Egypt. World Factbook, 2006

Beginning in 1972 with the placement of teachers with the Coptic Evangelical (Presbyterian) church, Mennonites have become increasingly involved with the Egyptian churches. Emphasis is given to placement of health care workers (23 in 1985) and teachers of English, at both elementary and adult levels, in the medical and educational institutions of the Coptic Evangelical, Coptic Orthodox, Anglican, and Catholic churches. ("Coptic" simply means "Egyptian".) Mennonites, through Mennonite Central Committee, are also involved in promoting and funding literacy programs, health clinics, and land reclamation projects, and in encouraging and assisting in the renewal movement within the Coptic Orthodox community. Mennonites are not interested in beginning yet another western church in a country where Islam comprises 90 percent of the population, but in assisting the indigenous churches carry out their agenda.     

See also Eastern and Coptic Orthodox Churches.

Adapted by permission of Herald Press, Scottdale, Pennsylvania, and Waterloo, Ontario, from Mennonite Encyclopedia, Vol. 5, p. 267. All rights reserved. For information on ordering the encyclopedia visit the Herald Press website.

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