COLLEYVILLE, TX. August 29, 2006 -- Thanks be to God, the first Holy and Divine Liturgy in the church will be held on September 17, 2006.

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Below is an update regarding the church.

HURRICANE KATRINA’S IMPACT
On
Saint Mark Coptic Church of New Orleans
One Year Later

One year ago, Hurricane Katrina brought massive winds, and, as the levees were topped, massive destruction. It was three weeks after Katrina made landfall that we learned that our church, St. Mark, was not spared in the destruction. The church and the house located on the same property sat in seven feet of water for weeks. We knew it would be a long journey, but we also knew that God would never leave us to handle the situation by ourselves. It was through this journey that we all learned the importance of the church and the community that supports it.

It is with all thanks to our LORD that we are now nearing the final stages in the rebuilding of St. Mark in New Orleans. The iconstasis that was once swollen and cracked has now been thankfully repaired. The pews that were thrown about the church with the rush of the waters have now been replaced. Most of the icons have been restored and the church's cry room and baptismal have been completely redone. Although it will still be a while before the church is completely redone, we thank God for His great mercy towards us. It is truly through this experience that we have grown together as a congregation and have learned to cherish each other and the countless blessings God has bestowed on us.

We encourage everyone to join us on September 17, 2006 at 8:30 a.m. as Bishop Youssef prays the first Holy and Divine Liturgy in our church since August 2005. This is truly a time to celebrate as we commemorate the struggles and the triumph of St. Mark New Orleans. We thank everyone for their prayers and support during these trying times and we ask that you continue to pray and support us as we complete the rebuilding process.

“Oh, how great is Your goodness,
Which You have laid up for those who fear You,
Which You have prepared for those who trust in You
In the presence of the sons of men!” (Ps 31:19)