Coptic Studies
Mission Statement
The Council for Coptic Studies at the Claremont Graduate University School of Religion (SoR) works to create and nourish vibrant, enduring relationships between the SoR, the surrounding community, and the Coptic world.
At the core of the Council’s vision is the establishment of a Center for Coptic studies to promote through research, teaching, and publication a deeper understanding of the Coptic religious experience. In all of its efforts the Council strives to foster opportunities for exploration of the great scope and promise of Coptic studies as a realm of academic endeavor. The Council believes the benefits of these efforts will extend well beyond their Coptic roots, invigorating scholarship in such diverse areas of inquiry as New Testament Studies, Iconography, Liturgy, Ministry, Patristics, Monasticism, and Sacred Music.
The Council is committed to outreach through conferences, lectureships, and cultural events and supports its goals with an active capital development campaign. By drawing on the formidable intellectual resources of the SoR, its history of excellence in Coptic studies, and the rich cultural assets of the Coptic community, the Council hopes to cultivate a unique environment that will serve as a focal point for Coptic scholarship within the University and around the world.
To contribute to these goals, please contact Dr. S. Michael Saad, Chair, Council for Coptic Studies, e-mail: saad 3 at aol dot com.
Courses Taught
Taught by Professor Gawdat Gabra (Abdel-Sayed), the School of Religion has rich offering of courses in Coptic Studies. Click here to find out more details about each course.
- Egypt: Five Millennia of Religious Heritage
- Coptic Hagiography
- Coptic Old Testament
- Coptic Literature Seminar
- The Religious Heritage of Egypt
- Coptic Sayings of the Desert Fathers and Mothers
- Christianity in Egypt: History and Culture
- Coptic Art and Archaeology
- Coptic New Testament and Liturgy
- Egyptian Monasticism and Coptic Art
Events