FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York & New England Issues a Statement on the Murder of Ethiopian Christians in Libya
STONY POINT, NY (April 22, 2015) The Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York & New England Issues the following statement on the Murder of Ethiopian Christians in Libya: His Grace Bishop David, the Clergy, the deacons and the Laity of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York and New England express their deepest condolences to the families of the thirty Ethiopian martyrs executed at the hands of the terrorist group calling itself Islamic State. We mourn with our sister Church, and peace-loving people throughout the world, the loss of these faithful young men as a result of yet another senseless act of violence.
We learned of this brutal act in the midst of the Church’s celebration of the 50 Holy Days celebrating our Lord’s glorious resurrection. Christ is risen, and so too His children who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of His Holy Name throughout the ages. And so while this group of terrorists attempts to disseminate fear through these cowardly acts, their efforts are soundly defeated by the overwhelming image of love and triumph over death exemplified by these blessed martyrs. As a community, we follow in their example, clinging to our beloved Father during this time of mourning in the knowledge that, through His love and grace, we are empowered to overcome any evil.
We pray that the Lord reposes the souls of these young men, and gives comfort and peace to their families and loved ones. We pray also for the protection of Christian churches throughout the world, and remain united in prayer for an end to all violence.
About the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York & New England
The Coptic Orthodox Church is the largest Christian Church in Egypt and the Middle East. It is one of the oldest Christian churches in the world; the Coptic Orthodox Church began in approximately 55 AD when Saint Mark the Apostle arrived in Egypt. Today there are an estimated over 12 million Copts worldwide. The Coptic Orthodox diocese of NY & NE was established in November 16, 2014. The Diocese is presided over by His Grace Bishop David.