« Cleric of the Sourozh Diocese attends the 10th Annual Official Commemoration of Nayrouz celebrated in St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey »

The Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom celebrated its 10th Official Annual Commemoration of Nayrouz (Coptic New Year) on 11 October 2022 in St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey, London. His Eminence Archbishop Angaelos, Coptic Orthodox Archbishop of London and Papal Legate to the United Kingdom, presided at the service, assisted by many clergy of the Coptic Orthodox Church communities in the United Kingdom. 

Members of the House of Lords and House of Commons, the Diplomatic Corps, humanitarian and advocacy organisations, as well as various inter-religious guests, joined members of the Coptic Orthodox community in the United Kingdom for the annual celebration.

From the Diocese of Sourozh, Archpriest Stephen Platt, Head of the Diocesan department for inter-Christian relations, attended the service, representing His Grace Bishop Matthew of Sourozh. 

Following the service messages were received from His Majesty King Charles III, the Most Reverend Archbishop Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, and His Royal Highness Prince El Hassan bin Talal. Addresses were delivered by Fiona Bruce MP, Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, His Excellency Ambassador Sherif Kamel, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the United Kingdom, and Dr Ewelina Ochab, Deputy Director of Refcemi, The Coptic Orthodox Office for Advocacy and Public Policy. 

For Coptic Christians, ‘Nayrouz,’ is not only a celebration of the New Year, but also a commemoration of those who have been martyrs, and countless others who continue to suffer for their Faith. The service in Westminster was an opportunity to highlight the plight of people around the world who suffer injustice and persecution on account of their faith or belief.

Photo gallery