We Started Building!
It finally started! We have begun construction on Saint Barbara Coptic Orthodox Church. This page will be used to track our progress
Our Mission
At the core of our church lies a profound commitment to safeguarding and cherishing our Coptic heritage—a rich tapestry woven with threads of language, hymns, traditions, and stories that connect us to centuries of spiritual wisdom and cultural depth. Our dedication to preserving this heritage extends far beyond the walls of our church; it is a pledge to ensure the continuity of the unique legacy handed down to us.
Language:
The Coptic language, with its ancient roots, stands as a cornerstone of our identity. By valuing and perpetuating the use of Coptic alongside other languages in our church, we embrace a linguistic heritage that encapsulates the essence of our faith. It is more than a medium of praise; it is a vessel carrying the prayers, hymns, and sacred expressions of generations past, linking us to the enduring journey of the Coptic Orthodox Church.
Hymns:
Embedded in the soul of our church’s devotion is a profound appreciation for our hymnology—a treasury of melodies that transcend time and echo the spiritual heartbeat of our community. Our hymns, with their profound theological depth and poignant expressions of faith, serve as timeless vessels of worship. Rooted in the rich traditions of the Coptic Orthodox Church, our hymnology is a living testament to the enduring spirituality of our faith. Through the resonant chords and sacred verses, we connect with the collective prayer of generations past, fostering a continuity that enriches our spiritual journey. In preserving and cherishing our hymnology, we stand as stewards of a musical heritage that elevates our worship, bridging the gap between the contemporary and the ancient in our shared journey of faith. The subtle use of sacred instruments, such as the cymbals and triangle, adds dimension to our hymns, enhancing the depth of our worship experience.
Traditions:
In the tapestry of our Coptic heritage, traditions are the vibrant threads that weave through our church fabric. From the solemn rituals of our liturgy to the joyous celebrations of our feasts, each tradition carries the weight of collective memory and shared experience. As a church, we honor and pass on these traditions, recognizing them not as relics of the past but as living expressions that bind us to our spiritual roots.
Stories:
Our Coptic heritage is alive with stories—narratives of saints, martyrs, and our forefathers whose lives bear witness to the enduring power of faith. By recounting and sharing these stories within our church, we impart a living history to each generation. These tales inspire, guide, and illuminate the path of our church, grounding us in the profound legacy of our Coptic identity.
As a church dedicated to preserving our Coptic heritage, we recognize that our commitment goes beyond mere conservation; it is a dynamic engagement with the living legacy that shapes our spiritual journey. In embracing our language, hymns, traditions, and stories, we stand as stewards of a precious inheritance, ensuring that the vibrancy of our Coptic heritage continues to illuminate the path of those who follow.
By God’s hand, we are devoted to cultivating an organized and thriving church, a sanctuary where fellowship flourishes within the congregation. Our unwavering dedication is directed towards nurturing the youth, guiding them with diligence so that forthcoming generations comprehend and deeply appreciate the profound beauty of the Holy Mysteries. Through this commitment, we aspire to foster an intimate relationship with God, ensuring that the spiritual legacy we pass down is a well-tended flame that illuminates the path for generations to come.
Our commitment is:
· To be Christ centered – in every action, service, activity, and event
· To actively live our faith within the church and within the community
· To create an environment for spiritual growth in prayer, the Holy Scripture, and the Orthodox faith
· To foster love, acceptance, support for all individuals through service to one another and the community