The Heavenly Host in the Coptic Tradition
Within the context of the theology and piety of the Copts the heavenly host occupies an important place. There are the seven archangels Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Suriel, Zedekiel, Serathiel, and Ananiel. They are the seven spirits of God (Rev. 4:5). Furthermore, the Holy Scriptures mention the Seraphim with their six wings who filled the house with smoke (Is. 6:2 f) and the herubim that provide the throne for the Lord (Ps. 99:1). The angels represent …
The Commemoration of the Holy Archangel Gabriel
On December 31, our Mother, the Holy Chuch, celebrates the Commemoration of the Holy Archangel Gabriel, one of the seven archangels who stand before the Throne of God. He is the archangel who announced the Incarnation of the Son of God to the Most Holy Theotokos Mary and all of mankind. He also appeared to Zacharias to announce the birth of the Holy Forerunner, John the Baptist. Of himself, Gabriel said, “I am Gabriel, that …