Presidential Message on Global Coptic Day

On Global Coptic Day, President Donald J. Trump issued a statement honoring the faith and resilience of the Coptic Orthodox Church, one of the world’s oldest Christian communities. The President emphasized the administration’s commitment to protecting religious liberty both at home and abroad.Key highlights from the President’s statement include:The President recounted the ancient roots of the Coptic Church, noting that the Holy Family sought refuge in Egypt more than 2,000 years ago. He credited Saint Mark the Evangelist with planting the seeds of the Gospel in Egypt, which grew into a community that has survived centuries of historical trials.A central theme of the message was the "remarkable resilience" of Coptic Christians who have faced "barbaric evil" and violence throughout history.Ancient and Modern Martyrs: The President honored martyrs ranging from Saint Maurice in the ancient world to the 21 Coptic construction workers executed by ISIS in Libya 11 years ago.A Commitment to Action: He reaffirmed that his administration remains "firmly committed" to ending the violent persecution of Christians in all its forms.President Trump praised the Coptic Christian community in the United States for enriching national life through their devotion to family and faith. He highlighted his administration’s efforts to safeguard these values:Religious Liberty Commission: The President noted his establishment of this Commission to protect the free exercise of faith for all Americans and to advance the cause of religious liberty globally.The "First Freedom": He described the right to live out one’s faith openly and without fear as the "liberty every tyrant has always feared and sought to destroy."As the United States celebrates its Semiquincentennial, the President framed the Coptic experience as a profound testament to the American soul. He stated that the Coptic faithful, who have "carried their cross through centuries of fire," serve as an inspiration to every American to stand firm in their faith and trust in divine providence.Conclusion:President Trump concluded by characterizing the Coptic Orthodox Church as a "profound testament" to the power of faith and the necessity of freedom. He pledged that the United States would remain the world’s "ultimate example of freedom," defending the fundamental rights of religious believers everywhere.Honoring a 2,000-Year LegacyResilience in the Face of PersecutionDomestic Impact and Religious LibertyThe 250th Anniversary Connection