Coptic Orthodox Church of St. Mark

From a simple dream to a beacon of faith, the story of St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church is one of perseverance and devotion. Here, in Jersey City, stands the first Coptic Orthodox Church in North America. The story begins in the late 1960s. A small group of Egyptian immigrants, longing for the familiar rituals of their homeland, began to gather. They held services in apartments, sporting club courts, and even in the open air. Imagine ten families gathered on a football field in Jersey City, their prayers rising under the open sky. This was the humble beginning of St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church. In 1970, two pivotal events shaped the church’s destiny. First, a Protestant church on Westside Avenue was found. After intense negotiations, the building was purchased for $30,000, a fraction of the original asking price. The down payment was a testament to the community’s dedication, with some members even selling their jewelry to contribute. The second milestone arrived on August 5, 1970. Pope Kyrillos VI ordained Hakim A. Abdelsayed as Father Gabriel Abdelsayed. He was sent to lead St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church, becoming the first permanent Coptic priest in the United States. Under his guidance, the church flourished, its congregation expanding and leading to the establishment of more Coptic churches in New Jersey. St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church continued to grow. In 1995, after a period of transition, Pope Shenouda III appointed Father Abraam Sleman to oversee the church. He led major renovations and established the first full English liturgy in the area at the adjacent St. Mary and St. Abraam Church. Over the years, more priests joined St. Mark’s, including Father Markos Ayoub in 1999 and Father Daniel Abdel-Maseih in 2007. In 2018, Pope Tawadros II visited St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church, a historic event. He elevated Father Markos to the rank of Hegumen and opened the new Emmanuel Center. From its humble beginnings, St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church has become a cornerstone of the Coptic community in America. It stands as a testament to the faith and dedication of those early pioneers who sought to preserve their traditions in a new land. Their dream, born from a longing for spiritual connection, has blossomed into a vibrant community. The church continues to serve not only its congregation but also the wider community. It provides support for the sick, the poor, the homeless, and new immigrants.