Hello!
My name is Father Arsenius.
Who is Father Arsenius?
Father Arsenius is the priest of the Coptic Orthodox Church of St Moses the Strong and St Mary of Egypt (SMSM) in Oakville, ON. A priest in the Coptic Orthodox Church is also referred to as “Abouna” meaning “father” in Arabic.
What is “Coptic”?
The Copts are the direct descendants of the ancient Egyptians. While the term means Egyptian, over time it referred to the Christian Egyptian. While deeply rooted in Egyptian history and identity, the Coptic Orthodox Church is not limited to any ethnicity or nationality.
What is a priest?
Coptic Orthodox priests are spiritual leaders called to shepherd the faithful, administer the Sacraments, teach the Orthodox faith, and guide the community in worship and daily Christian living. They serve as the primary link between the Church and its members, helping people grow in their relationship with God.
Why is he dressed like this?
You will find the Coptic priest dressed in a black cassock (robe), a short round hat, a cross around his neck and a cross in his hand. Just like some professions who have a uniform, this is Abouna’s uniform. During liturgical services, you will see him wear white vestments on top.
How are the priests chosen?
Priests don’t choose to be priests. They are chosen to be priests.
Candidates chosen are theologically founded and have undergone years of spiritual formation.
Is it crucial to have priests?
Jesus instituted the sacrament of ordination by choosing the twelve apostles and commissioning them for ministry. He gave them authority to teach, heal, forgive sins, baptize, and administer the Holy Eucharist, entrusting them with the guidance of the Church and the mystery of His Body and Blood for all believers.
You can refer to Luke 6:13, Matthew 10:5-8, Matthew 18:18, John 20:22-23, Matthew 28:19-20, and Luke 22:14-20.