Anba Abraam and the Evil Spirit:

Anba Abraam: God persecute you. Go out!
Evil Spirit: I do not know why you are living until this moment!
Anba Abraam: I live to fight you. What is your name?
Evil Spirit: My name is Abraam, the Bishop.
Anba Abraam: God rebukes you. Do you have bishops?
Then Anba Abraam put the cross on the head of the ill-man and the evil spirit cried: "The fire! The fire! I will go out," and he went out.
[Author's Comments: When I was in my teen in Egypt, Early 60's many exorcisms took place especially in Churches named after some of the Martyrs like St. George, St. Demiana, St. Markorios, .. etc. I witnessed many. A sign of the evil spirit leaving is blood coming out from the finger or one of the toes. We wrote about evil spirits in the book Essays for Orthodox Youth. We believe that evil spirits are still around bothersome to people, but with all the material things around us they don't need to manifest themselves the old way. They now just come and rule our lives. We need the power of prayer to stay free from evil. The devil flees from prayer, from the sign of the cross, and when commanded: In the Name of Jesus Christ the Crucified Nazarene." This name is a great power given to us, the believers. We should use it always.]

8. Serve's in the Episcopate:

H.Y.A from Alexandria told this story: In 1910. I was visiting my family in Fayoum, and as we were at the episcopate (residence of the bishop, Anba Abraam). I saw a sheik (old man) from Tanta named Moorsi, he was brought in by four strong men who struggled to control him because he did not want to go in. Anba Abraam, new about the struggle outside, so he took water, prayed on it and gave it to Rizk his disciple ordering him to sprinkle the water on the struggling man. This calmed the man down and he came in. Anba Abraam prayed on him and the evil spirit departed him immediately. The man stayed for several months in the house of the episcopate serving there to show his appreciation for the healing and as a way of thanking God for the gift (of healing).

9. The Price of Greed:

A prominent Moslem who was a friend of Anba Abraam, sent him a full fold of cloth material. It was given to a disciple named Mikhail Eed. Mikhail took half of the material and brought a half fold to Anba Abraam saying that this is what he received. Anba Abraam new, but did not say anything.
Months later the man came to visit and inquired about the full fold. Anba Abraam thanked him and assured him that it was received complete. After the man left, Anba Abraam asked Mikhail did you receive half or full fold. Mikhail denied that he kept anything. Anba Abraam said: "What are you going to do with the other half. It will become your burial cloth!"
Few days later Mikhail died and was buried in the cloth he denied he kept!
{Author's Comments: The parallel here is what Gehazi did with the gifts from Namaan the Assyrian to Elisha. Gehazi also suffered a terrible fate, he inherited the Leprosy of Namaan for lying and greed.

10. Fight Over A Gun:

A wealthy man from Fayoum lived a long life and had many possessions among them a prized gun. He had three sons and after his death one of the sons took the gun and hid it to keep it from his brothers. They went to Anba Abraam and they all swore they did not take the gun, especially the one that hid the gun swore most. Anba Abraam told them, the one that took the gun will be killed by the gun. They each went to his home. An argument developed between the one that took the gun and his wife, he went out and brought the gun to shoot her, the gun backfired and he was shot dead!

11. A Girl Who Desired to Depart the Faith:

A young Christian woman fell in love with a non-Christian and decided to depart the Christian faith and to marry this man. According to civil laws in Egypt, they had to inform the episcopate of the religion change request. Anba Abraam met with the young woman advised her not to change her faith and to forget about the man, but she wouldn't listen. Anba Abraam was irritated by her stubbornness and told her: "You do not desire the other religion, you desire the man. God will do to you as you deserve" As soon as she left, she fainted. The police came, they thought that there was a criminal act!
Anba Abraam heard that the young woman fainted on the street, he hurried to her, took water and prayed and sprinkled the water on he. She regained consciousness, and began to speak praising God and saying: "I saw with my own eyes......" After that she dropped the request, and changed her mind about this marriage, and lived a righteous life without marriage (to the end).

12. In the Absence of Her Husband:

A man went away for a full year, when he came back his wife was pregnant. He asked her, she insisted that he us the father. They went to Anba Abraam and told him their stories. The woman insisted in the presence of the man of God that her husband was the father. Anba Abraam, consoled the husband and concluded in front of both of them: " That which is of God remains, and that which is of the Devil shall fall." After a week the woman had a miscarriage, and died. And the sad truth became known and the word of the man of God was confirmed.

13. One Guest Kills His Companion:

Two men arrived at the house of the episcopate and asked to spend the night. They were allowed in, because Anba Abraam received any guest who came in, and offered food and shelter to any one that asked. One of the two knew that the other had a large sum of money in his bag, so because he had a wicked heart, he killed him and took his head and the money and ran. In the morning, the servants went, with a breakfast tray, to the room to check on the guests and found the decapitated body of one in a pool of blood and the other was gone. The servant informed Anba Abraam, who summoned the police and instructed them. Take my staff, and go to the railway station, and the one the staff points you to is the killer/thief. They did as he advised them and the staff of Anba Abraam led them to the killer. He was arrested and on searching his belongings they found the head of the victim and the money. He was convicted for his crimes, and received the punishment he deserved.
[Author's Comments: The Church opens its doors to everyone, good and bad alike. It is sad when people choose to do evil, but even God Al-Mighty will not change a person, if the person does not want to be changed, because God created us on his image , he gave us a mind and a free will. The more we observe the more we learn that it is up to us: "I knock on the door, if anyone opens to me, I come in and sup (have supper ) with him." If we don't open, he does not force his way. This evil man did not benefit from the example of Anba Abraam, and he reaped the rewards for his evil deeds.]

14. The Healing of Mr. and Mrs. Leeder:

Mr. Leeder was a prominent English writer, he and his wife heard, in England, about Anba Abraam and wanted to meet him. Anba Abraam was told about these foreign guests, but he did not particularly care for social calls. Then the messenger thought of a clever way to get them to meet Anba Abraam, so he went back and told Anba Abraam that Mr. Leeder suffered from some ailments, so he told him bring the poor man in if he is sick. Mr. and Mrs. Leeder were told of the way the messenger arranged their visit which made them more anxious to meet Anba Abraam. At the appointed time, Anba Abraam received them, put the wooden cross on their heads, prayed for them, and blessed them. And as it was his custom with first time guests, he gave them red and white oversized handkerchiefs, as a gift. This type is used by villagers to this day as a head cover and a nice, country, gift. They were thrilled with their healing, their visit and what they saw and also how Anba Abraam loved giving. Mr. Leeder commented, "We felt the presence of Christ in our Visit to Anba Abraam, and were filled with the Spirit of God through this visit"

15. Bringing Peace Between Two Feuding Bishops:

Anba Abraam was asked to a meeting in the house of the Patriarchate in Cairo to resolve a dispute between two feuding bishops. He went in, and saw endless arguing between the two, and no one in attendance was able to bring any to yield. Anba Abraam asked that all in attendance stand up to recite the Lord's Prayer together. He led the prayer audibly, and when he came to the verse: "forgives us our sins .." he instead said: "don't forgive us our sins, ..." so, some inquired how come Anba Abraam, he responded: "because we are not willing to forgive each other." This got the attention of the feuding bishops and they realized the need to forgive each other and the dispute was resolved that instant.

16. A Poor Priest Restored to The Priesthood:

Anba Abraam was called to the house of the Patriarchate to attend a meeting regarding the defrocking of a disobedient priest. The poor priest allowed an excommunicated bishop to conduct services in his Church. The bishops and prominent laymen decided that the priest is guilty and was to be defrocked. Anba Abraam so it different, he felt that a parish priest could not stand up to a bishop. He disagreed with all in attendance. Next to him was a prominent Copt, named Quallini Pasha. Quallini Pasha signed the decree. When it came to Anba Abraam, he refused to sign, and talked to Quallini Pasha scolding him for being harsh on a poor priest. One in attendance said: " Anba Abraam! Do You Know Who You Are Talking To. It Is Quallini Pasha" Anba Abraam Replied: "The Lord Lives Forever. Moses talked to God Al-Mighty!" Anba Abraam left the meeting and walked down the stairs to the sitting room on the first floor. As he was leaving he said: "The Lord Lives Forever. I will not enter this house again, if any evil befalls this poor priest." Some in attendance hurried after him begging him not to follow on with what he said. Anba Abraam answered them: If you bring this decree to me to tare it to pieces, I will forget everything I said. They went back and after discussion, they did as he said. They took the decree to him. He tore it to pieces, and went back to the meeting as if nothing happened. The priest was saved a great harm.

17. Hangs His Farageia (Coat) on A Ray of the Sun:

Anba Abraam received furniture for the episcopate. He refused to use it, and asked the servant to put it in storage. When a woman came to him complaining that her daughter's engagement is not going to result in a wedding, because they don't have money to buy furniture for her and her future husband. Anba Abraam told the servant to show her the new furniture, and let her take what she needed. Some of the people complained to Pope Kyrillos V about giving away the furniture. Afterwards, there was a collection to build a new house of the episcopate. Anba Abraam gave that money also to the poor and needy. There goes another complaint. The Pope summoned him. He went without delay and he was an old man, with poor eyesight. On his arrival, he was rushed in to see the Pope in his suite. It was a Summer afternoon, a ray of the sun through a hole in the shade of the window was mistaken by Anba Abraam as a robe (for hanging cloth which was a habit in those days to install robes for hanging cloth). Anba Abraam threw his Farageia (Coat) on it and it stayed there. The Pope saw how the Lord works wonders to not embarrass this saint on earth. The Pope changed the purpose of the call and instead inquired about his health and gave him 15,000 Egyptian Pounds to build a new house for the episcopate. When the people came back to see the Pope, he scolded them for their lack of faith, concluding: "How can I argue with a man of God who was able to hang his coat on a ray of the Sun" The new house of the episcopate was not built in Anba Abraam's life. The money was used to help the poor.

18. The Story of the Ameer-allay (Police Commander):
(Anba Abraam Receives and Gives to the Poor After His Departure)

A new police commander came to Fayoum. After a while he had a problem related to work. He was extremely upset over it. He went to see Anba Abraam whom he did not know, but heard about. As he wanted to talk, he could not speak his thoughts. Anba Abraam knew by the gift of knowledge in him the problem and the solution. He told him not to worry, this affair will end in a transfer to another region, nothing more. It happened as Anba Abraam told him. This man made it a habit to give Anba Abraam 5 Egyptian Pounds every year as a symbol of eternal appreciation. More than a year after Anba Abraam departed, he went to the monastery of Azab as he used to. He asked the guard where is Anba Abraam, the guard answered inside, meaning his remains are inside the Church. The man went in, and saw Anba Abraam standing as if he was waiting for him, he gave him 10 Egyptian Pounds because he was not able to visit the year before. The man handed him the money, and as he was leaving he ran to the guard again and inquired about Anba Abraam and why he was inside alone. The guard explained that Anba Abraam departed more than a year earlier. The man could not believe it and told that he saw him standing inside and that he handed him the donation. They all marveled about how God is glorified in his saints.

It is also told that a poor man walked into the Church that same day and Anba Abraam handed him the money he received from the police officer.

[There is a beautiful picture of Anba Abraam. The artist envisioned him standing and with the left hand receiving alms (giving) and the right hand is giving it almost instantaniously.]

19. The Healing of Anba Abraam's Leg:

We mentioned this story in Part I. Towards the end of his life, he had a soar wound in his left leg that would not heal. They summoned medical doctors who recommended amputation to prevent Ghangarin from spreading to the rest of his body. Anba Abraam replied: "This leg that served God does not deserve to be cut off" He prayed, asked the priests to anoint him with oil. The whole congregation wept and prayed for Anba Abraam. Two months later, his leg was completely healed, and it was a great celebration in Fayoum and around the country when Anba Abraam walked into the Church after being ill for many months.
[Author's Comment: We believe in divine healing through repentance, prayer, unction of the sick, and intercession. We also believe in the use of modern medicine, and this is a good example. Anba Abraam summoned the physicians and asked for their professional help. There should be no conflict between the two. Contrasting this incident with the ailment of St. Paul: In St. Paul's case the Lord's will was for him to have the thorne in the body and he heard it on the mouth of the Lord: "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. ' (II CORINTH 12:9). In either case, we accept the will of God in our lives.]

Miracles After His Departure

20. Light Over The Tomb:

A construction worker was working on building a tomb for the body of Anba Abraam. It got dark and he did not finish his work so he asked Anba Abraam to give him light, and he saw like a bright dove which gave him light until he finished his work.

21. Popular Portrait of Anba Abraam:

We all are familiar with the traditional portrait of Anba Abraam. There is a story behind it. Because in his time photography was fairly new, very few original portraits of Anba Abraam exist. People from all walks of life loved the story of Anba Abraam and wanted to have copies of his portrait to keep in their homes, so in 1954, forty years after his departure many wanted copies of the portrait. The Book store Al-Mahba (LOVE/AGAPE) wanted to make duplicates, but were not able to. They wanted to send it to Europe to be printed but could not because of the war of 1956. Fortunately, they were able to make a reprint in Egypt which was enlarged and was put on their annual calendar 11"x17" and they distributed many copies all over the See of St. Mark. In Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Arab World. The Late Mr. Younan Nakhla the founder of Mahaba Bookstore and father of late blessed father Roufail Younan who served in North America, tells these stories.

22. Could Not Find Another Portrait:

S.R from Cairo, Egypt was attending a meeting which included some VIPs. One in attendance looked up and saw the Calendar with the portrait, and using unkind words said to the host: "Couldn't you find a better picture than this (to hang on your wall). I know Al-Mahba Bookstore, they are a quality store, they could have done better." S.R. protested to the man telling him that he should not belittle Anba Abraam because he is a saintly man and everyone Christian and non-Christian alike knows about his piety, good example, wonders, and miracles. And he continued to tell about the good example and the virtues of Anba Abraam. Afterwards, he left the meeting protesting that such comments were made. S.R. continues, I had ailment in my legs and could not climb stairs or walk long distances. In the night I saw Anba Abraam. He came to thank me for my courage and my defense of him and moreover he healed me. In the morning I felt much better than before, and was able to work with more vigor. I became able to climb the stairs and take long walks. S.R. went to Daar Al-Mahba (Mahaba House) in Geziraat Badraan, Shoubra, Cairo, Egypt to tell this story. Shortly thereafter an altar honoring Anba Abraam was added to the small Chapel inside Daar Al-Mahba.

23. The Visiting Nurse and The Portrait of Anba Abraam:

A male nurse visited many homes in Cairo to check on patients and give them injections. One time he complained about this portrait which he saw in many Christian homes saying: "Who is this priest with tense features I see every where I go? Couldn't they hang another picture in these homes?" The same day after he went to sleep, he heard a voice calling him and saying: "Don't you like my picture?" this was repeated three times, and he could see the person. He looked like the one in the portraits hanging in those homes he visits everyday. He walk up scared and started to feel that one of his legs is heavy and he could not move it. He felt deep sorrow and stayed home that night and the following day weeping and asking forgiveness. The following night Anba Abraam appeared to him and spoke to him saying: "The Lord accepted your repentance and forgave you your sin." and disappeared. Immediately his leg felt better and was able to move normal. In the morning, he went out and bought a number of those portraits and started to distribute them himself.
[Author's Comments: God does not take by appearance. We know what happened to the children of Israel when they mocked Elisha the prophet and man of God. He cursed them, and a bear came and devoured them. There is a true story about a man who spoke evil of Pope Kyrillos VI. Anba Kyrillos by the gift of knowledge knew it, and told the man: "Why don't you like us. I love you very much. Please come to see me anytime. The man was dumbfounded. He became a disciple of Pope Kyrillos. Through the prayers of Pope Kyrillos his son was healed from heart ailment and many good things happened to this family. He recorded a cassette tape about many wonderful things that he witnessed through the prayers of St. Mena and Pope Kyrillos. The man lives to this day, he is a highly regarded doctor educated in England. Through the love shown him by the departed Pope Kyrillos, he was changed from a non believer in all religions to a strong believer in God, the Christian faith, and the power of prayers and intercessions.]

24. His Arm Could Not Move:

This happened to a man in a village in the region of Dairut. He did not like the portrait of Anba Abraam and started to speak evil about the picture and the person saying that it is depressing to look at the picture. Then he threatened to bring a gun and shoot the picture off the wall. His friends and family tried to convince him not to do that, but he insisted. He brought the gun and aimed at the picture, but his arm froze and could not shoot. Afterwards, he became mentally disturbed and ended up in the public mental institution (Saraya Al-Safra) in Cairo.
[Author Comment: Sad as it is, we reported it to show that we are free to do what we desire. But, when we do evil or mean spirited things, there is punishment from God awaiting for those who deserve punishment. The difference between this person and the one mentioned above is simple. One repented and was forgiven and healed, the other did not! We firmly believe that: have Judas Iscariot repented, and asked forgiveness, he would have been forgiven.]

25. Anba Abraam Cloths and the Healing of A Sick Person:

Mrs. D.A.W told about her infant son who became ill with high fever. She took him to the doctor and was given potent medications in excess to bring the fever down. But there was no improvement whatsoever. Her neighbor, Al-Aam (Uncle) Girgis Mankarios came to visit and when he heard about the condition of the baby, ran to his house and brought taquia (soft hat) that he inherited from his father who kept this and other pieces of cloth used to be worn by Anba Abraam. Uncle Girgis put the soft hat on the infant's head and he left. In the early morning of the following day, we started to notice improvements and the temperature started to go down. We knew that our son was healed through the prayers and intercessions of Anba Abraam. when the Doctor saw my son, he was amazed for the sudden drop in temperature (sudden healing).

26. The Healing of a Child from Sudan:

In February 1963, a man who owns an export company arrived in Fayoum for the baptism of his son. He told the reason he came all the way from Sudan. This boy was ill when he was an infant, the father was used to seeing the portrait of Anba Abraam in Christian homes all over Sudan, so he asked the intercession of Anba Abraam for his son. When he got home from work he found the infant was healed. When he inquired, he was told that a man in white priestly cloth came in that day and prayed for the infant and anointed him with oil for the healing of the sick (Unction, Healing of the Sick mystery). He knew it was Anba Abraam. And that was the reason they traveled to Fayoum for the child's baptism.

27. The healing of an Arch-priest:

Y.G. told: in 1962, our arch-priest Fr. Bishoy Abd El-Messih, the deputy to the bishop of Demiaat at the time became extremely ill. He had internal bleeding inside the chest cavity. We all prayed with warmth of the heart, asking the intercession and blessings of Anba Abraam for Fr. Bishoy. Immediately the pain ceased and the bleeding stopped and our Arch-priest was healed completely.
[Author's Comments: I remember a similar incident which happened to a reverend father in Los Angeles California in the early 70's when there was one Church in the whole area of Los Angeles. The congregation prayed for their priest every day for a week at an agreed evening hour, because he was sick, and they needed his services really urgently. The Reverend father was healed through the prayers and intercessions of many loving believers. That is why it is important to pray for each other in belief.]

28. Protected Him Even When He Doubted:

Engineer M.Z.A from Hadeqaa Gadida, Fayoum told this story. In the 60's I went with my uncle to visit the tomb of Anba Abraam in Deir Al-Azab (St. Markorios, the two swords, Monastery, Fayoum). At the time there was some remodeling work inside the Church and they had many wooden beams tied with robes all over the sealing. My uncle knelt down and started to pray and implore Anba Abraam. I started to joke telling my uncle: "stop this act, the man died and longed in death (shebe moot)." I was leaning with my hand on a wall, and as soon as I finished saying these foolishness, I moved my arm away and a wooden beam fell exactly where I was standing a minute earlier. At this moment, my uncle was finished with his prayers and turned to me and said: "This is because of your foolish words." I shivered, and felt extreme fear inside me. I fainted and fell on the floor and then felt a hand lifted me on my feet. From that day I regularly visit Deir Al Azab, the tomb of Anba Abraam, and other monasteries as well.

29. A Soldier Saved from Imminent Death in The Battle of 1000 Tanks, 1973:

S.H.G from Fayoum told this story. I was a member of the 52 Battalion (Army), 18 Division, 21st Armored Vehicle. This battalion fought the 1000 tanks battle in central Sinai on Oct. 18, 1973. I prayed and asked the intercession of Anba Abraam saying: "God, save me from shrapnels in my arms or my feet and do not let me die." At that moment I had a shrapnel in my left leg, and fell down unconscious. I was taken to field hospital and consequently transferred to Cairo University Medical Center (Kasr El-Einy). Later on, I learned that the entire division died in the battle, except me. I still have the shrapnel in my left leg. I believe that my life was saved through the prayers and intercessions of Anba Abraam.
[Author's Comments: A dear friend of mine was saved death in the war of 1967 through prayers and intercessions he was carried from the battle field by his division commander because he was injured. He was taken to the back of the battle field and later transferred to Cairo. We can not say why some die and some are saved, but for me, I will always ask the prayers and intercession of the saints when I am in any danger!"

30. Let My Children Come To Me:

B..W from Alexandria wrote: I was enlisted in the army and was assigned to a unit in Fayoum. My unit commander prohibited leaves on Sundays, so we could not go to Church. Suddenly, our unit commander gave all the Christians in my unit orders to go to Deir Al-Azab in Fayoum, we were extremely surprised. So, one asked him why the sudden change, he said "Sheik Al-Nassara (the elder of the Christians) came to me in the night and called me by name saying: Ismael: let my chidden come to me." We asked him who is Sheik Al-Nassara, he pointed to the portrait of Anba Abraam and said he looked like the man in this picture. Commander Ismael was surprised to learn that Anba Abraam departed (died) many tens of years earlier. In appreciation and respect, he took an offering and went to Deir Al-Azab and asked for the blessings of Anba Abraam.

31. Walked without Crutches:

M.T from Muharaam Beck, Alexandria told: In 1981, my grandmother died. I loved her so much, I carried her (body) all by myself which caused me to injure my back. I had symptoms of slipped disk. For a longtime, I had to use crutches to move around. One day we went to visit Deir Al-Azab, tomb of Anba Abraam. I the monastery's Church, St. Markorios, I was told that there is a chair that Anba Abraam sat on. I sat on this chair and asked the prayers and intercession of Anba Abraam saying: "I will not get off this chair until my back is healed!" I sat there for about half an hour (praying), and then I started to feel the healing of my back. I got up from the chair and walked without crutches. I did not need them anymore.

32. Greeting Card Do Not Burn:
Mrs. A.Y.H from Alexandria told: My father was an irrigation engineer during the time of Anba Abraam> As a matter of fact, Anba Abraam performed the ceremony for my parents wedding. My father had a greeting card from Anba Abraam, written with his own hand. He kept it over the years. One day, we were burning some old papers and this card was included, by mistake, in the pile. It is amazing all the papers burned, except for this card which did not burn!

33. A Miracle in New South Wales, Australia:

On 6/10/1985, the Church here was celebrating the departure of Anba Abraam. Fr. Moussa Soliman was the officiating priest, the service was scheduled for very early morning, 4:30 A.M. The priest and deacons were in the Church. An elderly lady who attended the services regularly was there also, at that early hour. As she looked toward the altar room, she saw a beautiful portrait of Anba Abraam hanging in the air above the altar with no support. She screamed asking the help of the priest saying: "How could you hang such expensive and beautiful picture in the altar room with no support" The priest went to investigate, and did not find such thing. They all new that Anba Abraam is present with them, even in Australia, thousands of miles away from Egypt.
This blessed old lady is still with us. The blessings of Anba Abraam be with us always.

34. My Son the Arch-priest Ibrahim Fahmy from Alexandria Was Healed:

The father of Arch-priest Ibrahim Fahmy Nawar from Alexandria told this story. My son, Arch-priest Ibrahim was diagnosed with blockage of arteries of his heart and a weak heart valve. He was sent to London, England for surgery by the famous Coptic (Egyptian Christian) heart surgeon, Dr. Magdy Yacoub. He was accompanied by his brother who is a medical doctor. They stayed in the home of Fr. Antonious Thabet, a prominent coptic priest.

At the home, my son noticed the portrait of Anba Abraam. He commented to Abouna Antonious:" This is a beautiful picture." Abouna Antonious commented: "Anba Abraam Is the Guardian of this House "

During catheterization, without full anathtesia, my son was awake. He saw Anba Abraam standing there all the time. The result was very amazing. The heart valve was OK! The Blockage was no longer evident. And with simple medication, Fr. Ibrahim Fahmy Nawar, was back to normal. He told us in our home in Meet Ghamr about this miracle. He continues to remember Anba Abraam fil-magmaa (in the congregation of the saints part of the liturgy).
[Author's Comments: We translated the story from Arabic as told. The father of Fr. Ibrahim meant that Fr. Ibrahim mentions Anba Abraam and gives him glory more than ever before, since Anba Abraam name is mentioned in the congregation of the saints by Church Law as one of the saints. Also, as we delight with Abouna Ibrahim, we know that some people with blockage are healed medically through Cathetarization. But, we still praise God for Abouna's healing. It is much easier to have a Catheter than to have an open heart surgery. Glory be to God in his Saints.]
35. The Miracle of A Church In St. Louis:

The people who came to St. Louis from Egypt in the early 1970's, around 1972 did want to settle as immigrants, have respected jobs, sometimes any job at first, and worship God the way we did in Egypt. When the Church was incorporated in 1974, they had disagreement. Some wanted to call the Church St. Mary's, others wanted to call it St. Abraam's. The two groups reached agreement calling our beloved Church St. Mary & St. Abraam Coptic Orthodox Church of St. Louis.

We were blessed with one after another of visiting priests: From Canada, the late Fr. Roufail Younan, and from New York, Fr. Youhana Tadros, of St. MayChurch in Queens New York. Also the late Fr. Antonious Baky, Fr. Zakaria, Late Fr. Ghobrial Abd El-Sayed (His grandfather, was Fr. Abd Al-Sayed who served as deputy to Anba Abraam). We also were served by Fr. Ibrahim Aziz, St. George Church, Bellflower, LA, California, the Late Fr. Marco Daowd (A know author, and translator of great works who used to come from Egypt to visit his grandson in St. Louis), Fr. Mankarios Awadalla, former professor of rituals at the college of divinity who serves in St. Demiana in Ontario, Canada.

Fr. Wessa Bessada is the first priest to serve as resident priest in St. Louis: 1979-1981.

Fr. Ekladious Hanna Khalil served as resident priest: 1981-1987. He commissioned the architectural drawings and was instrumental in purchasing the 3 acres behind the house and converted garage.

Monk/Fr. Reuis Anba Paula served our community 1987-1988. He tried to purchase a building on Manchester Road to solve the problem of not wanting to go through a major construction project. The purchase was not completed, because the seller, a Church, asked for an unreasonable price for a 25 years old building facing North. It would have been difficult to convert it to a traditional Eastern Orthodox Church. Fr. Reuis started many youth activities, and weekly bible studies at different homes, combining social and spiritual service.

Fr. Bassellious Sedrak is our blessed priest since 1988. Fr. Bassellious preferred to take his time in getting the people to reach consensus which was a very successful approach in getting the people to join together, Through patience and many visits by his Grace Bishop Tadros of Port Said, we were able to get majority agreement to build in our location at 1843 Ross Ave.

Each priest who served the congregation in St. Louis brought an improvement to the service and a special gift. We are blessed by all of them.

We are a small congregation, but through God's Grace and the prayers and intercessions of St. Mary and St. Abraam the Church is able to meet its financial and spiritual obligations. We are proud to be in the forefront of attempting to recite the liturgy in English, not very easy to do initially. We also are the first Church to produce a full English language monthly news letter, which has all original writings. St. Mary's Message started in 1984 and stopped for a few years after 1988. We are back in circulation again.

The Church building started in 1979 as a small Chapel in a converted garage of a house which is used as priest's residence and an extension used as a social hall. We always desired to build a Church which is more appropriate. The congregation was split three ways: Some wanted to build, some wanted to buy an existing building and modify it to take a Coptic shape, and the third group preferred no change.

In 1984, God guided us to acquire three acres of land behind the property we had. Also, through God's help and the prayers and intercessions of St. Mary and Anba Abraam, the owner sold us the land at a bargain price with owner provided finance to save the Church the trouble of going through the process of obtaining a bank loan. The land was paid in three years, phenomenal achievement of 25 families.



Inspite of the objections, Coptic style architectural plans were prepared in 1985. We had offers to build for about $850,000 but could not get the project started because of lack of unity and the inability to raise even 20% of the needed funds. In early October, 1989 his Holiness Pope Shenouda made a historic 60 days visit to the USA. St. Louis, was fortunate to have his holiness in our city for a memorable 26 hours (We had it counted to the last minute). His holiness honored us and blessed us. He received the key to our city, and October 10,11 of 1989 were declared Pope Shenouda's days in St. Louis.

His holiness wanted to bless the grounds and put a cornerstone, but the plan was derailed because of strong objections from group 2. Group 3 did not object, but did not support either. His Holiness with the wisdom in him gave us a deadline. Find land or building by Epiphany (Jan 19, 1990) or accept the existing plans. Needless to say Jan 19, 1990 came and nothing happened. It became a decision by default to build at the location we have been using since 1979.

One of us in his private devotions challenged Anba Abraam saying: "Anba Abraam you always loved the poor, may be you don't want a new Church building in St. Louis." We also wondered; If it was going to take $850,000 to build in 1985, it must cost twice that much ten years later. In 1993; 3 years after the deadline, we woke up. We called around, we were told $1.2 Million. We were also told; banks do not lend money to non-profit organizations, especially Churches. Ad to all this an ethnic Church!

The Miracle: Somehow, the construction business was weak all over the country in the late 1993. This affected both construction firms and banks. We got three bids ranging from $850,000 to $1.2 M, but when we went back to the $1.2 M bidder, the vice president told our member charged with the project that the bid was a ROM (Rough Order of Magnitude). When they sat to discuss it, they found ways to reduce the bid. This they did. Final bid was ~$650,000. If this is not a miracle, I don't know what is!

Back to the bank and financing issues, the same bank which refused us funding in 1985, came up with a construction/mortgage loan package which was extremely competitive accepting the signatures of five members of the congregation as co-signers with the Church. It even became sweeter when another bank got on the action and offered same terms, with 1% less in interest. This made the first bidder to meet the new terms. His Grace Bishop Tadros came one more time to St. Louis, we had a vote under his direction, and in his presence. The project as proposed received majority approval.

Construction started on October 1, 1993. As the project progressed, there was some problems related to the weather (extreme cold, an d heavy snow not common for St. Louis). Seems like the old devil did not want it to reach completion. But starting in March, 1994 the weather improved and we started to see the Church building taking beautiful shape with high windows, curved roof, and Coptic style (half circle) spherical domes. We got more aggressive, we asked that the basement level floor be completed with the Church and have a functional kitchen and Social Hall/Sunday School/Nursery compound user ready on opening day. WOW!

In June 1994, His Holiness Pope Shenouda was on a visit to the USA. Fr. Bassellious showed him photos of the building under construction. Pope Shenouda was thrilled, but was not sure it will be ready for consecration on a second visit to the USA planned for the fall of that same year.

We had October First as a tentative date for opening/consecration. The contractor promised to do all he could. Every sub-contractor involved worked extra hard to meet the date. Invitations were sent out to heads of Churches, civic groups, members and friends of the Church. We were able to finish everything except for carpeting, airconditioning, and painting of the altar rooms. We were give a 24 hour temporary building use permit by the city of Maryland Height just to complete the consecration.

On Saturday, October 1, 1994; His Holiness accompanied by their Grace bishop Serabion and bishop Karas arrived at 7:00 PM to open the new Church Building. In attendance his holiness the Patriarch of the Orthodox Church in India, who was on an unrelated visit to St. Louis, and his eminence arch-bishop Rigalli of the Roman Catholic Arch-diocese of St. Louis among other heads of Churches, priest, lay people. The Church was overflowing with its children, friends, and honored guests. This Saturday evening service was followed with a Sunday consecration service, and we had to close the building for two more months to finish construction.

The new building is in use since that time. We are all now united on one thing: We are glad a new Church building was completed for the glory of God and we all now know the power of God and the intercession of his saints, the like of St. Mary and Anba Abraam. And, it is always better to seek knowledge and use wisdom in gaining consensus. Sometimes, guided by the Holy Spirit, we take bold steps, like going ahead with the purchase of land, and the commissioning of architectural drawings. But, the conclusion was through a long convincing process. And we all won.