About us

العربية

العربية

The Bishopric of Public, Ecumenical and Social Services (BLESS) serves as the social developmental arm of Coptic Orthodox Church (COC). BLESS was established by a Papal decree in 1962, appointing its founding bishop, the late Bishop Samuel.

BLESS has been tasked by three key roles since its inception:
1- To provide community development with focus on the most marginalized communities
2- To provide charity and financial support and,
3- To support the Coptic Church’s ecumenical relations

BLESS provides a wide range of services in local communities in both urban and rural localities. By the end of 2022, BLESS has provided its services in 44 dioceses throughout Egypt, reaching 187 communities with its community development interventions.

BLESS has two major service departments: The Aghapy Program (charity services); and the BLESS Sustainable Development Programs (BSDP). BSDP is a new phase of the BLESS community development programs, starting 2024. The BSDP is particularly focused on contributing to achieving the sustainable development goals pertaining to health, education, gender equality, social and economic inclusion and environmental sustainability.

BLESS is a strategic partner to a number of national and international organizations in implementing Egypt’s development strategies as we list below. BLESS is also partner in ecumenical services with links to national and international church and different ecumenical organizations.

BLESS leadership

Pope Tawadros II

For 60 years, the Bishopric of Public, Ecumenical and Social Services (BLESS) has served with love, turning Christ’s commandments into impactful action across Egypt. Guided by devoted bishops—from Anba Samuel to Anba Yolios—and supported by countless faithful servants and partners, the BLESS has made a lasting difference. With gratitude for the past, we look ahead with faith, ready to continue this mission for generations to come.

Bishop Yolios

In 1962, inspired by Pope Kyrillos VI, the Bishopric of Public, Ecumenical and Social Services (BLESS) began shining Christ’s light—dispelling ignorance, poverty, and stagnation. For 60 years, its bishops and servants have brought knowledge, health, and hope to all. We celebrate this journey with gratitude, praying for His Holiness Pope Tawadros II. May God bless and reward all who served.

Our Mission

Empowered sustainable communities that accept diversity and enjoy living with dignity

Vision

The Bishopric of Public, Ecumenical and Social Services (BLESS) is the social development arm of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt. BLESS works to improve the quality of life and social equity; empower communities to be resilient to crises; and contribute to achieving sustainable development goals.

Strategic Directions

1.Peacebuilding and the promotion of social cohesion, tolerance and respect for diversity and difference.

2.Promoting the investment in people in all aspects related to their health, education, and economic integration with a particular focus on women, children, the elderly, people with disabilities and at-risk groups

3.Supporting the resilience of communities to climate change and the adoption of sustainable production and consumption patterns and the responsible use of resources to protect life on earth

4.Establishing partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations at the national and international levels, with BLESS sharing its cumulative experience in community development as a resource hub for building the capacities of partner community entities.

Governing principles

Our love for God drives us to love and respect human dignity.

Peace and tolerance
Respect for God’s Creation
Transparency and accountability.

A belief in people’s capabilities, creativity, power to give and volunteering

Our targeted objectives

Objective 1: Public health aspects of marginalized members of Egyptian society have been improved.

Objective 2: Adults and the upcoming generation’s learning skills and personal development have been strengthened.

Objective 3: The economic livelihoods and environmental sustainability of marginalized members of Egyptian society have been strengthened.

Objective 4: Local communities are capable of shaping their development independence.

Our Communities 1998-until 2021 BLESS target communities in its development work are'279'communities

Our Communities

Our blessed sons, Grace to you and peace from God our Father, our Lord Jesus Christ, and the blessing that has been given to the pure apostles in the place of Zion will be set upon all of you.

Historical Background

The Coptic Orthodox Church (COC) is a very old church established by Saint Mark who came to Alexandria, Egypt in the beginning of the first century. He extended his evangelical work across other parts of North and East Africa;

Coptic Orthodox Church

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