Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States

Nashville, Tennessee - Priest Ordination

June 25, 2007

COLLEYVILLE, TX. June 25, 2007 -- On Sunday, June 24, 2007, the Nashville communitywas blessed with an ordination of a new priest, Fr. Youhanna Ghebranious, as H.G. Bishop Youssef performed the "laying of the hands". This blessed event was attended by H.G. Bishop Boutros and H.G. Bishop Serapion, some of the Diocese priests and the Nashville community. Fr. Youhanna will be serving the congregation of St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church. We pray that the Lord will grant Fr. Youhanna 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