The Coptic Orthodox is the oldest church in the world. It was founded by St. Mark the Evangelist, author of the second gospel in Alexandria, Egypt in the year 61 A.D. The word “Copt” means Egyptian. Copts are the native Christians of Egypt and the direct descendants of the ancient Egyptians who were converted to Christianity by St. Mark.

Who is the leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church?

His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, crowned by the Coptic Orthodox Church on November 18, 2012, is the 118th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark. Pope Tawadros studied to be a pharmacist, but after he graduated from Alexandria University’s Faculty of Pharmacy, he decided to dedicate his life to God.

In 1983, he graduated from the Coptic Church Clerical College, and over the years he transitioned from being a monk to priest to general bishop, and today pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church. Even as he moved through the church ranks, His Holiness never stopped pursuing formal education getting joint degrees in pharmaceutical engineering, business administration, and Christian education. He has also authored 12 books on Christian theology.

H.H. Pope Tawadros II

Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark