On Tuesday, March 10, 2015, the meeting of the Council of Oriental Orthodox Bishops was held at St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church in Northridge, hosted by H.G. Bishop Serapion. The Council is comprised of leaders and clergy representatives from the Armenian, Coptic, and Syriac Orthodox Churches. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, participated in the meeting, accompanied by Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian and Rev. Fr. Ghevont Kirazian.
The meeting began with deliberations on the dire situation of Christians in the Middle East. The members once again conveyed their condolences to Bishop Serapion on the killing of 21 Coptic Christians by the Islamic State in February. The martyrs were later canonized by the Coptic Church.
The Council discussed commemorative events planned for the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, which include ecumenical services and various commemorations. The Syriac Orthodox Church will also be commemorating the 100th anniversary of the genocide of Assyrians committed by the Ottoman Empire.
Members also discussed current and proposed collaborative efforts, including clergy gatherings, youth group and Sunday School activities, and related matters.
