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Coptic Orthodox Archdiocese of North America

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Monday, January 11, 2010

Coptic Orthodox Archdiocese of North America Condemns the Killing of 8 Coptic Orthodox Christians in Nag Hamadi, Egypt on January 6, 2010

Contact: Coptic Orthodox Archdiocese of North America, at 973.857.0078 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it www.nacopts.org

(Cedar Grove, NJ) – The Coptic Orthodox Archdiocese of North America condemns the massacre of eight innocent Coptic Orthodox Christians in Nag Hammadi, Egypt after Christmas Eve liturgy on January 6, 2010. Witnesses have reported that three gunmen opened fire on the Christians coming out of church. In addition to the death of the eight young Coptic Orthodox Christians, several others remain in critical condition.

The joy of Christmas, celebrated on January 7 according to the Coptic Orthodox Calendar, has been extinguished with the mourning which filled the streets in a heartbreaking funeral procession for the victims on Christmas day, the youngest being only seventeen. On the following day, with the destruction of many houses and business’ being set ablaze, many were left homeless and without means to provide for their livelihood.

This violence on Christmas day in Egypt against Coptic Orthodox Christians is only one of many incidents of violence, looting, killing, and arson that have occurred in Egypt, primarily against the Coptic Orthodox Christians. These extreme acts of violence, which the church has continually suffered throughout history, have escalated in the recent years.

His Grace Bishop David, and the Reverend Priests, of the Coptic Orthodox Archdiocese of North America condemn the attacks in the recent days, express great concern for those in Nag Hammadi and is calling upon all people to pray for the safety of the Coptic Orthodox Christians in Egypt.

The Coptic Orthodox Church dates back to the 1^st Century, founded by St. Mark the Apostle and Evangelist. The Coptic Orthodox Church in North America, is comprised of 5 Bishops overseeing 165 Churches, and over 260 Priests throughout the United States of America and Canada.

His Grace Bishop David and the Clergy of the North American Archdiocese will celebrate a Divine Liturgy in the Memorial of the Nag Hammadi Martyrs at St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church located at 433 Riva Ave, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 on Saturday, January 16, 2010 from 9AM – 11AM.