Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States

Houston, Texas - Priest Ordination

October 30, 2011

COLLEYVILLE, TX. October 30, 2011 -- On Sunday, October 30, 2011, the Houston community was blessed with an ordination of a new priest, Fr. James Gendi, as H.G. Bishop Youssef performed the "laying of hands". This blessed event was attended by H.G. Bishop Serapion of Los Angeles, Fr. Moses Samaan from LA Diocese, some of the Southern Diocese priests and the Houston community. Fr. James be will serving the congregation of St. Mary and Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church. We pray that the Lord will grant Fr. James wisdom, love, and peace as he begins his new service.

"The work of the priesthood is done on earth, but it is ranked among heavenly ordinances. And this is only right, for no man, no angel, no archangel, no other created power, but the Paraclete Himself ordained this succession, and persuaded men, while still remaining in the flesh to represent the ministry of angels."
- St. John Chrysostom, On the Priesthood