Coptic Australians celebrate new year
Thursday 11 September 2008
The Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, today extended his best wishes to Australia’s Coptic Christian community, who are celebrating their new year.
‘The celebration of the Feast of Nayrouz marks the beginning of a new year on the Coptic or Alexandrian calendar which is the oldest known calendar in the world, established by an Egyptian astronomer more than 6000 years ago,’ Mr Ferguson said.
‘The Coptic Orthodox Church is also the largest Christian church in the Middle East and one of the longest continuous Christian churches in the world.
‘The first Coptic Orthodox Church in Australia was established in 1969 and the Coptic community now contributes to the spiritual well-being of the society through many churches, a monastery, a theological college and through the Macquarie University, which offers a course in Coptic Orthodox studies.
‘Coptic Australians are well settled and integrated into the Australian community. They are known for their academic and professional capacities and have reached prestigious academic and professional stature in Australia and all over the world.
‘One such individual is Dr Boutros Boutros Ghali, who was the sixth United Nations Secretary-General, from 1992-97. Another is Dr Magdy Yacoub, who is based in London and is one of the most renowned heart surgeons in the world.
‘I wish all Coptic Australians a happy new year,’ Mr Ferguson added.
Media Contact: Khaldoun Hajaj - 0404 078 692
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2008/lf08055.htm
Last update: 12 September 2008 at 15:25 AEST