Here, at Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church, history echoes in every corner. This isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to faith and community.
Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church began humbly. In 1963, Bishop Samuel visited Coptic students in Boston. He laid the foundation for what would become a thriving church.
The late Father Rafeal Nakhla from Montreal started visiting in 1970. He held weekly services. In 1972, the community rented St. Helen and St. Constantine Greek Orthodox Church in Cambridge. Services were held there. That same year, Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church in Boston was officially formed. Bylaws were created. The church was recorded with the State of Massachusetts.
A delegation traveled to New Jersey in 1977. They met Pope Shenouda III. They requested a priest for Boston. In 1978, their prayers were answered. His Holiness sent Fr. Salib Ava Mina. The congregation began renting St. John Episcopal Church in Newtonville.
Bishop Samuel visited again in 1979. He arranged for Sunday School and a Board of Deacons. Fr. Salib Ava Mina returned to Egypt in 1981. He met with Pope Shenouda III. The request for a new priest was made again.
In 1982, Fr. Rafeal Nakhla returned for weekly services. The congregation started searching for a permanent church to purchase. Their search ended in 1985. The community purchased property at 145 Oak Street, Natick. This became the permanent location for Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church of Boston.
The first Liturgy was prayed on the eve of St. Mary’s Feast in 1985. Bishop Agnatius visited the congregation. He prayed the liturgy at the new location. An iconostasis was placed in Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church of Boston in 1987.
Fr. Rafeal Nakhla became ill in 1989. Other priests began visiting. Pope Shenouda III appointed Fr. Angelos Doss to serve the congregation in Boston that same year.
Today, Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church continues to be a vibrant community. It offers daily events. These include divine liturgies, Bible studies, and hymns classes. The church also has various ministries. These ministries encompass bible study, charity, and Sunday school programs.
Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church stands as a beacon. It reflects the enduring spirit of its founders and the unwavering faith of its community. It is more than just a church. It’s a home. It’s a family. It’s a testament to the power of faith.