Why This Gathering Matters

The Church has always flourished when clergy and laity work together in one spirit, each offering their gifts for the glory of God. From the earliest centuries, faithful lay leaders stood beside the clergy to protect the faith, strengthen the community, and build up the Body of Christ.

Today, the same calling continues in the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York & New England. The gathering of lay leaders is not simply an event — it is a vital step toward uniting the diverse talents, experiences, and voices of our parishes for the growth of the whole Diocese.

Our Vision for Lay Leadership

• Unity in Christ: Bringing leaders from every parish together to work in harmony, building bridges and strengthening bonds across the Diocese.

• Shared Wisdom: Creating a space where experiences, challenges, and solutions can be shared, so that each parish may benefit from the gifts of all.

• Mission-Driven Growth: Collaborating to expand the ministries of the Church, serve the needs of our communities, and reach new generations with the life of Christ.

• Strengthening the Diocese: Coordinating efforts so that the Diocese may continue to grow in organization, service, and witness to the world.

This gathering matters because it affirms that leadership in the Church is not about titles or positions, but about faithful stewardship, sacrificial service, and collaborative work for the Kingdom of God. Together, clergy and laity form one body, laboring side by side so that Christ may be glorified in His Church.

“For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” (Romans 12:4 – 5)