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

The St Mary and St Mercurius Coptic Orthodox Church is a special church located in Risca, Wales. It was the very first Coptic Orthodox church to open in Wales. You can find it on St Mary Street in Risca, which is near Newport.

This church was officially opened in 1992 by Pope Shenouda III. He was the leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church at that time. The church was first named St Mary's and St Abu Saifain's Coptic Orthodox Church. "Abu Saifain" is an Arabic name for Saint Mercurius, and it means "the Double-sworded."

Church Leaders

Reverend Father Philopater Wahba in the church

The main priest at the church today is Father Philopater Wahba. Before becoming a priest, he was a doctor. He studied medicine and became a specialist in bone and joint surgery in Egypt.

While working as a doctor, he also studied at the Coptic Orthodox Theological University in Cairo. He also learned about caring for people through the Institution of Pastoral Care. In 1996, Pope Shenouda III made him a priest in Egypt. He was given the name Philopater, which is another name for Saint Mercurius, also known as St Abu Saifain.

Building's Past

Interior of the church

The building where the church is now used to be a different kind of church. It was a Wesleyan Methodist church. It was first built in 1837. Then, in 1852, it was rebuilt in the same spot.

This building was designed to hold many people, about 600. Later, it became known as "Trinity Methodist Church." Today, it is considered a Grade II listed historic building. This means it is an important building that needs to be protected because of its history and special design.