Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States

Statement on the Abducted Copts in Libya by Daash

February 13, 2015

COLLEYVILLE, TX. February 13, 2015 -- A statement from His Grace regarding the abducted Copts in Libya by Daash.

Hate is the most vile word in the human language. The evinced repulsive upshot of hate lingers on and on in the Middle East by the terrorist faction Daash who recently abducted twenty-one Copts in Libya to march them to their death. This revolting scenario has become all too customary for these extremists to accomplish such hideous crimes against all of humanity. We are all-every race, religion, tribe, and nation, God's creation by His own hands and with His own breath. The Copts are a strong and peaceful people, trusting in God's mercies and will. As we, the Copts, approach the Holy Great Fast, we humble ourselves before the Lord and remain confident that He will hear our prayers, respond to our supplications, save His children, end the atrocities in this region, and bring justice to the world.

"Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble;
You will prepare their heart;
You will cause Your ear to hear,
To do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed,
That the man of the earth may oppress no more.
"
Psalm 10:17-18

God bless you,

Bishop Youssef
Bishop, Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States