Thanksgiving holiday is just around the corner. For some it may mean lots and lots of delicious food and for others it may just mean another passing day. In both these cases, we should be truly thankful for these gifts and blessings that God has given us and many more. Our Health We often take our good health for granted …
The Difficulties of Acting Christian in Today’s Society and What to do
In today’s society, there are many acts and behaviours that have been normalized by the media and the people around us. We see some of our favourite celebrities and athletes drinking, swearing, smoking and anything immoral you can think of. The media shows us this and tells us that it’s ok that they are doing those things, as it is …
Honouring the Martyrs
A story from the desert fathers tells us about one monk who heard about persecution happening in a village nearby the Monastery. Thrilled by the news, he ran to ask the Abbot of the monastery if he could join those who confessed their faith in front of the officials and ultimately die for Christ. In those days, to die as …
Back to School
Summer is almost over and although fun trips to the beach, conventions, and mahragan are coming to an end, the new school year is an opportunity for you to learn new things, make new friends, and become a better person! Here are some tips to help you do your best this school year: Sleep early I know that during the …
Trusting God with our Future
“Inshallah”. Growing up in a Coptic community and knowing very little Arabic, this is one of the few words I’ve picked up. Sometimes it’s just a magical word our parents use instead of saying “no”. Me: “Can I go to the movies tomorrow? Aladdin just came out!” Mom: “Inshallah.” Me: “Dad can you sign me up for summer camp? Forms …
Spiritual Meanings of the Cross
When we make the sign of the cross, we remember many of the theological and spiritual meanings, which are connected to it. We remember the love of God for us, who accepted death instead of us, in view of our salvation and takes away the sin of the world. In the Cross, we remember our sins. Our sins which He …
The Assumption of the Body of the Virgin Mary
August is a special month. August lies on the Coptic month of Mesra, which is dedicated to St. Mary, the Mother of God. On Mesra 1, which is August 7, the Virgin Mary fast begins. This fast lasts 15 days, until Mesra 16, which is the day that St. Mary’s body travelled to heaven. When St. Mary was peacefully praying, …
The Meaning of our Coptic Cross Tattoo
Coptic Christians are the closest direct descendants of Ancient Egypt. The Coptic language that we use today was derived from Hieroglyphics, to Hieratic, to Demotic then finally, into Coptic. The early Church suffered persecution under the Roman Empire and this persecution continued under Islamic rule. The Arabic language then gradually replaced Coptic as Egypt’s national language after the Muslim conquests. …
Transfiguration Feast, He’s the Glorified God
During the month of August, the Coptic Church celebrates the Feast of the Transfiguration of our Lord Jesus Christ on Mount Tabor. The Feast of the Transfiguration is considered one of the seven Minor Feasts of the Lord. The Transfiguration is mentioned in Matthew 17:1-13, Mark 9:2-13, and Luke 9:28-36. It is stated in both St. Matthew’s and St. Mark’s …
St. Abanoub of Nehisa
Think back to when you were 12 years old, or try to imagine your life at that age. What are you doing? Perhaps you are attending school, playing outside, or in the worst case scenario, studying for a really hard test. Can you imagine any 12-year old standing in front of an emperor, challenging him by proclaiming their faith, knowing …