L-MANARA 8th Baounah 1730 AN INITIATIVE OF THE MEDIA COMMITTEE - DIOCESE OF SYDNEY & AFFILIATED REGIONS 15th June 2014 E Volume 1, Issue 172 COPTS’ NEWS Volume 2, Issue 84

“I have been crucifi ed with Christ. It is no longer I who lives but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20).

NEXT ISSUE: Find this issue online at 13th July 2014 DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: www.elmanara.org.au 6th July 2014

Egypt’s Christian Leaders Congratulate El-Sisi on Presidential Victory

Read on page 4

THE HOLY SYNOD SEVEN NEW BISHOPS MEETINGS JUNE 2014

Read on page 2 Read on page 2 Published by the Diocese of Sydney & its Affi liated Regions [email protected] 15th June 2014 The Holy Synod Meetings June 2014 H.H. Pope Tawadros II

On Sunday 1st of June 2014, His as the Secretary, for June 2014 Thursday's events concluded Grace Bishop Daniel attended sessions. They started their with fi nal Holy Synod Meeting the Meetings of the Holy Synod offi cial Meetings on Sunday, and dealing which came out with 10 of the Coptic Orthodox Church. attended morning and evening vey important recommendations chaired by His Holiness Pope sessions on Monday, Tuesday, for the Coptic Orthodox Church. Tawadros II, with Bishop Raphael Wednesday and Thursday. His Holiness, Pope Tawadros II, ordained seven new Bishops on Sunday 1st of June 2014

1 - Bishop Isaac Al Khouri Suez. 5 - Father Sharobim Albaramos: Abiskobos: graduated with a graduated with a degree 7 - Father Paul of Sinai: graduated bachelor of science, joined Al 3 - Father Isaac Anba Bishoy: in medicine. He joined the with a degree in engineering Surian Monastery in 1963 and graduated with a bachelor of monastery in 1991 and was in 1991. He was a monk priest was ordained a monk in 1964. science. He joined the monastery ordained a monk in 1995. He is since 1999. He is the fi rst monk He was the assistant to Bishop in 1995. He is ordained as Bishop ordained as Bishop Angelos, a to enter the Monastery of St Pachomius. He is ordained as Isaac and will be the assistant to general bishop for Cairo Moses. He is ordained as Bishop Bishop Isaac. Bishop Abraam of Al Fayuum. Pavly, a general bishop for Cairo 6 - Father Mark Ava Mina: 2 - Father Arsanius Alabnobi: 4 - Father Karas Anba Bishoy: graduated with a bachelor Congratulations to all the graduated with a bachelor he joined the monastery in 1992 of commerce. He joined the new Bishops for their blessed of commerce. He joined the and was ordained a monk in monastery in 1994 and was ordinations. monastery in 1996 and was 1993. He is ordained as Bishop ordained in 1997. He is ordained ordained a monk in 1999. He is Karas, a general bishop for Cairo as Bishop Markos, a general ordained as Bishop Bemwa of bishop for Cairo His Holiness, Pope Tawadros II, Visit to Anba Abraam's Monastery El-Fayoum His Holiness Pope Tawadros II has visited Anba Abraam's monastery at Azab, El-Fayoum on the evening of 9th of June 2014, for the Centennial Celebration of St. Abraam's departure. H H lead the vespers prayer where HG Bishop Abram received him together with 12 other bishops and some other delegation from other churches, and a large number of congregation from the diocese of El-Fayoum During the celebration, His Holiness anointed St. Abram's relics with the holy oil in the midst of a large crowed of joyful congregations May his prayers and blessings be with us all. His Grace Bishop Daniel has also visited Anba Abraam's monastery at El-Fayoum for the Centennial Celebration of St. Abraam, friend of the poor. 2 [email protected] 8th Baounah 1730 Copts’ News THE HOLY PENTECOST

THE SEVEN SUNDAYS OF the Resurrection of the Lord abandoned them, but was PENTECOST – A SUMMARY (the sacrifi cial Lamb), that the always leading the way for them, disciples were strong enough to which they followed. During the seven-week leave their homes and begin their Pentecostal Gospel readings, journey preaching Christianity to • Our beloved Lord teaches we learnt that the fruit of the the whole world. us that He is the way, and if we Crucifi xion and the Resurrection follow Him, then we will reach of our beloved Lord Jesus Christ Second Sunday: In their journey the Heavenly Canaan. was His gift to us of eternal life. through the wilderness, the people were hungry and needed Sixth Sunday: During The seven Pentecostal weeks food, so the Lord gave them their journey, the Hebrews are our journey to a new life manna. encountered many trials and in Christ, and they may be enemies, which we read about compared with the Hebrews' • In the same way that our in the Books of Exodus and earthly company. journey from the land of Egypt to bodies need physical food, our Numbers, but the Lord always • Reassurance that He the Promised Land of Canaan … spirits also need spiritual food. gave them victory. ascended to Heaven to prepare a Therefore, the Lord gave us His place for them with His Heavenly Let us recall the past six holy body as our spiritual food • In the same way, our Father, through His intercession. Pentecostal Sundays: – the manna which the Hebrews beloved Lord teaches us that • The gift of speaking ate in the wilderness was a He is the Conqueror and that He in tongues to enable them to � First Sunday: symbol of the Lord, who is the will give us victory – both on this spread the message of the 'Belief in the Risen Lord' and True Manna. earth by defeating Satan, and in Gospel to the whole world, each 'Jesus gives Peace' the next life, by giving us eternal in their own tongue. � Second Sunday: Third Sunday: Similarly, when life. • Help and strength to 'Jesus is the Bread of Life' the people also needed water overcome the enemies and � Third Sunday: to drink, the Lord gave them • The Ascension: Between suff erings which they were 'Jesus is the Living Water' drinking water from a rock. weeks 5 and 6, we celebrate about to face in their evangelical � Fourth Sunday: the Ascension of our Lord mission. 'Jesus is the Light of the World' • To nourish our spirits, the Jesus Christ. Through His holy � Fifth Sunday: Lord gave us His holy blood as Resurrection, He opened the These same Pentecostal gifts 'Jesus is the Way' our spiritual drink. The rock in way for us to have eternal life, were passed to us through the � Sixth Sunday: the wilderness which gave the and through His holy Ascension, traditions of our Coptic Orthodox 'The Triumphant Christ gives us people water was a symbol of He takes us with Him to heaven, faith which our forefathers Victory' our Lord, who is the True Living and gives us the victory over faithfully kept through the � Seventh Sunday: Water, and also the Rock of our Satan and death. generations, and we in turn 'Jesus sends His Holy Spirit – faith. are keeping them for the future Pentecost Sunday' Seventh Sunday: This is the generations. Fourth Sunday: During the week of the Holy Spirit. Week 7 Let us compare our spiritual journey, the Lord appeared as a represents when the Hebrews I pray the LORD to bless you journey of Pentecost, with cloud during the day and a pillar reached the Promised Land all with the bountiful gifts of His the Israelites' journey to the of light in the night, to give them (which we read about in the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete the Promised Land … light and reassurance. Book of Numbers). Comforter.

First Sunday: It was through • Our beloved Lord is our In this week, the Holy Spirit +++ faith and belief that the Hebrews light in the darkness of this descended on the disciples, and Glory be to the Lord, forever. sacrifi ced the Passover world. He enlightens our minds gave them the power to go out Amen lamb, sprinkled the blood of and hearts, thus leading us to and preach to the whole world. the sacrifi cial lamb on their the Way, the Truth and the Life The descent of the Holy Spirit doorposts, and followed Moses (Jesus Himself). upon the Disciples blessed them ISHOP ANIEL out of the Land of Egypt. with bountiful gifts: B D With the Grace of God Fifth Sunday: In their journey Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox • In the same way, it was from the Land of Egypt, to the • Comfort for the departure Diocese of Sydney & Affi liated through faith and belief in Land of Canaan, the Lord never of their beloved Lord from their Regions

BISHOP DANIEL AND FR MATTHEW GIVING LECTURE ABOUT THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD TO THE STUDENTS OF NSW UNIVERSITY TUESDAY 27 MAY 2014

Published by the Diocese of Sydney & its Affi liated Regions 3 15th June 2014 D IOCESE N EWS EGYPT’S CHRISTIAN LEADERS CONGRATULATE EL-SISI ON PRESIDENTIAL VICTORY Leaders of Egypt’s Christian right time. His victory gives us community congratulated Abdel Christians security Fattah El-Sisi on and a perspective for the future. winning Egypt’s presidential Better times are coming,” Bishop election and welcomed the Adel Zaky, who outcome of the race. heads the Catholic Church in Pope Tawadros II, who heads Egypt, told the Catholic charity Egypt’s Coptic Orthodox Aid to the Church in Church, described El- Sisi’s win as “the fruit of the Need. people’s trust and indication of clear popular will,” Al- “He is a religious person, but he Ahram reported. sees religion as a private matter. His prime Tawadros has been outspoken in his support of El-Sisi. Last concern is his country. He year he appeared demonstrated this when he saved Egypt from an alongside El-Sisi, along with his Muslim counterpart Sheikh impending civil war last year,” Ahmed El-Tayeb, Zaky said. head of Al-Azhar University, to give legitimacy to the new Egyptian Christians make up military-backed approximately 10 percent of the government following the country’s 80 million ouster of Muslim Brotherhood President Mohamed people. Tawadros, along with Morsi. Egypt’s Muslim leaders, are Other Christian leaders in Egypt scheduled to attend El- echoed Tawadros’s sentiment. Sisi’s swearing-in ceremony on Sunday. “El-Sisi is the right man at the THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF THE DEPARTURE OF ST. ABRAM BISHOP OF EL-FAYYOUM Anba Abraam, Bishop of El- pure life, and he prayed much not spare an eff ort to improve the monastery of El-Baramous, fayyoum and El-Giza, departed in seclusion. Accordingly, the the condition of the monastery with archpriest Bolous (Abba in the year 1630 A.M. (June 10, monks loved him exceedingly. spiritually and physically. Abraam), because they did 1914 A.D) His name was Paul When Anba Yakoubos, bishop He improved its fi nances by not like the attitudes of the (Boulos), was born in 1545 of El-Meniah, heard of him, he developing its agricultural land. complaining monks. He stayed A.M. (1829 A.D) in the Estate summoned him. He retained As he increased his charity there for some time studying the of "Gilda", district of Mallawi, him in the episcopate for a toward the poor, the orphans Bible and teaching the monks. governate of Miniah, to righteous period of time during which he and the widows, some of the parents. They brought him up in promoted him to a priest. When monks became more resentful The abbot of the monastery a Christian manner. They sent he returned to his monastery, of him, for they considered these of El-Baramous at that time him to the church school, where the monks with a consensus charitable works as squandering was archpriest Youhanna the he learned religious subjects and decided to make him the abbot and extravagant acts. They Scribe, who became later on. In church hymns. As he was a very over the monastery after the complained against him to the year 1597 A.M. (1881 A.D.), bright student, Anba Yousab, death of their Abbot. He was Anba Morcos, Metropolitan of Pope Kyrillos the Fifth chose the Bishop of Sunabbo ordained then promoted to archpriest El-Behira, who was the acting and ordained him a bishop for him a deacon for the church of (hegumen) in the days of Abba Patriarch after the death of the parish of El-Fayyoum and Gilda. His heart longed for the Demitrius the second (111th Pope Demitrius. Anba Morcos El-Giza. He replaced its reposed monastic life, so he went to El- Patriarch). He remained Abbot accepted their complaints and bishop, Anba Eisak, and was Muharrak monastery where of the monastery for fi ve years, deposed him as the abbot of ordained with the name of Abba he was ordained a monk by during which the monastery was their monastery. Shortly after his Abraam. the name of Paul Gabriel El- the refuge for thousands of the dismissal, he left El-Muharrak Muharraki. He was nineteen poor. So he was called the father monastery and went to the During his episcopate, he years old. of the poor and the destitute. monastery of El-Baramous. became famous for two Several monks from the El- attributes: He was meek, humble, had a During his time as abbot, he did Muharrak monastery went to 4 [email protected] 8th Baounah 1730 Copts’ News

The First: His charity to the his prayer of faith. Many miracles bare necessities. His ambition multitude of poor that came were performed, through his never looked up to the glory of Abba Abraam departed to the to the bishopric residence. He prayers, on his hands. His higher ranks or positions. When heavenly bless on the 3rd day gave them all what he had of fame was spread to all parts of the Patriarch wanted to promote of Baouna, 1630 A.M. (June 10, money. He made the bishopric Egypt and also to some parts him to the rank of metropolitan 1914 A.D.) residence a shelter for many of of Europe. Many patients, of he apologized saying that the them. He off ered clothing for diff erent religions, came to Holy Bible did not mention any More than ten thousand those who had no clothes and him, seeking the blessing of his ranks in the priesthood except Christian and Moslems walked food for those who were hungry. prayers and were healed. Anba the ranks of the priest and the in his funeral precession. His He never allowed anyone to off er Abraam was well read of the bishop. pure body was laid in the tomb, him food that was better than holy books. He always gave to He was also straightforward which was prepared for him in that off ered to the poor. Once he his visitors advice, instructions in revealing his own opinion, the monastery of the Virgin Mary went down to visit the poor while and sermons which showed the looking only for the truth. He in El-Ezab. Many miracles were they were eating, and found that great depth of his knowledge. never gave any attention to the manifested through him after his the food he was off ered that day More important was that he rank and greatness of people in departure, and his tomb became was better than that off ered to possessed a pure nature and higher places, for their greatness and still is a pilgrimage for many them. He became very sad, and many virtues. Particularly, his was far less than the greatness who have special needs or immediately relieved the nun severe denial of himself, and of the truth. For this reason, all infi rmities. supervising the feeding service his true renouncement of the the metropolitans and bishops of the poor from her duties. pleasures of life and its vain glory. of the church avoided his anger May his prayers be with us and The Second: He was famous for His food and clothing were just and sought to please him. Glory be to God forever. Amen.

ST MARY AND ST MINA’S COPTIC St. Mary & St. Mina’s Coptic ORTHODOX COLLEGE “IN WHOM ARE HIDDEN ALL THE TREASURES OF WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE” Orthodox College (COLOSSIANS 2:3)

PRIMARY CAMPUS 339-377 FOREST RD BEXLEY, TEL: 9599 1155, FAX: 9599 1165 HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS: 4-5 ALEXANDRA PARADE, ROCKDALE TEL: 9597 4833, FAX: 9597 4922 Our College is a Chris�an educa�onal facility. We achieve

academic excellence, par�cularly in Mathema�cs and Science. Our College is a Christian educational facility achieving academic excellence. The College has been consistent in its academic performance The College has been ranked as high as 49 in NSW in the HSC, and has been ranked as high as 49 in NSW in the HSC, with 17% of the 2012 HSC cohort currently studying medicine. The Primary campus is with 17% of the 2012 HSC cohort are currently studying now enjoying modern educational facility. medicine. The College offers: * Opportunities to participate in a range of sports * Gifted and Talented program Come and view our modern educa�onal facility in the primary * Coptic and Hymnology program * Acceleration program campus. * A second Language * Debating and Public Speaking competitions Primary Campus You are invited to a�end our Kindergarten * A specialised Drama program 339-377 Forest Rd * A General Ability Skills program for Years 3 to 10 Bexley Informa�on Evening on Thursday 12 June at

ENROLLING NOW FOR KINDERGARTEN AND YEAR 7 2015 Tel: 9599 1155 6:00pm ENROLMENTS TAKING NOW

Published by the Diocese of Sydney & its Affi liated Regions 5 15th June 2014 ST COSMAN AND DEMIAN FUNDRAISING DINNER

On 18/05/14 the Parish of St my beloved brothers, sisters, in the fl esh of Christ is restored in God. If we like it, it is life and Mary and St’s Cosman and sons and Daughters in Christ. to the communion of the life and paradise. If we reject it, it is Demian Coptic Orthodox May the peace and Love of our love of God in union with his death and hell. Church in Castle Hill celebrated Risen Lord Jesus Christ be with neighbour’s and loves "nothing the fi rst fundraising dinner us all. but God only." "It is therefore Thus, the Church plays a pivotal for the New Church Building befi tting that you should in role in our Salvation, and the Project. The evening proved Firstly, I would like congratulate every way glorify Jesus Christ, establishment of a church to be a great success with an you for the Glorious Feast of the who had glorifi ed you, that by a therefore is progress towards immense outpoor of generosity Resurrection, wishing you all unanimous obedience you may salvation, accordingly we must from all those who attended. that the Lord returns it upon you be perfectly joined together in celebrate such accomplishment. The parish was blessed with the with all goodness and blessing. the same mind, and in the same presence of H.G Bishop Daniel, Secondly, I would like to thank opinion, and may all speak the Participation of the love of God Bishop of Sydney and all its you all for your attendance same thing concerning the in union with each other, which affi liated regions, together with for your support and most same thing." For St. Ignatius is indeed communion of divine delegation of reverend Fathers importantly for your prayers that the primary characteristic of life, can be weakened and even including, Fr Felimon el Antony, have brought us here to this point Christians is their corporate and destroyed by man's inattention Fr Arsanious Barsoum and in time where we are fundraising selfl ess spirit of love and their to the ways of Satan. "Flee parish priest Fr Joshua Tadros. for the establishment of our new complete unity of faith. Faith therefore the wicked devices church. and love for each other is one and snares of the prince of the The programme for the night identical reality, as well as the world. lest at any time being was delightful and sincerely The Church, the body of Christ beginning and the end of life in oppressed by his will, you grow enjoyed by all, it included exists, according to St. Ignatius, Christ. Unity with each other in weak in your love." classical pieces from a violinist, for the sole purpose of salvation love is "a type and evidence (of together with several fundraising in Christ, the communion of teaching) of immortality." "All More than fi fteen hundred years activities. Attendee’s were also faith and love (as St. Ignatius of these things together are good if ago, St. Anthony the Great entertained by words of thanks Antioch defi ned it is the church), you believe with love." Faith is to declared that "a time is coming and encouragement from both the community of saints who are "be gathered together unto God." when people will go mad, and HG Bishop Daniel and Parish Christ's own very "members" as “Therefore in your concord and when they see someone who priest Fr Joshua Tadros. his body and bride, is essential harmonious love Jesus Christ is is not mad, they will attack him to our human being and life. We sung." Only in such a harmony saying, `You are mad, you are Below is an excerpt From Fr cannot be human beings – still of love can we know that we are not like us." Joshua’s speech addressed on less, Christians and saints – by partakers of God. Therefore, the evening. ourselves. We need God and salvation and sanctifi cation can It may well be that the time that “ his wise and faithful servants. be accomplished only by a unity St. Anthony foresaw is now In the Name of the Father, The We need God's commandments of love with each other in the life upon us, or at least is rapidly Son, and the Holy Spirit One and living examples of their of Christ. In His Church approaching, at least in the West. God Amen fulfi lment. We need the Church's We must therefore take heed scriptures, sacraments, services As Tertullian said centuries ago, and fi nd refuge in the Church. His Grace Bishop Daniel, Bishop and saints. And we need one "One Christian is no Christian." The devil is not destroyed by an of the Diocese of Sydney and its another. And as the proverb puts it, "The abstract idea of unity and love. affi liated regions, My Beloved only thing that a person can do He can be defeated only locally fathers the monks and clergy; By the victory of Christ over alone is perish." Like it or not, we by the unity of faith and love of my distinguished guests; and death and Satan he who believes are "members of one another" real people living together their

6 [email protected] 8th Baounah 1730 Copts’ News

ideals. “This is the day that the present them with a token of Lord has made, let us rejoice Love and be glad.” We gather this evening as a parish community Finally, I ask all of you to continue to give thanks to God for this to support us with your prayers wonderful project which is our and May the Lord be Glorified in new parish. Many of us have all our works.” life in Christ. Each individual our death begin and end with looked forward to this day and becomes a member of the body our fellow human beings. He now we give praise to God for The congregation of St Mary of Christ spiritually and physically insists that if we have gained our his graciousness towards us. and St’s Cosman and Demian, at a special time and in a certain neighbour, we have gained our Many people made our vision together with the Church place in the presence of those to God, but if we have scandalized come to reality and I will not Commitee and the Parish Priest whom he is about to be joined. our neighbour, we have sinned be able to mention their names Fr Joshua, would like to extend Those who share in one bread against Christ. He says that but we all know who they are, their most sincere thanks to all are one body. (I Cor. 10:17.) all of our ascetical disciplines, however We all need to thank who attended, participated, including our scholarly studies, HG for supporting and making prepared and all that had a share Abba Anthony first tells us that are means to an end; they are not this vision a reality, with a small in the evening. The success of when we are plagued by whirling ends in themselves. The end is token of Love. the evening would not have been thoughts and worn down by discernment and dispassion and without all of your efforts. We an overwhelming sense of the knowledge of God through We also need to thank all the ask that the Lord support you in meaninglessness and futility, keeping His commandments, fathers who have served this all things and grant you each the which we will be in this sinful the first and greatest of which is church in the past 5 years, and rewards of the heavenlies. world, we must simply and love. diligently work and pray, by pure devotion and sheer obedience. A great church is a refuge and We must pay attention to a sanctuary; a place of solitude ourselves and mind our own when you need it. A great church business. We must do our work, allows you to hear the voice and let God -- and other people of God, but also to be heard -- do theirs. by God. A great church offers you faith, hope and renewal. A St Anthony also tells us, as do great church reaches out to all all the saints, that our life and people, regardless of faith and EGYPT IS BACK Om El Dinia Will Become Ad El country and Cairo is not the Dinia Capital! They made the malignant The Pyramid Rises toward the statement, “We don’t mind if a Sky Malaysian rules Egypt”. Shame, shame on you Morsi. No wonder By Dr Makram Girgis, M.D. Ph.D. the brave Egyptian people threw It gives me great pleasure to them away because in less than write this more pleasing article a year they destroyed Egypt. because, during the last few months I wrote sad articles THE BURNT CHURCHES (such as “Egypt Burns”, “Murder As I mentioned last month, 88 on the Nile, Gunman at Church Churches were burnt down. The Army promised to rebuild Wedding” etc). Now, however, them and indeed they started Egypt is settling down; the brave surveying and dividing them into army (under El Munisher Abdel the categories: Fattah El Sissy) has controlled 1. Completely burnt the terrorists at Sinai and the 2. Moderately burnt and brave police are suppressing the 3. Mildly damaged. Brotherhood. In this way, proper work repair The Egyptians don’t like referring will commence. Thank God to them as Muslim (they call them that the villages of Dilja and the TERRORISTS, and truly so). Kardasa (which were the “snake You may ask me what I mean pit” of the terrorist) have been by “EGYPT IS BACK”?! Where controlled by the Army. Most did Egypt go?! It is hard to of the houses were burnt down believe that, in only one year, the and many young Coptic families Brothers kidnapped Egypt and were sent to a safer place. said, “Egypt is not an important “Om El Donia Will Become ……….Ad El Dinia” Published by the Diocese of Sydney & its Affiliated Regions 7 15th June 2014

St Shenouda Feast Celebration At St Shenouda Monastery-Sydney.

(Sat. & Sun : 12 & 13 July 2014). Saturday Feast of the Apostles & Feast of St. Shenouda. 12/7/2014. 8:00 am 12:00 pm The Lakkan Prayers & The Holy Liturgy.(Then Giving of Presents). 12:00pm 2:00 pm Lunch. 2:00 pm 3:00 pm Procession around the Monastery. 3.00 pm 4.00 pm New Project Presentation and update at the Church Hall. 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Vesper Prayers. 11:00pm 3:00 am (Sun) Vigils, Hymns, Midnight Praises. Sunday Feast of St. Shenouda cont.(Actual Day Monday 14/7/2014). 13/7/2014 3:00 am 6:00 am The first Holy Liturgy. 9:30am 12:00pm The second Holy Liturgy. ( Giving of Presents). 12:00pm 1:00 pm Lunch 5:00 pm 5:30 pm Sunset prayers at the Church.

H G Bishop Anba Daniel (Bishop & Abbot of St Shenouda Monastery,Sydney-Australia) is welcoming everyone to come and benefit spiritually. May the intercession of St Shenouda strengthen and preserve us All in the days of our Sojourn. Amen.

Article by Mrs Mary Nicola STUDENTS AT ST MARY AND ST MINA Business Studies and Legal Studies Teacher

Students at St Mary and St leaving behind his wife and four students at the Coptic Schools Mina's Coptic Orthodox College With a monthly goal that changes children. Abanoub's mother stand out from the mainstream. (high school campus) have taken depending on the urgent child receives $17 the monthly widow Not only are they receiving a top an 'oath to help', and this year in need of the month, students pension, besides $7 from the education, but more importantly, that pledge has been made to raise money in their roll call church, a total sum of $24 per they are learning to give back, the children of Coptic Orphans cans, as well as through one month. The family needed to both to the community here and in Egypt. monthly fundraiser. This month, replace the ruined main fl at’s back home in Egypt. They are students were raising money door because they feel unsafe, learning the real values to life, Students have been learning that for Abanoub, a Coptic Orphan, as well as painting of the walls. like service, compassion, mercy as much as prayer is needed who desperately needed urgent The total cost was $508... and empathy. for the most vulnerable and repairs to his humble home. however generous students fatherless, so is the practical raised $527 for Abanoub and his Students are eagerly awaiting helping hand that feeds them, Abanoub's late father suff ered family. photos of Abanoub's repaired clothes them and sustains their from heart disease and passed home, and have already started earthly needs. away due to a heart attack, Such a service is what helps on their new monthly target.

8 [email protected] 8th Baounah 1730 Copts’ News

HOW TO MAINTAIN COPTIC IDENTITY IN A WESTERN PLURALISTIC (SECULAR) SOCIETY?

Compiled and written by: Bishop Anba Daniel : Bishop & Abbot of St Shenouda Monastery. Sydney Australia. 20 April 2014

1- Defi nition of Coptic ordained one bishop, three priests in Alexandria (the seat of the Pope infl uenced by external sources. Identity: and seven deacons to look after the of the Coptic Church, which is built Congregation. He was martyred in in place of the original Cathedral) • Educate the youth in • We are the descendants of Alexandria in 68 A.D. while the remainder of his relics are Christian studies and values so that Mizraim son of Ham, son of Noah. • Her fi rst Patriarch is St. buried under St. Mark’s Cathedral they are able to discern between Mizraim is where the word “Misr” Mark, and there has been an in Cairo (built by Pope Kyrillos the the good and bad. came from. unbroken chain of popes since the sixth). Apostolic age until now where we • Teach our youth to live in • The Copts are the modern have H H Pope Tawadros II (The • The Coptic Orthodox Christ by conducting Bible studies, successors of the ancient 118th Pope after St Mark). Church delivered many martyrs, Christian camps, “Let your light so Egyptians, the Pharaohs. • But most importantly, she even to this day. There were waves shine before men, that they may preserves the Apostolic thought of persecution under the Romans, see your good works, and glorify • The word “Coptic” is in her life, spirituality, liturgies and Byzantines, and Islamic rulers. your Father which is in heaven” equivalent to the word “Egyptian” doctrine. She is a living extension Yet, the Church has survived all (Matthew 5:16). and originates from the Pharaonic of the Apostolic Church without this suff ering and it is the only 5- How to approach youth to name “Ha-ka-Ptah”, which means deviation. fl ourishing Church in North Africa. retain their Identity? "the house of the spirit of Ptah," • The star of the Coptic a most highly revered deity in Orthodox Church shone through • The Coptic Church founded • Maintain spirituality in all Egyptian my thology. It then evolved the School of Alexandria, which Monasticism. The great Abba meetings, gatherings and activities into the Greek word “Aigyptos”, taught Christendom, the allegoric Anthony was the fi rst Monk and St so that God will bless the gathering then Coptic. (Ref 2). and spiritual methods in interpreting Pachomius founded the communal and it becomes productive and for the Scripture, and was the leader in order (Monasticism as we know it the glory of God “For where two or • Egypt was a refuge to defending the Orthodox faith on an today). three are gathered together in my many people in the Old Testament, Ecumenical level (Ref 2 and 4) For 4- Challenges faced in name, there am I in the midst of especially in famines. (Ref 2). example: The Nicene Creed, which protecting this identity and how them” (Mathew 18:19). • Abraham visited Egypt is recited in all churches throughout to overcome it? (Genesis 12:10). the World, has been authored by St • Instil in the youth a spirit • Joseph who became ruler Athanasius, who became the 20th •Challenges - Most of these of leadership. As much as St. over Egypt, second man after Pope of Alexandria for 46 years, challenges are the signs of the end John Chrysostom believed in the Pharaoh. from 327 A.D. to 373 A.D. (Ref 2). of the world that Jesus spoke about priesthood's authority, he was • Jacob and his sons came to "when the Son of Man comes, will cognizant (mindful) of the laity’s Egypt where they lived as a family • Our Church is ancient and He really fi nd faith on the earth?” position in the Church. Believers, and grew as a nation. new at the same time; ancient in (Luke 18:8). following their baptism, become • Moses was taught in all being Apostolic, founded by St. capable, in Christ Jesus, of off ering the wisdom of the Egyptians (Acts Mark the Evangelist; traditional, •Information overload. There is a sacrifi ces of prayer, almsgiving, 7:22). sticking fast to the original Apostolic lot of information readily available, fasting, and selfl essness. (Ref 1). • From among the prophets, faith without deviation. She is but what is right and what is Jeremiah, was forced to go also ever new, through her Living wrong? This requires the person to • Lead by example in order to Egypt. He uttered his last Messiah who never becomes old have the ability to discern between to create enthusiasm in the youth prophecies in Tahpanhes of Egypt and through the Spirit of God who the good and bad (evil).This can t h a t t h e y t o o w a n t t o b e g o o d . (Jeremiah 43:8-44:30). renews her youth (Ps. 103:5). only be achieved with the grace St John Chrysostom considers that of God and by having knowledge the teacher’s personality, plus both • Many of the ancient • Since the Arab conquest of and understanding of the Bible and his manifest and hidden qualities Egyptians' scientifi c work which Egypt in 641 A.D., the word Coptic Christianity. are vital. Since this constitutes the took place thousands of years has been used to refer to the Coptic • People in general fi nd practical gospel read by all. Hence, before Christ, are still considered Orthodox Christians of Egypt. (Ref God’s commandments unbearable he urges teachers to let their lives to be obscure secrets; for example 2). and believe that religion will restrict be shining beacon of education the Pyramids, the art of embalming, 3- Uniqueness of Coptic their lives, while for some religion for everyone, and an example of the art of carving, colored painting Orthodox identity: has taken a back seat due to overall virtue “in all things showing on walls etc. All of these arts are • The only country outside increasing life pressures and some yourself to be a pattern of good still under research to the extent of Israel that was visited by are open to talking about anything works; in doctrine showing integrity, that some believe that the ancient J e s u s a n d t h e H o l y F a m i l y . except religion. reverence, incorruptibility, sound Egyptians were working under the God foretold: “Behold, the Lord • Society has become speech that cannot be condemned, guidance of superhuman (aliens rides on a swift cloud, and will accepting and receptive to all kinds that one who is an opponent may from outer space), or from other come into Egypt” (Isaiah 19:1); and of foreign religions and religious be ashamed, having nothing evil to stars. “In that day there will be an Altar to practices. say of you.” (Titus 2:7-8). 2- Defi nition of Orthodox the Lord in the midst of the land of • Currently there is a push identity: Egypt, and a pillar to the Lord at its for the removal of Christian values • Educate from a young • St. Mark the Apostle border” (Isaiah 19:19). as the basis of the law of the land age with understanding. Simply established the Church during the • Since the Pharaohs, and the introduction of laws that saying “Just do it!” is not always reign of the Roman emperor Nero. Egyptians, have always been against the Gospel e.g. acceptance appropriate. Educate through Christianity spread throughout devoted to religion, and concerned of same sex marriage. Deacon Classes, Bible studies, Egypt within half a century of with the afterlife, perhaps that • Language barriers between Church lead camps, etc. and be S t M a r k ' s a r r i v a l i n A l e x a n d r i a was why Christianity spread so the younger and older members of receptive to all kinds of questions, in 61 A.D. (Ref 2). This was evident quickly in Egypt, roughly within half the Congregation, also all Church regardless of how silly they may from the New Testament writings a century of St. Mark’s arrival in texts are either in Arabic or Coptic seem. By demonstrating love and found in Bahnasa, which were Alexandria in 61 A.D. i.e. there is a great deal of eff ort respect, you will attract the youth found in Middle Egypt, which date • Inspired by the Holy Spirit, required to translate Church text to to the Church. around the year 200 A.D. (Ref 4). St. Mark: the language of the country. 1. Wrote one of the four • How to overcome the • Our forefathers faced • The Coptic Orthodox Gospels. challenges: To protect ourselves similar issues to what we face Church is one of the few remaining 2. Founded the Christian and the future of the church against today, after all the devil has always Churches in the world that have not School of Alexandria these trends, we must: been fi ghting against the Church. deviated from the teachings of the 3. Wrote one of the three • Actively educate the Sharing the stories of the Saints A p o s t l e s . liturgies prayed in the Coptic youth in the early stages of their and how they defended the faith • The Coptic Orthodox Orthodox Church today (Later lives on the diff erent issues and can be a source of inspiration for Church is an Apostolic Church for translated to Coptic by St Cyril and ideologies, to arm them with the the youth that they too can be a number of reasons: is known today as the Liturgy of St knowledge and understanding of witnesses for Christ and defenders Cyril). how to behave and deal with these of the faith. • Her founder is St. Mark the • St Mark’s relics are in Egypt. situations, rather than getting Apostle who ministered in Egypt, His head is in St. Mark’s Cathedral exposed to them (challenges) and Published by the Diocese of Sydney & its Affi liated Regions 9 15th June 2014 VISIT OF HIS GRACE BISHOP ESTEFANOUS

Date Time AM Time PM Arrival of Thursday 26st June 2014 10:05pm H.G bishop Estefanous H. Mass Saturday 28st June 2014 9:00am St Mary & St Marina Church Llandilo H. Mass Sunday 29th June 2014 9:00am St Mark Church Arncliff e H. Mass Wednesday 2 July 2014 9:00am The Holy Apostles & St Abanoub Church Blacktown H. Mass Vespers St Demiana & St Athanasius Saturday 5th July 2014 8:00am 7:30pm Anba abraam Church – Long Point Church Punchbowl H. MassSt Mary & St Mercurius Sunday 6th July 2014 9:00am Church Rhodes H. Mass Wednesday 9th July 2014 9:00am St Mary & St Mina Cathedral Bexley H. Mass Friday 11th July 2014 9:00am Anba Abraam & Fr Mikhail El Behery Church - Peakhurst H. Mass Saturday 12th July 2014 9:00am St Mark Church Arncliff e H. Mass Sunday 13th July 2014 9:00am St Shenouda Monastery - Putty Archangel Michael & St Bishoy Wednesday 16st July 2014 9:00am Church VMt Druitt H. Mass Saturday19 July 2014 9:00am St Antonious & St Paul Church – Guildford H. Mass Sunday 20st July 2014 9:00am St George Church – Kensington Monday21st July 2014 7:10pm Departure of HG Bishop Estefanous

HOW TO MAINTAIN ORTHODOX LIFE AND DOCTRINE THROUGH TEACHINGS IN THE CHURCH? Compiled and written by: Bishop Anba Daniel : Bishop & Abbot of St Shenouda Monastery. Sydney Australia. 20 April 2014 1. True meaning of Orthodoxy: blessings from these holies. Our • Chrism (Myron) - We receive commanded they be followed: (Ref • According to the Scripture, fi ve senses transfer the spiritual the Holy Spirit dwelling within us by 5): Orthodoxy is a way of life: “For if benefi t to the spirit. For example: anointing. • Acts 21:23-26: you live according to the fl esh you • When we walk into the • Eucharist - We are united • 1 Corinthians 14: will die; but if by the Spirit you put church, we smell the incense and with the Lord's Body and Blood. • 2 Thessalonians 2:15, 3:6: to death the deeds of the body, remember “the twenty- four elders • Repentance and Confession • Philippians 1:5: you will live. For as many as are fell down before the Lamb, each - We attain the forgiveness of sins • Hebrew 6:2: led by the Spirit of God, these are having a harp, and golden bowls full and we control our senses in order • James 5:14: sons of God” (Romans 8:13-14). of incense, which are the prayers of not to repeat the sin(s). 2. Do these rituals have any We can only live by the Spirit, if we the saints” (Revelations 5:8) • Priesthood - We are given spiritual benefi t? have the Spirit of Christ in us. The • When we see the cross we the gift of serving God. • St Athanasius says (this Church's primary task is ensuring remember “For the message of the • Matrimony - The groom and homily is read during the hours the practical encounter of humanity cross is foolishness to those who the bride become one and share a of Joyous Saturday): “It is written with the Holy Trinity, through Jesus are perishing, but to us who are life together. in the scriptures; if our souls are Christ the divine teacher. being saved it is the power of God” • Unction of the sick - God following the law of God, the powers The church presents Orthodoxy (1 Corinthians 1:18) grants the cure by the priest of darkness will not overpower us. through (Ref 1): • When we eat the Body of anointing us. If we drift away from God, they will • Revealing the work of the Christ and drink His Blood we are Unfortunately, some people rule over us. Brethren, who want to Holy Trinity in us, especially His reminded of the promise “Whoever consider Church Rituals to be be saved, teach yourselves to fl oat love, care and salvation. eats My fl esh and drinks My blood unnecessary and time consuming in the depth of God’s richness and • Inviting all, even the has eternal life, and I will raise him ancient traditions. wisdom. Stretch your arms in the young children, to witness for the up at the last day. For My fl esh is 1. Did Jesus or the Apostles form of the Cross to cross the great evangelical truth. food indeed, and My blood is drink care about Rituals? sea of this life and go to God” • Off ering heaven's indeed. He who eats My fl esh and • Jesus Himself respected He continues to say: “Let your sweetness to our brethren, the drinks My blood abides in Me, and Traditions, which is evident in the dwelling be in one place, that is sweetness which we savour and in I in him” (John 6:54-56). following situations (Ref 5). the Church, to be nourished by the which we live. • Also, the spiritual blessings • His circumcision (Luke words of the scriptures and by the • The Church, since the we receive through the seven 2:22-25). heavenly bread and blood of Christ, Apostles, has handed down Rituals Church Sacraments begins with • When He asked the leper and to be comforted all the time by for celebrating the liturgy, Passion the physical interaction. The to present himself to the Priest the word of God” Week, etc. The aim of which is to Holy Spirit grants us the following (Matthew 8:4). 3. Why do we have to spend live and experience the death and spiritual blessings through the • He taught His disciples in so much time praising and singing resurrection of Christ. Rituals seven Church Sacraments: matters relating to the liturgy (Acts hymns? express the natural bond between • Baptism - We receive the 1:3). • Firstly, because of our sin, the body and soul. For the body gift of the new birth by submersion • The Apostles put in God willingly was incarnate, was works with the soul to receive the in the water. place and practised rituals and crucifi ed and rose from the dead

10 [email protected] 8th Baounah 1730 Copts’ News to save us. He could have easily should walk in them” (Ephesians engaging, easy to remember and 3- Positives and Negatives of wiped us off the face of the earth 2:10). to the point. Jesus Himself used the Digital World: and started from scratch “Now 2- How to select resources for stories to explain for example, the • Every positive of the digital therefore, let Me alone, that My Homilies: story of the lost son. world is a negative if not used for wrath may burn hot against them • The most important • There is now a lot of the glory of God “Whether therefore and I may consume them. And resource for any homily is the material (ancient and contemporary ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye I will make of you a great nation” Bible, because the Bible is God’s writings) in digital form. We are do, do all to the glory of God” (1 (Exodus 32:10). As such, in our word “For the word of God is living now able to obtain most, if not all of Corinthians 10:31) limited capacity as humans, rituals and powerful, and sharper than the information we need from the Positives: Negatives: and praises are ways in which we any two- edged sword, piercing comfort of our home. which makes • Quick access to information express our love and gratitude for even to the division of soul and it a lot easier to get hold of resource (few clicks away). His incomprehensible love and the spirit, and of joints and marrow, material. However, care must be • Ability to distribute great mercy He bestowed upon us. and is a discerner of the thoughts taken to ensure the authenticity of information worldwide within If we really understood this truth, and intents of the heart” (Hebrews the material used. seconds (Reach mass audience). would we ever want to stop 4:12). Referencing the Bible has • Ability to network with praising God? For no amount of the following benefi ts: • Finally, when writing a others globally and spread the praise would ever pay for our debt • Adds depth and authenticity homily, ensure that the resources faith. to Him. This is why saints like St to the homily. For instance, if you used are appropriate for the age • Ability to express the .Bishoy tied their hair to the ceiling, look at homilies from St. Shenouda group. message in a variety of audio/ lest they fell asleep and stopped the archimandrite, you will fi nd that praising. he references the Bible quite often. • Secondly, God does not • Allows the listener to take need us, we need Him. “God, who note of the verses and refer back made the world and everything in to it at a later stage. it, since He is Lord of heaven and • The second resource is the earth, does not dwell in temples sayings and homilies of the early made with hands. Nor is He church fathers. This resource worshiped with men's hands, as provides practical responses and though He needed anything, since guidance to issues on various He gives to all life, breath, and all topics. These saints fought the things” (Acts 17:24-25). good fi ght, kept the faith and have HSC Physics “When I consider Your heavens, received the crown righteousness. the work of Your fi ngers. The moon • It is always important and the stars, which You have to learn from those before us, Eng. Amir Khella - Mob. 0414220037 ordained, What is man that You are which brings us to the third type mindful of him, And the son of man of resource and that is stories of  About 80 MCQs for each chapter - Total about 1000 that You visit him” (Psalm 8:3-4). our forefathers. These are stories MCQs. • Thirdly, we were created of people who lived like us, faced to worship Him “For we are His the same issues we face and were  Support after the lesson + Total support before exams workmanship, created in Christ able to relate to them. Jesus for good works, which God • Fourthly, practical stories. and assignments. prepared beforehand that we Practical short stories are often  Solve with the students -at least- the last 14 years of HSC exams plus Trials.

 Do practical exams with the students, focusing on ‘Long Response Questions’ with high marks.

 Also can help in Physics Year 11, Physics Acceleration and Physics OTEN. “Think, study and investigate everything, adhere to the  Book your spot for 2014 now. good attributes.” Pope Shenouda III

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