Bible
What does the word “Theotokos” mean?
Mother of God
When is St George's Feast?
November 16 (today)
How many weeks are in the Great Fast (Lent) in the Coptic Church?
55 days (7 weeks + Holy Week + prep week)
What is the purpose of the white garments worn after baptism?
purity and new life with Christ
What is the Coptic term for the midnight prayer?
Tasbeha
What did Jesus's parents offer when they were too poor to offer a lamb as a sacrifice?
two young pigeons
What happened to the magician who tried to destroy St. George with poison?
The poison killed the magician instead when he tested it on himself.
Why do we pray the Agpeya seven times a day?
Based on Psalm 119:164 — “Seven times a day I praise You.”
Why is marriage performed with two candles held by the couple?
Symbolizes unity in Christ — two becoming one light and one life through the sacrament.
East, anticipation of the second coming as Jesus will come from the East
Which Gospel contains the highest number of Old Testament quotations?
Mathew
How old was St. George when he was martyred?
28 years old
What language is the word “Alleluia” originally from? and what does it mean?
Hebrew — meaning “Praise the Lord”
What sacrament is considered the “gateway” to the rest of the sacraments?
Baptism
What is the significance of 41 Kyrie Eleisons prayed during certain services?
Represent the 39 lashes, plus the crown of thorns and the spear.
What is the significance of the number 50 for the Pentecost period?
Symbolizes the fullness of the Holy Spirit and the “eighth day” of the Kingdom beyond earthly time.
How many years did St. George endure torture before martyrdom according to Coptic tradition?
7 years
What feast is considered the “Feast of Feasts” in the Coptic Church?
The resurrection feast
Why is the Eucharistic Lamb selected from the middle loaf and not the outer ones?
The middle loaf symbolizes Christ among His people — the Incarnate Word dwelling in the midst of the Church.
What event in the Pascha (Holy Week) readings uniquely contains NO Old Testament prophecies?
Good Friday’s Ninth Hour, because Christ has already died and fulfilled all prophecies.
Which Old Testament prophet is traditionally considered the first to clearly prophesy the virgin birth?
Isaiah (Isaiah 7:14)
Which saint appeared to heal St. George during one of his tortures?
Archangel Michael
Abouna to ask a question
Answer
In the Unction of the Sick, why is the oil mixed with water rather than used pure?
Water symbolizes humanity’s weakness; oil symbolizes the strength and healing of the Holy Spirit.
Which exact Psalm is silently prayed by the priest while he walks the procession of incense during Vespers?
Psalm 140 (141): “Let my prayer be set before You as incense…”