What is the Coptic Church?
The Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria is the historic Christian Church of Egypt.¹ It traces its roots back to the first century A.D., beginning with the preaching of Saint Mark the Apostle in Egypt.¹
What Does “Coptic” Mean?
The word “Coptic” originally means “Egyptian.” So when you hear “Coptic Church,” you can think “the Egyptian Church;” the ancient Christian community of Egypt and the descendants today.²
Where does it fit within Christianity?
The Coptic Orthodox Church is part of the Oriental Orthodox family of Churches (which includes the Coptic, Syriac, Armenian, Ethiopian, Eritrean, and Indian Syriac Churches).³ These Churches share an ancient apostolic heritage, historic worship, and a deep continuity with early Christianity.
Who leads the Church?
The head of the Church is the Pope of Alexandria, who is regarded as the successor of Saint Mark and serves as the chairman of the Holy Synod (the assembly of bishops).¹
Sources:
Coptic Orthodox Church (official website), “What is the Coptic Orthodox Church?” Coptic Orthodox Church
Coptic Orthodox Church (official website), statement noting that “Coptic” originally means “Egyptian” (quoted in an official news post). Coptic Orthodox Church
Coptic Orthodox Church (official website), “Relations with the Oriental Orthodox Churches” (listing the sister Churches in the Oriental Orthodox family). Coptic Orthodox Church
