I've found the Copts!

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One of the aspects that I haven't had a moment to write about has been my experience meeting other Egyptians here in Melbourne. Shortly after I arrived at Monash, I found the website for Archangel Michael and St. Anthony Coptic Orthodox Church in Oakleigh (a 10 min drive from campus). After speaking with Abouna Danial, one of the priests of the church, he (along with his son Anthony and daughter Rachel) picked me up for a Friday night youth meeting. It was so nice to be surrounded by other Coptic people, and it was even more exciting to talk with Rachel and Anthony about all of the similarities and differences that existed between both of our groups. As it turns out, Egyptians are Egyptians, regardless of what part of the world we live in! The main difference between the Copts here, however, is that most of the grandparents/parents came from Egypt in the early to mid 60's, so they have all actually been in Australia for many years. Also, many of the youth do not speak much arabic, so I totally feel at home when I listen to them speak in Arabic, because I can actually participate with my limited skills as well!

Last Friday, as it was the last Friday of the month, we went to a place called Lazy Moe's for coffee and cake. It was so much fun: two full tables of Egyptians, the priest, and lots of chocolate cake! As we are starting Lent this week, this was a nice chance for us to get together and share some dessert before the fast!

One of my goals while I am here in Australia is to grow, not only academically, but also spiritually. Having the opportunity to get to youth meetings and to liturgies each week are really encouraging. Also, I can't tell you how many of the mothers have invited me to dinner and to go shopping with them if I need to. I definitely feel so happy that they have really welcomed me here and have eased my mind a bit more, in regards to staying involved with the Coptic church!

Oh yeah: for all of the Greenville youth group reading this, there is a monastery that is only about 30 min away!!! I'm really excited to visit the monastery and take pictures, and tell you all about my experience! Stay tuned for more on Melbourne's Copts 😊

--Cindy--

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Photos

Church Pic
Inside the Church--it's really big!

Church Pic
The Altar of the main church

Church Pic
The iconostasis

Church Pic
The Pope's Chair

Comments

[Adam]

Wow
Wow, Cindy, that place is gorgeous. Have you been to any weddings there yet? Don't forget your earplugs if you do!

[Augusta Jones]

That's wonderful! I love being reminded of the universality (is that a word?) of the Orthodox Church.