About Us

Our Story & Faith

Discover the rich heritage of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Portugal, our clergy, and our journey of faith in Lisbon.

Our Faith & Heritage

A Living Tradition in Portugal

The Coptic Orthodox Church in Portugal is a vibrant community preserving the ancient Christian faith as established by Saint Mark the Apostle in Egypt. Our parish is a spiritual home for Copts living in Portugal while sharing the richness of Coptic tradition with everyone who seeks it.

We maintain the original apostolic faith, sacraments, and liturgy that have been passed down through generations. Our services are conducted in Coptic, Arabic, and Portuguese so the entire congregation can pray with one heart.

Coptic Orthodox Church heritage

Our Values

What shapes our ministry

Apostolic Faith

We preserve the original Christian doctrine taught by the apostles and safeguarded by the Coptic Church for nearly two millennia.

Sacramental Life

The holy sacraments are central to our spiritual life, connecting us to God's grace and transforming our hearts daily.

Community

We are a family united in Christ, supporting one another spiritually and practically in our daily lives across Portugal.

Timeline

Our history in Portugal

2013

2013

His Grace Bishop Kirollos in Milan began the journey with prayers from the Coptic community alongside the acquisition of land for the Egyptian Monastery in Portugal.

2024

2024

His Holiness Pope Tawadros II entrusted the pastoral care of Portugal to His Grace Bishop Youssef in addition to Bolivia and Spain.

2024

2024

We were blessed to welcome His Grace Bishop Youssef in Portugal for the ordination of Father Mercurius, marking a historic pastoral visit.

Present

Present

Father Mercurius El-Muharraqi, from the Monastery of the Holy Virgin Mary (El-Muharraq), now shepherds the Coptic community, offering pastoral care and preserving the Church's identity in Portugal.

Shepherds

Our clergy

Pope Tawadros II

Pope Tawadros II

118th Pope of Alexandria

Enthroned in 2012, His Holiness leads the Coptic Orthodox Church with a pastoral heart, strengthening the Church's role globally and championing unity and youth discipleship.

His Grace Bishop Youssef

His Grace Bishop Youssef

Bishop of Bolivia, Spain & Portugal

Bishop Youssef shepherds the Coptic diaspora across Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula, planting communities, schools, and pastoral centers in local languages.

Father Mercurius El-Muharraqi

Father Mercurius El-Muharraqi

Parish Priest

Father Mercurius was ordained to serve Portugal with a ministry rooted in prayer, humility, and care for Copts and all seekers across the nation.