What Is The Coptic Church?

I'm an outsider to the Coptic Church, but St. Paul Coptic Orthodox church in Chicago, Illinois welcomed me enthusiastically. This visit was an amazing experience that I'll be unpacking over the course of my next few videos.
I get to do things like this and share it with you because some people on the Internet who are awesome decided to kick in to support the program. If you're into that kind of thing, you can join them at / tmbh
Here's St. Paul's website: www.stpaulchicago.org/

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

This visit with Father James was such a joy! Whether you think all the same stuff he does or not, I know you'll enjoy getting to know him and his church. I want to make the Internet better by putting people of differing perspective in a metaphorical room together so we can listen to each other, rib each other, and like each other more. I get to this because of (and on behalf of) the people who support TMBH at www.patreon.com/TMBH Thanks to all of you who do that, and thanks also to all of you who don't, but are people of good will who like stuff like this!

[@Longrev4]

Your Channel is Amazing May God Bless You

[@noitnettaattention]

next, do the Armenian Apostolic church PLEASE !!!! pretty PLEASE ; )

[@jackcoleman5955]

Thank you! Very informative and I think we can learn from one another.

[@hutima]

you should add ethnic churches to your list, especially some of the larger ones. Even among protestants. For example, the korean presbyterian megachurch also has all day chruch, which isn't something part of the same denomination presbyterian church down the road

[@GhostMonkey772]

Could you do a video about why Jesus and the God of the Bible are unique? There's a lot of misinformation out there saying Jesus is just a recycled version of other gods, Egyptian gods, Mithra, Roman gods, etc.

[@megazekemeister]

I'm Jewish and never knew much about Christianity beyond a few superficial facts, but I've become interested in learning more about the religion and all its various streams in recent years and this channel has been so enlightening and informative. Thanks a lot, Matt, keep it up, man.

[@tomokitty2153]

You might find Roy Schoeman's videos and books interesting.

[@sofia2moro]

There is nothing new to learn brother .. Judaism celebrating the grace in Yeshua ha massiach nothing added nothing taken away .

[@michaelcaza-schonberger9282]

tomo kitty Ray is a disgrace to his people! He should have joined a Messianic synagogue!

[@megazekemeister]

@@tomokitty2153 well, I tried but I didn't like what I saw. He sounds very disrespectful towards Judaism, Jews and towards Jewish history in general.

[@tomokitty2153]

@@megazekemeister I'm so sorry. I suggested him because I so enjoyed hearing him at a lecture he gave and I also enjoyed his books, Salvation is from The Jews and Honey from The Rock. I'm really sorry you found him disrespectful in any way. I know he loves Judaism and Catholicism and considers them two phases of the same faith. Much Peace to you.

[@smartereveryday]

I loved it when he sings

[@secondcoming9261]

This made my day, never knew I will find you here..praise lord!!

[@rkesler1]

Good to see you here!

[@michealsoliman3069]

As a Coptic Christian and a huge fan of your work I’m so happy you’ve seen this. If you want more info or just want to know more fell free to hit me up.

[@Logan-tx3lk]

Hey Dustin

[@PapaSeed]

Hey

[@jcorbo7518]

ALL christians we must pray for our Coptic brothers and sisters in Egypt, and all the christians in the Maghreb, Levant, and Arabia. They are very much and so often persecuted for the faith and belief in Jesus Chirst Our Savior. Blesed are they who suffer for their faith in the Lamb of God. Also: Thank you for these tours! I'm learning so much and everyone has been very welcoming of their visitors.Shoutout to father James (a great name btw:) thank you for letting us see how things work in Coptic tradition. I'm a happy spectrum (Roman, Byazantine, Greek, Slovak, Maronite, etc) Catholic its nice to get see different angles. God Bless from Ohio

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

Amen brother. Very well said.

[@roamaroundgisg7362]

They need much of our prayers.

[@nerdanalog1707]

Yes to this. There has been a new study that came out recently stating that at the rate things are going, in less than 20 years, there will be no Copts (whether Catholic or Orthodox) in the original countries they have come from. This is extremely sad, but let us have hope.

[@anneeq008]

No the religion is dwindling in the sea of sense and logic that is Islam.

[@markhorton3994]

@@anneeq008 Islam makes no sense and has no logic Allah is a mouse!

[@tinamesafint7958]

As Ethiopian orthodox and as family of the Coptic orthodox I feel proud to see this. Wishing you will visit Ethiopian churches one day.

[@boogiedown7430]

I have been trying for years to find your Bible! 😩 I have had no luck yet.

[@OrthodoxChristianBeliever]

Greetings!! Greek Orthodox Here!!

[@dekike_kristos]

i hope he does as well id love to see him visit our church

[@OrthodoxChristianBeliever]

@@dekike_kristos , Listen To his Teaching On worry

[@MethodistPreacher]

I am hopeful too that he will visit an Ethiopian Coptic Church. I’m a pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the USA but am quite interested in one of the oldest Christian Churches in the world, the Ethiopian Coptic Church.

[@joelancon7231]

"When I was ordained, we went to Arby's" 😂😂😂

[@dietrichotto14]

Eww

[@riyascorner9198]

Hey I mean whatever food it is its a blessing.

[@dietrichotto14]

@@riyascorner9198 you're a blessing

[@vicki-870]

dietrich otto Hey! I love Arby’s!! I wish they have Roy Rogers here. Their roast beefs are great 👍

[@dietrichotto14]

@@vicki-870 Why do people like you have to exist?!!

[@peternaguib8125]

As Coptic orthodox I feel proud to watch this ♥️♥️

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

That makes me very happy to hear. I couldn’t be more impressed with Father James.

[@OrthodoxChristianBeliever]

Greek Orthodox, I Really Liked How James Was Singing Exodus 15:1. I would really hate to be THAT GUY, going to a Saturday Night Liturgy, and they're Singing Romans Chapter One, lol!

[@EmilAnton5]

I was in Alexandria, Egypt, last December, visited the tomb of St Mark there. And Cairo, the church in the place where the Holy Family is said to have stayed. Amazing places.

[@gre8]

I've been to the holy family church in Old Cairo too. One of the most homely and striking churches I've ever visited.

[@marrmil191]

There's also the hanging church and church in mokatam . Great places.

[@monkiram]

@@gre8 I think you mean homey haha :) I've confused them before too

[@gre8]

@@monkiram British usage renders homely as somewhat equivalent to cozy. But I see how it could be misunderstood

[@therapheal_2278]

The original Egyptians came from the Nile valley around Ethiopia called the Badari culture and then the Naqada The Muslim conquest of Egypt by the Arabs took place between 639 and 646 AD. Islam Eurocentric Christianity myths are damaging Egypt. I hope a return to the native spirituality returns

[@sallyrastogi9853]

As a Roman Catholic it was a joy to learn more about my brothers and sisters of the Coptic tradition. I love that they say "Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One" in their prayers too. :) Love this channel!

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

You rule Sally!

[@sallyrastogi9853]

@@MattWhitmanTMBH Awwww, as do you, sir! As do you :)

[@DianaHerberg]

Yes!! That is how we close the Chaplet of Divine Mercy too. God is good!

[@cassietheodora]

the TrisAgion, it is! :)

[@Watermelon-dj8be]

Well mam revelation 18:4 literally talks about GOD SAYING come out of the Catholic doctrine

[@matthewandrous]

I’m Coptic! I’ve been a fan of this channel forever! This is blowing my mind!

[@steventrosiek2623]

God bless you.

[@someinteresting]

Can you read Coptic?

[@matthewandrous]

@@someinteresting Indeed I can, but poorly! It's *very* similar to Greek.

[@matthewandrous]

@@steventrosiek2623 God bless you too brother!

[@modestoca25]

@@matthewandrous I thought Coptic was similar to ancient Egyptian?

[@nathandrums3486]

His song brought tears to my eyes. Jesus is King

[@atuamato5496]

Nathan Quails me too and I was raised Catholic

[@AarontheGreatXCII-kn4gj]

*King in the Royal Messianic line of King David in the Tribe of Judah which makes Mary Queen Gebirah like ALL the rest. ALL the Kings and Queens in the line of King David in the Tribe of Judah were Mother and Son and the Queen Mother advised and interceeded for her King Son.*

[@samaldridge5283]

Aaron Slifka I agree with the theology, but as a Protestant, this doctrine is really hard to accept. Please pray for me.

[@thekingslady1]

@@samaldridge5283 up to 70% of Christiandom believe in praying to Mary and her entire host of Saints and Angels. Mariology is as old as Christianity itself. There is nothing new about it all. I was raised Catholic but with severe anti-Catholic rhetoric from my mother. It took decades upon decades but God finally opened my eyes to The Truth about Mary this last March and I am forever blown away! Look into REAL very Early Church History and stop paying attention to very severe anti-Catholic teachings. As you do so, ask God to open your eyes to The Truth and when He does -'cause He will - ACCEPT IT and don't buck against it anymore!

[@therapheal_2278]

The original Egyptians came from the Nile valley around Ethiopia called the Badari culture and then the Naqada The Muslim conquest of Egypt by the Arabs took place between 639 and 646 AD. Islam Eurocentric Christianity myths are damaging Egypt. I hope a return to the native spirituality returns

[@MattAttack8]

Love the church tours. Your open mindedness is very refreshing.

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

Thanks for getting what I'm going for fellow Matt!

[@stevenwiederholt7000]

@@MattWhitmanTMBH And I actually learn something.

[@timothyj.mannion5210]

Agreed, the wide-mind openess Matt exhibits is so refreshing in these times of closed minded, deep divisions. There is so much more that unites us than divides us, if only we listen to each other. Thanks, Matt. (From a former RC, now Episcopalian)

[@alphinjosephchackochan8906]

@@MattWhitmanTMBH I would love to see you visit and interview an Armenian Church, an Assyrian Church and a Maronite Church

[@alexhan9581]

can pls u name some coptic churches . not the saint mark or George

[@HammerHeadzzz]

More important than any disagreements on theology though, it is important that everyone knows there is MASSIVE persecution against our Coptic, Assyrian, and Palestinian (of Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Oriental Orthodox groups) brothers happening. There are also Greeks, Armenians, and Assyrians being persecuted in Anatolia- including the turning of Hagia Sofia into a mosque.

[@mayganphynix8267]

thank you for sharing this. ❤

[@jimsgirl1465]

Thank you for talking about this. I am Armenian Orthodox in America. Christians are the most persecuted people in the world. Even here in the US there is great prejudice against Christians by extreme leftists. Right now, during the Chinese Communist Party Wuhan virus, our state governments will not allow us to attend church. The BLM terrorists try to burn down churches. I am 71. I never thought I would see anytjing like this happen in America. We must all pray for Christians everywhere every day.

[@gta6videos614]

How does hagia sophia turning into a mosque = persecution?

[@HammerHeadzzz]

GTA6Videos pretty obvious if you’re not a moron tbh

[@mayganphynix8267]

@@HammerHeadzzz we are asking questions so that we can be educated, because we dont know. I didnt know what Hagia Sophia was but I looked it up. I'm guessing you feel like it being opened back up into a Masque, is because its discrimination against Christians?

[@stutterstudios4731]

This Coptic Orthodox Father James and his church are beautiful. The reverence is especially impressive. God-willing East and Western Christianity will unite soon, and we’ll benefit each other ✝️ ☦️ love from a Catholic 🙏🏼💙

[@stevenwiederholt7000]

We Do Unite....In Heaven....even Baptists :-)

[@rafaelcarbone1387]

I hope so too. And I do include all Christian Churches It is so difficult to imagine with so many Christians not even aware of how the Apostles set up the Churches and how the worship should be. But God is Almighty and certainly more than able to do it. I think videos like this help those who seek the truth with all their hearts. Love from another Catolic.

[@stutterstudios4731]

Rafael Carbone Steven Wiederholt God Bless guys 🙏🏼💙💯

[@stevenwiederholt7000]

@@stutterstudios4731 He Has so far. Really looking forward to thank him...In Person.

[@Ortho_1_Christ]

First, the orientals and the east orthodoxs need to unite, then comes the unity of the west and east church.

[@Orthodoxyandlife]

When talking about getting ready for church with church, The whole Eastern Orthodox and Coptic Orthodox churches are like this. Almost every song we sing are verses and lines taken straight from the Bible. Many people don't realize that. I'm Eastern Orthodox, but I love my Coptic brothers and sisters! We are so similar and need to be United!

[@tims4654]

I can't wait for the day we reunite! (I'm Coptic)

[@minaashraf2996]

I hope that too

[@OrthodoxChristianBeliever]

Greek Orthodox Here, we Really Should Get Back!!

[@mt6725]

@@tims4654 very refreshing to see Eastern Orthodox Christians who see beyond the politics of it all. I pray for us to reunite as well!

[@mt6725]

@@OrthodoxChristianBeliever very refreshing to see Eastern Orthodox Christians who see beyond the politics of it all. I pray for us to reunite as well!

[@sauerjoseph]

*Please give Fr. James a big thank you* for doing this; very kind of him!

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

I have and I will again!

[@josueinhan8436]

As a protestant I always found my coptic brethren very lovely. I've already talked to them sometimes and they were always gentle and friendly to me. So, I just wanted to write here to tell them that I love them fervently in Christ. 1 Peter 1:22. They are my dear brothers in Christ, our saviour.

[@VoVina111]

As a Copt we love you too! God bless!

[@Coptic_Dude]

I am a Copt ( a member of the Coptic Church) and I am very happy that this video was made. The Coptic Church is an amazing Church and sharing that in this video really made my day. I am so proud that my infamous church is being explored and it’s treasures are being revealed to all. ➕

[@mish375]

I'm a Protestant but I find the Coptic Church fascinating given its history. I'm so happy that Matt went to one of these Coptic churches because I've been curious about them.

[@Coptic_Dude]

Mish375 S thanks.

[@DILLIGAF66666]

I’m also part of the Coptic Orthodox Church but I was baptised December 3rd 2011 and I never felt so alive and I’m also a deacon as well

[@a_forest_walker]

I am an American believer in Yeshua. I attend an evangelical congregation, but after many years I am convinced that modern Western Christianity has lost something important. Can you direct me to good sources of learning about Coptic Christianity and Ethiopian Orthodox?

[@tennesseegirl5539]

I was raised Baptist. A friend of mine introduced me to this faith, I have been being drawn to it ever since.

[@mariamederos7872]

All Eastern and Oriental Christian Traditions are beautiful and have gorgeous churches and sacred art.

[@ambu6478]

I visited a Coptic Church in my Christian journey. They were some of the most friendly and welcoming people I've ever encountered. If it had been closer to my home, I would still be attending there. A wonderful Church.

[@saintbrush4398]

This guys seems so humble and peaceful about everything. I love him.

[@andyjones7121]

I extremely respect YOUR respect for different ways people express their religion.

[@shirleygoss1988]

Matt, I am an Eastern Orthodox Christian, and I do pray for the reuniting of the Coptics and the EO. I will also say, I am a convert from Evangelical Protestantism. Humanly speaking I wish all Evangelicals would see what I saw, and come home to that Church founded by Jesus and His apostles. I do not say this to downplay the faith of anyone! I have been in awe and wonder of this gift I was given back in 1996. I can not see myself as ever going back. Glory to God!

[@shirleygoss1988]

@El Caudillo Blessings, and thank you!

[@someinteresting]

As much as I know Protestantism started with the intent to turn the German churches to the Eastern Orthodoxy but the moment was inconvenient because Constantinople was Ottoman by that time.

[@shirleygoss1988]

@@someinteresting Have you heard of the Tubingen scholars written communication with Patriarch Jeremias II. of Constantinople. Please forgive me if my spelling is poor.

[@artvanderlay1308]

@shirley goss the Orthodox Church wasn’t founded by Christ and the apostles, it was founded by emperor Constantine the Great

[@shirleygoss1988]

@@artvanderlay1308 Tell me how you know that? If Christ did not found the Orthodox Church, what is the Church He did found?

[@moniquea1791]

I am an Egyptian coptic orthdox... And I loved this video so much.. Thanks For your opennes and great heart.... Our Coptic rites are filled with symplos and deep meanings that are all scriptural ❤️.. Waiting for next videos

[@baileybehzadi2308]

I am an Eastern Orthodox convert and I love my Coptic brothers and sisters I pray that we may be in communion again

[@mt6725]

very refreshing to see Eastern Orthodox Christians who see beyond the politics of it all. I pray for us to reunite as well!

[@sosinaesayas7147]

I am always amazed by the strong faith of Egyptian coptic orthodoxes. Love from Ethiopian Orthodox

[@matt.yencha]

It brought me great joy and hope when Fr. James talked about the Orthodox Churches takes steps towards reuniting after 1500 years. It’s ultimately one step closer to the day when the Catholic and Orthodox Churches eventually reunite and I will be able to celebrate communion with my dad (who is Orthodox)

[@molinaafo]

These are man made divisions. You can take communion with your father, especially now that everyone is home

[@Maine-Life]

If your father is Orthodox then you should be Orthodox.

[@matt.yencha]

Ariel Molina while this is a nice thought I do respect the rules put into place by the Orthodox Church. I also have no desire to receive in a community that I am not 100% in agreeance with.

[@matt.yencha]

Maine Life Lol or he should become Catholic like his wife and children 👀. In all seriousness though I do respect his commitment and faithfulness to the Orthodox Church. It is because of him that I have my love for the Byzantine Rite of the Catholic Church. All the aesthetics and reverence of the Orthodox Church just in full Communion with the Catholic Church.

[@Maine-Life]

@@matt.yencha has he always been orthodox? How did you and your mother become catholic?

[@vincenzorutigliano5435]

May our blessed mother bring us all back together 🙏🇻🇦🇬🇷 God bless all apostolic churches.

[@theownersmanual8078]

Never be surprised when people from another "denomination" speak truth from God's Word! Truth will reveal Itself regardless of country, politics, or tribe whenever it is presented. I love the cool things you do here Matt! Thanks for sharing these awesome experiences with us!

[@mikkis668]

@The Owners Manual. Yes, I agree. I've lived in different countries, and that way been part of several different churches/denominations. I have met Christlike persons in every church, men and women who radiate God's love and wisdom. (Unfortunately, every church has its share part of narrow-minded, backstabbing individuals as well.)

[@englishlearningcenter1470]

I am Catholic and I feel that members of the Coptic Church are our Brethren. May God reunite us once again.

[@vincenzorutigliano5435]

Sister* Church is a female word.

[@EricAlHarb]

I’m Eastern Catholic, we need to reunite

[@chayanroychoudhury3091]

The Coptic Catholic Church is in communion with the Rome.

[@artvanderlay1308]

Muslims are your brethren too. Read Vatican 2

[@EricAlHarb]

Art Vanderlay lol you’re a liar! Quote v2 please

[@curlyhead94]

As a Copt, I am so excited for this video!!

[@jonathanmarkos5526]

@DRE YASHAREL We don't really represent him darker, we represent him as a Middle Eastern, which he was. In any church though it is normal to represent Jesus as their own culture for example the Japanese paint him as Japanese or the Ethiopians paint him as Ethiopian or sub Saharan and so on. Hope this answers your question mate

[@noahzacharia5030]

@DRE YASHAREL I don't think it is intentional. I am coptic myself, and that sort of thing isn't really even discussed (Jesus's skin color/race). It could be the lighting, or just the paint used by the iconographer. Either way it doesn't change the fact that Christ is King. 👍:)

[@therapheal_2278]

The original Egyptians came from the Nile valley around Ethiopia called the Badari culture and then the Naqada The Muslim conquest of Egypt by the Arabs took place between 639 and 646 AD. Islam and the Eurocentric Christianity myths are damaging Egypt. I hope a return to the native spirituality returns

[@therapheal_2278]

@S.O.G Dre in Revelation 1:14-15 “The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters.”

[@seanbeall1311]

Thank you for doing this! I was baptized into the Coptic Orthodox Church a few years ago, and I’ve only grown in my love for and appreciation of it :)

[@j.r.r5863]

I’m Latin Rite Catholic, but I absolutely love the Coptic Orthodox and Catholic tradition. I love the reverence and symbolism of it all.

[@Afdch]

I'm an atheist and I love watching these videos, thank you.

[@bdnl6268]

I don't think you are going to stay atheist.

[@yb5515]

Your mind thinks that you are atheist yet your soul longs for more. I love that you are open to watching and listening to these insightful videos.

[@cupi467]

His videos are just super good - no matter what you belive in.

[@monkiram]

God bless you, friend :) Glad you're enjoying learning about our faith

[@danielreed3718]

Hey fellow Christians who are responding. Let’s stay respectful of this person as we attempt to fulfill the great commission. Glad you’re enjoying learning about us! We can be kinda strange but just know we mean well.

[@growup3626]

Hi sir, really thank you so much for the video, I am Egyptian Christian Coptic Orthodox, I was born in Egypt, I immigrated to the USA in 2007, and when I told my friend at work I am Coptic Orthodox they were not sure what I am talking about, you can tell that %90 of the people who I meet with don't know what Coptic Orthodox it is!!! It broke my heart, because I know that my church is the first Church in Christine history.

[@rose7670]

This is awesome! I'm Roman Catholic and am studying Religion and Philosophy in college. Your videos have inspired me to be more openminded about every religion and denomination. I might have to reference your videos for my papers one day. Thank you for this video and I hope you upload more!

[@rose7670]

@N O And The Roman Catholic Church borrowed the Old Testament from Judaism. There is nothing wrong about borrowing from the Roman Catholic Church. Why? Because we, as humans, borrow from each other. That is how we learn and understand the world: by borrowing and sharing. Also, Protestantism is part of Christianity. The Catholic Church and Protestant denominations both believe in the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus CHRIST), and God the Holy Spirit. If Protestantism is not part of Christianity, then why do they do they believe in Christ? Why is it emphasized in Protestantism that you be saved by Christ?

[@brassmonkey84]

@N O to the Orthodox, the Catholics borrowed from them. So? Actually borrowing is an inaccurate term. I think we inherited it. Original Protestantism inherited the faith and reformed things which were not biblical. I think after pretty much after the baptists everything went wrong though.

[@LB_die_Kaapie]

Latin Rite Catholic **

[@strive4252]

D W Only God has the right to reform Doctrine. That’s why Jesus came to earth to Reform Judaism into the Catholic Church. Protestants are just men who lean to their own understanding and distort the Church Christ said would never fail as they break from the kingdom guarded by Apostolic Succession.

[@brassmonkey84]

@@strive4252 I could accept it except the roman catholic church do not seem to have closed canon but unbiblical additions which made them left orthodoxy.

[@Athanasius242]

As we say in The Bahamas "Ya learn something new everyday." I had no idea a Coptic Church exist. Im doing some reading now into African church history and I'm at the section where John Mark established the church in the Egypt. I covered the Chalcedon schism between Miaphysites (Anti-Chalcedon) and the Chalcedonean Christians. P.S. Name of the book is A Multitude of People by Dr. Vince Bantu. This was a really great video.

[@Longrev4]

Man of God as I have grown in the Faith I've Learned so Much About The Historic Eastern and Western Churches

[@joonie8103]

Oriental orthodox is in Egypt and Ethiopian churches in Africa which really go back to the first century...adding to that the pentapolis area that had the latin fathers like Augustine

[@gmac8586]

Isn't the Coptic church the oldest church; even older than the Roman church? That's what I've always heard.

[@Athanasius242]

@El Caudillo dont forget the Church at Jerusalem where we find the first church council in Acts 15

[@monkiram]

@@gmac8586 The early church was composed of 5 major "sees" (geographical divisions) that were governed by their own bishops but united. These were Rome (that became the Roman Catholic church), Alexandria (that became the Coptic church), Jerusalem, Constantinople, and Antioch. With the exception of the Roman Catholic church, they all continue as Orthodox churches and are more or less united. Orthodox Christians consider the Roman Catholic church to have deviated from the original faith of the early church as ideas have been added after the schism that were not believed in the early church (purgatory, indulgences, infallibility of the pope, etc)

[@HouseKNN]

I’m very happy and proud to see my Coptic church being recognized by your channel. I’ve always believed that the Coptic tradition is not so much different than any other tradition in its core and our church have always needed such recognition. Thank you so much for doing this. God bless your heart and your work.

[@DarianCraciun]

I've always loved the Coptic tradition and I'm happy to see it has made its way to the USA as well. Thanks for the awesome video. Greetings from Romania!

[@ecavil12]

Thank you so much for uploading this! Can’t wait for the 2nd part! About 5 years ago while in school, one of my classmates was a Coptic Christian who emigrated from Egypt with his family due to persecution. He invited me to the Coptic church located in Clearwater, FL, so I attended liturgy on a Sunday morning. It was my first time visiting a church outside of the Protestant “branch”. I wasn’t sure what I was getting into, and due to my ignorance about the Orthodox Church I even felt it wasn’t right. But from the minute I stepped in I was in awe of their reverence toward God throughout their worship. Even little details like this gentleman that walked in and started picking up crumbs, little papers, etc. off the floor so the sanctuary would look impeccable. After service was done I had the opportunity to speak to Fr. Kyrillos where he spoke to me about the history of the orthodox church. It was truly a great experience, and although I left Florida I wish I could go back again. My personal observation is that besides theological differences that may exist; as a Protestant we have so much to learn from the Orthodox Church in regards to worship and reverence. We have brought in the casual, laid-back attitude of the west into God’s place and at times it feels very discouraging. Thoughts?

[@BindingOmen]

I'm not even religious but I love these videos.

[@lutherserbe6435]

Great Video. It would be so funny (but probably impossible) to get all the Pastors you went to in one room and see how they would talk to each other. They all were great personalities and kind people.

[@brassmonkey84]

Eeeeee... they might argue. It's a different setting.

[@monkiram]

That would be amazing! Great idea. Might be hard now with COVID though haha

[@Balloonhead-dn6sm]

@@brassmonkey84 I feel like most pastors would be kind and respectful to each other. Others maybe not but that just shows their character

[@ggarza]

The Coptic Oriental Orthodox Church is the largest Christian community in the Middle East of over 9 million faithful. The Church continues to grow and attract new faithful in Egypt and all around the world. There are six ancient apostolic Churches that comprise the Oriental Orthodox Churches: The Armenian Apostolic Church, The Coptic Oriental Orthodox Church, The Ethiopian Oriental Orthodox Church, The Syrian Oriental Orthodox Church, The Malankara Syrian Oriental Orthodox Church and The Eritrean Oriental Orthodox Church. Each Church is independent from the rest. All agree in their rejection of the Council of Chalcedon (451 AD) and have many distinct and diverse practices from one another.

[@user-jh5ur5ft1w]

Thats actually weird.Why still reject it when they realised that eastern orthodox and oriental orthodox have same theology?

[@hansel.2105]

Amen Hopefully The Church Will Grow more In Egypt and around the world 😇😇

[@realzhella6817]

It's the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church not malankara Syrian Orthodox Church, there's an important distinction there

[@ggarza]

@@realzhella6817 My mistake for reversing the order word.

[@PracticalBibleStudies]

I currently attend a Coptic Orthodox Seminary. As a protestant, it has been a welcomed challenge. I have had nothing but a great experience.

[@jenniferlawrence1372]

Been waiting for this one since the hint you dropped. Yayyyyy!

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

I love this guy and his church. I hope you dig the video Jennifer.

[@evancombs5159]

So about a year ago I discovered the KZbin channel Coptic Orthodox Answers, and it has been very eye opening. They do an excellent job of teaching the faith. The big thing that stuck out to me, though, was their historic perspective. They really rely on the wisdom and truth presented by historical figures that are not in the Bible. I've come to the conclusion that one thing the modern American protestant church has failed at is using and trusting the wisdom and truth of these ancient theologians. We focus so much on the Bible and on the teachings of people from the past 100 years, that we are missing out on the teachings of wise Christian leaders from the 1,800 years in between. I think we are lesser for it. Many of the teachers they will quote I knew more about from the History Channel than I did from modern Christian teachers. I believe we need a renaissance within the American protestant church of these historical teachers.

[@georgeibrahim7945]

Hi My Father is Orthodox and Mother is Catholic and both churches can be traced back to the first century and have apostolic succession. Look up the early Church Fathers and study them, also download he Catholic answers app on your phone and listen to former protestants such as Jimmy Akin and Tim Staples who I learnt a lot from.

[@tims4654]

I'm Coptic Orthodox and I love to see people learning about our rich history! Thanks!

[@michaeljensen5637]

for a Catholic each and every Friday is a "mini" Good Friday as each and every Sunday is a "mini" Easter and thus we do Church by fasting of meat or fasting on something else that we value to "prepare" ourselves for celebrating the Lord's Super (Eucharist) which begins the vigil on Saturday. I loved how he uses a key (Cross) to do things... great reminder that all our actions should be done in light of Christ's death and resurrection...

[@MorcousWahba]

Very similar in Coptic Orthodoxy! We have fasting every Wednesday and Friday (documented in the 1st Century Didache). Commemoration of the Resurrection every Sunday

[@paulankolo6348]

@@MorcousWahba I don't know if all catholics do this, but our priest encourages us to fast from meat on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, at worst, Fridays.

[@michaeljensen5637]

@Destynation Z hmm... I do not believe the Novus Ordo is the issue... I just believe Catholic Teaching is the issue... The Catholic Church has always taught stuff but the people who have been teaching failed to only teach a stripped down version of the Cathoolic Faith, I guess because they thought is would be more appealing or easier to digest... I believe the real turn around for the Faith is better teaching of the Faith... I have never experienced the Traditional Latin Mass or any Eastern Catholic Rite Masses but I have taught myself and looked for teachers of the faith that do more than just a 4th Grade understanding of the Faith...

[@michaeljensen5637]

@Destynation Z ... could you not say that about the first Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15? they made "everything easier" and gave an "inferior discipline" by removing many of the disciplines practiced by Jesus himself?

[@onelove6576]

Most orthodox monks pray 19-20 houres a day. Many even when sleeping in 2-3 houres. Incredible! God bless and much love from Sweden 🇸🇪💟✝️💟🇸🇪

[@eastsidefellowship2511]

Matt, thanks for doing these visits to different types of churches. I've watched all of these you made and find them very interesting and informative. I also appreciate the spirit in which you do it as a respectful listener and learner. Helps all of us learn about these different faith traditions. Keep up the great work!

[@manuelantwan5782]

As a coptic orthodox Deacon(Chanter), I would love you to check the hymns of the holy week in our church. I hardly hold my tears while chanting them, it gives the feeling of love and how much jesus loves me! Thanks for such an amazing video! I can’t stop watching this channel’s video! God bless ❤️

[@neadst]

The lightbulb joke caught me off guard - what a great guy!

[@ericshaker9377]

Hey Matt I would just like to say what a wonderful ability of speaking and listening you have, thank you for being so open minded and allowing us to learn so much. It truly is a gift

[@johnboyx63]

Another home run, Matt! I love these videos where you visit other traditions. I am LCMS but was raised Pentecostal. Please consider recording and sharing a small sampling of the worship service for each tradition you visit. Talking about the traditions is good, but experiencing the worship of other traditions is a whole other perspective. I was blown away by visiting an Antiochian Orthodox Pascha service many years ago. I think we would all gain even more respect and love by doing so. Keep up the quality work! God bless you.

[@WilliamCarterII]

He's right about the Body. I'm Coptic and this past sunday, a few crumbs from the communion bread fell to the ground and the whole service stopped so that a priest could pick it up and consume it. An usher stood nearby so that nobody could accidentally stop on it. It was very dramatic

[@jhumbo631]

Matt, this was a really great interview. The Coptic Orthodox church provides a means for it's parishioners to go so deep in their worship. Really awesome to share this treasure with the world. You and Father James are both so wonderful to listen to.

[@anna-lisagirling7424]

This has been most illuminating! I have been fascinated with the history of the Coptic Orthodox church for years because of its origins with the work of Mark in the foundational years of Christianity's beginnings. We used to live near a small congregation of Coptics who formed a small congregation that met in a Roman Catholic church for several years. Each year around Easter, they held a large Open House and on the main day had a big banquet and bake sale. Lots of fun! They also had a book sale with several publications in English about their beliefs and history but I learned more in your 10 min. with Fr. James than I could ever digest from those awkwardly translated books! I really look forward to the next segment. You are bridging a lot of traditions with what you are doing here! Thank you so much.

[@johnmascola3403]

GOD BLESS ORTHODOXY !!! From a Eastern Catholic.

[@matthewweston643]

Catholic here. GOD BLESS OUR BELOVED Orthodox brothers. So many great Saints & Martyrs. May we one day fulfill the Lord's High Priestly Prayer. May we be One. Our division is a scandal and the result of human sin. On both sides.

[@matthewweston643]

@@Hello-ro8fq My friend. This is Matt's page. I'd encourage you to read the rules. Debate is good. Name calling is not welcome. I'm glad The Lord brought you to Himself. I consider you a brother and a friend.

[@Zjk26]

That ending kindness meant a lot 🙏🏼 can't wait to see part 2. You're awesome! These videos and tours are so interesting. God Bless!

[@CommIncenseCulture]

The "Church to get ready for Church" used to be an all-night Vigil starting Saturday night that led into Divine Liturgy on Sunday Morning so we're actually slacking but that's what we call "Economy" when the extent or difficulty of things is lightened (without changing the rule) for the weakness of the individual or people as a whole.

[@englishlearningcenter1470]

As a committed Catholic that's why we offer Vesper services on Saturday evening, which technically is already Sunday for us.

[@CommIncenseCulture]

I didn't know Catholics still had Vespers, except maybe the Byzantine Catholics. That's great. Most Orthodox Churches in America just have a 2-3 hour Vigil (Vespers + Matins) on Saturday night. Vespers ends Saturday and Matins begins Sunday, Liturgically speaking. But it's just a watered down version of the all-night Vigil of the early Church. We typically have 2-3 all-night Vigils per year just to remind us what we're missing out on.

[@aintnonarenhere]

God Bless you and your ministry brother , sending prayers and love from India

[@bandygamy5898]

This series never fails to inform, enlighten and entertain! ❤ God Bless from Sweden

[@jonathanrekker]

Thank you Matt for these kind of insightful videos. By getting to know each other better, we will learn to respect each other more.

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

Well said!

[@genericyoutubechannel2601]

Wow. I came to this channel, as a former Protestant now Eastern Orthodox, because I really appreciate watching Protestants engage with our Faith, in good faith. Somehow KZbin threw the Eastern Orthodox videos on my recommendeds and I absolutely loved those videos. I moved to this one because I really don't know much about our Coptic and Oriental family outside of the admittedly ignorant assumptions I've encountered in my own Church. It's true, we pray as we believe and we believe as we pray. Or, to take it back to my Army days, we train as we fight. I had no idea such a strong, agreeable doctrinal statement is present in Coptic liturgy. Heck, I didn't know they even chant the same Paschal troparion as us: Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs, bestowing life! Thank you for this video, so very much.

[@StevenHenein]

I'm Coptic myself. This was really cool to see

[@blessonsamuel3906]

It was nice to see this overview of a sister Oriental Orthodox church! Our Malankara (Indian) Orthodox Church is very similar in so many ways, and its nice that you do this work to bring visibility to the way different Christians practice their faith in Christ that many people in the Western world are not as familiar with. Looking forward to the next video!

[@ewo00]

Really enjoy these videos. The conversations that you have with these folks are fascinating.

[@jamegumb6625]

Thank you for making these video’s and conducting these interviews, it’s so fascinating and also saves me the time and energy of having to visit all the different denominations and churches myself. Very revealing. God bless you brother.

[@simontemplar3359]

I'm so excited that you did this video!!! It impresses me (and educates at the same time) how you are willing to go miles away from your own tradition, which if I remember correctly is the Evangelical Free Church. This is the intellectual curiousity, open mindedness, and humility that I was complimenting with the Dead Sea Scrolls series. I could possibly get in trouble for saying as much, but I'm Eastern Orthodox and I still hold that the Coptic Church IS Orthodox; our Christologies are not substantively different, but we express them differently. Some Athonite monks argue that the Copts are monophysites, but if you review their liturgical statements, the affirm that Christ is both fully Divine and fully Human and that neither nature eclipsed, diluted, separated, etc., for even the blink of an eye. One day I hope the messy politics of this get cleaned up, but until then the answer remains love, prayer, and humility. Thank you so much for doing these! If you get time, look up Father Lazarus El Anthony. He's from Australia and is now a Coptic monk living near the actual cave of St. Anthony in Egypt. He was a professor, a Marxist and an atheist. His story is amazing and his love of Christ is like no one else I've ever seen. God bless you and your nearest and dearest, and may He bless your ministry as well!

[@john.f8726]

I’m Eastern Orthodox and consider the Oriental Orthodox, Orthodox. God willing we will be one Church soon!

[@moringa-biblereading]

I'm happy that I found your channel. I love your teaching style and your open-minded way of looking at things is a breath of fresh air. I will definitely go back and watch your past videos. I knew nothing of the Coptic Church before watching your video. Thank you for this!

[@robbwylde2002]

I pray that I live long enough to see the EO and OO back together officially. I'm EO and love my OO brothers and sisters! I'd also like to see the Russian and Greek Churches make peace with each other as well; Lord, have mercy...

[@peggyramirez368]

Thank you. When you visit a church I feel like I am there too. I will think a question...and you ask it. Thank you for your obvious joy in sharing new ways to honor our Lord.

[@Calvero52]

I was raised United Church of Christ, and I am always shocked when I hear it mentioned 😮. I'm glad the building is still being used for worship 😁🙌 Wonderful video as always Matt!👍

[@Endy467]

This is wonderful to watch. Thank you Matt and Father James!

[@avramwahba6391]

So incredibly good! Thank you Matt so much for this great video! And Fr. James, way to represent!

[@noahcascio7931]

As a former Roman Catholic who converted to Orthodoxy I pray that the Byzantine and Oriental churches will once again be in communion. I was excited to hear his enthusiasm for bringing millions of Christians together once again. Glory to God! Thank you for the video.

[@Cildara]

Thank You for yet another outstanding program! I am a deacon in the Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Church, which is related to the Coptic Church. If your travels bring you to California our parish would be happy to welcome you.

[@suzyzz1583]

I've been waiting for this visit and tour after you visited the Greek Orthodox church. So glad you found us. Great questions and Abouna/Father James was great too. God bless you both!

[@jarvis1508]

Thank you so much for these videos, Matt. They always bring a smile to my face. - from a Catholic.

[@yabesira7351]

Can you do one on the Ethiopian orthodox church too please? We got our church from the patriarch of the coptic church.

[@reigenlucilfer6154]

and also church of the east or syrian church. that would be pretty cool

[@scorpioninpink]

Also Assyrians. If they have a community in the US that is. And Kingdom Temple of Jehovah's Witnesses.

[@isaiah3872]

@@scorpioninpink Yes, an Assyrian Church of the East visit would be great

[@jerome96114]

That would be really interesting, especially due to their *drastically* longer bible canon. The Ethiopians have even NT books nobody else has.

[@yabesira7351]

@@jerome96114 right? Im confused why we have so many lol

[@shawnallee739]

This was awesome! I have to say I have never met a Coptic Church and priest. This is amazing... keep up the good work Sir.

[@a.t.6322]

You're quest to bring understanding and unity to the family of believers is beautiful. Keep it up! It's a response to Christ's prayer that we be one.

[@trinah3704]

What a beautiful soul. I appreciated learning about the Coptic church. Father James seems so gracious and kind. I really appreciated him stepping outside of his comfort zone to sing. Thank you Father James!

[@OrthoKarter]

Coptic orthodox church is awesome. the orthodox church in general is the true faith. im orthodox God Bless you

[@philmattox8500]

I am Eastern Orthodox (former Baptist, former Roman Catholic) and I am SO looking forward to the second half of your interview with Father James. I have heard various reports over the past few years that the Eastern and Oriental churches are moving closer together. I really appreciate your non-judgmental approach to the various members of the Nicene Christian family. Enjoy all your videos. Phil ( Chrismation name is Tikhon)

[@drnagdfaragmedicalaesthetics]

Thank you very much for this episode , Both of you and father were amazing, I had to subscribe to your channel to watch more of this joyous elevating talk about the Lord and worship.

[@javierluyanda8283]

These videos are never long enough !!!! Love this channel and love these type of videos !!! I see myself doing this , I’ve always been a lover of understanding different perspectives within the Christian Faith

[@kalebl.4917]

I have wanting to learn more about the Coptic church recently, thank you!

[@Practical_Christianity]

So very well done this video is. Love your enthusiasm, respect and amazing care in how you put this subject forward. So very well done bro. So very well done indeed. I have had my reservations about liturgy, but you know... the way the Coptic church portrays such respect for the Lord in their communion service and in preparation for worship - I am thinking the Lord loves them for it.

[@JohnDoe-og7io]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make that video, it was great. As a Coptic Orthodox myself, it can sometimes seem daunting to try and explain my belief with all of its nuances, as well as culture and historical innuendos. So thank you good sir, earned my sub and like.

[@quickenedspirit]

Your ministry is an invaluable service to the Church. Thank you so much!

[@nilasmith8801]

Ummm cliffhangers now?! Love this. Thank you so much for your dedication to making these videos. From when you had 30 subs to now you have remained who God made you to be. God Bless you bro

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

That means a lot, thank you! Have you been here since the very beginning?

[@nilasmith8801]

@@MattWhitmanTMBH yes...why yes i have. You have encouraged me in my walk and in continued prayer for my husband's life and heart to be given to Jesus to sharingwith my teenagers when they don't want me to be their teacher. ha!

[@agbeats1687]

Such a relief to be born as an original Egyptian Coptic orthodox Christian such a blessing 💜

[@lggIII]

Another beautiful stop on an extraordinary journey. Well done.

[@asdfjlkljhsadf]

Great job and I really appreciate your openness and sincerity in seeking to understand and present another church. God bless you

[@promomm]

I so love that you did this! I have been trying to understand orthodoxy to see if it is calling me. I appreciate the historical, ancient practices however, there are many things I don't understand about why they do certain things in a service or why they believe what they believe. I can't wait to hear your next video! Thank you so much.

[@peterfox7663]

Going to a service Saturday night in preparation for Sunday service is reminiscent of celebrating the coming of the Sabbath on Friday evening, setting the tone for the rest of the day and service on Saturday.

[@news_internationale2035]

In certain languages such as Russian, the word for Saturday is Sabbath. Russian being Суббота(Subbota).

[@kobayashimaruaikiken]

This series is gold. Thank you. Good bless you all, my brothers

[@mosesking2923]

Love these videos!!! In the future I would like to see you visit a Jewish Orthodox Synagogue, a Syriac Orthodox Church or even a Mormon Tabernacle. Thanks for all the great videos!

[@falcomalko5938]

Maybe a Malankara Jacobite or Indian Orthodox Church!