Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States

Austin, Texas - Priest Ordination

December 1, 2013

COLLEYVILLE, TX. December 1, 2013 -- On Sunday, December 1, 2013, the Austin community was blessed with an ordination of a new priest, Fr. Benjamin Abouelkheir, as H.G. Bishop Youssef performed the "laying of the hands". This blessed event was attended by H.G. Bishop Serapion, some of the Diocese priests, the Austin community and other nearby communities. Fr. Benjamin will be serving the congregation of The Holy Cross Coptic Orthodox Church. We pray that the Lord will grant Fr. Benjamin 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