Worship

The Bible in Our Coptic Church

The Bible is at the center of church life and all its activities:

ã  The Bible is read at least 9 times throughout the liturgy of vespers, matins and mass.

ã  The Bible is the origin of most of the prayers quoted during liturgy.

ã  The Agpeya is mostly based on the psalms and other biblical quotations.

ã  The church specified a litany for the spread of the gospel.

ã  The gospel reading is revered by standing still “in awe and trembling” with candles light on each side.

ã  A gospel is placed over the altar at all times, and is kissed with awe and respect by the priest and clergy.

ã  The Augnostos is a special clerical degree dedicated to reading and explaining the Bible.

ã  All church prayers and sacraments incorporate Bible readings, particularly during the Passion Week.

ã  The Coptic Church calendar and feasts revolve around biblical events and characters.

ã  The Bible is the basis of all the church bylaws and regulations.

ã  The church puts a particular emphasis on daily Bible reading by all its members.

ã  Individual & group Bible study is encouraged whenever possible. It is not an activity restricted to clergy.

ã  Official interpretation of the Bible is the responsibility of the Holy Council, particularly when a controversy appears. The church further emphasizes laying stress on comprehending the Bible as a whole rather than focusing on a single verse, without regards to the rest of the scripture.