Press Releases30 May 17

Archbishop of Armagh Calls for Prayer for Coptic Christians in Egypt

The Most Revd Dr Richard Clarke, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, calls for Christians here to hold Coptic Christian people in their prayers in the wake of further massacres in Egypt reported recently:

‘While we are rightly appalled by callous attacks on citizens close to home at this time, I am acutely conscious that we must also condemn the atrocious killing and wounding of dozens of Coptic Christians in Egypt while travelling towards a monastery in recent days. We remember those who bear the name of Christ there in our hearts and prayers. We should think of them as Christian martyrs.

‘It is tragic that Coptic Christians in Egypt have increasingly become targets, with four brutal massacres since last December, including attacks on churches on Palm Sunday – which both the Archbishop of Dublin and I commented on at that time. In speaking out against these horrors, we also pray for those families who have been bereaved and for those who have been injured – for their recovery and wellbeing, and for those who are attending to their medical needs and welfare – praying in the name of the Prince of Peace, Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.’