Saint Mary & Saint Philopateer Abu Saifain Coptic Orthodox Church facts for kids

St Mary and St Mercurius Coptic Orthodox Church is a special church in Risca, Newport, Wales. It was the very first Coptic Orthodox Church in Wales!

This church was officially opened in 1992 by Pope Shenouda III. It was named St Mary’s and St Abu Saifain’s Coptic Orthodox Church. It's part of the larger Coptic Orthodox Church. St Abu Saifain is another name for Saint Mercurius, and it means "the Double-sworded" in Arabic.

Meet the Church Leaders

Reverend Father Philopater Wahba in the church

The main leader of the church today is Reverend Father Philopater Wahba. Before becoming a priest, he was a doctor! He studied medicine and even worked as a special surgeon in Egypt.

Father Philopater also studied at a special university for Coptic Orthodox priests in Cairo. He was made a priest in 1996 by Pope Shenouda III. He was given the name Philopater after St. Philopater Mercurius, who is also known as St Abu Saifain.

A Look at the Church Building's Past

The building where St Mary and St Mercurius Church is now wasn't always a Coptic Orthodox church. It used to be a Methodist church!

It was first built in 1837 and then rebuilt in 1852. It was known as "Trinity Methodist Church." This old building is considered a historic landmark in Wales.

Interior of the church

Want to Learn More?

If you're curious about the Coptic Orthodox Church, here are some topics you might find interesting:

• Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria
• Coptic Orthodox Church in Wales
• Copts – Who are they?
• Coptic iconography – About their special religious art.
• Coptic language – The language used in their church services.
• Coptic music – The unique music they use.
• Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria – A very important leader.
• Oriental Orthodoxy – A group of churches that includes the Coptic Church.
• Egypt – Where the Coptic Church started.

Other Coptic Orthodox Churches

• Coptic architecture – How Coptic Orthodox Churches are designed.
• Saint Mary and Saint Abasikhiron Coptic Orthodox Church, Llandudno, North Wales – Another Coptic church in Wales.